Top 10 Best Places to Live in Texas 2025 - damiaglobalservices article

Texas is a big and diverse state with many of the best places to live in Texas. Whether you prefer a bustling city, a quiet suburban neighborhood, or a town with a rich cultural history, Texas has something for everyone from the tech hub of Austin to the family-friendly atmosphere of Plano, each city offers unique benefits like job opportunities, affordable housing, and exciting attractions. This article discusses the top 10 best places to live in Texas in 2025, helping you find the best place to call home.

List Of Top 10 Best Places to Live in Texas 2025

Austin
San Antonio
Fort Worth
Dallas
McAllen
El Paso
Plano
Beaumont
Brownsville
Lubbock

1. Austin

Median House Price: $515,000
Cost of Living: higher than the national average
Crime Rate: 4,098 per 100k
Unemployment: 3.1%
Walkability Score: 42.

Austin, the capital of Texas, is a vibrant and dynamic city known for its eclectic live music scene, thriving tech industry, and outdoor recreation. Home to the University of Texas, Austin attracts students, professionals, and artists alike, creating a unique cultural blend. The city offers a high quality of life, though the cost of living is above the national average, with a median house price of $515,000.

The unemployment rate remains low at 3.1%, making it an excellent place for job seekers. While Austin has a walkability score of 42, its many parks and lakes provide endless opportunities for hiking, biking, swimming, and boating. For motorsports enthusiasts, the Circuit of the Americas hosts the United States Grand Prix, adding to the city’s exciting attractions.

2. San Antonio

Median House Price: $270,000
Cost of Living: 9% lower than the national average
Crime Rate: higher than the national average
Unemployment: 3.2%
Walkability Score: 58

San Antonio, in south-central Texas, is rich in history and culture. It’s home to The Alamo, the San Antonio River Walk, and the 750-ft Tower of the Americas.

With 13.7% of jobs in healthcare and 12.1% in retail, the city offers great career opportunities. Plus, housing costs are 20% below the U.S. median, making it a top choice for young professionals.

For culture, visit the Pearl District, home to the San Antonio Museum of Art. And don’t miss Fiesta San Antonio in April—a 10-day festival filled with parades, music, and vibrant celebrations

3. Fort Worth

Median House Price: $323,000,
Cost of Living: 4% lower than the national average
Crime Rate: higher than the national average
Unemployment: 3.70%
Walkability Score: 35

Fort Worth, in North Central Texas, was once a cowboy trading post on the Chisholm Trail. Today, it blends Western heritage with modern culture, featuring the Kimbell Art Museum, Fort Worth Stockyards, and the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame.

Fort Worth isn’t just ‘Cowtown’—it’s a city of growth and opportunity! Healthcare (12.3%) and manufacturing (11%) drive the economy, and with Texas Christian University (TCU), it’s a great place for young professionals.

After work, visit the Stockyards, watch a cattle drive, or shop for custom cowboy boots. On weekends, stroll through Sundance Square for handcrafted jewelry and high-end fashion

4. Dallas

Median House Price: $395,000
Cost of Living: 12% above the national average
Crime Rate: higher than the national average
Unemployment: around 3.60%
Walkability Score: depending on the specific area

Dallas, a modern metropolis in North Texas, is a commercial and cultural hub. Visit the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, which honors President John F. Kennedy, or explore world-class art at the Dallas Museum of Art and the Crow Collection of Asian Art. The Nasher Sculpture Center showcases stunning contemporary pieces.

In Dallas, ambitions rise as high as the skyline. Healthcare (11.2%) and retail (11%) lead employment, offering diverse career opportunities. Home to Southern Methodist University (SMU), it’s also a top spot for young professionals.

On weekends, escape to nature at the Dallas Arboretum, bike or kayak at White Rock Lake, or cheer for the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium!

5. McAllen

Median House Price: $276,000
Cost of Living: lower than the national average
Crime Rate: lower-than-national average crime rate
Unemployment: 5.5%
Walkability Score: vary by neighborhood

McAllen, in southern Texas, is home to the International Museum of Art & Science, featuring interactive exhibits, Picasso lithographs, and European paintings. Visit Quinta Mazatlán, a Spanish Revival mansion surrounded by bird-filled woodlands, or explore local history at the McAllen Heritage Center, housed in a 1930s post office. Fireman’s Park offers scenic views of Town Lake.

Why pay extra when McAllen provides the Texas dream for less? Home prices are 20% below the state average, and schools outperform 64.8% of U.S. districts, making it one of the best places for families.

For fun, hike nature trails at McAllen Nature Center, enjoy family picnics, or explore interactive science exhibits at the International Museum of Art & Science.

6. El Paso

Median House Price: $223,218
Cost of Living: below the national average
Crime Rate: Safer than 20% of U.S. cities
Unemployment: 4.0%
Walkability Score: 40.

El Paso, the county seat of El Paso County, is West Texas’ largest city with a population of 678,815 (2020). It ranks 22nd in the U.S. and sixth in Texas.

El Paso is more than just a border city—it’s a place of growth and opportunity. Healthcare leads employment at 13.4%, and schools outperform 54.6% of U.S. districts, making it one of the best places to raise a family in Texas.

Spend weekends hiking Franklin Mountains State Park, enjoy Broadway shows at the Plaza Theatre, and experience the Viva! El Paso Festival—a lively summer celebration of local culture!

7. Plano

Median House Price: $123,131
Cost of Living: Higher than the national average.
Crime Rate: Safer than 23% of U.S. cities.
Unemployment: 4.33%
Walkability Score: 41

A small part of Plano lies in Denton County, but it’s a key city in the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex. With a population of 285,494 (2020), it ranks ninth in Texas and 73rd in the U.S.

Plano blends history and modern living. Visit the Heritage Farmstead Museum for a glimpse into 19th-century farm life or explore the Interurban Railway Museum with its vintage rail car. Oak Point Park offers scenic trails, while Southfork Ranch, famous from the TV show Dallas, lies northeast.

Plano is great for careers and families. Professional services lead employment at 14.5%, and schools rank better than 74.8% of U.S. districts. On weekends, hike at Oak Point Park, enjoy fine dining at Legacy West, or shop for luxury brands at The Shops at Willow Bend.

8. Beaumont

Median House Price: $144,416
Cost of Living: Lower than the national average.
Crime Rate: Safer than 3% of U.S. cities.
Unemployment: 5.30%
Walkability Score: 31

Beaumont isn’t just a place to live—it’s a place to belong. With a community well-being score of 51, it offers a welcoming atmosphere. Plus, Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital provides excellent elderly care, making Beaumont one of the best places to retire in Texas.

For recreation, explore the scenic trails of Big Thicket National Preserve or enjoy a peaceful picnic at the Beaumont Botanical Gardens. Wrap up your day by discovering local art at the Art Museum of Southeast Texas.

9. Brownsville: Best Places to Live in Texas 2025

Median House Price: $255,000
Cost of Living: 16% lower than the national average
Crime Rate: 5.20%
Unemployment: 6.30%
Walkability Score: 78

Brownsville, Texas, sits on the western Gulf Coast, right on the border with Matamoros, Mexico. Spanning 145.2 square miles, it had a population of 186,738 in 2020.

This city offers a warm climate and a welcoming community, with a wellbeing score of 43. Healthcare costs are 12% lower than the U.S. median, and there’s no state income tax, making it one of the best places to retire in Texas.

Enjoy nature at Resaca de la Palma Nature Park, explore historic Downtown Brownsville for authentic Mexican cuisine, and end the day at the Brownsville Museum of Fine Art, where live events bring culture to life.

10. Lubbock: Best Places to Live in Texas 2025

Median House Price: $147,900
Cost of Living: 8.80% Lower than the national average.
Crime Rate: 3.13%
Unemployment: 4.60%
Walkability Score: 39

Lubbock, in northwest Texas, is famous as the birthplace of rock ’n’ roll legend Buddy Holly. The Buddy Holly Center showcases his life with artifacts and mementos. Nearby, the West Texas Walk of Fame honors local musicians with a statue of Holly and plaques. The Museum of Texas Tech University features art, history, and paleontology exhibits, plus the Moody Planetarium.

Looking for more than just a home? Lubbock offers growth and diversity. The Black community makes up 8% of the population, adding to its vibrant culture. Healthcare is thriving, employing 16.3% of residents.

Education is another highlight—Lubbock’s schools outperform 83.3% of U.S. districts, making it great for families. On weekends, enjoy a picnic by the lake at Mackenzie Park. With strong opportunities and a welcoming community, Lubbock stands out as one of the best places to live in Texas in 2025.

Conclusion

Choosing the best place to live in Texas depends on what matters most to you. If you love music and tech, Austin might be the right fit. For history and culture, San Antonio and Fort Worth offer plenty to explore. Families may prefer McAllen or Plano, while those looking for affordability can consider Lubbock or Beaumont. No matter where you go, Texas is full of opportunities, a warm community, and a great quality of life.