Texas Living Report — October 05, 2026

With a population of 29,243,342, Texas continues to draw newcomers from across the country and around the world. The state’s median age is 35.2, reflecting a youthful, working-age population, yet its appeal spans generations. From sprawling metros to quiet Hill Country towns, the Lone Star State offers a mix of opportunity and lifestyle that few regions can match.

On the cost-of-living front, Texas remains competitive. According to Finklick, which tracks one city in the state, the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,251 per month. For homebuyers, the median home value sits at $238,000—notably below the national average in recent years, though prices have risen steadily. Property taxes run higher than many states, but there is no state income tax, which eases the overall burden for many households.

The job market is a major draw. Texas’s unemployment rate was 4.6% as of August 2026, roughly in line with the national figure, but the state’s momentum lies in its sheer breadth of industries. Energy, technology, healthcare, and logistics all anchor major employment hubs, while the median household income of $73,035 per year supports a comfortable middle-class lifestyle in most areas. That income figure also provides a useful lens for affordability: the median monthly rent of $1,251 represents about 20.5% of household income, well under the commonly cited 30% threshold for housing cost burden. Even with rising rents and utility bills, Texas still offers relatively affordable urban living compared to coastal peers.

Quality of life varies widely by region, from the fast-paced culture of Dallas to the quirky charm of Austin and the border-town character of El Paso. The poverty rate of 13.6% is higher than the national average, a reminder that the Texas boom has not lifted everyone equally. Yet the state’s relatively low cost of entry continues to attract families seeking more square footage, retirees looking to stretch their savings, remote workers drawn to no income tax, and young professionals chasing job opportunities.

Looking ahead, Texas faces both promise and pressure. Infrastructure, water supply, and grid reliability are mounting concerns as the population grows. But the state’s economic base remains resilient, and its demographic vitality suggests continued expansion. For those weighing a move, Texas offers a bold bet on affordability and opportunity—one that likely will keep reshaping the state for decades to come.

Explore Texas Cities

Browse utility costs, housing data, Census demographics, and climate data for all 1 tracked cities in Texas.

View all Texas city guides →

Data: US Census Bureau ACS 2022, BLS. Updated October 05, 2026.