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Living in Texas

Why is Texas So Cheap? Unlocking the Secrets of the Lone Star State’s Affordability

May 9, 2023 by Ethan Young

They say everything is bigger in Texas, but one thing that doesn’t seem to follow that trend is the cost of living. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Why is Texas so cheap?” you’re not alone. In this article, we’ll explore the factors contributing to the Lone Star State’s affordability and how you can take advantage of it. From low taxes to abundant land, we’ll cover it all, so saddle up and let’s dive in!

Why is Texas So Cheap? The Key Factors

There are several factors that contribute to Texas’ relatively low cost of living compared to other states. Here’s a closer look at some of the most significant contributors:

Low Taxes

One of the primary reasons Texas is considered so cheap is its low tax burden. The state has no income tax, which means residents keep more of their hard-earned money. Additionally, Texas has relatively low property taxes compared to other states, which keeps housing costs more affordable.

Abundant Land

Everything is bigger in Texas, including the land itself. The state boasts a vast amount of land, which helps keep property prices low. With so much space available, supply often outpaces demand, making it cheaper to buy or rent a home in Texas than in other states with limited land.

Cost-Effective Housing

One of the most significant factors in Texas’ affordability is its cost-effective housing market. The median home price in Texas is significantly lower than the national average, making it more accessible for first-time homebuyers and those looking to move from more expensive areas. Factors contributing to the state’s affordable housing include:

  • A strong construction industry
  • Less restrictive zoning and building regulations
  • Lower labor costs

Lower Cost of Goods and Services

In Texas, the cost of goods and services is generally lower than the national average. This is due in part to lower business costs, which translate to lower prices for consumers. Furthermore, the state’s central location and strong transportation infrastructure make it cheaper and more efficient to transport goods.

Growing Economy and Job Market

Texas has a robust and diverse economy, with job opportunities in industries such as oil and gas, technology, healthcare, and education. The state’s strong economy and job market have attracted many people, which has further contributed to its affordable cost of living.

How to Make the Most of Texas’ Affordability

Now that we’ve uncovered the reasons behind the question, “Why is Texas so cheap?” let’s look at how you can make the most of the state’s affordability.

Choose the Right City

While Texas is generally more affordable than other states, the cost of living can vary significantly depending on the city. For example, larger cities like Austin and Dallas may have a higher cost of living than smaller cities like Waco or San Angelo. Do your research and choose a city that fits your budget and lifestyle preferences.

Take Advantage of Low Housing Costs

If you’re looking to buy a home in Texas, make sure to shop around and compare prices in different areas. With the state’s affordable housing market, you might find that you can afford a larger or more luxurious home than you initially thought. Additionally, consider the potential benefits of investing in real estate, as Texas’ strong economy and growing population make it an attractive option for property investors.

Budget Wisely

Although Texas is more affordable than many other states, it’s still essential to create and stick to a budget. By carefully planning your expenses and living within your means, you can maximize the benefits of the state’s low cost of living.

Look for Job Opportunities

If you’re considering moving to Texas for its affordability, don’t forget to explore job opportunities in the state. With a diverse economy and a strong job market, Texas offers numerous career options in various industries. Make sure to research the job market in your chosen city and consider factors such as salary, job growth, and potential for advancement.

Enjoy Low-Cost Activities and Attractions

Texas is home to a wide array of low-cost activities and attractions that cater to various interests. From exploring the state’s beautiful national parks to attending local festivals and events, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the Lone Star State without breaking the bank. Embrace the local culture and discover all that Texas has to offer while making the most of its affordability.

Conclusion

So, why is Texas so cheap? The answer lies in a combination of factors, including low taxes, abundant land, cost-effective housing, lower costs of goods and services, and a strong economy. By understanding the reasons behind the state’s affordability and making the most of it, you can enjoy a high quality of life without the hefty price tag often associated with other states. Whether you’re a long-time Texan or considering a move to the Lone Star State, embracing Texas’ affordability can help you live large on a budget.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it really cheaper to live in Texas?

Yes, Texas is generally more affordable compared to many other states in the U.S. The cost of living is lower due to factors such as affordable housing, lower taxes, and a relatively lower cost of goods and services.

Is Texas the most affordable state?

While Texas is one of the more affordable states, it is not the most affordable state. According to various cost of living indexes, states like Mississippi, Arkansas, and Oklahoma tend to rank as more affordable than Texas.

What are the pros and cons of living in Texas?

Pros:

  1. Lower cost of living
  2. No state income tax
  3. Diverse job opportunities
  4. Varied landscapes and climates
  5. Strong economy
  6. Diverse culture and cuisine
  7. Numerous recreational activities

Cons:

  1. Extreme weather conditions, such as heat, hurricanes, and tornadoes
  2. Long distances between cities
  3. Traffic congestion in major cities
  4. Higher property taxes
  5. Limited public transportation options
  6. Potential challenges in accessing healthcare in rural areas

Is Texas A Great Place to Live?

Texas can be a great place to live depending on individual preferences and priorities. It offers a low cost of living, diverse job opportunities, and a rich cultural experience. However, factors like extreme weather, traffic congestion, and long distances between cities may be drawbacks for some people.

Why is it so cheap to live in Houston?

Houston’s affordability can be attributed to factors such as lower housing costs, no state income tax, and a lower overall cost of living. The city has experienced significant growth, which has led to an increase in housing supply, making it more affordable compared to other major cities.

What is a good salary in Texas?

A good salary in Texas depends on factors like location, lifestyle, and family size. On average, a salary of $50,000 to $60,000 per year is considered sufficient for a comfortable lifestyle in most parts of Texas.

What salary do you need to live in Texas?

The salary needed to live in Texas varies based on factors such as location, housing costs, and lifestyle preferences. However, a salary of around $45,000 to $50,000 per year is generally considered sufficient for a single person to live comfortably in many areas of Texas.

What is the #1 most affordable state?

The most affordable state in the U.S. can vary depending on the source and criteria used. However, Mississippi often ranks as the most affordable state in various cost of living indexes, followed by states like Arkansas and Oklahoma.

What is the most unaffordable state to live in?

The most unaffordable state in the U.S. is typically considered to be Hawaii, due to its high cost of living, particularly in housing and transportation. Other expensive states include California, New York, and Massachusetts.

Is Texas the friendliest state?

Texas is known for its southern hospitality and friendly residents. While opinions on the friendliest state may vary, Texas is often considered one of the friendliest states in the U.S.

What is the downside of Texas?

Some downsides of living in Texas include extreme weather conditions, traffic congestion in major cities, higher property taxes, long distances between cities, limited public transportation options, and potential challenges in accessing healthcare in rural areas.

Why are people moving to Texas?

People are moving to Texas for various reasons, such as affordable housing, job opportunities, a strong economy, no state income tax, diverse culture, and a relatively lower cost of living.

What are 3 good reasons to move to Texas?

  1. Affordable housing and lower cost of living
  2. Diverse job opportunities and a strong economy
  3. No state income tax and a lower overall cost of living

What are the biggest problems in Texas? Some of the biggest problems in Texas include:

  1. Extreme weather conditions, such as heat, hurricanes, and tornadoes
  2. Traffic congestion and inadequate public transportation in major cities
  3. Higher property taxes compared to other states
  4. Income inequality and poverty in certain areas
  5. Limited access to healthcare in rural regions

What are the top reasons to live in Texas?

  1. Affordable housing and lower cost of living
  2. Diverse job opportunities across various industries
  3. No state income tax
  4. Rich cultural diversity and cuisine
  5. Varied landscapes and climates, offering a range of recreational activities

Is it better to live in California or Texas?

The choice between living in California and Texas depends on individual preferences and priorities. Texas offers a lower cost of living, no state income tax, and affordable housing, while California provides a more moderate climate, scenic beauty, and a diverse job market, especially in the technology sector. However, California has a higher cost of living and higher taxes compared to Texas.

Why are so many people fleeing to Texas?

People are moving to Texas for a variety of reasons, such as more affordable housing, job opportunities, a strong economy, no state income tax, and a lower overall cost of living. Additionally, Texas’ business-friendly environment has attracted many companies, leading to job growth and opportunities for residents.

What states are moving to Texas the most?

People from various states are moving to Texas, but the most significant influx comes from states like California, New York, and Illinois. High cost of living, taxes, and housing costs in these states are some of the factors driving people to relocate to Texas.

What is the best small town in Texas to live?

Determining the best small town in Texas depends on personal preferences, such as lifestyle, climate, job opportunities, and amenities. Some popular small towns in Texas include Fredericksburg, Georgetown, Wimberley, and Granbury, each offering a unique charm and quality of life.

Filed Under: Best Places to Live in the US, Living in Texas

Best Places to Live in Texas

December 4, 2021 by Ethan Young

Frisco

Texas is an exciting place to call home for plenty of reasons. The state is home to the second-largest and most diverse population in the United States after California. Frisco is one of the best places to live in Texas with some of the highest-rated schools in the state, affordable housing, and living costs, easy access to transport, recreation, and health amenities.

Frisco’s transition from a small, sleepy farming town to a bustling urban center in a few decades is, least to say impressive. what's the best place to live in texas

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Highest Median Household Income

The cost of living in this city is slightly higher than the state average. The median per capita income is $53,191 while the median household income sits at $127,055, the second-highest in Texas in 2021. Single-family homes makeup 78% of the city’s housing options and attract an average price of $335,900.

Monthly rental costs for an apartment will set you back $1,672 and is contingent on factors such as your choice of neighborhood, and the size of the apartment.

Education in Frisco

Frisco’s public schools’ system has been ranked twelfth best in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The city is home to ten high schools that rank among the top 25 best public high schools in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area.

There are 19 institutions of higher learning in the city. These include 4 public universities, and colleges, 13 private universities, and colleges, and 2 community colleges that offer 2-year degree programs.

Notable mentions include Franklin University, Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Parker University, Miami International University of Art & Design, National American University-Richardson, National American University-Lewisville, Arizona College-Dallas, and more.

Places to Visit

Frisco boasts just over 1,370 acres; 49 parks, botanical gardens, and green spaces you can visit to clear your mind. For the foodie, there are dozens of fine dining options and upscale restaurants along Preston Road and at the Stonebriar Centre.

The city has over 165 shops offering a world-class shopping experience. Beyond Frisco’s malls and a vast variety of dining options, the city has a number of museums and historical attractions such as the National Videogame Museum, and the Museum of the American Railroad.

Frisco’s job market is rapidly growing which makes it an attractive destination for young families and professionals. The area has a low crime rate which ranks it highly in safety points. With its quality schools, affordable homes, higher median incomes, and plenty of entertainment options, Frisco earns its place among the best places to live in Texas.

Plano

Plano is the 9th largest city in Texas by population. The city is part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area and is located just north of Dallas. While Dallas boasts a larger demographic of young professionals, Plano is the go-to place for young families and those seeking to leave the city for a quieter suburban living experience. best place in plano texas to live

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Cost of Living

Plano’s cost of living is slightly higher than the national average at 107.3%. This makes it an average US city to live in, in terms of housing costs, utility costs, and so on. The job market in this city is rapidly expanding, and more opportunities are within your reach just a short distance over in Dallas.

The median household income in Plano is $126,073. The median per capita income in this city averages at $47,840. The average cost of a home is $320,100 while monthly rental costs for a decent-sized apartment will set you back $1,418 on average.

Education in Plano

Plano’s Independent School District has been ranked among the top-tier school districts in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and one of the best public school districts in the lone star state. There are approximately 44 elementary schools, 13 middle schools, and 10 high schools.

The schools serve a combined 53,700 students who reside in the city and nearby suburbs of Frisco, Murphy, Dallas, Parker, and Richardson.

The area is also home to a number of colleges and universities that include Franklin University, National American University-Richardson, Bakke Graduate University, Dallas Theological Seminary, Wade College, and Southern Methodist University just to mention a few.

Fun Things to Do

Plano has plenty of pristine botanical gardens and parks, acres of open green spaces, nature preserves, and more. There are miles of hiking and biking trails offering an immersive close-up experience with nature, a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday urban life.

Downtown Plano offers residents and visitors plenty of entertainment, fine dining, and shopping options. The downtown area is home to Plano’s lively local restaurant scene that is known for its diversity in the cuisines and cultures represented.

The downtown area also has a lively performing art and nightlife scene. In terms of location, access to amenities, and its vicinity to Dallas, the city has a lot going for it which score it major points in livability, quality of life, safety, and affordability.

To reiterate, Plano is a huge draw for young families and couples looking to start or raise a family, people looking for their own little slice of happiness in north Texas. The city has in fact been named the happiest city in the U.S. It ranks highly on emotional, mental health, and physical well-being scores. Its high quality of life, and low crime rate easily makes Plano one of the best places to live in Texas.

Houston

There are plenty of reasons why moving to Houston would be a great idea. It is the largest city in Texas and the 4th biggest city in the U.S by population. With a population of just over 2,323,660 residents, the population is as diverse as it gets.

This in turn creates an exciting culturally diverse culinary scene that a foodie’s paradise. If your career leans towards the oil and gas, biomedical research, aerospace, health care industries then Houston has plenty of exciting opportunities for you.

the best place to live in houston texas

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Cost of Living in Houston, TX

Houston offers a wide variety of housing options from a choice of gorgeous neighborhoods spread out across the city and its environs. Most of the neighborhoods are walkable and child-friendly with tons of green outdoor spaces.

The median price of a house in Houston is $332,500 while monthly rent costs around $1,205. The median per capita income is $35,190 while the median household income is $52,450. The cost of living is lower than the national average and slightly higher than the state average.

Education

Houston is home to more than 60 outstanding school districts, several state-approved charter schools, about 200 private schools, and prominent colleges and universities. The HISD (Houston Independent School District) is tasked with the management of education in the greater nine-county metropolitan region. The HISD is the seventh biggest public school nationally and the largest in the state of Texas.

The city is home to the University of Houston, Rice University, Texas A&M University, and more than 50 specialist trade, business, and vocational training schools.

Fun Things to Do

Houston’s museum district is a huge draw for residents and visitors alike. The area is a 9-mile district that showcases Houston’s culture and is home to the Houston Zoo and 19 museums. Besides being a popular tourist attraction, the district celebrates Houston’s diverse cultures and art. Needless to say, the Museum District is a significant player in Houston’s economy.

The city hosts numerous food festivals all year long featuring cuisines from different parts of the globe. From an African food fest this week to a barbecue festival next week, Houston is a food lovers paradise. The city is also home to several top-tier professional sports teams such as the Houston Texans and the Houston Rockets to mention a few.

Round Rock

Located a short distance from the state capital, Austin, the city of Round Rock is in many ways one of the best places to live in Texas. It offers its residents a blend of laid-back, charming small-town living with all the conveniences and amenities of a big city. Round Rock is a popular sports destination for amateur, community, and recreational sports earning it the title “Sports Capital of Texas”.

best place to live in texas for families

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Living Costs

Round Rock is among the more affordable places you can live in Texas. The area has a median household income of $101,648 and a median per capita income of $34,765. House prices level out at $482,190 while the monthly rent costs are $1,445.

Utility costs are only slightly higher than the state average. Round Rock is home to one of the fastest-growing and most vibrant economies in Texas and the U.S as well. Notable Fortune 500 companies with offices in this city include IKEA, Dell, and IBM.

Education

Education in this area is overseen by the Round Rock Independent School District. The school district has been ranked among the best-performing districts in the state. The RRISD serves a combined total of 48,900 students that attend 34 elementary schools, 11 middle schools, and 6 high schools in the area.

The area is home to about 16 institutions of higher learning that include Franklin University, the Gemini School of Visual Arts & Communication, the Episcopal Theological Seminary of the Southwest, the Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and the National American University-Harold D. Buckingham Graduate School.

Places to Visit

There are plenty of fun ideas worth exploring in Round Rock. For the sports fanatic, there are a handful of professional sports facilities such as the Round Rock Sports Center, Rock Sports Arena, and more. The city is home to a number of professional sports teams that include the likes of Round Rock Express Baseball Club, Texas Stars, Round Rock SC, and others.

The city has numerous world-class shopping options and restaurants that serve up an array of culture-inspired dishes. For a taste of the city’s exciting nightlife, live music shows, and interesting historical attractions, head over to the downtown area.

If Southern Comfort food and southern hospitality, low crime rates, and reasonable living costs sound like something you’d be interested in, then Round Rock is just where you need to be.

San Antonio

San Antonio has perhaps the largest population of Hispanic speakers in Texas which means the food scene here is mind-blowing. The local cuisine heavily borrows from Latin-American/Mexican influences which makes Sant Antonio’s restaurant scene one of the liveliest. While the city’s job market pales in comparison to similar-sized metros, there has been observable growth in recent times.

Sant Antonio’s leading industries include defense, aerospace, bioscience research, healthcare, and Information Technology to mention a few. The city has a population of 2,368,207 which firmly asserts its status as a major U.S city.

best place to live in san antonio texas

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Living Costs

Living in San Antonio is reasonably cheap. This can easily be attributed to the city’s affordable house market. Living costs are considerably lower than the national average. The median household income is $74,100 while the median per capita income averages at $25,894. The median price for a home in San Antonio is $298,200 while monthly rent will set you back $1,151.

Education in San Antonio

The city is home to several leading school districts that include Alamo Heights Independent school district, Basis Charter Schools, Harmony Public Schools, and more. There are 20 high schools that rank among the top best performing schools in Texas. There are 14 universities and colleges and more than 27 more located within 100 miles of the city. of higher learning in the city.

Notable mentions include University of the Incarnate Word, Trinity University, Texas Lutheran University, St. Mary’s University of San Antonio, Our Lady of the Lake University, the University of Texas at San Antonio, Texas A&M University, University of Texas Health Science Center, and more.

Fun Things to Do

San Antonio is home to the most famous piece of American history, the Alamo. The city has a rich history, lots of museums and cultural attractions. If you are curious to explore the city’s downtown area, be sure to bring along an appetite. San Antonio’s food scene, much like most major city centers in Texas, is legendary.

Sample the tantalizing flavors of the Tex-Mex diet that comes alive in this area. The city has walkable streets, biking and hiking trails, spectacular parks, botanical gardens, and green outdoor spaces.

San Antonio to many residents and visitors remains a choice destination to call home and one of the best places to live in Texas. From a vibrant atmosphere, a rich tradition rooted in American history, high-quality schools, and affordable housing options, San Antonio has it all.

Dallas

Home of the Dallas Cowboys and the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metro area; Dallas is another of the best places to live in Texas. The city is the economic center of Texas and boasts some of the biggest names in Tech, banking, defense, and more.

The city has the third-highest number of Fortune 500 companies per capita after Houston and New York in second and first place respectively. The city has established itself as a leading business hub with its corporate-friendly policies and laws. This has largely worked to the benefit of its residents who get access to the best job opportunities in the lone star state.

As one might imagine, for a city that hosts the biggest names in tech and finance, the job market is fiercely competitive. A Forbes report ranked the city as the number one most competitive job market; not only in Texas but in the U.S as well.

best place to live in dallas texas

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Cost of Living

The average cost of living in this area is slightly higher than the national average. The city has perhaps the fastest-growing job market in the country. Rent costs for a one-bedroom house in Dallas average $1,126 per month.

This figure is relatively affordable in comparison to other cities such as Austin, Coppell, and many other metros of comparable size. The median per capita income for Dallas Texas in 2021 is $34,479 while the median family income is 86,200.

Education

Dallas is a major educational hub in the South Central United States area. The city is home to several universities, colleges, trade schools, and educational institutes that include Southern Methodist University, the University of North Texas at Dallas, Dallas Baptist University, Paul Quinn College, The Art Institute of Dallas, and others.

The city has produced top-ranked schools in both public and private high schools categories in Texas. Additionally, the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area is home to the state’s best-ranked schools that offer quality education to residents.

Fun Things to Do

Dallas offers all the appeals of a big city, plenty of exciting job opportunities, a rich, diverse population and brings comparable diversity. The city offers a wide range of cuisine options, an exciting restaurant scene, and festivals that feature good food as the main attraction.

Everything is bigger in Texas, and the Texas State Fair is proof of the adage. The Dallas cuisine in many ways compares to the Texan Tex-Mex food culture that is heavily influenced by Mexico. Other culinary influences include Southern, Creole/Cajun, African American, and British cuisines to mention a few.

The city’s colorful food scene comes to life on full display during the annual Texas State Fair hosted in Dallas. The state fair is the largest and most recognizable event in the U.S.

best place to live in texas for retirees

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From an exciting job market, a large culturally-diverse population to a colorful culinary scene, and professional sports teams, there are plenty of reasons that make this city the perfect place to call home and one of the best places to work and play in Texas. If your career path leans more towards the banking, finance, and tech industry, then Dallas is just the place for you.

Austin

Austin is the capital of the lone star state and an incredible place to call home. The city is home to a diverse population of 964,000 making it the second-most populated state capital and the 11th most populated city in the country.

It boasts a booming tech industry, affordable housing costs, and a vibrant diverse population that makes it one of the best places to live in Texas. The city hosts regional offices for a number of leading Fortune 500 companies such as Facebook (now Meta), 3M, Apple, and Google. Austin is also a major music hub earning the moniker “Live Music Capital of the World”.

best place to live in austin texas

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best neighborhoods in austin

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Living Costs

Austin’s living costs are higher compared to the state average but still lower than the U.S average. For its size, the city may be considered reasonable in comparison to big cities such as New York, San Francisco, and Chicago. Housing costs are on average slightly higher than the national mark. The median household income in this city is $71,576 while the median per capita income sits at $43,043.

The average price of a house in this city is $588,400 while monthly rent costs for an apartment average at $1,619 which is significantly pricier compared to places such as Texas City, El Paso, Corpus Christi, and Rio Grande.

Education in Austin

Austin has on several occasions been recognized as an intellectual hub and the best place to get an education nationally and in the world as well. The city boasts 29 public school districts and is also home to more than 100 private learning institutions.

There are 8 top-ranked universities and colleges that include the University of Texas, St. Edward’s University, Southwestern University Texas State University, several specialty, and vocational training schools, and more.

Places to Visit

The city offers its residents and visitors an abundance of fun-filled activities, attraction sites, and more. Austin has a large and diverse population that makes it a melting pot of cultures and a vibrant entertainment center.

Besides the charged music and performing arts scene, the city boasts endless dining options and restaurants and coffee shops that showcase the area’s culinary traditions. Austin is centrally located in the state of Texas but Mexico’s influence on the local cuisine is undoubted.

If gorgeous nature parks and an intimate experience with nature sounds like more of your thing, well search no more. There are plenty of green outdoor spaces and botanical gardens in the area that include the Zilker Botanical Garden, the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve, the Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve, and more.

Filed Under: Best Places to Live in the US, Living in Texas Tagged With: best places to live in texas, best places to live in the us

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