If you’re looking for a place to live in Texas that won’t break the bank, you might be wondering what are the cheapest cities to live in the Lone Star State. Texas is a huge and diverse state, with plenty of options for different lifestyles, climates, cultures, and amenities. Whether you prefer a bustling urban center, a quiet suburban town, or a rural retreat, you can find it in Texas.
However, not all places in the Texas housing market are equally affordable. Some of the major cities, like Houston, Dallas, and Austin, have high costs of living that can make it hard to save money or enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the 10 cheapest places to live in Texas as of 2023, based on data from various sources. These cities have low median home prices, reasonable rents, and low costs of living for groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and other expenses.
Of course, affordability is not the only factor to consider when choosing a place to live. You also want to look at the quality of life, the safety, the education, the employment opportunities, and the entertainment options that each city offers. That’s why we’ve also included some highlights of what makes each city unique and attractive for potential residents.
10 Cheapest/Affordable Places to Live in Texas
El Paso
- Median home price: $130,900
- Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $790
- Median household income: $45,031
El Paso is a border city that sits at the intersection of Texas, New Mexico, and Mexico. It has a population of about 683,000 people and a rich cultural heritage that blends Mexican and American influences. El Paso has a vibrant art scene, with museums, galleries, theaters, and festivals. It also has plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as hiking, biking, camping, and water sports. El Paso has a low crime rate and a family-friendly atmosphere. It also has a strong economy that is driven by trade, manufacturing, military, education, and healthcare.
Wichita Falls
- Median home price: $176,450
- Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $791
- Median household income: $47,335
Wichita Falls is located in the northern part of Texas, about 139 miles from Oklahoma City. It has a population of about 102,300 people and a scenic setting along the Wichita River. Wichita Falls has many attractions for residents and visitors alike, such as the Wichita Falls Museum of Art at Midwestern State University, the Museum of North Texas History, the Lucy Park Zoo, and the Lake Wichita Park. Wichita Falls also has a low cost of living and a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, healthcare, education, retail, and tourism.
Abilene
- Median home price: $223,000
- Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $750
- Median household income: $52,518
Abilene is situated in central Texas, about 150 miles from Fort Worth. It has a population of about 125,200 people and a history that dates back to the Old West. Abilene has many cultural and historical attractions, such as the Abilene Zoo, the Grace Museum, the Frontier Texas! Museum, and the Fort Phantom Hill Historic Site. Abilene also has a low cost of living and a stable economy that is based on agriculture, oil, education, healthcare, and military.
Cedar Park
- Median home price: $258,200
- Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,150
- Median household income: $96,612
Cedar Park is a suburb of Austin that lies in the beautiful Texas Hill Country. It has a population of about 70,000 people and was named one of Family Circle’s Top 10 Places to Raise a Family. Cedar Park has high quality schools, desirable neighborhoods, and great employment opportunities due to its proximity to Austin. It also has many recreational options, such as parks, trails, golf courses, and sports venues. Cedar Park offers an affordable alternative to big city life without sacrificing convenience or quality.
Galveston
- Median home price: $261,300
- Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,100
- Median household income: $47,867
Galveston is an island city that lies on the Gulf Coast of Texas. It has a population of about 50,500 people and a rich maritime history that dates back to the 19th century. Galveston has many attractions for residents and tourists alike, such as the historic Strand District, the Moody Gardens, the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, and the Galveston Island State Park. Galveston also has a low cost of living and a diverse economy that includes tourism, shipping, fishing, education, and healthcare.
Pearland
- Median home price: $267,300
- Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,200
- Median household income: $104,504
Pearland is another suburb of Houston that lies in the southeastern part of the state. It has a population of about 122,100 people and a reputation for being one of the fastest-growing cities in Texas. Pearland has a high quality of life, with excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and ample amenities. It also has a strong economy that is supported by industries such as energy, aerospace, healthcare, and manufacturing.
Frisco
- Median home price: $368,900
- Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,400
- Median household income: $127,055
Frisco is a suburb of Dallas that lies in the northeastern part of the state. It has a population of about 188,100 people and a status as one of the best places to live in America according to Money magazine. Frisco has a high quality of life, with top-notch schools, upscale neighborhoods, and numerous attractions. It also has a booming economy that is driven by sectors such as technology, finance, retail, and sports.
Pecos
- Median home price: $69,900
- Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $600
- Median household income: $51,750
Pecos is a small town that lies in the western part of Texas, about 80 miles from the border with New Mexico. It has a population of about 9,600 people and a history that goes back to the 16th century. Pecos is known as the home of the world’s first rodeo and the birthplace of the Texas Ranger Division. Pecos has a low cost of living and a rural charm that appeals to those who love nature and history. It also has a growing economy that is fueled by oil, gas, and agriculture.
Breckenridge
- Median home price: $79,900
- Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $650
- Median household income: $42,500
Breckenridge is another small town that lies in the northern part of Texas, about 100 miles from Fort Worth. It has a population of about 5,400 people and a nickname as “The Mural Capital of Texas” due to its many colorful murals that depict its history and culture. Breckenridge has a low cost of living and a friendly community that welcomes newcomers. It also has a diverse economy that includes oil, gas, manufacturing, and tourism.
Odessa
- Median home price: $183,000
- Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $800
- Median household income: $60,619
Odessa is located in the western part of Texas, about 20 miles from Midland. It has a population of about 120,800 people and a heritage that is influenced by its Ukrainian namesake. Odessa has many cultural and entertainment options for residents and visitors alike, such as the Globe Theatre, the Presidential Museum and Leadership Library, the Ellen Noel Art Museum, and the Odessa Meteor Crater. Odessa also has a low cost of living and a robust economy that is based on oil, gas, transportation, and education.
These are just some of the cheapest places to live in Texas as of 2023. There are many more cities and towns in Texas that offer affordability and quality for different preferences and needs. If you’re thinking about moving to Texas or relocating within the state, make sure to do your research and compare the costs and benefits of each place before making your decision.