Texas is one of the most diverse and exciting states in the country and the state is full of everything from large city living to small town serenity. No matter if you’re a veteran who’s looking for low-cost housing options or just a growing family looking to settle down in a safe community, the state has a lot to offer. To help you find out where in the Lone Star State would be the best place for you to call home, this guide will discuss some of the best places to live in Texas, including cost of living, lifestyle, job opportunities, and access to veteran benefits.
1. Austin – The Tech Hub with Culture
The capital of Texas, Austin, is a mecca for young professionals, tech startups, and creative types. With a robust music scene, rich food culture and plenty of outdoor activities, it’s no surprise that Austin offers one of the highest qualities of life in the country.
Why Live Here?
Austin is full of top-tier schools, a thriving job market and lots of green space. It has proved especially popular with those who work remotely, self-employed workers and entrepreneurs.
Housing Market:
Home prices here are also above the state average, but the long-term investment potential is high thanks to its rapidly growing economy.
2. San Antonio – Affordable Big-City Living
This city is a melting pot of history, culture, and cheap living. It’s also the home of the Alamo, River Walk and a number of kid-friendly attractions.
Why Live Here?
It is one of the cheaper large cities in Texas and is great for families and retirees. They also will be encouraged to feel right at home in the city, which boasts a large military community and veteran population.
Veterans’ Perk:
And if you are a former member of the military, you could be eligible for Free Land for Veterans in Texas, which could sweeten the deal even more when it comes to San Antonio.
3. Frisco – The Fastest Growing Suburb
Frisco, a city just north of Dallas, is among the fastest-growing cities in the country. With great schools, master-planned communities and top-of-the-line amenities, it is a favorite for families and professionals.
Why Live Here?
Frisco offers the best of both suburban ease and urban access. It enjoys excellent schools, parks and shopping districts, and a thriving real estate market.
Housing Insight:
For prospective buyers seeking an affordable home, Triple Wide Mobile Homes is a cost-effective solution.
4. Houston – Big City with Big Opportunities
Texas City – Houston is the great place to live and work. It’s a melting pot of cultures and people and is very inclusive.
Why Live Here?
For all of its size, Houston has an affordable cost of living. It has a booming tech sector that is drawing workers from other parts of the country, and world-class medical facilities, too.
Homebuilding Costs:
If you’re in the market for custom homes, you may want to take a look at the Average Cost to Build a Texas House for some guidance on what to expect in the run up to your build.
5. Dallas – A Metro with Southern Charm
Dallas is alive with a robust economy, great restaurants, and diverse arts. It’s a nerve center for transportation and trade, as well.
Why Live Here?
You’ll find contemporary comforts and good old Southern hospitality in Dallas. The city is diverse, economically vibrant and its public and private schools are very good.
Veterans’ Financing Options:
If you’re a veteran and looking to purchase a house in Texas, take a look at VA home loans in Texas as well as other information about financing and interest rates.
6. New Braunfels – Small-Town Feel with Big Perks
Just between Austin and San Antonio, you’ll find New Braunfels, where you can explore the best of Germany’s influence along with its rivers.
Why Live Here?
It’s just right for retirees and families with children who are ready for a slower pace of life but don’t want to lose touch with the big city. The town is also renowned for its community events and excellent public schools.
New Construction Benefits:
Considering new construction? New Homes in Texas not only offer breathtaking locations, but they offer modern floor plans, amble living space, energy efficiency and durability of products that only new construction homes have the ability to offer.
7. McKinney – Safe, Scenic, and Suburban
McKinney frequently makes best-places-to-live lists in the United States, with its charming town square, the safety of its neighborhoods, and quality schools.
Why Live Here?
It maintains a family feel and a historic district teeming with shops, restaurants and parks. The town is close-knit, and the city is investing heavily in infrastructure and services.
8. Georgetown – The Hidden Gem for Retirees
A community just north of Austin, Georgetown is perhaps best known for its Victorian architecture, picturesque views and the popular Sun City Texas retirement neighborhood.
Why Live Here?
If you want peace, friendly neighbors and hospitals, choose Georgetown. It also has plenty of outdoor activities and golf courses.
9. El Paso – A Desert Oasis for Military Families
El Paso, in the western tip of Texas, has a significant military presence with Fort Bliss. It’s one of the safest cities in the U.S. and has a very low cost of living.
Why Live Here?
Similar to military families, first-time homebuyers will also thrive in El Paso, as it is a warm climate with a strong sense of community.
Final Thoughts
There are scores of ideal places to lay down roots across Texas if you’re a first-time homebuyer, growing your family, or preparing for retirement. From the hustle and bustle of Austin to the small-town charm of Georgetown, there are benefits to both. Additionally, with housing programs to help veterans of Texas find your perfect forever home, like Free Land for Veterans in Texas and VA Loans in Texas, the dream of becoming a Texas homeowner is closer now than ever before!