Texas is a place like no other. From its vast landscapes to its larger-than-life culture, it’s a state that shapes you in ways you didn’t expect.
But sometimes, the quirks and oddities of Texas can sneak up on you, and before you know it, you’ve been here so long that you can’t imagine living anywhere else. Here are 7 Texas oddities that mean you’ve been here far too long:
1. You Think “A Little Warm” Means 90°F
You’ve spent enough summers in Texas to have a warped sense of what “warm” really means.
The term “a little warm” used to mean 75-80°F, but now, if it’s anything under 90°F, you think it’s downright pleasant. And that’s before the sun starts beating down. Anything above that? Just another hot day in Texas.
2. You’ve Mastered the Art of “Texas Time”
When you first moved here, you were confused by people’s “late” arrivals to events. But now, you’ve fully embraced “Texas Time”—the art of showing up 15 minutes late and acting like it’s perfectly normal.
In fact, you might even be the one showing up fashionably late to a gathering now. After all, time is flexible, right?
3. You Have an Extensive Collection of Cowboy Boots
You may not have worn cowboy boots when you first arrived in Texas, but now they’re practically a staple of your wardrobe.
You’ve got them in every color and material—from leather to exotic hides, and they’ve become your go-to footwear. Whether you’re at a rodeo, a BBQ, or even just running errands, cowboy boots have become part of your Texas identity.
4. You Don’t Think Twice About a BBQ Debate
You’ve spent far too many nights debating which region of Texas makes the best BBQ—and you definitely have an opinion on it.
Whether it’s the East Texas brisket, the Central Texas ribs, or the spicy sausage from South Texas, you’ve joined the ranks of the BBQ connoisseurs. And don’t even get started on the best sides or the question of sauce!
5. You’ve Gotten Used to Driving for Hours
It’s not unusual for Texans to spend several hours in the car just to visit family or take a road trip. After all, this is a state where everything is bigger, including the distances. The idea of a short drive now feels like 3-4 hours, and you think nothing of hopping in your car to head from Houston to Austin for the weekend. It’s just another part of life in Texas.
6. You Expect Everything to Be Bigger (and Better)
You’ve gotten so accustomed to the “bigger is better” mentality that you now think anything smaller is lacking.
Whether it’s food portions, homes, or even celebrations, everything in Texas has to be grand. Why settle for a normal burger when you can have a monster-sized one? Why settle for a small gathering when you can throw a massive BBQ party with 50 of your closest friends?
7. You Have a Weird Affinity for “Tex-Mex”
Tex-Mex is no longer just a food option for you—it’s a way of life. You know the difference between Tex-Mex and Mexican food and will defend queso, fajitas, and crispy tacos as a necessity for any meal. You’ve probably become a Tex-Mex snob and can tell a good enchilada from a bad one just by looking at it. Don’t even think about asking for chips and salsa in a non-Texan state—they’ll never get it right.
If you can relate to any of these oddities, then it’s official—you’ve been in Texas far too long. And while these quirks might seem strange to outsiders, they’ve become an integral part of your Texas identity. From driving across the state to mastering the art of BBQ debates, being a Texan means embracing the state’s unique culture, quirks, and everything bigger and bolder.
Carol McDaniel is a dedicated and results-driven professional with 5 years of experience and US News. Known for her strong problem-solving skills and collaborative mindset, Carol has built a reputation for delivering high-impact results across diverse teams and projects.
Throughout her career, she has demonstrated expertise in 2 core skills or areas, e.g., client relations and project coordination, and is passionate about continuous learning and meaningful contribution. Carol thrives in dynamic environments and consistently brings professionalism, adaptability, and a focus on growth to every role she takes on.