10 Cheapest Places To Live In Texas
If you're thinking about moving to Texas, you're in luck. It's actually one of the most affordable states in the country, and you don't have to avoid the urban areas just to save money. Whether you prefer a small town with a slow pace or the hustle and bustle of the big city, Texas has plenty of safe towns that won't break the bank. Here are ten of the most affordable towns in Texas you might want to consider.
1. Pflugerville
If you're thinking that it sounds German, you would be correct. Pflugerville is a growing suburb of Austin, located less than 15 miles from downtown and with a population of just over 57,000. The city is growing fast but continues to boast a crime rate more than 50 percent lower than the average in Texas. The average home price is $165,000, and at that rate, you could buy a home and start searching for pool builders in Austin to beat the Texas heat. The town is full of young entrepreneurs working to turn it into a fun local destination. The residents of Pflugerville have taken advantage of its German history by hosting fun festivals each year, such as Deutschen Pfest, where you'll find great food, family fun and carnival rides for kids.
2. Breckenridge
If you're looking for something even smaller, Breckenridge has a population of 6,000 people and is well below the national average cost of living. It might be the cheapest place to live in Texas. A typical home in this small town costs approximately $67,000. You might be surprised to learn that the average age of a Breckenridge resident is 33; you can expect community daytime activities to be family-friendly fun and the nightlife to be lively. What attracts most new residents is the natural beauty of the town. Breckenridge is an outdoorsman's oasis. It's nestled among three lakes ready for fishing and bountiful in wooded areas primed for hunting. As you might imagine, the town is popular for outdoor recreation.
3. Galveston
If you're looking for a town with a beach feeling without the price of beachfront property, Galveston is an affordable option. The population is lower than 50,000, and the cost of living is roughly 10 percent lower than the national average. The average home costs around $160,000, beating the national median prices. You can expect to find plenty of activities in Galveston. There's a popular pier with oceanfront restaurants and bars. The historic downtown is exciting on the weekends, and you can always visit Moody Gardens, a tourist destination in Galveston with three pyramids and a large aquarium.
4. McAllen
Just off the border of Mexico, McAllen is in the top 20 most affordable towns in the U.S. The population is close to 150,000, and the average home costs around $118,000, significantly lower than the national average. McAllen is growing fast and attracting young families. It's known for the McAllen Public Library, an award winner in design. You'll find a bevy of family-friendly activities, including shopping, museums, great restaurants and hiking.
5. Brownsville
Brownsville is also on the border between the U.S. and Mexico. It's known for its Hispanic cultural influence and beautiful oceanfront. Dubbed the "Sunset Capital of the World" for its perfect weather, it's a great place to live for anyone looking to throw away their winter coats and replace them with bathing suits. The cost of living in Brownsville is significantly lower than the Texas average. The median house price is under $90,000, which is shocking for a beachfront town on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. You'll enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and delicious southwest cuisine.
6. Odessa
If you've seen "Friday Night Lights," you've heard of Odessa, Texas. It's home to the popular football tv show and known for its love of cowboy culture. The cost of living is slightly lower than the average in Texas, but the median cost for a house is the second highest on this list at $174,000. People love Odessa because the residents value community bonding. Apparently, they also value monument replicas. Don't be surprised when you come across Stonehenge or Shakespeare's Globe Theater.
7. Whitehouse
Whitehouse is another one for the lovers of that small-town feeling. Located in southeast Texas, the population is below 8,000 with the appeal of safety and security. The crime rate is the lowest in the state at 70 percent below the average. The median home price is slightly higher than you might expect at around $160,000, but the people are kind and welcoming.
8. Cedar Park
Cedar Park has the highest median home price on this list at just over $258,000; however, it can justify the price. It's packed with beautiful neighborhoods, excellent schools and is drastically cheaper than similar homes just a few miles away in Austin. The town is teeming with employment opportunities and is a center for sports entertainment. You'll find more than enough activities to occupy your weekends with plenty of shopping and dining options. If you're looking to live near Austin without the price tag of living downtown, Cedar Park is a great option.
9. El Paso
For the city dwellers, El Paso is shockingly affordable. With a population nearing 700,000 and a crime rate safer than 36 percent of U.S. cities, you'll be surprised to find the median home price is just under $120,000. El Paso is located along the New Mexico and Mexico borders. It is home to a vibrant art scene and has a very low unemployment rate. Residents enjoy plenty of outdoor activities as well as excellent food and unique dining experiences.
10. Harlingen
Last on the list is Harlingen, a mid-sized town located 30 minutes from Brownsville. It has a tropical atmosphere and a low crime rate. The median home price is around $82,000, and the population is just over 65,000. There's plenty to do in Harlingen. It's known for great shopping, birdwatching and a lively bar and restaurant scene.
Wherever you land in Texas, you'll find culture and affordable housing. You can expect a quality experience and build a life in financial comfort. Talk to a realtor about these locations, and find the right place for you and your family.
