Texas, August 25, 2025
News Summary
An analysis by GOBankingRates reveals that several major Texas cities, including Houston, Dallas, and Austin, are managing to remain affordable despite significant population growth. The study highlights nine cities showcasing median incomes and home prices that, while rising, still offer residents a sustainable living cost ranging from $75,000 to $125,000. With cities like Austin having the highest income and Houston providing affordable housing, Texas remains appealing for many new residents navigating urban life challenges.
Texas Cities Show Affordable Living Amid Population Growth According to GOBankingRates Analysis
As Texas continues to grow rapidly, several of its largest cities remain affordable for residents despite increasing population rates. An analysis by GOBankingRates has highlighted nine Texas cities, including Houston, Dallas, and Austin, showing promising indicators for affordable living despite the notable influx of people from 2022 to 2023.
The study utilized data sourced from the U.S. Census, Zillow Home Value Index, and Federal Reserve Economic Data to assess living costs across various cities. It calculated the salary needed for a comfortable living by doubling the total annual cost of living, which ranges from $75,000 to $125,000 across Texas’ major urban areas.
Key Cities and Income Data
Houston is identified as the fourth most populous city in the United States, with a median household income of approximately $63,000. The average cost of a single-family home in the city is around $277,000, making it a relatively affordable option compared to other large cities.
San Antonio, experiencing a population growth of nearly 1%, mirrors Houston’s median income at $63,000, but its single-family homes average about $548,000. Meanwhile, Dallas boasts a somewhat higher median income of $68,000, with home values reaching approximately $332,000.
Austin stands out not only for its high livability score but also for having the highest median household income among Texas’ nine largest cities at around $91,000. However, the cost of living here is higher, pushing it to a more demanding financial threshold for residents.
Fort Worth is another city that has experienced considerable growth, with a population increase of 1.8%. Its median household income is reported at $77,000; the average cost of a home is approximately $557,000. El Paso remains more affordable with a median income of around $59,000 and home values at $232,000.
Arlington’s median household income is noted at $74,000, and single-family homes average around $321,000. Corpus Christi has homes valued at about $222,376, with a median income of $66,000, just slightly below the comfortable living threshold.
Plano ties with Austin for the fifth-highest livability score among the largest U.S. cities, although it ranks second in the cost of living. The analysis draws on data collected up until July 21, 2025, emphasizing population dynamics and living expenses in urban locations across Texas.
Conclusion
Overall, Texas cities present a blend of rising populations and relatively sustainable living costs, making them appealing for new residents. As housing prices fluctuate and income levels rise, Texans can continue to evaluate their choices wisely in navigating the changing landscape of urban life.
FAQ
What cities in Texas are growing in population?
Seven out of nine major Texas cities are seeing population increases, including Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, Austin, Fort Worth, Arlington, and El Paso.
What is the highest median household income among these cities?
Austin has the highest median household income at around $91,000 among Texas’ nine largest cities.
What salary is required for comfortable living in Texas?
The salary range required for a comfortable living in Texas cities is between $75,000 to $125,000 based on the GOBankingRates analysis.
What are some average home values in Texas cities?
| City | Average Home Value | Median Household Income |
|---|---|---|
| Houston | $277,000 | $63,000 |
| San Antonio | $548,000 | $63,000 |
| Dallas | $332,000 | $68,000 |
| Austin | N/A | $91,000 |
| Fort Worth | $557,000 | $77,000 |
| El Paso | $232,000 | $59,000 |
| Arlington | $321,000 | $74,000 |
| Corpus Christi | $222,376 | $66,000 |
| Plano | N/A | N/A |
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Additional Resources
- GOBankingRates: Is Gen Z Doomed with Finances? Ramsey Experts Weigh In
- Wikipedia: Personal Finance
- Bankrate: Protect Your Accounts from Hackers
- Google Search: Protecting Bank Accounts
- US News: Tips for Newlyweds Merging Bank Accounts
- Google Scholar: Merging Bank Accounts
- Business Insider: Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Rates Right Now
- Encyclopedia Britannica: High-Yield Savings Accounts
- Business Insider: Best Checking Accounts for Seniors
- Google News: Checking Accounts for Seniors
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
