Best Places To Live In Texas

Texas isn't just a state; it's a state of mind.

As the saying goes, everything is bigger in Texas, including the opportunities, diversity, and character.

Whether you are pursuing dreams in busy urban hubs, searching for peace in charming smaller towns, or planting roots in suburban havens, Texas has it all.

Did you know that Texas welcomed over 500,000 new residents in the previous year, which makes it one of the fastest-growing states in the U.S.?

That’s not shocking when you consider the state’s absence of income tax, reasonably priced housing and booming job market.

From Austin’s vibrant tech scene to San Antonio’s historical fabric, Texas cities suit professionals, families and retirees.

And it doesn't end with the major cities! Local small towns like McAllen and Fredericksburg offer a slower life while still delivering convenience.

And Texas has some of the safest neighborhoods in the country, as well as top-ranked school districts that draw families year after year.

Choosing the best places to live in Texas can be challenging, but fear not—we've done all the digging for you.

So, let’s explore together!

Why Consider Living in Texas?

Before we list the top places, let’s highlight why so many people are flocking to Texas.

For starters, Texas has no state income tax, which is a big incentive for families, professionals, and retirees.

The housing market, though diverse, is largely less expensive than in many other parts of the U.S.  

Combine this with a thriving economy, rich cultural diversity, and a warm climate, and you have a recipe for a great place to call home.

The Best Places to Live in Texas

Austin

Austin, the capital of Texas, is a center of culture and technology.

Populated by the commodities of music, known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” it complements those searching for a dynamic arts community.

Austin isn’t only a haven for the creative set; it also houses large tech companies and is one of Texas's top cities for young professionals.

Cost of Living: A little more than the national average. The housing index is 133.

Highlights: Zilker Park, Barton Springs, and the thriving tech scene.

Best For: Young professionals and families seeking innovation and a rich lifestyle.

The Woodlands

Located just north of Houston, The Woodlands features the ideal combination of suburban serenity and urban convenience.

With its excellent schools and scenic trails, it draws families looking for the safest neighborhoods in Texas and a high quality of life.

Cost of Living: Above average, in line with its upscale lifestyle.

Highlights: Large parks, shopping and great schools.

Best For: Families and retirees who value safety and community living.

Plano

Plano is one of the top Texas suburbs for families, which offers great schools, corporate headquarters and access to both city and rural living.

It’s an ideal option for residents who appreciate having Dallas nearby yet seek the comforts of suburbia.

Cost of Living: Affordable with a housing index of around 112.

Highlights: Family-friendly neighborhoods, safety, and access to jobs.

Best For: Families and professionals who want a balance of work and lifestyle.

San Antonio

San Antonio is the ultimate combination of affordability and charm.

San Antonio is one of the best cultural cities in Texas, along with The Alamo and River Walk.

That’s why it is one of the most affordable cities in Texas for families and individuals.

Cost of Living: Less than the national average. The housing index sits at a mere 75.9.

Highlights: Rich history, family-friendly attractions, and a warm community feel.

Best For: Families, retirees, and history enthusiasts.

McAllen

McAllen is located in the Rio Grande Valley, a haven for people who want to live at their own cost and in warm weather.

It’s one of the best small towns in Texas to live in for affordability.

Cost of Living: Way below the national average.

Highlights: Near Mexico, bird-watching spots and a family-friendly vibe

Best For: Retirees and those looking for affordable small-town living.

Additional Factors to Consider in Texas Cities

Here’s how cities compare in terms of cost of living:

 Note: A cost of living index below 100 indicates affordability compared to the U.S. average.

Best School Districts in Texas

Education is a significant factor when choosing where to live.

Some of the best school districts in Texas can be found in Plano, The Woodlands, and Austin.

These areas are ideal for families looking for a top-notch education.

Quality of Life in Texas Cities

When considering the quality of life in Texas cities, factors like weather, safety, and access to healthcare are important.

Cities like Austin, The Woodlands, and Plano rank high for their overall livability.

Safest Neighborhoods in Texas

Safety is often a top concern for families and retirees.

Cities like The Woodlands, Plano, and Frisco are celebrated for their low crime rates, which makes them some of the safest neighborhoods in Texas.

What Makes Texas Unique?

You know, Texas isn’t just another state—it’s a whole experience.

Let's discuss some unique aspects that make Texas truly one-of-a-kind.

The Sheer Size and Diversity

Texas is huge—the second-largest state in the U.S. after Alaska.

We are talking about a place so big that you can drive 12 hours and still be in Texas!

With over 268,000 square miles, the state has everything from deserts and beaches to forests and plains.

This diversity means there’s something for everyone.

A Thriving Economy

Did you know Texas has the 9th largest economy in the world?

Yes, it's bigger than some countries!

Thanks to industries such as oil and gas, tech, and agriculture, the state's GDP is over $2 trillion.

Cities like Austin are tech hubs, while Houston is home to the world-famous Texas Medical Center.

Texas is a great place for entrepreneurs—the state ranked #1 in America for small business growth in 2022.

The No-State-Income-Tax Advantage

Here’s something you’ll love: Texas has no state income tax.

This means more money stays in your pocket compared to high-tax states like California or New York.

For example, if you earn $100,000 a year, you could save as much as $8,000 to $10,000 annually by living in Texas.

Rich Culture and History

Texas is rich in history and culture that you just won’t find anywhere else.

Festivals like the State Fair of Texas and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo attract millions of visitors each year.

The Food Scene is Legendary

If you’re a foodie, Texas will feel like paradise.

It has authentic Tex-Mex, world-famous barbecue, and even kolaches (a Czech pastry that Texans have made their own).

For instance, did you know that Texas has over 2,000 barbecue joints?

And don’t get us started on the tacos—you could eat at a different taco spot every day and still not scratch the surface.

How Much Does It Cost to Move to Texas?

Moving to Texas? That’s an exciting step!

But before you pack your bags, it's essential to know exactly what you're looking at in terms of costs.

Moving Expenses

When it comes to the actual relocation process, your moving costs will depend on the distance, the volume of your belongings, and the type of move.

For instance, if you're moving from California to Texas, you might spend more time closer to the upper range due to the longer distance.

On the other hand, a local move within Texas (say, from Dallas to Austin) will cost less.

Housing Costs

The cost of buying or renting in Texas can depend on the city or town.

If you're planning to buy, remember to budget for closing costs (2%- 5% of the home price) and property taxes, which average 1.8% of the property value in Texas.

Utility Costs

Once you’ve found a home, you’ll need to budget for utilities.

Pro Tip: Texas has a deregulated electricity market in most areas, so you can shop around for the best energy rates.

Transportation Costs

Depending on where you live, getting around in Texas can be a breeze—or a challenge.

Vehicle Registration and Taxes: Registration costs an average of $50 - $60 annually, and you'll also pay a 6.25% sales tax on your vehicle purchase.

Gas Prices: As of now, gas prices in Texas are around $3.00 per gallon, which is lower than the national average.

Insurance: Auto insurance in Texas averages $125 per month, but this depends on your driving record and location.

Public Transportation: In cities like Austin, Houston, and Dallas, public transport passes range from $30 - $100 per month.

Miscellaneous Costs

Here are a few additional expenses that might pop up:

Cost of Living Adjustments

The cost of living in Texas is generally lower than in states like California or New York.

Here’s how it compares:

Housing: 30%-40% cheaper than the national average in most cities.

Groceries: Slightly below the national average.

Healthcare: 5%-10% lower than in many other states.