Top 5 Cheapest Places in Texas 2023

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For those considering a move to the Lone Star State, discovering the cheapest places in Texas can be a top priority. Texas, with its vast landscapes, rich cultural tapestry, and a reputation as an economic powerhouse, continues to attract people from all walks of life.

Its appeal isn't just in its barbecues or iconic cowboy culture; it's also in the promise of affordable Texas cities to live in. However, as more people flood the state, certain regions have seen a spike in living costs.

But fret not! Amidst this growth, several affordable Texas cities still promise a high-quality life without the hefty price tag. In this guide, we'll delve deep into these pockets of affordability, highlighting where you can find value in 2023.

Key Takeaways

  • Midland: Known as the "Tall City"; historical significance in the railroad and oil industry; affordable Texas cities.
  • Richmond: Located by the Brazos River; rich in Texan history; competitive property rates due to its proximity to Houston.
  • Lubbock: Known as "Hub City"; significant economic and educational hub; birthplace of Buddy Holly; affordable housing market.
  • McAllen: Located in southern Texas near the Mexican border, one of the cheapest places in Texas, with favorable property prices.
  • Killeen: Central Texas location with a history linked to Fort Hood military base; one of the cheapest places in Texas.

Affordable Cities in Texas

Here are some of the affordable cities in Texas where you can begin your property hunt.

  • Midland

    Midland, often dubbed the "Tall City" due to its downtown skyscrapers, has a storied history rooted in the railroad industry and, later, oil discoveries. Located in the heart of West Texas, As the 20th century progressed, its significance soared with the oil boom, transforming it into a central hub for the petroleum industry.

    Fast forward to today, and the city's market value remains influenced by the energy sector's ebb and flow. Recent years have witnessed an uptick in property values, driven by the region's economic growth and influx of oil-related jobs.

    However, compared to many other Texan cities, Midland is still one of the most affordable Texas cities, making it an attractive choice for those looking to buy without breaking the bank.

Population

With about 137,000 people living in Midland, Texas, this mid-sized city offers affordable living with city amenities. This makes Midland an excellent option for people relocating to Texas, those who work from home, and people who prefer a blend of rural and city living.

Average Price of Living

On average, in 2023, a property in Midland can cost you $350,000. Now, it's up to you to consider Midland among Texas's cheapest places.

Sightseeing Opportunities

Just knowing Midland is one of the most affordable Texas cities can't be the only influencing factor to relocate. You'd also want to know about some sights worth seeing, which include:

  • Hogan Park
  • Museum of Southwest
  • The Permian Basin Petroleum Museum
  • Richmond

    Richmond, nestled along the Brazos River, carries a legacy rich in Texan history. Originally inhabited by the Karankawa Indians, the city came into prominence in the 19th century and holds the distinction of being the seat of Fort Bend County.

    It was home to the Battle of Richmond during the Texas Revolution. Recently, Richmond's proximity to Houston has spurred its growth, seeing a surge in residential and commercial developments.

    This growth has nudged the city's market value upwards, with property prices experiencing a steady climb. However, when compared to some of the bustling Texan metropolises, Richmond still offers competitive property rates.

    Given its historical allure and strategic location, Richmond stands out as a promising locale and one of the cheapest places in Texas for those considering property investment without an exorbitant price tag.

Population

Apart from being one of the most affordable Texas cities, there are approximately 226,000 living in Richmond. This is as per the data till the year 2023.

Average Price of Living

By 2023, the average price of living in Richmond is $2,089. That is why it's among the cheapest places in Texas you will find.

Sightseeing Opportunities

When you move to Richmond, here are some places you'd want to see.

  • Jones Creek
  • Fort Bend Museum
  • Decker Park
  • Lubbock

    Lubbock, often referred to as the "Hub City" due to its significance as an economic, educational, and health care center in the South Plains region, boasts a colorful tapestry of history. Originating from a merger of two smaller communities in the early 20th century, Lubbock quickly grew, primarily influenced by the cotton industry.

    Today, the city is best known as the birthplace of rock 'n' roll legend Buddy Holly and for Texas Tech University, which has had a profound impact on its culture and economy. As for the current market value, Lubbock's real estate landscape is witnessing a positive trend fueled by the city's continuous growth and development.

    When measured against larger Texan cities, Lubbock is among the most affordable Texas cities. This combination of cultural richness, educational opportunities, and economic viability makes Lubbock an enticing option for those looking to buy property without stretching their finances too thin.

Population

Apart from being one of the cheapest places in Texas, the approximate population of Lubbock is 260,000, as per the insights till 2023.

Average Price of Living

We have already said Lubbock is one of the most affordable Texas cities. In value terms, living in Lubbock (till 2023) can cost you an average of $1,587.

Sightseeing Opportunities

If you want to shift to the beautiful city of Lubbock, it being one of the most affordable Texas cities might not be the only reason. If you wish to go out for sightseeing, here are some options.

  • Silent Wings Museum
  • Cactus Theater
  • Texas Tech University
  • McAllen

    In the southern tip of Texas, McAllen boasts a rich history influenced by its proximity to the Mexican border and the Rio Grande. Once a rural farming town, the introduction of the railroad in the early 20th century transformed McAllen into a transportation and trade hub.

    Today, McAllen is one of the cheapest places in Texas to live, drawing attention with its favorable property prices and cost of living. Its current market value reflects a steady but is among the most affordable Texas cities going around.

    As the hunt for affordable Texas cities gains momentum, McAllen emerges as a prime contender for those looking to make a wise property investment without burning a hole in their pocket. Its blend of cultural richness, strategic location, and economic opportunities make it a promising choice for prospective homeowners.

Population

About 143,900 people live in McAllen, as per the data till 2023.

Average Price of Living

Just saying, "McAllen is among the cheapest places in Texas," might not be good enough. The average living cost is an excellent gauge to prove this claim. As per reports, till 2023, living in McAllen can cost you north of $1,387.

Sightseeing Opportunities

McAllen, being one of the most affordable Texas cities, might not be the only reason you'd be relocating, right? Nor would you want to stay in your house all the time.

Here are some places you'd want to explore in your leisure time.

  • Fireman's Park
  • Palm Crossing
  • Quinta Mazatlan
  • Killeen

    Killeen, situated in central Texas, has a history intertwined with the establishment of Fort Hood, one of the largest military bases in the world. Originally a tiny railroad town in the late 19th century, Killeen's fate transformed with the inception of Fort Hood during World War II, making it a crucial military and economic hub.

    In today's market, Killeen is often spotlighted as one of the cheapest places in Texas to buy property, with its real estate landscape being more accessible than many other cities in the state.

    This affordability has catapulted Killeen to the list of affordable Texas cities offering great value to potential homeowners. With its unique blend of military culture, continuous development, and rich history, Killeen remains a magnet for those seeking property investments that don't compromise on amenities or cultural richness.

Population

Yes, Killeen is among the cheapest places in Texas you will find. But what about the population of the city? Here's your answer.

As per the recent data till 2023, the population of Killeen is 156,200.

Average Price of Living

The definition of 'cheapest places in Texas' might differ for most people. The median cost of living in Killen (as per the data till 2023) is $1516. Now, it depends on whether you think it is one of the cheapest places in Texas.

Sightseeing Opportunities

Relocating to one of the cheapest places in Texas might be one reason you move to Killen. To make it a fruitful decision, you can also visit some of the worth-viewing sights in the city. Some of them are:

  • Fort Hood
  • Mayborn Science Theatre
  • Stillhouse Hollow Lake

The Final Word

We highlight several affordable cities in Texas for property hunters. Midland, known as the "Tall City," boasts a history in the oil industry and offers reasonably priced properties due to its energy sector's influence.

Richmond, a city rich in Texan history, offers competitive property rates compared to major Texan cities. Lubbock, the birthplace of Buddy Holly and home to Texas Tech University, presents a blend of culture and affordability.

McAllen, close to the Mexican border, stands out as one of the cheapest places in Texas, while Killeen's affordability stems from its military and economic connections to Fort Hood.

Are you considering making a move to Texas? Each of these cities brings a unique history, culture, and affordability. Dive into the rich tapestry of Texan life and invest in a culturally enriching property that is easy on the pocket.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do employment opportunities in these cities compare to the rest of Texas?

Employment opportunities vary. Some cities offer diverse job markets due to the presence of universities, healthcare institutions, or specific industries, while others might have fewer opportunities or be more dependent on one sector.

2. How have the local job growth and unemployment rates trended over the past decade?

While specifics vary by city, many affordable Texas cities have seen job growth in the technology, healthcare, and energy sectors. However, events like oil price fluctuations or the COVID-19 pandemic have had varying impacts on unemployment rates.

3. Are there reliable healthcare facilities and services in these cities?

Going for the cheapest places in Texas might be one of many factors for you to relocate. You should ensure there are reliable healthcare facilities. Larger cities or those with universities often have more extensive healthcare services and facilities, including specialized clinics and hospitals.

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Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this blog are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the HRIS.

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