If you're considering a move to the Lone Star State and wondering about the "best places to live in Texas," then this blog post is for you. We've curated a list of remarkable locations, each offering a unique blend of Texas charm and modern amenities. Our selection process takes into account key factors such as cost of living, local economy, education quality, crime rates, and overall quality of life. Whether you're looking for a bustling city, a tranquil suburb, or a nature-rich town, our guide aims to help you find a Texas locale that fits your lifestyle and meets your needs. So, saddle up and join us as we explore the best that Texas living has to offer.

13 Best Places To Live In Texas

Austin

Austin is a vibrant city that consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in Texas in 2023, and for good reason. The cost of living here is just 1% higher than the national average, but that's offset by the thriving job market, driven by a booming tech scene. The median home cost in Austin is $577,400, making it an investment-worthy location for homebuyers.

The city's strong economy isn’t its only draw. Austin is known as the 'Live Music Capital of the World' and offers a diverse culinary landscape, ensuring there's always something to do. Residents enjoy access to numerous parks and hiking trails, providing ample opportunities to explore nature without leaving the city. As for safety, Austin has a lower crime rate compared to other cities of its size, adding to its appeal.

Another aspect that residents love about Austin is its sense of community. Despite being a major city, Austin maintains a small-town charm that makes it feel like home. Whether you're a young professional, a growing family, or a retiree, Austin has something to offer everyone. Its rich culture, robust economy, and natural beauty make Austin not only a great place to live but also a place where you can truly thrive.

When it comes to cost of living, Austin is relatively affordable for a major city. The average home cost is $365,600, which is lower than many comparable tech hubs. This, combined with a median household income of $71,543, makes Austin an attractive place for both individuals and families.

In addition to its strong job market, Austin offers excellent educational opportunities, with top-rated schools that cater to all age groups. The city's diverse culinary landscape is another draw, boasting everything from food trucks to high-end dining establishments.

San Antonio

San Antonio, Texas is a city rich in history and culture, making it one of the most attractive places to live in the state. The cost of living here is 8% lower than the national average, making it an affordable choice for many. The median home cost is a comfortable $204,200, further testament to its affordability.

San Antonio's economy is diverse and robust, with opportunities spanning various industries. The city's job market is constantly growing, offering residents a stable income source. The average annual salary here is $49,677, providing a decent living wage for individuals and families alike.

In terms of safety, San Antonio maintains a competitive position with other cities of similar size. The city's vibrant food scene, combined with attractions like the River Walk and the Alamo, make it not just a great place to live, but also a wonderful city to explore. Residents appreciate the balance between urban amenities and access to nature, with numerous parks and outdoor spaces available for recreation.

San Antonio continues to attract people with its unique blend of affordability, economic opportunity, and cultural richness. Whether you're a history buff, foodie, or outdoor enthusiast, San Antonio has something for everyone, making it an excellent choice when considering relocating within Texas.

Dallas-Fort Worth

The Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area in Texas offers an attractive blend of affordability and economic opportunity, making it a top choice for those seeking a vibrant place to call home. The cost of living here is relatively balanced, with Dallas being just 3% higher than the national average, and Fort Worth coming in at 5% lower.

This region boasts a strong economy driven by sectors such as technology, banking, and telecommunications. The job market is thriving, providing residents with a stable source of income. The average income in this area is $67,382, comfortably supporting the average home price of $249,000.

Safety is also a key factor in the appeal of Dallas-Fort Worth. The cities maintain competitive crime rates when compared to other metropolitan areas of similar size. Residents enjoy not only the urban amenities but also access to numerous parks and natural attractions.

The cities' cultural scenes are another draw, with a plethora of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Whether you're a foodie, a nature lover, or a career-focused professional, Dallas-Fort Worth has something to offer everyone. Its blend of economic strength, affordability, and cultural richness make it not just a great place to live, but a place where residents can truly thrive.

Houston

Houston, Texas, is a city that perfectly combines economic opportunity with cultural richness, making it an ideal place to call home. The cost of living in Houston is 8% lower than the national average, allowing residents to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle at a more affordable rate. The average home cost sits at $185,500, which is significantly more accessible compared to other major cities.

Houston's economy is robust, largely driven by its renowned energy industry. However, the job market extends beyond this sector, offering a diverse range of opportunities. The median income in Houston is $63,802, providing residents with a solid foundation for financial stability.

Safety is a key consideration for any potential homeowner, and Houston maintains a competitive crime rate compared to similar-sized cities. Beyond the numbers, Houston offers a vibrant arts scene and diverse culinary experiences, adding to the city's appeal. Access to nature is another plus, with numerous parks and recreational areas available.

Houston offers a unique blend of affordability, economic opportunity, and cultural vibrancy. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a foodie, or a professional seeking career growth, Houston has something for everyone, affirming its position as one of the best cities in the country.

Killeen

Killeen, the best city in central Texas, is a hidden gem that offers residents an affordable and community-driven lifestyle. The city's cost of living is 12% lower than the national average, providing a significant financial advantage to its residents. With an average home cost of just $136,300, homeownership in Killeen becomes an achievable dream for many.

With its robust economy fueled by housing one of the largest military bases globally, Killeen offers a diverse job market and ample opportunities across industries. The average annual salary of $50,900 in Killeen comfortably accommodates the low cost of living in this vibrant city nestled in the captivating hill country.

Despite being a smaller city, Killeen does not compromise on safety, maintaining a competitive crime rate compared to similar-sized cities. Residents enjoy the strong sense of community here, along with access to nature and a variety of local attractions.

Killeen offers an affordable, community-focused lifestyle without compromising on economic opportunities or safety. Whether you're a military professional, a family, or an individual seeking a friendly community and affordable living, Killeen is a smaller city that offers all the benefits of living in Texas.

El Paso

Situated in West Texas, El Paso offers residents an attractive blend of affordability and cultural richness. The city's cost of living is 10% lower than the national average, making it one of the most affordable cities in Texas. This financial advantage is highlighted by the average home cost, which is a mere $129,800.

El Paso's economy is diverse, offering a variety of job opportunities across different industries. The city's rich cultural history enhances its appeal, providing a unique lifestyle for its residents. Despite being an affordable city, El Paso doesn't compromise on safety, maintaining a competitive crime rate compared to similar-sized cities.

Beyond these practical advantages, El Paso boasts access to stunning natural beauty and a wealth of local attractions. From hiking in the Franklin Mountains State Park to exploring the city's vibrant arts scene, there's always something to do.

El Paso combines economic opportunity, safety, and cultural vibrancy with an exceptionally affordable cost of living. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking economic stability, El Paso stands out as one of the best cities to live in Texas.

Beaumont

Located in the heart of Texas, Beaumont is a city that offers an affordable cost of living and a rich blend of economic and recreational opportunities. Beaumont's cost of living is 5% lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking a financially balanced lifestyle. The average home cost is $131,400, which is significantly more accessible compared to other cities.

Beaumont's economy is largely driven by its oil industry, providing a dynamic job market with diverse opportunities. Despite being an economically vibrant city, Beaumont doesn't compromise on safety, maintaining a competitive crime rate compared to similar-sized cities.

Residents enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, reflecting the city's commitment to providing a high quality of life. From exploring the local parks to embarking on hiking trails, there's always something to do.

Beaumont combines affordability, economic opportunity, safety, and a love for the outdoors, making it an ideal place to call home.

Corpus Christi

Situated along the Texas coast, Corpus Christi offers residents a unique blend of coastal charm and urban convenience. The city's cost of living is 10% lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking an affordable lifestyle. The average home cost in Corpus Christi is $149,200, providing an affordable gateway to homeownership.

The city's economy is diverse, offering a range of job opportunities in various sectors. Despite being a relaxed coastal city, Corpus Christi does not compromise on safety, maintaining a competitive crime rate compared to similar-sized cities.

What sets Corpus Christi apart is its access to beautiful beaches and a myriad of outdoor activities, providing a relaxed lifestyle that's hard to beat. From beachcombing to birdwatching at the local parks, there's always something to do here.

Corpus Christi combines affordability, economic opportunity, safety, and a love for the outdoors, making it an ideal place to call home.

Round Rock

Located just north of the Texas capital, Austin, Round Rock is a suburb known for its excellent school system and strong economy. The cost of living in Round Rock is 8% lower than the national average, making it an affordable choice for many families. The average home cost is $277,600, which is well below the state's median price.

The city's economy is robust, with various industries providing a wealth of job opportunities. Round Rock maintains a competitive crime rate, ensuring safety for its residents.

In addition to its economic and educational strengths, Round Rock offers residents access to nature and a range of recreational activities. From exploring local parks to enjoying community events, there's always something to do.

Arlington

Situated between Dallas and Fort Worth, Arlington offers residents a unique blend of big-city amenities and suburban comfort. The city's cost of living is about 2% lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced lifestyle. The average home cost in Arlington is $204,400, which is quite accessible compared to other cities in Texas.

Arlington's economy is diverse, with various industries providing a range of job opportunities. It is also home to the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers, adding a vibrant sports culture to the city. Despite being a bustling city, Arlington maintains a competitive crime rate, ensuring safety for its residents.

What sets Arlington apart is its access to nature and a myriad of recreational activities, providing a balanced lifestyle that's hard to beat. From exploring local parks to enjoying community events, there's always something to do.

Midland

Nestled in the heart of West Texas, Midland offers residents a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Known for its booming oil industry, Midland boasts a high average income of $75,646, offering a strong economy with plenty of job opportunities. The cost of living in Midland is 9% lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced lifestyle. The average home cost in Midland is $223,900, which is quite accessible compared to other cities in Texas.

Despite being a bustling city, Midland maintains a competitive crime rate, ensuring a safe environment for its residents. What sets Midland apart is its vibrant community and access to nature. From exploring local parks to enjoying community events, there's always something to do.

Midland combines economic opportunity, safety, affordability, and a love for the outdoors, making it an ideal place to call home.

The Woodlands

Considered a gem in the Lone Star State, The Woodlands is a master-planned community that offers a high quality of life, making it a great place to raise a family. The cost of living in The Woodlands is slightly higher compared to other Texas cities, but residents find the trade-off worth it given the city's abundant amenities and high median income of $118,174. The average home cost is around $341,700, reflecting the city's desirability.

The city's economy is robust and diverse, offering a wide range of job opportunities. Moreover, The Woodlands boasts a lower crime rate compared to the national average, providing a safe environment for families.

What sets The Woodlands apart is its commitment to preserving nature. With numerous parks, hiking trails, and outdoor recreational activities, residents have endless options to enjoy the outdoors. The city also hosts various community events, fostering a strong sense of community.

The Woodlands combines economic opportunity, safety, excellent educational facilities, and a love for nature, making it an ideal place to call home.

Cinco Ranch

Located in the extraterritorial jurisdiction of Houston, Cinco Ranch is a master-planned community that beautifully blends suburban tranquility with big-city amenities. It's a suburb of Houston with a population of 18,399, making it an ideal location for those seeking a small-town feel without compromising on the conveniences of city life.

The cost of living and median house price in Cinco Ranch are reflective of its high quality of life and the stunning master-planned architecture of the community. The city offers a robust job market, driven by diverse industries, providing residents with various employment opportunities.

Safety is a priority in Cinco Ranch, with crime rates lower than the national average. This aspect, coupled with the city's excellent school system, makes it a great place to raise a family.

What sets Cinco Ranch apart is its access to nature and recreational facilities. From parks to hiking trails, residents have ample opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Additionally, the community hosts numerous events, fostering a vibrant social scene.

Ready to Call Texas Home?

In conclusion, Texas is a diverse state offering a range of excellent places to live. Whether it's the oil-rich Midland with its robust economy and affordable living, the family-oriented Woodlands with its master-planned community and abundant amenities, or the charming Cinco Ranch with its blend of suburban tranquility and city conveniences, there's a place for everyone in the Lone Star State. Each city offers its unique blend of economic opportunity, safety, education, and access to nature. Regardless of your lifestyle preferences or career aspirations, you're likely to find a city that feels like home in Texas. With this guide, we hope to have provided you with a useful starting point in your search for the perfect Texas city to call home.

If you do plan to move, consider using Proxi to build an interactive map of homes you tour. It's a great way to learn about a neighborhood, keep track of notes on the home, and get situated in your community!

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