Retiring in Texas (2026)

Texas ranks #11 of 51 nationally for retirement friendliness (85/100 vs national avg 73/100). Housing costs are #24 of 51 cheapest, and cost of living overall is slightly below the US average.

Retirement Score

Median Home

$305k

Nat'l avg $358k

Cost of Living

92(US=100)

Nat'l avg 103

Climate

hot varied

Healthcare

75/100

Reasons to Retire Here

✓No state income tax
✓Age 65 homestead exemption + school tax ceiling
✓Growing senior communities
✓Warm climate

Trade-Offs to Know

•Extreme heat
•High property tax before senior exemptions
•Hurricanes coastal

Climate for Older Adults

Texas's climate is varied climate across the state.

Total Financial Picture

The key financial factors for a Texas retirement:

• Housing: Median home value $305,000. That's about $53k cheaper than the national median.
• Cost of living index: 92 vs 100 US baseline — everyday goods like groceries, gas, and services run slightly below the US average.
• Tax friendliness: 90/100 — Social Security is exempt; pensions are exempt. See the full Texas tax guide.
• Healthcare access: 75/100 — good in metro areas, thinner in rural regions.
• Safety: 55/100 — average safety statewide with meaningful city-to-city variation.

Texas sits in the top tier for retirement — a strong overall pick, especially if the climate and lifestyle match what you want.

Safety & Crime

55/100

Average safety statewide with significant city-to-city variation. Research specific towns before choosing.

Common Questions — Retiring in Texas

Is Texas a tax-friendly state for retirees?

Texas scores 90/100 on our tax friendliness scale. It doesn't tax Social Security OR retirement income — one of the strongest positions in the country. See the full state tax breakdown.

What's the median home price in Texas?

About $305,000 statewide, though costs vary significantly by city. Popular retirement communities and coastal areas tend to run above the state median; rural areas run below.

Is healthcare access good in Texas?

Healthcare access scores 75/100. Good in urban and suburban areas; rural regions have fewer specialists. Consider proximity to a major medical center if you have chronic conditions.