Want Texas’s country-meets-city vibe without Dallas’s high prices? Don’t give up on the dream. You can afford a house in The Lone Star State if you know where to look.
Your perfect home could be a ranch style home in Abilene or a modern suburban home in San Antonio, Texas’s military hub. If you’re retiring, take a look at homes for sale in Brownsville to enjoy an affordable retirement, with median home prices under $254,990.
After assessing hundreds of cities, we’ve ranked the 10 best cheap places to live in Texas to help you find a home that fits your budget.
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Key Takeaways
- Wichita Falls is the most affordable city: Wichita Falls’ cost of living is 10% lower than the national average. With a median price of $194,950, it is the cheapest place to live in Texas.
- San Antonio is the best city for young adults: Being one of the fastest growing economies in Texas, San Antonia is a prime spot to build a career.
- For families, Abilene is a great choice: With safe neighborhoods like River Oaks, and Elmwood, good schools and plenty of parks, Abilene is perfect for raising children.
- Retirees should consider Brownsville: Retirees can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, with quiet neighborhoods and access to golf courses.
- Don’t forget Texas’s ‘weather-risk tax’: Homeowners pay an average of $3,300+ per year for standard policies and another $2,400+ annually for wind-storm insurance.
10 Most Affordable Places to Live in Texas
| City | Median Home Price | Median House Rent | Cost of Living Compared to State Average | Affordability Score* (out of 10) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Wichita Falls | $194,950 | $1,100 | 5% ⬇️ | 7.3 |
| 2. Amarillo | $252,500 | $984 | 12% ⬇️ | 7 |
| 3. Killeen | $225,000 | $1,088 | 2% ⬇️ | 6.9 |
| 4. Brownsville | $254,990 | $1,038 | 11% ⬇️ | 6.8 |
| 5. Lubbock | $227,250 | $1,126 | 5% ⬇️ | 6.8 |
| 6. El Paso | $250,000 | $1,099 | 7% ⬇️ | 6.6 |
| 7. Corpus Christi | $267,000 | $1,157 | 6% ⬇️ | 6.3 |
| 8. San Antonio | $259,000 | $1,274 | 4% ⬇️ | 6.1 |
| 9. San Angelo | $274,900 | $1,375 | 2% ⬆️ | 5.6 |
| 10. Abilene | $235,000 | $1,750 | 4% ⬇️ | 5.6 |
How We Ranked the Most Affordable Places to Live in Texas
To identify the cheap places to live in Texas, we carried out an in-depth analysis using multiple reliable data sources and indicators of affordability.
Data Sources:
- Median Home Prices: We used Houzeo’s Texas Housing Market report and double-checked the numbers with the data from Texas Real Estate Research Center.
- Median Rent: We got the rent data from C2ER, which publishes the national Cost of Living Index. This was verified every few months to make sure it’s accurate.
- Overall Cost of Living: We covered 6 big spending categories— housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods— from C2ER and Houzeo’s Cost of Living in Texas Calculator. We then compared everything to the U.S. average of 100.
We studied housing data from 2022 to 2025 to identify cities that remained affordable over time, not just during short dips in prices. Furthermore, each city’s data was also cross-checked with HUD and state economic reports.
All our information is up to date as of 2025, ensuring you receive the most current insights.
Affordability Scoring:
We built a simple scoring system that focuses on what really matters:
- Median Home Price (40%)
- Median Rent (35%)
- Cost of Living (25%)
This way, we can clearly show which Texas cities give you the best value for your money. You can also check out our score breakdown to see how each city was ranked.
Image credits: All blog images are sourced from Freepik.
10 Most Affordable Places to Live in Texas
If you’re looking for affordable living in Texas, Wichita Falls stands out. Locals enjoy Lucy Park’s scenic trails and its man-made attraction, “The Falls.” Transportation costs run 14% below the national average, making daily life easier. Altogether, the city delivers an economical, comfortable lifestyle.
- Lake Wellington Estates: This quiet neighborhood offers serene suburban vibes with scenic lake views and spacious homes. It’s ideal for families and young professionals. You can enjoy the scenic beauty with Lake Wellington as the backdrop.
- Tanglewood: A well-planned residential neighborhood with lush trees. It draws families due to its closeness to Pleasant Valley Elementary School and multiple parks within a 2-3 mile radius.
- Country Club Estates: This neighborhood centers around the Wichita Falls Country Club golf course. Buyers are attracted to the upscale ambiance and its location which is about 3 miles from key shopping and dining districts like Kemp Boulevard corridor.
- Job Market: Wichita Falls has a diverse and stable job market. Healthcare dominates as the largest employment sector, along with manufacturing. Major employers include, United Regional Health Care System, Vitro Architectural Glass, and Sheppard Air Force Base.
- Recreation: The Circle Trail features 20 connected paths, great for walking, biking, or jogging. Residents can enjoy scenic trails and waterfalls at Lucy Park or go hiking at Lake Wichita Park. Cultural landmarks are the Wichita Falls Museum of Art and the Kemp Center for the Arts.
- Tornado and Flood Risk: Located in Tornado Alley, Wichita Falls faces occasional risks from tornadoes and severe storms. This can impact safety, insurance costs, and property values.
- Limited Entertainment Options: Wichita Falls offers great value but has fewer upscale dining, nightlife, and shopping options compared to big cities like Dallas and Austin. So, daily life here may feel monotonous sometimes.
- Population Decline: There has been a population decline over the past decade, mainly with young people leaving for better job opportunities.
Amarillo is one of the cheapest places to live in Texas, offering a relaxed lifestyle and easy access to the scenic landscapes of the Texas Panhandle. It is located along I-40 and provides convenient travel connections across the state. With abundant homes for sale in Amarillo, families and first-time buyers can enjoy spacious housing at low costs.
- The Colonies: This upscale yet surprisingly affordable neighborhood is located in one of the cheapest towns to live in Texas. It features spacious single-family homes and a strong sense of community. This makes it ideal for families seeking good schools like the Amarillo High School and budget-friendly housing.
- Wolflin: This historic neighborhood is known for its charming architecture and verdant streets. Its close proximity to the city center offers easy access to essential amenities like schools and shopping centers like Wolflin Center and Western Crossing.
- City View: A growing suburban area with new, affordable homes. City View is one of the least expensive places to live in Texas. Residents enjoy quiet streets, easy access to schools and shopping centers, and a community that appeals to young professionals seeking budget-friendly towns.
- Job Market: The local economy is driven by healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture, and energy. Key employers include BNSF railways, Bell Textron and Pantex Plant. The proximity to I-40 also supports jobs in logistics and transportation.
- Recreation: You can explore the breathtaking Palo Duro Canyon State Park or check out the vintage Cadillac collection at the Cadillac Ranch. Residents here also enjoy local art galleries across the city and farmer markets like the Amarillo Downtown Farmers Market.
- Extreme Weather Conditions: Amarillo faces intense heat waves, strong windstorms, hail, and seasonal flooding hazards in spring and early summer. Fire risk is also high, with about 68% of buildings at risk of wildfire.
- Limited Job Diversity: High-paying jobs are limited in Amarillo compared to larger metro areas like Dallas or Oklahoma City, leading many residents to seek employment in bigger cities.
- Infrastructural Issues: The neighborhoods of North Heights and University Heights have a pipeline network that date back to the 1930s. Other infrastructural issues include the ageing roads which are further worsened under heavy rains.
Killeen is one of the cheapest cities in Texas to live in. Conveniently located near Fort Hood and along US Highway 190, it offers easy access to nearby cities like Temple and Copperas Cove. With plenty of homes for sale in Killeen, it’s a great option for families and first-time homebuyers who are looking for affordability.
- Yowell Ranch: A master-planned community featuring modern single-family homes, and parks like Lions Club Park with walking trails and playgrounds. It’s ideal for families seeking affordable housing with convenient access to schools.
- White Rock Estates: This quiet neighborhood features spacious lots and elegant brick homes, with peaceful streets that provide easy access to nearby hiking trails and the Purser Family Park.
- Goodnight Ranch: A growing community with newer homes, family-friendly parks, and proximity to the city center. Perfect for first-time buyers or military families looking for cheap homes near places of work.
- Job Markets : The economy is driven by Fort Hood, one of the largest military installations in the US. The base employs 11,369 civilians and supports local businesses. Healthcare and education also play key roles in creating job opportunities for its residents.
- Recreation : Killeen’s residents can enjoy activities like exploring Dana Park , hiking at Stillhouse Hollow Lake, or visiting Lions Club Park. The growing town center also offers shopping arenas, restaurants, cultural events and community festivals.
- Extreme Weather Conditions : Killeen faces intense summer heat, droughts, and high wildfire risk. Heavy rains can also cause floods and further stress road conditions.
- Poor Traffic management: Rush hours especially at Fort Cavazos and other major commercial corridors like the US Highway 190 experiences immense amounts of traffic congestion.
- Road Quality: Many streets suffer from potholes and frequent construction forcing sudden detours which further worsen wear on vehicles.
Located at the southern tip of Texas, Brownsville is rich in history and culture, with landmarks and local eateries to explore. The city hosts vibrant festivals such as Charro Days Fiesta and the Sombrero Festival. With many cheap homes for sale in Brownsville, it’s an affordable and welcoming place for new residents.
- Rancho Viejo: A quiet neighborhood, known for El Diablo, an 18-hole golf course and beautiful lakeside views. Families and retirees often choose it for its peaceful atmosphere and well-maintained surroundings.
- Los Ebanos: A residential neighborhood with a strong sense of community, Los Ebanos offers affordable homes and convenient access to essential services. Its quality schools like Delia Gonzalez Garcia Elementary School making it a practical choice for families.
- Downtown Brownsville: This neighborhood is the historic heart of Brownsville with landmarks like the Mitte Cultural District. Residents enjoy the quiet streets and easy access to community events.
- Job Market: International trade is the centre of Brownsville’s economy. Education and healthcare also play a huge part in cementing its economy. The Port of Brownsville, SpaceX and Boca Chica provide several job opportunities in Brownsville attracting young professionals.
- Recreation: Residents living in this affordable town in Texas can relax along the serene Gulf Coast at Boca Chica Beach, birdwatch at Resaca de la Palma State Park. Downtown Brownsville also offers museums and dining services along with its vibrant cultural festivals year-round.
- Water Supply Issues: Some areas near Boca Chica and Starbase still face intermittent or limited water service, creating potential health and safety concerns.
- Traffic Congestion: Ongoing road construction and reconstruction had led to regular delays and detours in certain areas.
- Extreme Heat and Hurricane Risk: Brownsville’s climate is becoming hotter, with summer temperatures reaching around 97.9°F. The city is also prone to flooding and hurricanes, particularly between June and November.
Known for its affordable housing, Lubbock offers a high quality of life without breaking the budget. The city has over 75 parks, scenic trails, and a vibrant downtown filled with live music and cultural events. Families and first-time buyers can find cheap homes for sale in Lubbock while enjoying all that this lively community has to offer.
- Tech Terrace: This neighborhood near Texas Tech University features small, tree-lined homes and offers convenient access to the campus and nearby hospitals. It’s ideal for students and young professionals seeking an affordable, lively community.
- Kingsgate: Located about ten miles south of Lubbock’s city center, Kingsgate features quiet, tree-lined streets and well-maintained homes. The neighborhood also offers convenient access to schools and parks, making it ideal for families and young professionals.
- Lakeridge: A golf-course community with rolling fairways, scenic water features, and tall trees, Lakeridge offers spacious ranch-style homes. Low-maintenance gardens and views of the country club make it perfect for those seeking a relaxed, upscale lifestyle.
- Job Market: Lubbock’s economy is centered around Texas Tech University, major healthcare systems such as UMC Health System, and a growing tech sector. There are also steady opportunities emerging in education and medicine.
- Recreation: Residents enjoy abundant outdoor spaces like Mackenzie Park, Buffalo Springs Lake, and the Holly Recreation Area for hiking. The city also hosts music festivals such as the annual Cotton Fest and local breweries, like Two Docs Brewing Co.
- Climate: Lubbock’s dry, semi-arid climate brings frequent high winds and dust storms, especially in spring and early summer. Hot summer temperatures often limit outdoor activities and can reduce air quality.
- Poor Road Conditions: Several major streets and neighborhoods, particularly in North and East Lubbock, have roads full of potholes and incomplete repairs, which makes commuting difficult.
- Limited Career Options: Lubbock has jobs in healthcare, education, and agriculture, but fewer positions in specialized industries. Many residents commute to larger cities like Dallas, Austin, or Houston for work.
El Paso is one of the cheapest cities in Texas, with low home prices and utility costs. The city hosts events like Fiesta de las Flores and the Sun City Music Festival. With numerous homes for sale in El Paso, it’s a smart choice for families and retirees seeking budget-friendly options.
- Mission Hills: A historic neighborhood tucked into the Franklin Mountains. It has stunning city views with heritage-style homes and quick access to the city center. The serene landscapes alongside the quiet streets make it a desirable neighborhood for retirees.
- Kern Place: A lively neighborhood known for its creative flair. Kern Place sits near the Cincinnati Entertainment District. Residents love the mix of walkable restaurants and coffee shops, making it a hotspot for young professionals.
- Mesa Hills: Located on the west side, Mesa Hills features spacious homes with scenic mountain views from Franklin Mountains. Families appreciate the comfort of affordable utilities and easy I-10 access, making travel seamless.
- Job Market: El Paso is home to Fort Bliss, one of the largest US Army Bases. The military, along with healthcare and international trade, makes up the El Paso economy. These sectors provide steady jobs to the residents, also allowing a cheaper housing market.
- Recreation: Residents can explore the Franklin Mountains State Park for hiking and biking. The Parks in El Paso also provide scenic views along the Transmountain Roads. The Plaza Theatre and several other museums add to the creative flair of the city center.
- Traffic Congestion: Some areas in El Paso, such as I-10 eastbound near the Spaghetti Bowl interchange and Mesa Street, are heavily congested. These spots often cause delays during peak hours.
- Urban Sprawl: The city’s layout is wide and dispersed, leading to lengthened commutes for daily errands and visits.
- Elevated Crime incidents: There has been a hike in crime concerns in the city. Crimes reported have seen a surge in recent years, such as robberies and auto theft.
Corpus Christi is located along the coast, with beaches like Mustang Island and Padre Island. The city hosts events such as Texas SandFest in May, Buc Days in April, Barefoot Mardi Gras in February, and Mural Fest in June. With many homes for sale in Corpus Christi, it’s a great option for first time homebuyers.
- Calallen: This neighborhood combines country charm with modern amenities and affordable homes. Properties are spacious, often featuring brick exteriors, larger lots, and newer custom constructions.
- Southside: The neighborhood offers a mix of modern and traditional homes. It provides suburban living with access to outdoor recreation at the Bill Witt Park and local amenities. This makes it ideal for buyers seeking a vibrant community.
- Bayview: Bayview is a family-friendly neighborhood with affordable homes. It offers easy access to schools, shopping at La Palmera, and the Corpus Christi Bay.
- Job Market: Corpus Christi’s economy is diverse, with strong growth in healthcare and manufacturing. Major employers include hospital systems, the Port of Corpus Christ, and firms investing in LNG.
- Recreation: Residents can enjoy miles of beaches, explore the South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center, watch sunsets at Oso Bay Wetlands, and visit the Marina Parks at Water’s Edge.
- Public Transit LImitations: The city’s bus system (CCRTA) does not cover all the neighborhoods forcing many residents to highly depend on cars for daily errands.
- Job Gaps : While industries like tourism, marine trade and oil are doing well, opportunities in finance, tech and other specialized fields are more limited.
- Weather Risk: Summers from June to August are hot and humid. Coastal areas face hurricanes and storm surges between June and November, which can raise insurance costs and maintenance needs.
San Antonio has a strong job market, driven by military bases, healthcare, and a growing tech sector. Residents enjoy steady employment while exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage. With many cheap homes for sale in San Antonio, it’s an affordable choice for families and first-time buyers.
- Creekview Estates: A peaceful residential area with tree-lined streets and spacious single-family homes. Families are drawn here for its proximity to top-rated schools like the Beacon Hill High School, parks, and shopping centers.
- Redland Oaks: A quiet, established neighborhood with well-kept homes. Residents enjoy access to neighborhood Mud Creek Park, walking trails, and convenient shopping and dining nearby.
- Stone Oak: A well-planned neighborhood in North San Antonio known for its modern-age homes, gated enclaves, and excellent schools. With golf courses, medical centers it’s a highly sought-after choice for families and professionals.
- Job Market: San Antonio’s economy is mainly run by military bases, healthcare, tourism and a growing tech sector. Major employers include Joint Base San Antonio, USAA, Baptist Health System, and Rackspace Technology.
- Recreation: Residents can explore the famous River Walk lined with fine restaurants, huge shops and a vibrant nightlife. Families can enjoy the San Antonio Zoo, Sea World and Six Flags Fiesta.
- Traffic Congestion: Congestion along major highways like I-35 and Loop 1604 makes daily commutes challenging, especially during rush hours
- Urbanization: With the city’s rapid population growth some neighborhoods are experiencing a hike in housing costs, stretched infrastructure and crowded schools.
Located along the scenic Concho River, the city features parks, walking trails, and a lively town center with art galleries, including the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts. Families, retirees, and first-time buyers can find cheap homes for sale in San Angelo while enjoying everything the city has to offer.
- Bentwood Country Club Estates: This well-planned neighborhood offers easy access to fitness centers, great dining options, and good schools. Homes are generally set on larger lots with open yards and tall trees, creating a spacious and serene environment.
- The Bluffs: Situated on rolling hills, this quiet neighborhood provides beautiful city views. It combines suburban peace with everyday conveniences like shopping centers and hospitals. Homes range from ranch-style to traditional designs, and the area boasts excellent schools and parks, making it an ideal location for families.
- Santa Rita: Located along the North Concho River, Santa Rita is a planned neighborhood filled with lush trees and ranch-style homes. Many residences are influenced by Spanish Revival architecture, making it perfect for buyers interested in vintage properties.
- Job Market: Angelo’s economy thrives on healthcare, education, and manufacturing. Key employers include Shannon Medical Center, San Angelo ISD, and Goodfellow Air Force Base. Agriculture and energy also play a strong role in supporting local jobs.
- Recreation: Set along the scenic Concho River, San Angelo offers outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and hiking at San Angelo State Park. Nature lovers can visit the International Waterlily Collection, while the city’s downtown comes alive at night with live music and cozy bars.
- Severe Weather Risk: The city faces frequent severe thunderstorms, strong winds, large hail, and occasional flash flooding, especially in spring and early summer.
- Ageing School Infrastructure: Many school buildings in San Angelo need major repairs like plumbing, roofing and more. These repairs are needed across multiple campuses in San Angelo’s ISD.
- Road and Maintenance Issues: Potholes and cracked pavements are common visuals in San Angelo worsened by extreme weather conditions.
Abilene combines affordability with a high quality of life. The city hosts events like the Outlaws & Legends Music Festival and the Children’s Art & Literacy Festival. Families benefit from a steady job market and excellent schools. There are many cheap homes for sale in Abilene, along with parks, walking trails, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
- Elm Creek at Wylie: Located beside Wylie High School, this neighborhood offers easy access to classes and school activities. It has modern homes and open green spaces, making it a popular choice for families.
- Elmwood: One of Abilene’s oldest neighborhoods, Elmwood features tree-lined streets and 20th-century colonial-style homes. Housing options range from cozy ranches to spacious historic estates, all within a few miles of downtown and well-rated schools.
- River Oaks-Brookhollow : A quiet, well-established neighborhood, River Oaks – Brookhollow features calm streets and traditional stone-style homes, with easy access to good schools and local parks.
- Job Market: Abilene’s economy is strongly driven by Dyess Air Force Base (DYFB), major healthcare providers such as Hendrick Health, education, and manufacturing. Together, these industries provide a stable job market and a variety of career opportunities.
- Recreation: Residents can enjoy family-friendly spots like the Abilene Zoo, city parks, and Abilene State Park for hiking and fishing. The city center is full of life with local restaurants, art galleries like The Grace Museum and Jody Klotz Fine Art, and popular festivals such as the Outlaws and Legends Music Festival.
- Severe Weather Conditions: Abilene faces hot, dry summers with occasional dust storms, while severe thunderstorms, sudden hail, and high winds most often occur in spring and early summer, which can sometimes cause property damage.
- Ageing Infrastructure: Older neighborhoods in Abilene still face issues with outdated water lines, uneven roads, and occasional flooding during heavy rains.
- Limited Industry Variety: Abilene offers jobs in healthcare, education, and military support, but opportunities in high-tech or other specialized industries remain limited.
Horizon City (safety score of 94) and Round Rock (safety score of 81) are the cheapest and safest cities in Texas. They offer low crime rates, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a lively, welcoming lifestyle.
Top 3 Cheapest Cities to Live in Texas for Young Adults
Affordable living in Texas isn’t just about cheap housing, its about good jobs, a fun lifestyle, and room to build your future. These cities provide all of that without the big -city price tag.
| Rank | City | Why It’s Great for Young Adults |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | San Antonio | San Antonio blends low living costs with strong salaries and a growing job market. The Pearl District offers trendy dining and creative spaces, while King William brings an eclectic, artsy feel. Its diverse economy delivers an average salary of around $69,000. |
| 2. | Amarillo | Young adults can tap into high-growth high-growth tech roles, with top roles paying over $70,000. Groups like Elevate Amarillo host networking and leadership events across the city. Plus, Palo Duro Canyon adds hiking, biking, and camping to the mix, and downtown offers a modest but active nightlife. |
| 3. | Lubbock | Home to Texas Tech University, the city offers higher education and a growing tech ecosystem. Lubbock Chamber Young Professionals hosts mixers like YP Off the Clock, giving newcomers an instant community. With strong job growth and affordable homes for sale in Lubbock makes it easier to build wealth in the city. |
Top 3 Inexpensive Places to Live in Texas for Families
| Rank | City | Why It’s Great for Families |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Wichita Falls | The city’s strong community spirit and access to quality schools like West Foundation Elementary make it great for raising kids. Families also love parks like Lucy Park and Hamilton Park, with playgrounds and sports fields. Buyers now have more negotiating power with homes for sale in Wichita Falls, making the city more attractive to families. |
| 2. | Harlingen | Harlingen has diverse summer camps like Marine Military Academy and after school programs in STEM, arts, and sports. Families rely on five Family Learning Centers for free tutoring and safe study spaces. With living costs 30% below the national average, homes for sale in Harlingen give families a truly affordable place to live. |
| 3. | Abilene | Abilene offers affordable homes and family-friendly neighborhoods like River Oaks and Elmwood. Wylie ISD’s modern schools and South Abilene’s master-planned communities—like Elm Creek at Wylie—add pools, trails, and dog parks to the mix. Locals often say it’s simply “perfect for raising a family. |
3 Best Affordable Places to Live in Texas for Retirees
| Rank | City | Why It’s Great for Retirees |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Brownsville | The city gives seniors a strong mix of affordability, comfort, and recreation. The city’s 46 parks, 18-hole golf courses, and public pools make it easy to stay active. Spots like Boca Chica Beach, South Padre Island, and Gladys Porter Zoo add weekend fun. Plus, Valley Baptist and Valley Regional hospitals provide reliable care. |
| 2. | El Paso | The city has 11 climate-controlled senior centers offering fitness rooms, pickleball, tai chi, and dance aerobics. The annual El Paso Senior Games add extra fun with bowling, cycling, track, and swimming. With private golf courses, museums, and desert-mountain scenery, El Paso is a perfect place to retire. |
| 3. | McAllen | The city’s 55+ communities offer walking paths, fitness centers, and plenty of social activities .McAllen Medical Center and DHR Health provide reliable care, while the McAllen Nature Center and Quinta Mazatlán add outdoor fun. With warm weather, easy transit, and plenty of affordable homes for sale in McAllen, it’s an inviting place to retire. |
3 Hidden Costs to Consider in Texas
Texas may be affordable, but some costs catch buyers off guard. Property taxes, homeowners insurance, and steep summer power bills are three expenses you’ll want to factor in upfront.
- Property Taxes: Texas property taxes are among the highest in the country, with rates commonly ranging from 1.6% to 2.5%. In cities like Wichita Falls and Amarillo median effective property tax rate falls between 1.6% to 1.90%.
- Homeowners Insurance: Insurance costs are a growing burden for Texas homeowners. The average premium is about $2,800, nearly 19% higher than last year and well above the national average.
- Summer Electricity Bills: Texas summers come with a “heat tax”, a sharp rise in electricity bills as temperatures regularly climb past 100°F. Air conditioners often run nonstop, pushing monthly costs to $300–$400.
Savings Breakdown: Cheapest Cities in Texas to Live In
Housing costs vary dramatically across Texas. Wichita Falls residents save $3,600 monthly compared to Plano and $930 compared to Dallas. The following table breaks down these savings by median home price, monthly mortgage, property tax, insurance, and total monthly costs.
| City | Median Home Price | Avg. Monthly Mortgage | Insurance/Taxes | Estimated Monthly Cost for a Single Person | Monthly Savings vs. Plano |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wichita Falls | $194,950 | $959 | $755 | $1,900 | $3,600 |
| Dallas | $435,000 | $2,188 | $1,161 | $2,830 | $2,670 |
| Plano | $500,000 | $2,303 | $1,126 | $5,500 | – |
Affordable Living Beyond Texas
Not sure if the cheapest places in Texas to live will fit your budget? Here are a few surrounding states that offer major tax benefits, a business friendly environment, and endless outdoor recreation, just like Texas.
Tax Benefits
Like Texas, Tennessee offers no personal state income tax and the cost of living is 10% lower than the national norm. Here are top 3 cheapest places to live in Tennessee:
- Memphis: Homes are around $187,500, rent under $1,135, and offers taxpayer assistance programs.
- Knoxville: Homes around $317,450, rent under $1,737, and provides business-friendly tax along with no personal state income tax.
- Chattanooga: Homes around $350,000, rent under $1,469, and has property tax relief programs for elderly, disabled, and veterans.
Business-Friendly Environment
Wyoming, like Texas, has no corporate or personal income tax, which significantly reduces business and resident tax burdens. These are the top three cheapest places to live in Wyoming:
- Cheyenne: Median home price is around $379,000, rent under $1,200, and has good infrastructure and proximity to larger markets.
- Casper: Median home price is around $287,000, rent under $1,167, and has affordable commercial real estate and cost-effective business services.
- Laramie: Median home price is around $419,000, rent under $1,616, and offers a small-town feel with business opportunities fueled by the university presence.
Climate
Arkansas provides a climate similar to Texas, with hot summers and mild winters, though with less humidity. Here are the cheapest places to live in Arkansas:
- Little Rock: Homes around $267,000, rent under $1,073, and boasts access to parks and cultural amenities.
- Hot Springs: Homes are around $235,000, rent under $1,140, and is known for its hot springs and tourism driven economy.
- Fayetteville: Homes around $397,100, rent under $1,403, and has a growing tech and retail sector contributing to their economy.
Where Is the Cheapest Place to Live in Texas?
Wichita Falls, Amarillo, and Killeen are the most affordable cities to live in Texas. These areas offer more than low prices; they also provide steady job markets, plenty of recreation, and a cost of living 10% lower than the national norm.
Moving to Texas also offers valuable tax advantages, strong job growth, and diverse housing. Whether you’re relocating or buying your first home, you can browse listings, compare prices, and make offers online.
