Retiring in Texas can mean stretching your savings without sacrificing comfort. Thanks to low housing costs, a warm climate and no state income tax, Texas consistently ranks among the most affordable states for retirees. A recent U.S. News analysis of 859 cities found the 25 top affordable retirement destinations for 2026 –and 10 of them are in Texas.
These cities combine budget-friendly living with quality amenities, making them ideal for retirees who want financial peace of mind and a vibrant lifestyle. Here are the best Texas cities for retirees who want a high quality of life on a budget.
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1. Eagle Pass, Texas
- Population: 28,930
- Median home value: $185,037
- Median monthly rent: $632
- Median household income: $58,119
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2. Harlingen, Texas
- Population: 72,756
- Median home value: $155,614
- Median monthly rent: $695
- Median household income: $56,134
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3. Mission, Texas
- Population: 91,448
- Median home value: $185,399
- Median monthly rent: $777
- Median household income: $63,734
4. Brownsville, Texas
- Population: 185,547
- Median home value: $152,319
- Median monthly rent: $695
- Median household income: $51,636
5. Laredo, Texas
- Population: 259,807
- Median home value: $205,335
- Median monthly rent: $790
- Median household income: $64,712
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6. Wichita Falls, Texas
- Population: 102,994
- Median home value: $170,047
- Median monthly rent: $782
- Median household income: $60,545
7. Pharr, Texas
- Population: 82,750
- Median home value: $137,982
- Median monthly rent: $802
- Median household income: $52,517
8. McAllen, Texas
- Population: 145,810
- Median home value: $191,706
- Median monthly rent: $834
- Median household income: $62,055
9. Edinburg, Texas
- Population: 107,879
- Median home value: $188,770
- Median monthly rent: $795
- Median household income: $59,162
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10. Victoria, Texas
- Population: 65,116
- Median home value: $200,084
- Median monthly rent: $968
- Median household income: $69,354
Editor’s note: Data was sourced from U.S. News and is accurate as of Nov. 28, 2025.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 10 Texas Cities Where Retirees Can Live Well on a Budget in 2026
