Read this if you think Texas is for you!
Since 2024, Texas has been one of the states, alongside California, that has over 30 million residents, and this makes it the second most populous state in the USA. In recent years, more than 47,000 people decided to move to the Lone Star State. This is an impressive increase in numbers!
But why are so many people moving to Texas? Well, some of them are attracted by the lack of a personal income tax, the affordable cost of living, and the low rent prices. Also, there are a lot of high-paying jobs in various fields, which means most people have a chance to get hired.
As a person who was born in San Antonio and then moved to New York, one of my favorite activities when I go home to visit my family is to also visit the grocery stores and be amazed by the low prices. Compared to many big US cities, the cities of Texas are incredibly cheap. Filling a shopping cart with just $200 feels fantastic!
Here are some of the best Texas cities for any retiree who wants to move into a bustling city that is also affordable!
Houston
If you are newly retired and you are looking for a new home, Houston is the perfect place! Why? This is a vibrant and diverse city that is incredibly welcoming for anyone willing to make a big change.
It has a population of over 2.2 million people, and it offers so many opportunities that a lot of people reported that they never had time to try all of them. The average age here is just 33.5, which makes this city a hub for younger people, but seniors are also welcome.
The cost of living in Houston is slightly below the national average, and housing is also pretty affordable, no matter if you’re looking to rent or buy. The average prices start around $250K, and if you want to rent, expect to pay around $1,350.
In terms of culture, Houston is one of the most diverse cities in the entire USA. From art and music to food and festivals, there’s always something happening here. For example, the Bayou City Art Festival or Fashion Week are just two of the major events that take place here every year.
San Antonio
I can’t write this list without introducing you to my city, San Antonio. Here you can find one of the most welcoming communities you will ever encounter. With a population of over 1.5 million and a cost of living well below the national average, this is a gem of South Texas, and I recommend you not miss it.
The Mexican heritage is imprinted in the DNA of the city, and you can see it peeking out in your day-to-day life. From the language you’ll hear around town to the food to the public schools that celebrate diversity and inclusion, you will be able to witness how people are accepting of anyone who is different.
And if you want entertainment, oh, we’ve got you covered! No need to worry. Theme parks like Six Flags Fiesta Texas and SeaWorld San Antonio are open year-round and perfect for family fun or a playful date day.
It is important to make it clear that in the last decade, the downtown area has changed completely. And it is a good change! For example, what was known as the Pear District, the old brewery of the city, is now the heart of it. This is part of San Antonio’s modern revival, and the area is now full of trendy restaurants, artisan shops, and cozy cafes perfect for any senior who wants to live their golden years to the fullest.
McAllen
If you are the type who wants a life that’s peaceful, budget-friendly, and full of warmth, then this might be the best destination for you. Relocating to McAllen, Texas, is a wonderful idea if this is what you are looking for. But you will need to prepare because this place is located near the Mexico border, so you have an entire trip ahead of you.
With a cost of living at just 76.5% of the national average and rent under $1,000 a month, you will see that money is no problem here. This means you will finally be able to save something for emergencies!
I used to visit McAllen quite often when I was a kid because my grandparents used to live there. All I can recall is the slower pace of life and the beautiful scenery. The town is rich in Mexican culture, and you will see it in the food, the festival, and the music you will hear in the evening coming from the yards of the residents.
But let’s get back to the prices. Here you can get a lot of space for very advantageous prices. Over 1,400 square feet for $1,500? Yes, this is a real possibility, and it can be all yours if you decide to move to McAllen.
In case the heat starts to bother you, please don’t worry because you can quickly drive to South Padre Island. Here you can find some of the most beautiful beaches. Also, don’t forget to visit Sea Turtle, Inc., a rescue center that lets you get close and meet their turtles.
Corpus Christi
Dreaming of living in a place where the salty sea breeze kisses your cheeks every morning? Say no more because this city is a dream come true for anyone who wants this to be a reality in their day-to-day life.
This is a coastal city where each town’s charm meets big-city convenience. Tell me something more beautiful than this! I dare you! Also, a fun fact about this city is that this is the hometown of the beloved Tejano queen, Selena.
With a population of just over 316,000, Corpus Christi manages to offer you a sense of community without sacrificing any of the amenities you love the most. Then I need to also mention that the cost of living here is one of the lowest in all of Texas, sitting at just 73.6% of the national average! You can rent an apartment near the beach for just $1,300 a month, and compared to other coastal cities, this is a big steal.
The best thing is that living here truly feels like a never-ending vacation. There are lots of outdoor activities you can do, from kayaking through the bay to casting a line at sunrise. It is all about your preferences, but you need to know that you have many options to choose from.
Waco
If you feel like you need a little bit more space, a slower pace of life, and a real community around you, I am here to tell you that you will find all of them in Waco, Texas. This place is known for the affordable housing, wide-open spaces, and that charming small-town feel many of us are looking for.
Located in Central Texas, right between Dallas and Austin, Waco is an amazing option for any retiree who wants to live in a smaller place while also being close to big city life. The median home price is somewhere around $187,000, and the best part is that here you can actually own land without selling your soul. Awesome, right?
If you want to explore Texas, this might help you: The Best Texas Bucket List And Travel Guide: Discover Hidden Gems with Interactive Visuals and Trip Planning
You should also read: The 5 Best States to Retire If You’re Looking for Perfect Weather
