When people ask why I moved to Texas, I always start with taxes. Texas has no state income tax. If you've lived in California or experienced life in New York, you know how big of a difference this is. It feels different when you get your paycheck.

The reasons why Arlington is a great place for Koreans to live are quite extensive. First, the accessibility to Korean groceries is not bad. H Mart is located in Plano and Carrollton, both within a 30-minute drive. The Carrollton store is the central DFW Korean market that opened in 2008. You can find just about all the Korean ingredients you need there. A new H Mart is set to open in Dallas Koreatown in the summer of 2026, which will provide even more options.

The cost of living is also relatively low compared to major cities. The median home price in Arlington is about $320,000 as of early 2026. The cost of living is 3% lower than the national average, and the average rent is $1,328. Compared to California or the East Coast, it definitely feels more affordable. The median household income is $73,519, making it relatively easy to save money.

The education environment is honestly not uniform. There are 86 public schools in Arlington, with an average rating of 4 out of 10. For families prioritizing their children's education, it's important to check the school districts carefully in advance. There are significant differences between good and not-so-good schools, so it's advisable to check individual schools on Greatschools.org before moving.

Overall, the combination of Texas's 0% income tax, low cost of living, accessibility to H Mart, and the presence of the Rangers, Cowboys, and Six Flags all within the city makes it quite attractive. I believe I made a good choice settling here. The sunny Texas weather is a bonus too.