The Best Cities To Buy a House in Texas: Navigating the Real Estate Market

The Lone Star real estate market has proven its resilience time and again, but which are the best cities in Texas to buy a house in?

Following the fiscal upheavals caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Texas was one of the fastest markets to rebound, with a strong economic resurgence in cities across the state. 

As of March 2024, the Texas economy recorded a 36-month-long growth period and was performing substantially better than the U.S. economy as a whole.

With a wide range of options—urban, suburban, or rural—Texas offers some of the best opportunities for homeownership and investment. 

Let us highlight the best cities in Texas to buy a house in based on market recovery, affordability, and overall quality of life.

Texas real estate market overview

According to Texas Real Estate Research Center data, home prices have increased across the state since the pandemic, but several markets now have more balanced inventory levels. 

Texas’ diverse economy, population growth, and relatively low cost of living continue to drive demand for housing.

In 2023, Texas experienced a dip in housing inventory as demand surged, but 2024 has increased listings across major cities and growing markets, making it easier for prospective buyers to find homes. 

Despite rising mortgage rates, Texas remains desirable for investors and homeowners, as living costs are still favorable compared to other high-demand states like California and New York.

Some cities stand out in the 2024 market, offering strong investment potential and housing options for every type of buyer.

Austin: The tech hub with high-demand

Austin, the capital of Texas, continues to be a prime location for tech professionals and investors alike.

• Strong Market for Long-Term Appreciation: High home prices due to tech industry growth and consistent influx of startups.
• Growing Population: New homes are being built to accommodate the population increase.
• High Demand: A good quality of life, vibrant culture, and job opportunities drive demand.
• Investor Appeal: The growing population and job market make Austin attractive to investors.
• Homebuyer Appeal: Outdoor lifestyle, educational opportunities, and cultural attractions draw homebuyers.

San Antonio: Affordability meets growth

San Antonio, the second-largest city in Texas, offers a more affordable option vs. other Texas locations like Austin.

• Historic Charm and Cultural Diversity: The city has a rich history and diverse culture.
• Steady Growth: San Antonio has experienced consistent growth in recent years.
• Expanding Economy: Healthcare, military, and manufacturing industries drive economic growth.
• Attractive Home Prices: San Antonio offers lower home prices than Austin, making it appealing for first-time buyers and investors.
• Strong Housing Market in 2024: The market is expected to remain strong, especially in up-and-coming neighborhoods like Alamo Heights and Stone Oak.
• Good Value and Appreciation Potential: Homes in these neighborhoods offer good value and potential for long-term appreciation.

Lubbock: Affordable living and steady growth

Lubbock, Texas, is a city worth considering for those looking for a more affordable market with great potential.

• Diverse Business & Lifestyle: Known for its strong agricultural roots and as home to Texas Tech University, Lubbock enables a more leisurely pace of life than Texas’ larger metros. 
• Affordable: Despite its smaller size, the city has a robust real estate market, with plenty of houses for sale in Lubbock, TX, at competitive prices.
• Various Housing Times: Lubbock’s housing inventory includes various options, from historic homes near the university to newly built developments in suburban areas.
• Strong Economy: The city’s low cost of living and growing job market will make it appealing to both investors and homebuyers.

Corpus Christi: A coastal city with investment potential

Corpus Christi offers a unique opportunity for buyers looking for coastal living in Texas.

• Tourism & Economy: With a population of just over 300,000, Corpus Christi is known for its beaches, tourism, and energy sector. 
• Investment Properties: For those considering vacation homes or short-term rental properties, houses for sale in Corpus Christi, Texas, offer various options—from waterfront properties to more affordable homes inland.
• Homeowner-Friendly: Corpus Christi’s relatively affordable housing prices and its coastal location make it an attractive option for those looking to invest in vacation homes or rental properties.

As more people seek out destinations that offer outdoor living and a slower pace of life, Corpus Christi is poised for continued growth in 2024.

Amarillo: A hidden gem for affordable housing

Another market to consider is Amarillo, Texas, located in the Panhandle.

• Homebuyer Appeal: This smaller city offers affordable housing options and a slower-paced lifestyle that appeals to many buyers. 
• Cost of Living: Amarillo’s economy has remained steady due to its strong presence in the agriculture and energy industries. The city’s low cost of living makes it an attractive option for first-time buyers and investors alike.
• Affordable: Amarillo continues to offer great value, with houses for sale in Amarillo, TX, providing affordable options for homebuyers.

As the city grows, its stable housing market, low taxes, and affordable cost of living make it a desirable location for families, retirees, and those seeking to escape the high costs of larger metros.

The best cities in Texas to buy a home: The bottom line

As the Texas real estate market continues in 2024, buyers and investors have many opportunities to explore. 

With its strong economy, favorable cost of living, and diverse cities, Texas remains one of the best places in the country to buy a home.

Now is an excellent time to explore these cities and their neighborhoods as the real estate market stabilizes and more homes come. 

Whether looking for a new place to call home or your next investment property, Texas offers endless possibilities for smart buyers in 2024.

Park Place Finance can help you fund your Texas dream home

Many homebuyers and investors need extra help to achieve their property purchasing goals. 

Conventional mortgage lenders don’t always consider the challenges of modern economic realities—that’s where hard money lending comes into play. 

If you’re seeking a different kind of mortgage financing, start your application with Park Place Finance today or contact one of our team members at (866) 972-0711.

We have the financing answers you need.