9 Most Affordable Towns to Retire in Texas

With its tax-friendly policies, affordable housing, and numerous recreational opportunities across its vast territory, Texas should be high on your list of desirable retirement destinations. The Lone Star State hosts a diverse mix of charming locales outside major metro areas, providing an ideal setting for laid-back and affordable retirement living. From the picturesque Gulf Coast to the beautiful Hill Country, there are plenty of excellent options.

Whether you settle in a serene coastal village or a hidden inland community, one common feature of these delightful towns is the financial freedom they offer during your retirement years. Additionally, they host a range of essential amenities, both social and medical, that enable senior citizens to enjoy a comfortable and healthy lifestyle. If you're considering retiring in Texas but are unsure where to start, here are a couple of places to consider.

Canyon

Located in Randall County, part of the Amarillo metropolitan area, Canyon is home to world-class attractions that ensure retirees always have something to look forward to. It serves as the gateway to Palo Duro Canyon State Park, offering multiple desert trails and stunning red rock formations to explore. Canyon is also home to the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, Texas's largest history museum, which provides an immersive historical experience. For those who prefer more relaxed outdoor activities, the Palo Duro Creek Golf Course offers a laid-back 18-hole golf course.

Furthermore, the presence of West Texas A&M University gives seniors the opportunity to pursue any academic interests they might have. With several health facilities, including Faith Medical Clinic, retirees in Canyon won't have to travel far for quality healthcare. Additionally, homes in Canyon sell for an average of $268,300, which is below the national average.

Kermit

Kermit, named after President Theodore Roosevelt's son, grew during the West Texas oil boom following the discovery of the Hendrick oil field. The town offers a generally relaxed vibe, but active seniors can always find something entertaining. The Winkler County Golf Course is a great option, with a 9-hole public course suitable for all skill levels, set against stunning scenery.

For those seeking wilder adventures, Monahans Sandhills State Park is just over 30 minutes away, sprawling across nearly 4,000 acres. Here, visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, sand surfing, and bird watching. Kermit also features the Winkler County Senior Recreation Center, which offers exciting programs for seniors. What's even more appealing is that the median housing cost in Kermit is $249,800, providing an affordable option for retirees.

Woodville

With a modest community of about 2,500 residents, Woodville is a quintessential small town offering pensioners peace and affordability during their sunset years. It features several family-friendly activities that are perfect for spending time with loved ones. The Heritage Village Museum provides a vivid perspective on the town's pioneering days, allowing visitors to explore a replica village with a diverse collection of structures and artifacts. Meanwhile, Camp Niwana is an ideal spot when the grandkids visit over the summer, thanks to its educational and entertainment programs.

With three national highways passing through Woodville, the town boasts a developed transportation network that allows easy movement to neighboring cities. This is crucial for retirees who want to explore further or access superior medical or social facilities. Finally, the local median housing cost of $175,900 means that retirees need not dig deep into their savings to afford a home in Woodville.

Alpine

True to its name, Alpine is a picturesque mountain town in Brewster County, surrounded by majestic peaks rising as high as a mile above sea level. The town hosts several art galleries in its lively downtown, offering laid-back indoor activities. Seniors can visit the Catchlight Art Gallery or Curry Studio and Gallery to explore the bustling local art scene. Alpine is also home to Sul Ross State University, which provides seniors with opportunities for further college education, as well as historical attractions like the Museum of the Big Bend—a must-visit for those curious about the colorful history of the region.

For a fun evening out with friends or family, Rangra Theatres is a great spot to catch a movie in a welcoming atmosphere. Among the health facilities that cater to retirees' medical needs is the Big Bend Regional Medical Center. Finally, the average cost of a home in Alpine is $324,500.

Burkburnett

Burkburnett is a family-friendly community in Wichita County with a diverse mix of activities for senior citizens. Recreational opportunities abound, thanks to venues like Friendship Park, which features ball fields, a playground, and picnic spaces. The Boomtown Bay Family Aquatic Center provides water-based fun for all ages, including thrilling water slides.

For a more relaxed option, retirees can improve their swing at River Creek Park Golf Course, known for its pristine greens and tranquil setting. The town's bustling restaurant scene offers a variety of places to enjoy meals with friends or family. Those who love Mexican cuisine will appreciate the exotic flavors at Carlitos Mexican Restaurant. Homes in Burkburnett cost an average of $227,500.

Hawkins

With its small, friendly population and laid-back setting, Hawkins is one of the most charming communities to retire in Texas. It's just about 5 miles from the scenic shores of Lake Hawkins, a popular recreation spot with cool, clear waters, white-sand beaches, and pineywood forests. The lake is bustling with swimmers and sunbathers, especially during the summer months. Hawkins is also home to Jarvis Christian University, which is ideal for seniors considering further education after retirement.

Another notable spot in town is the Veterans Memorial Park, where retirees can appreciate the beauty of open spaces while paying tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in service. As seniors grow older, the Hawkins Senior Community Center is invaluable, offering a variety of assisted living programs. Those looking to buy a home should expect to spend around $249,900, the town's median home price.

Seymour

With a median housing value of $89,000, Seymour offers some of the most affordable property deals retirees can find in Texas. Despite its low housing costs, the town provides a range of recreational activities to make retirement years enjoyable. The town hosts several interesting museums, including the Whiteside Museum of Natural History, where visitors can explore exhibits featuring prehistoric fossils and learn about the local ecology.

Seymour has ample outdoor opportunities thanks to its various parks. Seniors can relax at the Seymour Sound Garden or Seymour City Park, where they can enjoy nature and leisurely walks. If you prefer golf, the Salt Fork Recreational Complex offers a serene setting for a casual round of golf.

Sonora

From dramatic underground caves to captivating museums, retirees have much to look forward to in Sonora, a small village in Sutton County. Sonora is renowned for the Caverns of Sonora, a unique cave system featuring stunning crystalline formations that has been designated a National Natural Landmark, attracting visitors from across the state. For those interested in history, the town offers the Old Sonora Ice House Ranch Museum and the Sutton County Historical Society, both excellent places to explore the area's rich past.

Outdoorsy retirees will enjoy a visit to the Eaton Hill Nature Center & Preserve, which has relaxed trails ideal for light hiking and nature walks. In case of health emergencies, the Lillian M. Hudspeth Memorial Hospital is on hand to provide quality medical care. If you're considering settling in Sonora, you can find a decent home for around $177,500.

Mineola

Despite having a small community of about 5,000, Mineola is a destination with attractions that belie its size. Seniors who settle here have plenty of entertainment options. Strolling through Mineola's historic downtown district reveals a vibrant area with a unique mix of businesses. Key points of interest include the Mineola Historical Museum, which showcases the town's history, and the Lake Country Playhouse, which offers live performances in a family-friendly atmosphere.

Seniors can stay active with scenic hikes along riverside trails at the Mineola Nature Preserve. If hiking is too strenuous, they can opt for biking or horseback riding. The local community also takes good care of its elderly population through assisted living communities like the Community Care Center of Mineola. Homes in Mineola sell for a median price of $253,200, providing an affordable option for retirees.

Final Thoughts

From beautiful mountain vistas to peaceful riverbanks and picturesque Gulf shores, these affordably priced Texas towns offer retirees a refreshing new start with plenty to look forward to. Shielded from the chaos of big cities like Houston, these towns have a characteristic charm and a safe, supportive atmosphere, allowing retirees to enjoy recreational opportunities that suit their evolving lifestyles. With accessible healthcare and a low cost of living, retirees can enjoy peace of mind and financial freedom in their later years. Relocating to any of these towns provides a pathway to fulfilling retirement adventures in diverse settings across Texas.