Retirees Are Choosing These Texas Counties for Small-Town Charm, Affordable Coastal Living, Accessible Health Care, and More

If you’re starting to think about where you might like to retire, Texas should be on your list of possible landing spots. With no state income tax, a lower cost of living, and plenty of sunshine, it’s a retirement destination that balances affordability with lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn to fishing along the coast, enjoying the slower pace of a small town, or getting involved in a community full of arts and culture, Texas has a little something for everyone stepping into their next chapter.

Texas as a Retirement Destination 

Retiring in Texas means stretching your dollars further without sacrificing comfort. The biggest benefit? No state income tax, so your Social Security benefits, pension income, and IRA and 401(k) withdrawals go further. Housing and utility costs also tend to be lower than in pricier coastal or northeastern states. Add in mild winters and long summers—ideal for retirees looking to ditch snow shovels—and the climate becomes another plus. Health care access varies by region, but many communities are expanding hospitals and clinics to serve growing retiree populations. Texas offers both affordability and lifestyle appeal.

Jefferson County

Beaumont, the largest city in Jefferson County, with a population of just under 110,420, anchors a region where retirees can stretch their budgets without sacrificing quality of life. On average, retirees will spend about $982 per month on housing costs here. It is not only one of the most affordable places to live in the U.S. currently, but it is also among the lowest median home values in the state of Texas at $188,284—substantially less than the average home price in the U.S. currently, of $410,800. Monthly food expenses come in at $582, which is also less than the national average for two adults of about $730 per month. Health care access is strong, with ample facilities across the county, including CHRISTUS Health. 

Retirees enjoy birdwatching, fishing, Cajun-Texan festivals, and the county’s numerous art and entertainment venues. With Houston’s big-city amenities and an international airport 98 miles away, retirees still have convenient access to a large urban center. With coastal charm and affordability, Jefferson County offers a well-rounded retirement choice.

Maverick County

For retirees who value affordability, Maverick County, anchored by Eagle Pass, offers a welcoming small-town atmosphere. The Eagle Pass median home value is $226,265. With low property taxes and no state taxes on Social Security and retirement income, it’s easy to see the appeal. Health care is easily accessible with multiple facilities in the county, two of which are hospitals. 

Retirees can enjoy fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation, as well as the Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino for entertainment. Being a border county, retirees seeking authentic Mexican food and shops will be delighted with the cultural exposure here. Despite the affordability, one major drawback is the fact that the nearest international airport is in San Antonio, roughly 150 miles away. 

Gregg County

Gregg County, located in East Texas, is ideal if you want small-town charm and vibrant opportunities without sacrificing affordability. Health care is anchored by CHRISTUS Good Shepherd Medical Center, one of the region’s leading providers, several other hospitals in the county and plentiful medical facilities. The county seat of Longview blends small-town charm with vibrant opportunities, such as live music, historical and art museums, parks, and community events. 

County taxes are low, and retirees can enjoy the absence of taxes on Social Security and other retirement income, enhancing the area’s affordability. The real estate market is competitive with home values on the rise and most homes selling in the county around 60 days, with median home value of $215,000. However, one downside is that the closest major airport is in Dallas, about 140 miles away.

Comparing Retirement Options in Texas

The beauty of retiring in Texas is the wide array of choices you have. Jefferson County gives you affordable coastal living near Houston. Maverick County offers affordability and an authentic Mexican-American experience along the Rio Grande. Gregg County strikes a middle ground, offering cultural richness and affordability in East Texas. Key cities in each county offer multiple hospitals and health care facilities. 

Your decision hinges on your preferences. Are you aiming for the relatively sophisticated offerings of metro areas or the intimacy of life in smaller communities? Is your priority outdoor living versus urban cultural experiences? Is it important to you to be near a major airport, or do you prefer to be as far away as possible from major metro areas? Each county has its own pros and cons, so the best fit depends on what your retirement wish list contains.

The Bottom Line

Retiring in Texas doesn’t mean one-size-fits-all. Whether you’re drawn to the coast, a close-knit border town, or an East Texas town rich in culture, you’ll find options that let your retirement dollars stretch further. Add in warm weather, growing health care access, and a tax-friendly environment, and Texas makes a compelling case for your golden years.