The Top 10 Most Affordable Places to Live in Texas
Texas, with its booming economy, diverse geography, and no state income tax, has long been an attractive destination for people seeking a lower cost of living without sacrificing quality of life. While major cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston have seen a rise in housing prices due to rapid growth, Texas still offers many affordable places to call home. In this post, we’ll explore the top 10 most affordable places to live in Texas, offering budget-friendly housing and low overall living costs.
1. Brownsville
- Average Home Price: $175,000
- Cost of Living Index: 77.0
Located in the southernmost tip of Texas, Brownsville offers one of the lowest costs of living in the state. Housing costs are incredibly affordable, and residents enjoy warm weather year-round. Brownsville’s proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and Mexico’s border means access to unique cultural experiences and delicious food. It’s also home to SpaceX’s Boca Chica launch site, which has brought new economic opportunities to the region.
2. Harlingen
- Average Home Price: $160,000
- Cost of Living Index: 70.9
Harlingen, another Rio Grande Valley city, consistently ranks as one of the most affordable places to live in Texas. Housing is very cheap, and the cost of goods and services remains lower than the national average. The city offers small-town charm with easy access to outdoor recreation, especially with its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico. Harlingen also has an international airport, making travel convenient.
3. McAllen
- Average Home Price: $210,000
- Cost of Living Index: 78.0
McAllen is one of the fastest-growing cities in Texas but remains highly affordable. Known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, and excellent healthcare facilities, McAllen offers an appealing lifestyle for families, retirees, and young professionals alike. The city is also close to outdoor activities like birdwatching, hiking, and visiting state parks. McAllen’s low housing prices make it an attractive option for those looking to buy a home.
4. Wichita Falls
- Average Home Price: $170,000
- Cost of Living Index: 78.4
Wichita Falls, located near the Texas-Oklahoma border, is another highly affordable city in Texas. The cost of living is well below the national average, and housing costs are particularly low. Wichita Falls offers a range of recreational activities, including parks, lakes, and a charming downtown area. It’s also home to Sheppard Air Force Base, which contributes to the city’s stable economy and provides job opportunities.
5. Amarillo
- Average Home Price: $215,000
- Cost of Living Index: 80.1
Amarillo, located in the Texas Panhandle, offers a unique mix of cowboy culture and affordability. With low housing costs and a strong local economy driven by agriculture, energy, and manufacturing, Amarillo is a solid choice for families and retirees. The nearby Palo Duro Canyon, the second-largest canyon in the U.S., provides endless opportunities for outdoor adventures like hiking, horseback riding, and camping.
6. Temple
- Average Home Price: $230,000
- Cost of Living Index: 82.1
Temple, located in Central Texas, offers affordable living with easy access to both Austin and Waco. Temple’s affordable housing market, combined with a strong healthcare and education sector, has made it an attractive option for those looking to save money while still enjoying the benefits of nearby big cities. The town also has beautiful parks, lakes, and a thriving local culture, making it a great place for families and retirees.
7. Killeen
- Average Home Price: $225,000
- Cost of Living Index: 80.3
Killeen is best known for its proximity to Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood), one of the largest military bases in the U.S. This city’s housing market remains incredibly affordable, making it a prime location for military families and veterans. Killeen’s diverse population and strong sense of community contribute to its appeal, while nearby recreational activities at Stillhouse Hollow Lake and Belton Lake provide opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping.
8. Lubbock
- Average Home Price: $235,000
- Cost of Living Index: 82.8
Lubbock, located in West Texas, is a thriving city with a low cost of living and a strong economy centered around agriculture, education, and healthcare. Texas Tech University is a major presence in the city, providing cultural events, sports, and education opportunities. Lubbock’s affordable housing and low living expenses make it an attractive option for young professionals, families, and students alike. It also offers a range of entertainment, dining, and recreational activities.
9. Odessa
- Average Home Price: $245,000
- Cost of Living Index: 84.5
Odessa is a city known for its strong ties to the oil and gas industry. While the local economy can fluctuate with oil prices, Odessa remains a relatively affordable place to live. The city offers low-cost housing, and the cost of goods and services is below the national average. Residents can explore the surrounding West Texas landscapes, including Monahans Sandhills State Park, and enjoy local culture influenced by the area’s history and oil boom.
10. Abilene
- Average Home Price: $240,000
- Cost of Living Index: 83.0
Abilene, located in West Central Texas, is a city that blends small-town charm with urban amenities. With affordable housing, a low cost of living, and a strong sense of community, Abilene is ideal for families, retirees, and military personnel stationed at Dyess Air Force Base. The city offers excellent schools, a historic downtown area, and various cultural attractions, including art galleries, theaters, and museums. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy the nearby Abilene State Park.
Why Choose an Affordable City in Texas?
Moving to an affordable city in Texas offers several advantages beyond just saving money. Here are some reasons why you might consider relocating to one of these cities:
1. Affordable Housing
- In many of these cities, home prices are significantly lower than the national average. This allows families and individuals to purchase homes at a more affordable rate, building equity while keeping monthly mortgage payments low.
2. Low Cost of Living
- Along with affordable housing, these cities boast a low overall cost of living. This includes cheaper groceries, utilities, healthcare, and transportation compared to the state’s larger metropolitan areas.
3. Job Opportunities
- Many of these cities have strong job markets in industries such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and energy. Additionally, some of these areas have military bases, providing stable employment and contributing to the local economy.
4. Family-Friendly Communities
- The smaller cities on this list often offer strong school systems, safe neighborhoods, and a slower pace of life, making them great places to raise a family.
5. Outdoor Recreation
- With Texas' vast landscape, even the smaller cities are close to outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping. For instance, Amarillo is near Palo Duro Canyon, and Killeen offers access to Belton Lake and Stillhouse Hollow Lake.
Conclusion
Texas is a big state, and while major metropolitan areas might get a lot of attention, smaller and more affordable cities offer just as much charm and opportunity for a lower cost of living. Whether you're looking for a laid-back community in the Rio Grande Valley, a city with strong ties to military life like Killeen, or an adventurous spot in West Texas like Amarillo, there's a Texas city to suit your lifestyle and budget.
Each of these top 10 most affordable places to live in Texas offers unique benefits, whether you’re seeking affordable housing, access to outdoor activities, or a family-friendly environment. These cities prove that you don’t have to sacrifice quality of life to live affordably in the Lone Star State.
Posted by Richard Soto on
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