10 Most Affordable Places to Buy a Home in Texas in 2026

Buying a home in Texas used to feel like a guaranteed bargain… until the last few years sent prices climbing, especially in big metros like Austin, Dallas, and even parts of Houston. But here’s the good news most people don’t know: Texas still has plenty of cities where homeownership is absolutely within reach. You just have to look beyond the highly publicized hot spots.

If you’re moving to Texas in 2026 or you’re already here and want to stretch your budget further, these 10 cities consistently offer lower median home prices, reasonable property taxes, and an overall cost of living that won’t have you second-guessing your financial life choices. Some are smaller towns with a cozy pace, others are mid-sized cities with all the modern conveniences, and all of them offer something unique depending on the lifestyle you want.

Let’s take a deeper look at the most affordable places to buy a home in Texas in 2026, and why each one might (or might not) fit your future plans.

Wichita Falls

Wichita Falls is almost always one of the first cities mentioned when people talk about affordability in Texas. It’s one of those places where your homebuying dollars stretch much, much further. You can find updated homes, big yards, and family-friendly neighborhoods for a fraction of what you’d pay in a major metro.

What makes Wichita Falls especially appealing is the balance it strikes: it’s quiet, peaceful, and community-oriented, but it still has restaurants, parks, shopping centers, and recreational spaces that keep life interesting. The cost of groceries, utilities, and general living expenses tends to sit well below the state average, and many families appreciate the slower pace without feeling like they’ve moved into the middle of nowhere.

If affordability is your number-one priority and you’re open to a calmer lifestyle, Wichita Falls delivers real value.

Lubbock

Lubbock is technically a mid-sized city, but thanks to Texas Tech University, it has a lively, energetic feel that keeps things interesting. Despite that, the housing market remains remarkably accessible, with median prices far lower than Austin, Dallas, or even San Antonio.

Families like Lubbock because the neighborhoods tend to be quiet and well-kept. Young professionals like it for the job opportunities connected to education, agriculture, health care, and local businesses. And retirees appreciate that it’s affordable without being isolated.

The cost of living overall, from rent to coffee to utilities, leans budget-friendly, making Lubbock appealing for anyone looking for affordability without sacrificing a sense of community or activity.

El Paso

El Paso is one of the most underrated big cities in Texas. It offers the amenities people expect from major metros. Cultural attractions, schools, health care, shopping, and recreation, but without the massive price tags that come with Dallas or Austin.

Home prices in El Paso remain significantly lower than the statewide median, and because the local economy is steady and grounded in government, military, and cross-border commerce, it’s a place many families feel comfortable planting roots.

One thing that surprises newcomers is how friendly and community-oriented the city is. El Paso feels like a big city, but it also feels safe, welcoming, and surprisingly relaxed. For buyers wanting affordability without giving up urban conveniences, El Paso checks a lot of boxes.

San Antonio

San Antonio is often overshadowed by Austin, but that’s actually a good thing for homebuyers. While Austin’s prices skyrocketed, San Antonio’s have remained far more reasonable, making it one of the best places to buy a home in a growing, culturally rich city without blowing your budget.

The city has excellent food, historic neighborhoods, military presence, theme parks, and family-friendly attractions. Many buyers find they can afford more space and better amenities here than in most other large metros in Texas.

If you want a metropolitan lifestyle but at a much friendlier price point, San Antonio is one of your strongest 2026 options.

Killeen 

Killeen doesn’t get nearly enough credit as an affordable, practical, centrally located city. Because it’s home to Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood), it has a steady housing market, a constant flow of renters and buyers, and prices that stay grounded even as the rest of Texas fluctuates.

For families who need to be near Austin, Waco, Temple, or Belton, but don’t want to pay those cities’ price, Killeen is a smart alternative. The homes tend to be newer, the neighborhoods are spread out, and the cost of living stays low enough to help families build savings or invest without financial stress.

It’s one of those places where practicality and affordability align really well.

Abilene 

Abilene is a favorite for buyers who want a peaceful, friendly town where people wave at each other and cost of living is refreshingly low. Home prices here remain accessible, and many buyers find they can afford larger homes, more land, and recent renovations without stretching beyond their comfort zone.

Abilene has several universities, a growing health care sector, and a revitalizing downtown area, which keeps the city active without making it crowded. It’s an especially good fit for retirees, families, and remote workers who want space and affordability without losing access to amenities.

Brownsville 

If you’ve dreamed of living within driving distance of the coast but assumed coastal areas would be out of your price range, Brownsville will surprise you. This South Texas city has some of the most affordable homes in the state, and the cost of living overall. Groceries, utilities, everyday essentials tend to stay moderate and predictable.

Brownsville is rich in culture, food, and community life, and its proximity to South Padre Island makes weekend beach trips easy. It’s ideal for buyers who want warmth, water, and affordability all in one place.

McAllen 

McAllen is one of the major cities in the Rio Grande Valley, and it consistently ranks as one of the most affordable urban areas in Texas. Buyers are often surprised by how much home they can get on a smaller budget, often with modern updates, spacious layouts, or larger yards.

McAllen has shopping districts, medical centers, parks, and family-friendly events, making it a comfortable place for both newcomers and long-time residents. And for remote workers, the affordability of housing + strong internet access is a winning combination.

Amarillo 

Located in the Texas Panhandle, Amarillo is a practical, cost-friendly option for buyers who want more space, more land, and a lower cost of living overall. Homes here tend to offer more square footage for lower prices, and the slower pace of life is a big draw for families wanting stability.

Amarillo is also known for its community feel, iconic Route 66 attractions, and access to natural beauty like Palo Duro Canyon. If wide-open landscapes and affordability appeal to you, Amarillo makes a compelling case.

Laredo 

Laredo is a vibrant, culturally rich city that remains one of the most affordable places to buy a home in Texas. It offers lower median home prices, a modest cost of living, and a relaxed lifestyle that appeals to families and retirees.

Because the community is tight-knit and deeply rooted, newcomers often find it surprisingly welcoming. And the food scene, especially if you love authentic Mexican cuisine, is one of the best in the state.

For buyers wanting affordability + culture + community, Laredo is a standout option.

If you’re moving to Texas in 2026 or simply looking for a place where your housing budget goes a lot further, these 10 cities offer some of the best opportunities in the state. Whether you want a quiet small town, a vibrant border city, or a more affordable alternative to major metros, Texas still has places where homeownership is absolutely achievable!

And if you’re relocating from out of state, these markets can make the transition much smoother, both financially and lifestyle-wise.

Post written by Michael Stephens from Living Local Texas