Planning for retirement often means cutting expenses and selecting an affordable location – particularly for those hoping to retire early and who are on a limited budget.
There are plenty of affordable places in Texas offering great options for seniors looking to retire on a budget of $1. We analyzed data on cost of living, housing costs and other factors to come up with the five Best Texas Cities to Retire on a Budget of $1.
1. Odessa
Odessa stands out as an outstanding West Texas destination, thanks to its many amenities and quirky attractions. Home to one of America’s only museums dedicated solely to presidential office history as well as an authentic replica of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, Odessa also hosts one of America’s largest meteor craters and is often referred to as the “Jackrabbit Capital of the World.” Whether you want to catch a show at one of its iconic local clubs or snap selfies next to an eight-foot jackrabbit statue statue Odessa has something special just waiting for everyone.
ODESSA was built upon its oil industry roots and is subject to its volatile demand fluctuations for petroleum products. Yet, Odessa has managed to diversify its economy, now boasting a vibrant film and music scene as well as top-tier education, health care, and public safety services.
For art enthusiasts in Odessa, the Ellen Noel Art Museum is an absolute must. Exhibiting artwork of various styles and genres- including wedding gowns made from early 18th century lace- the museum offers numerous galleries as well as monthly educational activities for children and adults.
Ratliff Stadium hosts high school and college football matches and was built in 1982; it can seat 19,302. Additionally, the city offers many parks and recreational facilities with miles of trails, pavilions, basketball and tennis courts, horseshoe pits and horseshoe pits; four national and state parks such as Big Bend National Park in Texas and Monahans Sandhills State Park in New Mexico are close enough for day trips.
2. Killeen
Killeen has quickly become one of the best places to live in Texas, offering residents an exceptional quality of life and diverse culture. Home to over 100,000 residents yet maintaining its small-town vibe, its low cost of living allows your money to go further here than other large cities; and residents can take advantage of a fantastic selection of parks and attractions available within this city limits.
Killeen offers an abundance of exciting activities and attractions, but one of its most beloved traditions is visiting its farmer’s market every Saturday from May to October – it makes for a delightful way to spend the day! Additionally, Killeen boasts various historical sites, such as Powderhorn Ranch (built in 1833) and Fort Hood Historic District (1901).
Killeen offers many entertaining attractions for visitors to enjoy, including Lions Club Park. This park boasts a playground and pond perfect for families to spend an enjoyable afternoon outdoors, in addition to featuring a gym and paved path perfect for exercising or walking.
For something cultural, check out Vive Les Arts Theatre on the campus of Central Texas College – it hosts plays and musicals throughout the year! Or explore the stars with Mayborn Science Theater, featuring its 60-foot dome. Finally, the city is also well known for its rodeo event which brings in some of Texas’ best cowboys and cowgirls!
3. Granbury
Granbury is an intimate town located southwest of Fort Worth where everyone knows your name. Visitors and locals alike will experience Texas hospitality throughout their visit to Granbury’s charming historic downtown square with more than 40 shops, restaurants and coffeehouses surrounding its old courthouse; or visit its grand Granbury Opera House which hosts musicals all year-round!
City Beach Park on Lake Granbury provides visitors with exciting activities that bring people in and keep them coming back again and again. There’s outdoor exploration at Acton Nature Center of Hood County and Fossil Rim Wildlife Center; golf at local courses; camping in DeCordova Bend Park or Fort Richardson State Park nearby; even relaxing and swimming!
Another unique attraction is a visit to the Doll Museum, with collections ranging from 1920s French papier-mache dolls to international dolls that mimic storefronts of yesteryear and more recently Revolver Brewing’s full-flavored beer selection.
History buffs will love exploring this town full of heritage, activities for all ages and ample antiquing shops – there are several small antique malls and roadside clusters of stores offering everything from tin cans to gardening tools!
4. Port Arthur
Port Arthur is located along the Louisiana border in southeast Texas and boasts both natural beauty and an extensive oil industry history. As Jefferson County city, 90 miles east of Houston and 20 minutes away from Beaumont, Port Arthur offers plenty of fun things to do; fishing trips and bird-watching excursions among many others! Plus there’s Cajun flavor galore!
Port Arthur is a major deepwater port located at the convergence of Sabine Lake, Sabine-Neches, and Gulf Intracoastal waterways. Part of the Golden Triangle petrochemical complex that also encompasses Beaumont and Orange nearby, Port Arthur was established in 1895 and named for railroad pioneer Arthur E. Stilwell who took inspiration for both his railroads and this location from “brownies.”
The Museum of the Gulf Coast in Port Arthur is an exceptional attraction, boasting an assortment of captivating exhibits. Showcasing both Texas and Louisiana Gulf Coast regions, its collections span music, sports, local personalities and historic archives. Visitors can see a replica of Janis Joplin’s iconic Porsche, admire work by local artists as well as learn about coastal history archives.
Fishing, kayaking and biking are also among the many recreational activities offered in Port Arthur. For those who prefer more sedentary pursuits, Pleasure Island provides 18.5 miles of non-contiguous shoreline along Sabine Lake and Sabine-Neches and Gulf Intracoastal waterways and features 300 floating slips with accommodation for boats from 20 to 80 feet long plus a disc golf course as an activity hub.
Port Arthur offers an abundance of dining options, ranging from seafood restaurants to burger joints. Those seeking local cuisine should visit Judice’s 1927; dedicated to quality seafood since the early 1900s, its patio is filled with colorful umbrellas for seating and relaxing.
5. Socorro
Socorro offers an engaging community that welcomes visitors with open arms. Home to time honored events and hometown traditions that showcase Texas beauty, Socorro provides visitors with plenty of reasons to celebrate – be it participating in a 3K color run or enjoying free outdoor movies this summer – making Socorro an inviting destination.
Socorro is a city known for its binational historic sites and Spanish missions, as well as world renowned heritage trails. Socorro’s beautiful surroundings include Franklin Mountains, Ciudad Juarez, and Chihuahuan Desert which all provide stunning vistas sure to please visitors of any age or preference.
Socorro residents enjoy the best of both worlds with breathtaking sunsets and an abundance of delicious cuisine from both countries. Socorro’s rich cultural background includes Native American, Mexican, and European influences that come together beautifully in its history and traditions.
The city of Stamford operates under a council-manager form of government. This comprises six elected council members responsible for setting policies and passing ordinances that govern the city, while its manager implements these decisions and laws set by council.
Socorro’s most prominent industries include Construction, Retail Trade and Health Care & Social Assistance. These sectors employ most residents in Socorro; some may work from home. Socorro also boasts numerous higher education options.
Are You Searching for a Place to Live in Texas? Socorro offers something special – beautiful weather and scenic beauty combined with rich culture and vibrant history make Socorro an excellent place for retirees on a tight budget. Livability recently named Socorro as one of the 5 Best Affordable Retirement Cities and it is clear why! With an attractive cost of living and diverse economy.
