12 Cheapest Places to Live in Texas with Cost of Living (2023)

Thinking of settling in one of the USA’s most famous states, Texas? Look no further. We have the perfect plan for you. Most people residing in Texas carry the famous Texan pride and rightly so! This state is full of culture and heritage which also promises the most rapidly modernizing way of life. Also, did you consider experiencing the lively celebrations of Christmas and indulging in the delicious Creole cuisine of the USA, all while staying within your budget?

Imagine standing on the edge of a towering bridge, your heart pounding, yes, Texas has some great bungee jumping spots, which you should definitely check out! Texas might be the perfect choice to live in but are you confused about the living cost in Texas? Well, we have a plan just for you. We have accommodated all the cheap places to live in Texas so that your cost of living in Texas is never uncomfortable for you!

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Plenty of the USA’s most successful businesses have relocated to this state as there are many cheap places to live in Texas. The beautiful weather, sunny environment, and friendly neighbors are a bonus. Texas might be the correct choice for you because of its varied job opportunities and the plenty of affordable places to live in Texas. Housing costs in Texas can be a huge burden in many cases, but there are still many affordable cities to live in Texas.

While you are looking for the cheapest places to live in Texas, have you considered safety and a crime-free neighborhood? We have the solution for it too. In a gist, we have compiled all the inexpensive places to live in Texas which will keep you happy and safe!

Most Affordable Places to Live in Texas

#1 Odessa

Location: Situated towards the southwest edge of the Llano Estacado in West Texas and above the Permian Basin.

• Population: 112,000 (as per 2021 reports)
• Median Home Price: $275K
• Cost of Living Index: 84.2 (100=National Average)
• Safety: It is safer than 56% of US cities.

Why It is Cheap?

Most of the population of Odessa consists of students and labor. They look for such community spaces where they can study and work freely without having a high living cost which is why Odessa is the most affordable place to live in Texas. If you are an inexperienced traveler, it is a safe place to travel alone in the US.

When students think of what is the cheapest places to live in Texas, Odessa should strike them. It has famous universities and colleges which welcome students from all around the world.

Companies here welcome labor from all around the world. The workers are motivated by the minimal cost of living, so you will find Odessa to be one of the cheapest places in Texas to live. Students will find many places to rent here which will cost them 30% less than other US cities.

Nearby Sightseeing:

There are great spots of art and culture like Ellen Noel Art Museum and Presidential Archives and Leadership Library. Recreational Centers like Music City Mall, shopping stores, an indoor ice skating rink, etc are also available.

Cost of living in Odessa:

It is one of the most inexpensive cities to live in Texas with an average of 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent of $1000 and an Average Household Income of $63,847. Groceries in Odessa are 20% lesser in cost than in USA cities. Healthcare is also 15% cheaper and available for needy people at minimal rates. Workers here get many health benefits which are absent in other cities of USA.

#2 McAllen

• Population: 144,000 (as per 2021 reports)
• Median Home Price: $295K
• Cost of Living Index: 78.8 (100=National Average)
• Safety: It is safer than 55% of US cities.

Why It is Cheap?

Due to its reasonable housing costs and low cost of living, McAllen is regarded as one of the cheapest cities to live in Texas. The median home price in McAllen is significantly lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordable housing options.

Additionally, the city has a comparatively low cost of living index, with reasonable costs for utilities, groceries, healthcare, and transportation. This allows residents to live comfortably without going over their financial limits and stretch their budgets further.

With its combination of affordable housing and low cost of living, McAllen provides a favorable environment for individuals and families looking to save money and live within their means.

Nearby Sightseeing:

McAllen, Texas, offers nearby sightseeing opportunities such as the stunning South Padre Island with its pristine beaches and water activities. The Rio Grande Valley offers a variety of wildlife and birdwatching options for nature lovers. The McAllen Nature Centre and La Plaza Mall are two other McAllen-specific attractions that offer a blend of the outdoors and commerce.

#3 Midland

Location: This is one of the cheapest places to live in Texas and is situated on the western side of the state in the southeast of the high plains.

• Population: 1.31 lakhs (as per 2021 reports)
• Median Home Price: $350K
• Cost of Living Index: 91.7 (100=National Average)
• Safety: It is safer than 50% of the US cities.

Midland has a thriving economy and is quite popular among young students who desire job opportunities in the USA. It is one of the fastest-growing cities in America. When you think of the best places to live in Texas, Midland should not skip your list. Many students are also welcomed here to Midland University to pursue the best pilot training and technological courses. This is one of those cheap towns in Texas which has plenty of fun vibe.

Nearby Sightseeing:

You can visit The Midland-Odessa Symphony and Chorale, Midland Community Theatre, and the Museum of the Southwest.

Cost of living in Odessa:

It is popular as those inexpensive places in Texas whose housing bills do not go higher than $1200!

#4 Amarillo

Location: Thinking of the cheapest places to live near Texas? Amarillo is your destination. It is located in the middle of the Texas Panhandle.

• Population: 2.01lakhs (as per 2021 reports)
• Median Home Price: $250K
• Cost of Living Index: 77.8 (100=National Average)
• Safety: Reported as 33% safer than other US cities.

Amarillo is not only one of the affordable places to live in Texas but the high demand for jobs in their economic and urban development projects are the main focus in this city. Because many young professionals come here in search of exciting job opportunities, the cost of living is low. It is the best cheap town to live in Texas.

Nearby Sightseeing:

You might also find the Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Art Deco, and Spanish Revival buildings as great places for leisure.

Cost of living in Amarillo:

Housing can be easily rented here for under $1100 with an average income of $52,725.

#5 Richmond

Location: This is one of the best places to live in Texas for cheap and is near Houston–The Woodlands-Sugar Land metropolitan area.

• Population: 12,646
• Median Home Price: $430K
• Cost of Living Index: 107.4 (100=National Average)
• Safety: 11% lower than the national crime rate.

Many students who want cheap living in Texas can study at Houston Baptist University and the American InterContinental University Houston Campus.

Why is it cheap?

Richmond has always been one of the cheapest places in Texas to live in. Because of the great rail lines and communications, many industries welcome abroad labor. They also have a lower cost of living and are the cheapest place in Texas to rent.

Nearby Sightseeing:

You can visit The Fort Bend Museum and George Ranch Historical Park, Bramon Winery & Brewery, and the Texian Brewing Co. for fun.

Cost of living in Richmond:

Housing can be rented under $1100 with an income of $43,071. People who settle in Richmond can take advantage of the cheap Healthcare available for all. Many common healthcare benefits include Health Insurance Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), Paid Vacation and Sick Time, Paid Holidays, and Paid Medical Leave. It is also 32% cheaper than other USA cities.

#6 Lubbock

Location: It is situated in the northwest of the state.

• Population: 2.61 lakhs
• Median Home Price: $295K
• Cost of Living Index: 80.7 (100=National Average)
• Safety: Not one of the safest, but surely is an affordable place in Texas to retire.

If you’re thinking of a fall vacation in the country with your spouse or any affordable place to visit in the US, choose Lubbock! The hotel deals are great and usually run on a discount in the holiday season. This can be a much-needed getaway in the beautiful city of Lubbock.

Why is it cheap?

Because the city is called “The Hub” regarding education, job opportunities, and healthcare, this county supports the most affordable living in Texas. Many students come here to the Texas Tech University, Lubbock Christian University, Vista College of Lubbock. Kaplan College, South Plains College, Texas Tech University, etc. Since young people surround the city, it has the best cheap apartments in Texas.

Nearby Sightseeing:

The Buddy Holly Center, National Ranching Heritage Center, Lubbock Texas Temple, Buddy Holly Statue, and West Texas Walk of Fame are great places to visit.

Cost of living in Lubbock:

Lubbock’s job market has a steady rise of 39.8% and yet it is the cheapest place to rent in Texas; it starts at $894. Groceries and Utilities are 18% cheaper than the National average n Lubbock, Free healthcare is also available according to a worker’s annual income. Transportation is 8% cheaper than the national average.

#7 Breckenridge

• Population: 5,244
• Median Home Price: $170K
• Cost of Living Index: 71.9 (100=National Average)
• Safety: 40% safer than other cities.

Why is it cheap?

One of the least expensive areas to live in Texas is Breckenridge. Numerous factors contribute to Breckenridge’s low cost of living. Firstly, the cost of housing in Breckenridge is relatively low compared to other cities in Texas. For individuals and families looking for cheap housing options, the region’s affordable median home price makes it a desirable choice.

Moreover, Breckenridge’s overall cost of living is often lower than the national average. This includes costs that are less expensive in Breckenridge compared to many other Texas cities, such as groceries, healthcare, transportation, and utilities. Breckenridge residents may live well while yet straining their finances further.

With its affordable housing options and lower cost of living, Breckenridge offers an attractive opportunity for individuals and families looking to live in an affordable community in Texas.

Nearby Sightseeing:

Possum Kingdom State Park, which has a lovely lake, hiking paths, and camping places, is a stunning place for nature lovers to explore. The Breckenridge Aviation Museum, which displays a variety of planes and artifacts representing the region’s aviation heritage, is a great place for history buffs to visit.

#8 College Station

Location: It is one of the cheap places to live in Texas that falls on the eastern side of the state.

• Population: 1.2 lakhs
• Median Home Price: $345K
• Cost of Living Index: 88.5 (100=National Average)
• Safety: 33% safer than other cities.

Why is it cheap?

The job market in the research area is huge because many projects are funded by NASA, the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation, and the Office of Naval Research. You will be provided great opportunities by the city and since it is the most inexpensive place to live in Texas, it will fit you beautifully!

Nearby Sightseeing:

George Bush Presidential Library and Museum, Museum of the G.I., and Bonfire Memorial are great places to visit.

Cost of living in College Station:

If you are looking for the best place to live in Texas for cheap, choose this one. The average rent starts at $1100.

You may also like: 25 Cheapest Ways to Travel in The USA on a Budget

#9 Killeen

Location: One of the cheapest places to live in Texas, this city is located in Bell County.

• Population: About 1.56 lakhs( as per 2021 reports)
• Median Home Price: $240K
• Cost of Living Index: 80.4 (100=National Average)
• Safety: 11% safer than other Texas cities.

Why is it cheap?

This city has vast job opportunities, a strong workforce, and demands foreign labor in huge numbers due to its shipping Industry. Young professionals like this city as it is the cheapest place to rent in Texas.

It is called the fifth-best place to live in Loan Star State and rightly so! You can apply to Central Texas College, Texas A&M University-Central Texas, and the Vista College of Killeen too. Students find this city-friendly and welcoming and the city has great cheap apartments in Texas to rent.

Nearby Sightseeing:

You can have great fun in the 1st Cavalry Division Museum and Third Cavalry Museum as a military town. Outdoor stops include Stillhouse Hollow Lake and the lakeshore Dana Peak Park. Lions Club Park, etc.

Cost of living in Killeen:

Because students and young professionals demand affordable places to live in Texas, the living cost is low here. The average rent is $1200 with an income of $49,630.

#10 El Paso

Location: Near the Chihuahuan Desert of extreme western Texas, is this city located.

• Population: About 6.78 lakhs( as per 2021 reports)
• Median Home Price: $281K
• Cost of Living Index: 82 (100=National Average)
• Safety: It is regarded as the safest place to live in Texas; crime rates are lower than the national average.

If you are looking for an affordable honeymoon destination in the USA, choose El Paso. The beautiful mountain heights are romantic and beautiful. Since it is a cheap place to rent in Texas, book a cabin and explore this beautiful Mexican city!

Why is it cheap?

The sunny weather of El Paso and the vibrant Mexican culture attracts a lot of people to settle in this community. Since the job market is on the rise here, you can easily find this city as the cheapest place to live in Texas. Labor is attracted with the low cost of living and high household income. Over 500 companies have offices here, so one can easily find in this city the cheapest places to rent in Texas.

Nearby Sightseeing:

You can enjoy the beautiful Franklin Mountain Hueco Tanks State Park, Historic Site, El Paso Municipal Rose Garden, etc as great spots to visit in and around El Paso.

Cost of living in El Paso:

This city is pretty budget-friendly to live in. The average rent starts from $1100 with an income of $47,568. According to Forbes, El Paso has one of the lowest costs of living in all USA where their monthly expenditure and healthcare cost is 45% lower than the national average.

Read Also: 11 Best Beach Towns to Live in Texas

#11 Waco

Location: One of the cheapest places to live in Texas, Waco is located on the north-central side of the state.

• Population: 1.4 lakhs
• Median Home Price: $270K
• Cost of Living Index: 78.9 (100=National Average)
• Safety: Crime rate 19.3 per 1,000 residents.

Why is it Cheap?

Waco invites workers all year round in the fields of advanced manufacturing, aerospace, and defense, supply chain management, health care, and professional and financial services. There are great opportunities for everyone with the advantage of low-cost living. Young professionals spend less and save more in this city; it offers the best of cheap apartments in Texas!

If you are a student you can attend the well-known Baylor University. You can easily find affordable rooms to rent.

Nearby Sightseeing:

Waco Mammoth National Monument, Dr, Pepper, Cameron Zoo can be visited on the weekends.

Cost of living in Waco:

It is one of the cheap places in Texas to live with an average rent of $900 and an income of $40,190.

#12 Temple

Location: One of the best places to live in Texas for cheap, Temple is located in the center of Bell County.

• Population: 85,416 (as per 2021 report)
• Median Home Price: $325K
• Cost of Living Index: 83.8 (100=National Average)
• Safety: The northwest part of Texas is the safest to reside. It is safer than 56% of USA cities.

Why is it cheap?

One of the most affordable places to live in Texas with a low unemployment rate, Temple is the city for you! It has great job opportunities in the fields of manufacturing support services, health and life sciences, and logistics and distribution. The county has a low cost of living, hence the workers are attracted to settle in this city.

If you are a student, attending Temple College might be a good career decision. You do not need to wonder where are the cheapest places to live in Texas, to afford quality education. Temple is the answer. It will provide you with the most affordable living in Texas with maximum benefits.

Nearby Sightseeing:

You can visit the trails of Miller Springs Nature Center. Belton Lake, Summer Fun Water Park, etc. The Cultural Activities Center organizes great live shows in the city of Temple.

Cost of living in Temple:

It is a dream destination to settle in with rent starting at $1,200 with an income of $54,873.

Where should you not live in Texas?

Huntsville Freeport, Weslaco, Galveston, Vidor, Wharton, Palmview, Center are not places where you should live. The crime rates are high, the weather remains unfortunate most days of the year, and is pretty expensive to live in Texas. You will be spending more and saving less. Due to crime rates, these are not places to travel alone in the US.

If you are planning to move to Texas or planning for a vacation, you must know which are the worst places in Texas.

Is it cheaper to live in Texas or Florida?

Florida is 11 times more expensive than Texas. Texas has beautiful cities with great job opportunities and minimum cost of living. Florida’s rent is 5 times higher than Texas’s. Workers who come to settle in Texas find that it benefits them economically. You can easily find cheap apartments in Texas with low expenditures on groceries, utilities, transportation, health care, etc. Texas is the state for you if looking for a low cost of living.

Related Posts:

• Top 10 Cheapest Places to Live in Florida
• 10 Best Places To Live On The Gulf Coast Of Florida

Where is better to live California or Texas?

California is a tourist dream destination. However, if you are looking for better jobs, low-cost housing, low medical care, low tax rates, and a generally low cost of living, Texas is your place! You can find cheap towns to live in Texas while California is 5 times more expensive!

Texas provides great opportunities for most young professionals to settle in this state of the USA. The best part of living in this state is the lower living cost and better savings. If you are planning to settle here you can easily find many cheap towns to live in Texas with other great benefits. You can also check out these liberal cities in Texas.

A huge number of people flock to this part of the state and it keeps growing. Do not think again if it is affordable to live in Texas. Just pack your bags and come to this dream destination!

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FAQ on The Most Affordable Places to Live in Texas