Even before COVID became part of our vocabulary, relocating to Texas or Florida was common for snowbirds and retirees.
Then came the pandemic that changed many of us, both personally and professionally.
For many, the pandemic allowed many to transition from being in an office every day to working or learning remotely from home. Since remote massages and haircuts are quite difficult, this change has not really affected the salon or massage environments.
But even as a massage therapist or cosmetologist, you may find yourself with a little more time, freedom, desire for change, a spouse that needs to/wants to transfer or relocate, or on the cusp of semi-retirement.
And If you are in the cosmetology, barber, or massage field, you may be wondering about making the move, or a part-time move, to either Texas or Florida.
Today we are going to talk specifically about relocating to Texas or Florida, and why they are so attractive to so many in our profession. They were the top two states that We have helped thousands of massage therapists and cosmetology professionals (hairstylists, barbers, nail techs, and estheticians) transfer their licenses to Texas and Florida. Best of all, we will provide some colleague advice on the next steps you can take to learn more about transferring your license or renewing your license in those states.
Let’s talk about the pros of the Sunshine and Lone Star states.
#1 Business-Friendly, Job Growth, and the Economy
I had many people message me in the last year that, “I need to work”. The pandemic forced many massage and salon businesses doors to close without an end in sight. Whether you agree with it or not, Florida and Texas were some of the first states to allow our colleagues to return to work. Many reported they were happy to do what they loved and clients were ready to see them.
Setting up a business in Texas and Florida is notoriously simple. Both states pride themselves on being business-friendly environments. Their professional licensing process is something we will cover at the end of this article. And, yes, there are many salons and massage therapists. Competition is real, but it is everywhere. However, with so many people, there are so many different opportunities for businesses and careers.
#2 No State Income Taxes
What is better than lower income taxes? No state income tax. Sure, Texas and Florida still have other taxes like sales, federal income, and property tax. However, not paying state income tax is obviously a perk of living in these two states.
Just for reference, Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming are the current states that do not have state income taxes.
#3 Warm Weather and Climate
Hurricanes, heat waves, and humidity are unpleasant. But sunshine and mild winters really have physical and mental benefits for those that like to stay active, hate shoveling snow, or need some extra vitamin D. Plus, sitting on the beach or by the pool isn’t a bad way to spend the day – especially in January.
If you want to compare climates, natural disasters, crime, and some other not so fun details – you can check out this guide comparing the two states.
#4 Affordable Housing and Cost of Living
The huge price tag of living in New York, California, and Hawaii is wearing on many families, couples, and singles. And now that many people work remotely and can now work anywhere, they are also learning they can live for a lot less elsewhere and really make the most of their income.
Moving to Texas or Florida allows many to afford a larger home or more land for a lower price. Business-wise, affordable office space rental is easier to find.
The first step is typically the hardest and scariest. But it is also exciting!
Maybe you’ve decided that the time is right for you to make a move to one of these states – or maybe you’ve decided to make a move elsewhere. There were a few states that *almost* made our list: Tennessee, Nevada, and Georgia.
Regardless of where you decide to go, we wish you the best with your move and career. We know it is a balance of excitement and anxiety when making personal and professional changes.
Our Cosmetology and Massage Licensing Guides and Information
If you’re ready to make a professional move and are looking to take the first steps on relocating to Texas or Florida, or just find out a little more information on licensing requirements in these states, we have got you covered. The links below will take you to one of our websites that should provide you with much more information on massage or cosmetology licensing in Texas and Florida.
Texas Cosmetology License (Mostly renewal information)
7 Insider Tips For Choosing a Cosmetology School
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