Best Places to Live in Texas For 2023 | Wan Bridge

Best Places to Live in Texas 2022-2023

best places to live in texas

Whether you’re talking about geographical size, population, or personality, Texas is undoubtedly one of the biggest and best states in the nation. With its warm weather, fantastic food, flourishing economy, and Southern-style charm, the Lone State State has consistently been named an outstanding place to call home.

If you’re considering relocating to Texas, you’re in good company – hundreds of thousands of people are moving here yearly. And with plenty of space and a wide variety of great towns and cities, there’s no shortage of locations to choose from. 

From Austin’s hip and eclectic vibe to the bustling cities of Dallas and Houston, we’ve put together a list of the best places to live in Texas. So, throw on your cowboy boots and get ready to find your new hometown!

Houston

For anyone searching for good cities to live in Texas, the massive metropolis of Houston is a solid contender. This sprawling city spans more than 600 square miles and is considered the southeast anchor point of the “Texas Triangle.” 

Houston’s multi-faceted personality is illustrated in the wide variety of nicknames, including “Space City” and the “Bayou City.” And the people that live in Houston are also wonderfully diverse; the city is considered the most ethnically and racially diverse major city in the United States. 

Neighborhoods in Houston are usually classified according to their proximity to the Interstate 610 loop. So, you might hear some communities described as part of the “Inner Loop” (Downtown Houston and other areas), while others are “outside the Loop” (Uptown, the Energy Corridor, and others). There are also a number of suburban communities that are located within the Houston metro area – many of which we count among the best areas to live in Texas.

Pearland

In its early beginnings, Pearland was a farming community. Now, it has grown into a thriving suburban city, but its rural roots are absolutely still present. Jobs in Pearland have kept pace with its rapid growth, with many of its large employers belonging to the healthcare sector. It’s also not unusual for Pearland residents to commute to downtown Houston, where a broad range of job opportunities can be found.

Pearland has several different lifestyles and shopping centers, making restaurants, retail, and entertainment all easily accessible. Families can also benefit from high-quality healthcare and education.

Currently, Wan Bridge has built two communities offering homes for rent in Pearland, TX: Mirror Lake and Ivy District.

League City

League City is a waterfront community within the Houston metro area, boasting scenic surroundings just a stone’s throw from the city. Locals and visitors can enjoy its many waterside resorts, including the Waterford Harbor, Yacht Club Marina, and the South Shore Harbor Resort. 

Amenities in League City are as diverse as they are plentiful. Children and families will appreciate the youth sports venues, parks, and playgrounds, while others will be drawn to the golf courses in the area. 

At Bay Colony West, League City homes for rent are available to suit a wide range of lifestyles, needs, and budgets.

Atascocita

Atascocita gained nationwide fame when it was named one of the best places to live in Texas and one of the best places to retire in the U.S. This awarding is thanks to how much Atascocita has to offer. It’s difficult to say exactly which of its amenities earned Atascocita these honors – but we firmly believe it’s because the community truly is the “whole package.” 

Life in Atascocita is a quiet respite from the hustle and bustle of Houston, but you’ll also never be bored. There are so many shops, restaurants, and parks to discover throughout the area, including an array of upscale brands and top-rated restaurants. 

For anyone searching for rentals in Atascocita, Clearwater at Balmoral is an exceptional option.  

Humble

The small town of Humble, TX, was one of the state’s notable oil boomtowns in the early twentieth century. Today, it is still a relatively quiet and serene place to call home, one where you can truly get to know your neighbors. 

It’s located about 20 minutes from Houston, so you can easily commute for work, school, or entertainment. 

Montgomery

Montgomery could be the ideal choice for future Houstonites who want to live a little further from the city. It’s about 1.5 hours from Downtown Houston, tucked near the beloved Lake Conroe. You’ll be surrounded by gorgeous Texas scenery, and you can take a step back in time when you visit the Fernland Historical Park.

Montgomery is the epitome of small-town Texas, with a population that only numbers around the 2,000 mark. If you’re searching for homes for rent in Montgomery, our Lakeside Conroe community offers a lakefront location. 

Rosharon

In the tiny town of Rosharon, residents enjoy life at a slow and peaceful pace. But don’t let this community’s small size fool you; it has plenty to offer. Its family-centered values and friendly ambiance make Rosharon a wonderful option for anyone seeking a retreat from the busy city.

You’ll live less than an hour from the heart of Houston, making a daily commute simple and stress-free. 

There are available homes for rent in Rosharon in two Wan Bridge communities: the Oaks at Suncreek Estates and Pradera Oaks.

Kingwood

Frequently referred to as the “Livable Forest,” Kingwood is a community that originated as a massive master-planned community. It is a heavily forested haven in the Houston metro area, with stunning surroundings that any nature lover will adore. There are more than 15,000 acres dedicated to parks and nature preserves, and most of the area’s villages (communities) feature neighborhood playgrounds, pools, and parks. 

Kingwood homes for rent are among the most in-demand in the area. Wan Bridge has recently developed two brand-new communities in Kingwood, the Villas at Kings Harbor and the Regent Square Brownstones.

Galveston

Galveston is one of the most popular travel destinations in the South, with a delightful seaside look and feel. The oceanfront community has undergone recent revitalization, and its historic buildings have been restored to all their former glory. 

Of course, one of the biggest benefits of living in Galveston is being right on the beach. The rental homes at our Palm Bay community offer beach and bay access – so residents can truly live their best resort-inspired life.

Dallas and Fort Worth

The Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area has attracted about one-third of all Texas transplants in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. Although the area is still firmly connected to its Southern roots, it’s gradually evolved into a modern metropolis boasting arts, culture, style, and more. The Dallas Arts District has earned the distinction of being the country’s largest urban arts district, and sports fans will appreciate the heavy professional sports presence here. 

The Dallas economy is extremely multi-dimensional (which only adds to its strength), particularly in the defense, finance, telecommunications, and information technology sectors. Nearly two dozen Fortune 500 companies have chosen Dallas-Fort Worth as their home base, and jobs are in steady supply. You can also find more than 40 colleges and universities, excellent public transit, and a virtually limitless selection of restaurants and shops.

Some of the best towns to live in TX are a part of Dallas-Fort Worth, each one with its own unique charm.

Denton

Denton is situated less than an hour from the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, but the cozy college town often feels like it’s a world away from the busy city. Anchored by two major universities, Denton is a family-friendly community that’s always happy to welcome new residents. 

The Residences at Rayzor Ranch are near many of Denton’s top highlights, including local parks, the children’s museum, grocery stores, and more. 

Forney

Looking for a suburban area near Dallas? Forney is only about 30 minutes from the city, with a low crime rate, a historic downtown area, and convenient amenities. Antique enthusiasts might recognize Forney as the state’s “Antique Capital,” though the city is also well-known for its farmers’ market, nature preserves, and the Heath Golf and Yacht Club.

Brooklyn Village is a community of single-family homes for rent in Forney, combining timeless design with modern luxury. 

Arlington

Arlington, TX, has grown into one of the principal cities of the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area, especially as its population continues to expand. It’s the hometown of the Dallas Cowboys and the Dallas Wings and also hosts the University of Texas at Arlington and a number of major corporations. 

Arts, culture, and entertainment have a strong presence in Arlington. Whether you’re interested in an evening at the theater, a weekend of shopping, or a thrilling trip to Six Flags Over Texas, you’ll find plenty of things to do in this Texas city. 

Austin

Austin’s unofficial slogan is “Keep Austin Weird,” and it’s the perfect motto for a city known for its unparalleled uniqueness. Despite being one of the fastest-growing cities in America, Austin has managed to preserve a locally-centered approach to development. Throughout the Austin area, mom-and-pop businesses have a strong presence. Many local restaurants and shops have been in business for years, contributing to each neighborhood’s distinct sense of character.

Austin is also the world’s live music capital, with more live music venues than any other U.S. city. On any given night, you can stroll down one of the city streets and hear music coming from several venues, bars, and restaurants at a time. And just a few blocks away, you’ll arrive at Austin’s quiet, historic residential streets, where oak trees tower over adorably updated homes.

The city of Austin is one of the most popular relocation destinations for young professionals, though it also attracts plenty of families. Great schools and friendly locals make it easy to transition into your very own version of Austin living.

Georgetown

Often considered one of the hidden gems of Texas, Georgetown consistently ranks as one of the best cities in the state for a high quality of life. 

The heart and soul of the city is the Downtown Historic District, which has been named the most beautiful town square in all of Texas. Here, you can visit local restaurants, locally-owned boutiques, and many arts and cultural highlights. And when you feel like venturing beyond the Georgetown city limits, you’re just a short drive away from Austin. 

Homes for rent in Georgetown include those in the recently-built Georgetown Heights community, developed and managed by Wan Bridge.

San Antonio

San Antonio may be a metropolitan area, but its easy-going personality and welcoming vibe have earned it the nickname of the “biggest small town” in TX. Even though it’s the second-largest city in Texas, San Antonio is a tightly-knit community. Like much of Texas, this city has a diverse and growing population.

There is also a lot of history in San Antonio, including a number of sites where pivotal moments have taken place. Here, you can visit the Alamo, then make the short journey to the San Fernando Cathedral (the oldest cathedral in America). For art enthusiasts, San Antonio museums provide hours upon hours of enjoyment. 

San Antonio is a popular city for families, thanks to its many parks and child-friendly attractions. For more than 100 years, Brackenridge Park has provided hundreds of acres for locals to enjoy, including walking trails, playgrounds, fishing, and more. The park also hosts the San Antonio Zoo, which you can visit year-round thanks to the sunny, warm climate. 

Some of our favorite neighborhoods in San Antonio include Alamo Heights, King William, Eastside Promise-Dignowity, the Pearl-Broadway Cultural Corridor, and Downtown. 

The Benefits of Living in Texas

Now that you know some of the best towns to live in Texas, you might be feeling inspired to make a move to the Lone Star State. But just in case you’re still not sure, we’re going to share some of the many advantages of living in Texas – because this roundup of perks is sure to impress.

An Affordable Cost of Living

When you compare the cost of living in Texas to the U.S. average, it’s notably more affordable. The average cost of living in Texas is just over 6% cheaper than the national average, including the cost of basic essentials, such as housing, groceries, and utilities, as well as other goods and services. 

Here in Texas, rent prices tend to be significantly lower than average costs across the U.S. For example, you can get a three-bedroom rental for almost $200 less in Texas – which translates to more house for less money.

No State Income Tax

Did you know that Texas doesn’t have any state income tax? Even though you’ll still be responsible for the usual federal taxes, you won’t see any deductions for Texas taxes on your paycheck. This is a major step up for anyone moving here from heavily taxed states (such as New York or California).

A Great Balance of Urban Sophistication and Country Charm

As a Texas, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: the wide, open spaces of the state’s rural areas and its cosmopolitan cities. And even better, you’re usually never far from one or the other. 

Most metropolitan areas in Texas are uniquely developed to create a sense of interconnectedness. So, whether you choose to live in the suburbs, a downtown district, or out in the country, you can usually travel between various “zones” with ease. 

Dining, Arts, and Culture

It’s no secret that Texas has a fabulous foodie scene, especially regarding barbecue, Tex-Mex, and other signature cuisines. And in many Texas cities, you can also find an incredible variety of global cuisine, fine dining, and casual-cool food trucks to choose from. 

In addition to great restaurants, Texas is also home to a vibrant arts and culture scene. The wonderful diversity of the state only enhances the community. You can explore dozens of museums, galleries, performance venues, and local cultural and arts events.

Find Texas Homes for Rent from Wan Bridge

Wan Bridge is a one-of-a-kind developer creating innovative, built-to-rent communities throughout the state of Texas. With rental homes in Austin, Dallas, and Houston, we’re transforming the state’s housing market. 

Our thoughtfully-designed properties are built with your wants and needs in mind, offering a luxurious lifestyle with none of the hassle of home ownership. As a Wan Bridge tenant, you’ll benefit from our professional property management – you’ll never have to worry about landscaping, home maintenance, and the like. 

Explore our rental home communities in Dallas, Houston, and Austin to find your perfect Texas home today. Or, get in touch with us directly for more information about Wan Bridge homes. 

Image Credit: Nick Fox / Shutterstock