List of the Top 13 Cheapest Places To Live in Texas in 2023
Texas has emerged as a budget-friendly destination for families and business professionals seeking an alternative to the pricey western coast. With its rich history and breathtaking landscapes, Texas also boasts one of the lowest costs of living in the nation. If you’re looking for the most affordable places to reside in the Lonestar state, this article highlights the cheapest cities to live in Texas in 2023 and can serve as a helpful guide in your search.
13 Cheapest Places To Live in Texas
-
- Breckenridge
- Beaumont
- Wichita Falls
- Harlingen
- Texarkana
- Abilene
- Amarillo
- Odessa
- El Paso
- Lubbock
- Corpus Christi
- Pasadena
- Waco
1. Beaumont
If you’re looking for an affordable place to live in Texas, then Beaumont should definitely be on your radar. Nestled on the southeastern coast of the state, this charming town boasts a plethora of attractions that are sure to pique your interest. From the Clifton Steamboat Museum to the McFaddin-Ward House Historic Museum and the Spindletop-Gladys City Boomtown Museum, there’s plenty to see and do here. What’s more, with some of the lowest average home prices and rental rates in the Lone Star State, Beaumont is a fantastic option for those seeking budget-friendly living.
2. Breckenridge
Breckenridge, situated in north-central Texas, is recognized as one of the most budget-friendly places to live in the state. This city has a rich history of being the fastest-growing and busiest oil city in the United States. Currently, Breckenridge has a population of approximately 6,000 residents, and the local economy is primarily supported by the oil, gas, and ranching industries. The average home price in the area is around $127k, making it an excellent option for first-time homebuyers who desire a peaceful lifestyle.
3. Wichita Falls
If you’re looking for an affordable place to settle down in Texas, Wichita Falls is an excellent option. Situated in north-central Texas, this city is a haven for nature enthusiasts. With plenty of green spaces, Wichita Falls offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Moreover, the city boasts a thriving economy, low-cost housing market, and low unemployment rates, making it an attractive destination for job seekers and entrepreneurs. In short, Wichita Falls is the perfect place for anyone who wants to enjoy excellent business prospects without the stress of big-city living.
4. Harlingen
Harlingen, a suburb of Brownsville, offers affordable living options for families in Texas. It is known as the “Tropical Playground of Texas” and offers a great education system and numerous outdoor activities. The Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival, Laguna Atascosa Wildlife Refuge, and Lon C. Hill Park are some of the popular recreational spots in the area. Harlingen boasts a thriving job market with opportunities from local employers such as United Healthcare, the UTRGV School of Medicine, and Penske Logistics. With low rental rates and average home prices, Harlingen is an ideal choice for families on a budget.
5. Texarkana
Texarkana is not only affordable, but it’s also an excellent location for students. This city boasts remarkable courthouse and post office buildings and is situated on the intersection between Texas and Arkansas with a twin city across the state line. The city houses two community colleges, a four-year public college, and a state medical school, making it an ideal destination for scholars. Additionally, Texarkana has low living costs and crime rates, making it a fantastic location for Texas students.
6. Abilene
Abilene is a city that consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in the United States. Despite being a small town, it offers the amenities of a big city while being affordable. With a population of around 125,000 residents, the majority of whom are business professionals, Abilene is a popular destination for healthcare professionals, financiers, and military personnel. This is due to the presence of major local employers such as Hendrick Health System, First Financial Bankshares, and the Dyess Air Force Base. In addition, Abilene offers a wide variety of home architectures and rental options, making it an excellent choice for homebuyers seeking great business opportunities and low costs of living.
7. Amarillo
Amarillo, the star of the Texas panhandle, is a sweet southern city known for its business opportunities, education systems, and a wide range of outdoor activities. Home prices and local cost of living are relatively cheaper in Amarillo compared to other cities. Amarillo is a hub of various industries such as agriculture, medicine, and energy. The city also boasts a strong artistic community with attractions such as Cadillac Ranch and the Amarillo Museum of Arts. Moreover, Amarillo has plenty of local sporting events to offer, making it an ideal destination for everyone.
8. Odessa
Odessa, with its classic cowboy attitude, is one of the most affordable places to live in Texas. The city’s population of approximately 112,000 people has a metropolitan vibe that attracts a younger resident base, making the local community lively and enthusiastic. With major employers like Halliburton, Anthem Oil, and Chevron, the local economy in Odessa is thriving. Despite the city’s economic growth, its spirit is still deeply rooted in rodeo, making it a hub for livestock shows, equestrian competitions, and live country music.
9. El Paso
El Paso, situated on the southwestern border of Texas, is not only the 22nd largest city in the United States, but it is also one of the most affordable cities to live in the state. The average rents and home prices in this city are considerably lower than both the state and national averages, making it an ideal place to find reasonably priced living and employment opportunities. Additionally, El Paso boasts a thriving job market, which adds to its appeal. The city offers an excellent mix of culture, cuisine, and outdoor activities, making it an attractive destination for people of all ages and backgrounds.
10. Lubbock
If you’re looking for a city that offers the best of both worlds, Lubbock is the perfect destination. This vibrant city boasts a lively nightlife, picturesque outdoor scenery, and a thriving job market, making it an ideal place to call home. Whether you’re a fan of the upbeat urban lifestyle or prefer the quiet charm of country living, Lubbock has something for everyone. From pet-friendly restaurants, bars, and cafes to numerous parks, walking trails, and rivers, this city offers a well-rounded experience that is both affordable and fulfilling. So why compromise when you can have it all in Lubbock?
11. Corpus Christi
Corpus Christi, a seaside town situated just a few miles away from the Mexican border, is an affordable option for waterfront living in Texas. With hundreds of thousands of residents, this bustling city offers a diverse range of dining choices, from international cuisine to high-end steakhouses. Despite being a major hub for business, education, and nightlife, Corpus Christi is still one of the most cost-effective places to live when it comes to home prices and rental rates. The local community is highly active and health-conscious, making it an ideal place to stay fit and bask in the warmth of Texas.
12. Pasadena
Pasadena, situated on the outskirts of Houston, offers an affordable living option for commuters in Texas. The city has gained recognition for its cost-effective housing options and low living expenses. It is also an ideal location for individuals who enjoy metropolitan amenities such as restaurants, museums, and sporting venues, as it is located near downtown Houston. However, what sets Pasadena apart from other cities is its impressive collection of 47 parks and 14 miles of hiking and biking trails. These green spaces allow residents to indulge in some of the best outdoor recreation activities in the state, making Pasadena an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
13. Waco
Waco, Texas, is an affordable place to live with living expenses around 10% lower than the national average. The city is a bustling tourist center, with approximately 2 million visitors every year. Waco’s reasonable home prices, low cost of living, and economic opportunities make it an attractive destination for homebuyers across the United States. Additionally, residents can enjoy the city’s most popular attraction, Magnolia Market, owned by Chip and Joanna Gaines.
Cheapest Cities to Live in Texas Comparison
| Rank | City Name | Median Home Price | Avg Rent (1 bedroom) |
| 1 | Beaumont | $151,341 | $765 |
| 2 | Breckenridge | $155,808 | $775 |
| 3 | Wichita Falls | $165,973 | $775 |
| 4 | Harlingen | $176,155 | $785 |
| 5 | Texarkana | $186,615 | $790 |
| 6 | Abilene | $190,144 | $825 |
| 7 | Amarillo | $195,844 | $845 |
| 8 | Odessa | $199,831 | $862 |
| 9 | El Paso | $205,489 | $870 |
| 10 | Lubbock | $209,980 | $880 |
| 11 | Corpus Christi | $218,305 | $1,000 |
| 12 | Pasadena | $225,899 | $1,019 |
| 13 | Waco | $225,963 | $1,050 |
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