5 Best Places to Live in Texas

Texas is famous for its wide, open spaces, booming economy, a unique blend of urban and rural lifestyles, and, of course, the delicious food. The Lone Star State has it all: rolling hills with breathtaking scenery for miles, vast deserts, and bustling metropolitan areas. Whether you’re looking for a fast-paced urban life or the serenity of quiet towns, Texas is an appealing place for individuals, families, and retirees.

Different parts of Texas offer a distinct flavor and lifestyle. Major cities like Dallas and Houston are known for their vibrant economies, cultural activities, intense sports scenes, and best-in-class healthcare, while smaller towns provide a more laid-back atmosphere with a wide range of community activities. Additionally, the more rural areas boast stunning natural landscapes, wide-open ranches, and plenty of space to explore the outdoors.

Before moving to Texas, it’s necessary to consider a few key factors. Here are some important facts to keep in mind:

1. Taxes: Texas has no state income tax, which can be good news for those wanting to keep more of their earnings. However, property taxes can be relatively high, and that needs to factor into your budget if you plan to purchase a home in the state.
2. Climate: The climate will be different depending on what part of this large state you are in! The northern parts of the state have winters with cooler temperatures and even occasional snow, while the southern areas tend to have warm temperatures all year round. Summers can be extremely hot, especially in central and south Texas, with temperatures that are usually over 100°F.

Here is a list of the 5 Best Places to Live in Texas:

1. Dallas

Many consider Dallas to be the crown jewel of North Texas. A bustling metropolis known for its growing economy, vibrant sports scene, and modern lifestyle, it offers residents and visitors a distinctive combination of Texas charm and big-city amenities.

A. Median Household Income, Median Home Value, Annual Spend for Homeowners, and Annual Spend for Renters:

Dallas MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2022): $63,985

B. Employment Prospects

• The unemployment rate in Dallas is 4.30% (June 2024), above the Texas and national unemployment rate of 4%.
• The poverty rate is 17.50%, which is higher than the Texas poverty rate of 13.70% and above the national poverty rate of 11.10%.
• The major employers in Dallas include Texas Health Resources, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Bank of America, and the University of North Texas System.
• The Dallas area has an average commute time of 26.4 minutes.

C. Healthcare
Dallas has some of the best healthcare and medical research systems in the country, including the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Baylor Scott and White, and the University of North Texas System. 

D. Education

• Dallas is home to some of the top public high schools in the state, such as The School for the Talented and Gifted, Irma Lerma Rangel Young Women’s Leadership School, and the Science and Engineering Magnet School.
• Dallas also has several prominent colleges and universities, including the University of Texas Southwestern, the University of North Texas, the University of Texas at Dallas, Southern Methodist University, and Texas Christian University.
• Over the 2018-2022 period, Dallas’s high school graduation rate was 80.20%, above the U.S. national average of 89.10%.
• The population of adults over 25 with a college degree was 36.50%, above the national average of approximately 34.30%.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle
One of the key aspects that sets Dallas apart is its vibrant and diverse lifestyle. The city offers a blend of high-end shopping, cultural attractions, and an eclectic dining scene that reflects its multicultural population. 

Fun Facts about Dallas:

• In Dallas, professional sports are a huge part of life. The city is home to some of the most beloved teams in the country, including the Dallas Cowboys (NFL) and the Texas Rangers (MLB), who, along with the Dallas Mavericks (NBA) and Dallas Stars (NHL), provide year-round excitement for sports fans. 
• The city also offers a thriving nightlife, with districts like Deep Ellum and Uptown boasting live music venues, craft cocktail bars, and trendy restaurants.
• The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden offers year-round activities for the whole family, including rotating exhibits and tram tours.
• The Bishop Arts District offers a cozy, artsy feel, with local boutiques and cafes to explore on any day of the week.
• Neighborhoods and nearby towns such as Frisco and Plano offer a wide range of activities and dining options in a quiet, suburban setting.
• No trip to Dallas is complete without a visit to the GeO-Deck at the Reunion Tower, offering a 360-degree view of the city from 470 feet.

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2. Houston

Known as “Space City,” Houston is an exciting year-round destination combining modern skyscrapers and lush green spaces. The city offers a unique blend of Texas cowboy spirit and urban sophistication, making it a magnet for visitors and new residents from across the state and the country.

A. Median Household Income, Median Home Value, Annual Spend for Homeowners, and Annual Spend for Renters:

Houston MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2022): $60,440

B. Employment Prospects

• The unemployment rate in Houston is 4.80% (June 2024), above the Texas and national unemployment rate of 4%.
• The poverty rate is 19.60%, which is higher than the Texas poverty rate of 13.70% and above the national poverty rate of 11.10%.
• The major employers in Houston include Methodist Healthcare System, HCA Houston Healthcare, Memorial Hermann Health System, Houston Methodist, and the Texas Children’s Hospital system.
• The Houston area has an average commute time of 27.4 minutes.

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C. Healthcare
People travel from all over the world to see doctors and specialists in Houston. Houston is a global leader in healthcare, and people travel from all over the world to see specialists at the Texas Medical Center, comprised of over 50 medical institutions, including the famous Anderson Cancer Center. Some of the other world-class healthcare and medical research systems in Houston include HCA Houston Healthcare, Memorial Hermann Health System, Houston Methodist, and the Texas Children’s Hospital system.

D. Education

• Houston is home to Rice University, one of the most prominent universities in the country. The city is also home to other well-known universities and colleges, including the University of Houston and Texas Southern University.
• Over the 2018-2022 period, Houston’s high school graduation rate was 79.60%, above the U.S. national average of 89.10%.
• The population of adults over 25 with a college degree was 35.20%, slightly above the national average of approximately 34.30%.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle
Houston is a melting pot of cultures, with a long and widely diverse list of cuisines and community activities to keep residents and tourists busy. The city also offers a world-class shopping experience with the Galleria Area (Uptown) district and its massive Galleria Mall. 

Fun Facts about Houston:

• Houston proudly hosts the renowned NASA Johnson Space Center, where visitors can embark on an incredible journey into the world of space exploration. This iconic center offers an array of engaging exhibits, interactive experiences, and behind-the-scenes tours that provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives of astronauts and the science of space travel. 
• Art and culture enthusiasts will find their paradise in Houston’s Museum District, home to 19 diverse museums catering to a wide range of interests. Nestled among beautiful parks, this vibrant area invites you to spend an entire day—or more—immersed in art, science, history, and culture. 
• Experience wildlife like never before at Houston Zoo, where over 6,000 animals from more than 60 species await your visit. This beloved destination offers exciting animal exhibits and frequently features special events and discounts, making it an accessible and fun outing for families.
• Sports fans will find plenty to cheer for in Houston, as the city is home to professional teams in all four major sports leagues. Visitors and locals can choose to catch a Houston Texans football game, a Houston Astros baseball game, a Houston Rockets basketball game, or a Houston Dynamo soccer match!

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3. Fort Worth

Also called “Cowtown,” Fort Worth cherishes its cowboy past and keeps it alive while incorporating the excitement of being part of one of the U.S.’s largest and fastest growing metroplexes. People from all over Texas and the rest of the country are choosing Fort Worth to enjoy its hospitality while still having easy access to everything a large metropolitan area has to offer.

A. Median Household Income, Median Home Value, Annual Spend for Homeowners, and Annual Spend for Renters:

Fort Worth MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2022): $72,726

B. Employment Prospects

• The unemployment rate in Fort Worth is 4.30% (June 2024), above the Texas and national unemployment rate of 4%.
• The poverty rate is 13.40%, slightly lower than the Texas poverty rate of 13.70% and above the national poverty rate of 11.10%.
• The major employers in Fort Worth include Lockheed Martin, American Airlines, and Alcon Laboratories. The city is part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, which provides residents with access to a wide range of employment opportunities across both cities.
• The Fort Worth area has an average commute time of 27 minutes.

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C. Healthcare
Fort Worth has prominent hospitals such as Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital and Cook Children’s Medical Center. The city’s healthcare system ensures residents have access to quality care, from general medical services to specialized treatments.

D. Education

• Fort Worth has access to the colleges and universities in Dallas and has some of its own, including Texas Christian University and Texas Wesleyan University.
• Fort Worth also has several prominent public high schools such as the World Languages Institute and the Young Women’s Leadership Academy.
• Over the 2018-2022 period, Fort Worth’s high school graduation rate was 84.10%, above the U.S. national average of 89.10%.
• The population of adults over 25with a college degree was 31.20%, slightly below the national average of approximately 34.30%.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle
Fort Worth has it all, whether you’re looking for fine dining, casual spots with local flavor, or eclectic shops. The city’s blend of passion for cowboy history and culture and its modern amenities makes it a dynamic and popular place to live and visit for people of all ages.

Fun Facts about Fort Worth:

• No trip to Fort Worth is complete without a visit to the iconic Fort Worth Stockyards, a vibrant homage to Texas cowboy culture. Step into this historic district and immerse yourself in the charm of the Old West, where you can witness daily cattle drives, experience exhilarating rodeos, and enjoy authentic honky-tonk bars. Be sure to catch Billy Bob’s Texas, the world’s largest honky-tonk!
• Discover the heart of Fort Worth in Sundance Square, a dynamic downtown district that effortlessly blends modern attractions with historic charm. Spanning 35 blocks, this lively hub is filled with trendy restaurants, stylish bars, and quaint boutiques, making it an ideal spot for shopping, dining, and soaking up the local culture. 
• Nature lovers will delight in the Trinity Trails, an expansive network of over 70 miles of picturesque pathways winding along the beautiful Trinity River. The trails connect several parks, nature preserves, and cultural landmarks and are perfect for walking, biking, running, and even horseback riding.
• The Fort Worth Water Gardens stands out as a true architectural masterpiece and one of the city’s most breathtaking attractions. This 4.5-acre urban park showcases a stunning array of cascading waterfalls, fountains, and pools, each uniquely designed to create a captivating visual experience. This spot offers a calm oasis in the heart of the city, where visitors can relax and enjoy the surrounding beauty. 

4. San Antonio

San Antonio, often called “San Antone,” “Military City,” or “The Alamo City,” offers a distinctive charm that sets it apart from other Texas destinations. Rich in history and cultural diversity, the city blends old-world Spanish influence with the vibrant energy of modern Texas. San Antonio’s Mexican American heritage shines through in its lively “fiesta,” plethora of festivals, and renowned Tex-Mex cuisine, creating a unique cultural experience. Known for its warm hospitality, this city welcomes visitors with open arms. Whether you’re exploring historic landmarks like The Alamo, strolling along the scenic River Walk, or indulging in local flavors, San Antonio’s eclectic vibe and seamless mix of history and modern flair make it a must-visit Texas destination.

A. Median Household Income, Median Home Value, Annual Spend for Homeowners, and Annual Spend for Renters:

San Antonio MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2022): $59,593

B. Employment Prospects

• The unemployment rate in San Antonio is 4.20% (June 2024), above the Texas and national unemployment rate of 4%.
• The poverty rate is 17.70%, higher than the Texas poverty rate of 13.70% and above the national poverty rate of 11.10%.
• The major employers in San Antonio include HEB, Joint Base San Antonio, Frost Bank, Baptist Health System, and Methodist Healthcare System.
• The San Antonio area has an average commute time of 24.5 minutes.

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C. Healthcare
San Antonio provides high-quality healthcare, with top-ranked hospitals such as Methodist Health, Baptist Health, the University Health System, and the CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Health System. The city’s expansive healthcare network offers comprehensive services for residents and visitors. There are also branches of leading oncology healthcare systems, like MD Anderson Cancer Centers and Texas Oncology.

D. Education

• San Antonio ISD and Northside ISD, the two largest school districts in the city, provide a list of strong public and private schools dedicated to academic excellence and offering multiple extracurricular programs. 
• University of Texas at San Antonio is the largest university in town and is complemented by other prestigious institutions like the University of the Incarnate Word and Trinity University, providing students with numerous options to pursue their academic ambitions.
• Over the 2018-2022 period, Fort Worth’s high school graduation rate was 83.80%, above the U.S. national average of 89.10%.
• The population of adults over 25 with a college degree was 27.70%, slightly below the national average of approximately 34.30%.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle
San Antonio’s welcoming atmosphere, paired with its year-round fair weather, makes it a great place for tourists and residents to enjoy the busy cultural scene and active nightlife. The city boasts the best Tex-Mex cuisine and tourists and locals will argue that San Antonio has the best tacos (sorry, Austin).

Fun Facts about San Antonio:

• San Antonio’s downtown is home to one of the most iconic landmarks in Texas history: the Alamo. Originally a Spanish mission, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see for history buffs.
• In addition to The Alamo, San Antonio is home to San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, which includes four magnificently preserved Spanish colonial missions: Concepción, San José, San Juan, and Espada. These missions are part of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage designation and offer a glimpse into the early history of Texas and Spanish influence in the region.
• If you’re up for a day trip, visit Stonehenge II, a captivating replica situated just outside San Antonio. Located in Ingram, Texas, this unique attraction is about a 90-minute drive from the city and offers an amusing homage to the original.
• Also located in the heart of downtown, Hemisfair Park offers a perfect blend of outdoor recreation and cultural attractions. Visitors can enjoy green spaces, playgrounds, and walking trails while exploring the Tower of the Americas. This 750-foot observation tower provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city and beyond.
• One of the most picturesque parts of the city is the San Antonio River Walk, a vibrant hub for tourists and locals alike. It features restaurants offering waterfront dining, shops, and scenic boat rides.
• If you visit San Antonio in April, you’ll have the chance to experience Fiesta, the city’s largest and most colorful celebration. This 10-day festival honors the city’s rich multicultural heritage and is a lively tradition that has drawn visitors and locals together for over a century!

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5. Austin

Austin is famous for its live music scene, festivals, and laid-back lifestyle. The city’s slogan, “Keep Austin Weird,” reflects its quirky and creative culture, making it a truly unique place to live and visit.

A. Median Household Income, Median Home Value, Annual Spend for Homeowners, and Annual Spend for Renters:

Austin MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2022): $86,556

B. Employment Prospects

• The unemployment rate in Austin is 3.80% (June 2024), below the Texas and national unemployment rate of 4%.
• The poverty rate is 12.40%, lower than the Texas poverty rate of 13.70% and above the national poverty rate of 11.10%.
• Austin’s economy has recently been heavily influenced by the tech industry, earning it the nickname “Silicon Hills.” Large companies like Apple, Google, and Tesla have a major presence in Austin, translating into a wealth of job opportunities in technology-related roles. 
• The Austin area has an average commute time of 24.1 minutes.

C. Healthcare
Austin is home to several reputable hospitals and health systems, including St. David’s HealthCare, one of the region’s largest health systems. Other prominent healthcare systems include Ascension Seton, Baylor Scott & White, and the University of Texas Health System.

D. Education

• The city’s largest school district, Austin Independent School District (AISD), serves over 80,000 students across 125 schools, with a commitment to providing innovative and inclusive education. AISD offers a variety of specialized programs, including dual-language immersion programs and STEM-focused programs.
• AISD also has magnet schools and academies for students with specific interests, such as the Liberal Arts and Science Academy (LASA), one of the top-ranked high schools in the country, known for its rigorous academic programs. 
• Prominent private schools in Austin include St. Andrew’s Episcopal School, Regents School of Austin, Austin Waldorf School, and St. Stephen’s Episcopal School. These institutions are recognized for their smaller class sizes, tailored instruction, and impressive academic achievements, offering students a more personalized and rigorous educational experience.
• Austin also has charter schools and Montessori programs, including the NYOS Charter School and Austin Montessori School.
• The prestigious University of Texas’s main campus is in Austin, and it offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs.
• Over the 2018-2022 period, Austin’s high school graduation rate was 91.10%, above the U.S. national average of 89.10%.
• The population of adults over 25 with a college degree was 56.50%, slightly below the national average of approximately 34.30%.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle
Austin’s vibrant atmosphere, famed as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” and sunny climate combine to make it an ideal destination for tourists and locals to embrace its bustling cultural scene fully. With an outstanding mix of musical performances from all genres, music and film festivals, and unique food truck culture, Austin promises an unforgettable experience filled with creativity, flavor, and Southern hospitality.

Fun Facts about Austin:

• Bats, anyone? One of Austin’s unique attractions is the Congress Avenue Bridge, home to North America’s largest urban bat colony. Every evening from March to November, thousands of bats fly out from under the bridge at dusk, a spectacular sight attracting large crowds of locals and visitors.
• Austin is famous for its food trucks, with over 1,000 of these unique mobile eateries serving everything from gourmet tacos to international cuisine and everything in between.
• The Texas State Capitol in Austin is the largest state capitol building in the U.S., even taller than the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. Guided tours are available to explore its stunning architecture and learn about Texas history. 
• As the “Live Music Capital of the World,” Austin is home to over 250 live music venues and hosts world-famous events like South by Southwest (SXSW) and Austin City Limits Music Festival, drawing artists and music lovers from around the globe.

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Conclusion

Texas is all about variety, with its stunning landscapes, lively culture, and endless fun—because everything really is bigger in Texas! There’s something for everyone and for every season, from jaw-dropping metroplexes to the serene Hill Country, rodeo season to music festival season and beyond! Regardless of which city you choose, the Lone Star State offers a wealth of options to suit every lifestyle.