Living in Texas comes with its own set of quirks and surprises that can be eye-opening for newcomers. From the unpredictable weather to the unexpected wildlife, Texas is a state full of surprises. Here are eight unique things you might not know about living in the Lone Star State:
1. Texas Has Its Own Power Grid
Unlike most states, Texas operates its own independent power grid through ERCOT (Electric Reliability Council of Texas). This means that power outages can be localized, and sometimes extreme weather events like winter storms or heatwaves can lead to widespread blackouts. During these times, residents might experience power disruptions that other states may not face, making Texans more resilient to the unpredictable nature of their electrical supply.
2. The Weather Is Wildly Unpredictable
The weather in Texas is a rollercoaster ride. One minute, it’s scorching hot, and the next minute, you’re dodging a thunderstorm or hailstorm. It’s not uncommon to experience all four seasons in a single week. This unpredictability, combined with intense summer heat, makes having reliable air conditioning a must for most Texans. Being prepared for sudden shifts in weather is an essential part of life in the state.
3. Feral Hogs Are a Real Driving Hazard
While wildlife encounters might seem rare to some, Texas is home to a large population of feral hogs. These hogs roam freely, especially in rural areas, and can be a driving hazard. Highways like TX-130 have seen their fair share of accidents caused by these creatures, so it’s important to stay alert when driving in open, wooded, or rural areas.
4. You Can Encounter Unexpected Quirks Like Odd Laws
Texas is known for its quirky laws that still remain on the books. For example, you could face a fine for milking a cow you don’t own. Additionally, some cities have strange local ordinances — like in Austin, where it’s technically illegal to carry wire cutters. The unusual laws often surprise newcomers, adding a touch of charm and peculiarity to everyday life in the state.
5. Texans Take Pride in Their Barbecue and Breakfast Tacos
If you want to truly understand Texas culture, you have to understand its food culture. Barbecue is more than just food; it’s a near-religious experience. The styles of barbecue vary by region, and the competition for the best brisket or ribs is fierce. Breakfast tacos are another beloved part of Texas cuisine — taco trucks battle it out for the title of best morning taco, with locals fiercely loyal to their favorites.
6. Austin Boasts the World’s Largest Urban Bat Colony
In Austin, nearly 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge nightly from under the Congress Avenue Bridge during warmer months. This unique phenomenon has made Austin home to the world’s largest urban bat colony, attracting both locals and tourists to witness the spectacular sight. It’s one of the quirkiest and most delightful parts of the city’s culture and ecosystem.
7. Everything Is Bigger — Even the Roads and Airports
Texans aren’t joking when they say everything is bigger. From the size of the state itself to its roads and airports, it’s clear that bigger is better. The Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport is larger than Manhattan Island, and highways like TX-130 boast the highest legal speed limit in the country — a staggering 85 mph. Texans love their vast spaces, and it shows in the size of the infrastructure.
8. You’ll See Armadillos Everywhere
The nine-banded armadillo, Texas’s official small mammal, is an iconic part of the state’s wildlife. These creatures are often spotted wandering around roadsides and yards. While they may look cute, it’s important to avoid handling them, as they can carry leprosy. Seeing an armadillo in Texas is almost a rite of passage — they’re just a part of the Texan charm.
Living in Texas is full of surprises. From quirky laws to unexpected encounters with feral hogs and armadillos, the state offers an experience that’s hard to find anywhere else. Add in the unpredictable weather, the intense pride in barbecue and breakfast tacos, and the unique bat colonies of Austin, and you get a state full of personality, pride, and surprises around every corner.
Sources
[1] https://www.americamp.co.uk/blog/fun-facts-about-texas
[2] https://www.briggsfreeman.com/blog/posts/2021/08/19/the-funny-14-facts-about-texas-that-may-surprise-you/
[3] https://www.atlasobscura.com/things-to-do/texas
[4] https://www.homecity.com/blog/discover-the-lone-star-state-10-rare-facts-about-texas/
[5] https://resident.com/resource-guide/2025/05/08/11-wonderfully-fun-weird-facts-about-austin-tx
