OVERVIEW
West Texas—the vast region stretching from Abilene and San Angelo west to El Paso and Big Bend—offers retirees affordability, warm sunshine, and a slower pace of life. Texas has no state income tax, making retirement savings go further. While large-scale 55+ communities and active adult developments are rare here, cities like El Paso, San Angelo, and Abilene provide established hospital systems, cultural amenities, and lower housing costs than most Texas metros.
When retirees envision their next chapter, they may dream about places with ocean views or lush golf course greens. They probably haven’t even considered the best places to retire in West Texas, or even thought about that part of the state at all. But that’s part of what makes this region of Texas so appealing.
While flashier retirement destinations capture the attention, living in West Texas offers affordability and a slower pace out of the spotlight. Here, pickup trucks outnumber golf carts, and that’s exactly what makes it appealing to some retirees.
West Texas refers to the region west of Abilene and San Angelo, toward El Paso and the Big Bend area. This part of the state is known for its ranching towns and miles and miles of open highway.
For those considering West Texas as a place to hang up their boots in retirement, keep reading. This blog post will cover reasons people choose to retire here, as well as an overview of what it’s like to live in West Texas, including important health care considerations and 55+ housing options.
Why Retire in West Texas?
Affordable Housing and No State Income Tax
Affordability is one of the biggest draws of living in West Texas. Retirees get more bang for their buck here compared to major cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston. Active adult homebuyers can often purchase a larger home in West Texas and often with more land than they could get in a more populated area.
Texas, along with seven other states, doesn’t impose a state income tax, which allows retirees to stretch their income further. This makes living in West Texas a major draw for those relying on Social Security, pensions, or retirement savings.
A Sunny Climate With Trade-Offs
Some retirees look to West Texas for a respite from harsh, gray winters. This region of the state is known for its dry air and plentiful sunshine. However, the climate comes with trade-offs. Summers can be extremely hot in West Texas, often soaring into the triple digits. Texas is also in Tornado Alley and sees an average of more than 155 tornadoes touch down every year—more than any other state. People living in West Texas are accustomed to severe thunderstorms with hail and high wind as well as occasional tornadoes.
Still, many retirees exploring the best places to live in West Texas are willing to trade a few dramatic weather days for never having to scrape ice off a windshield again.
A Slower Pace of Life
Another reason people choose to retire in West Texas is the slower pace of life. Living in this part of the state feels refreshingly unhurried, especially for those who are relocating from the hustle and bustle of a big city.
While West Texas may have a reputation as little more than oil rigs and tumbleweeds, the region offers plenty of variety. National parks and vibrant cultural influences shape the region. Cities like Albuquerque are within driving distance from parts of West Texas, and the Mexican border brings a rich blend of culture and history to communities like El Paso.
For retirees seeking a lifestyle centered on open space and few distractions, West Texas offers an alternative to the state’s more densely populated areas, such as Austin and the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Where to Retire in West Texas: City-by-City Overview
El Paso
El Paso, located at the state’s far western edge, is home to nearly 700,000 residents. The city, while offering many amenities and perks retirees might find in a major metro area, also maintains a colorful vibe.
Part of that vibe comes from its location along the U.S.-Mexico border. The city offers a unique blend of traditions, food, art, and history. Retirees relocating here often appreciate the city’s diversity and local flavor.
El Paso also offers convenient access to major medical systems, including University Medical Center of El Paso and The Hospitals of Providence. El Paso International Airport offers convenient travel options, and residents can enjoy a variety of shopping and performing arts venues.
Outdoor recreation is another major highlight in El Paso. Franklin Mountains State Park sits within the city limits, offering hiking and scenic desert views. White Sands National Park in New Mexico and the Organ Mountains are also close enough for day trips.
For retirees who want urban amenities without the congestion and high costs found in many other Texas cities, El Paso stands out as an affordable and culturally rich option.
Midland and Odessa
People often group Midland and Odessa together since the cities are located in the Permian Basin, one of the country’s largest oil-producing regions. While these neighboring cities are best known for their ties to the energy industry, they also offer retirees affordability and stability.
Here, retirees can benefit from housing prices that are relatively reasonable compared to many Texas metros. Plus, both cities continue to grow their health care, dining, and retail offerings. Midland Memorial Hospital serves as a major health care provider for the region, and residents have access to community events throughout the year.
Retirees considering Midland or Odessa should understand that the lifestyle here is more practical and low-key than resort-oriented. Walkable downtown districts and large arts scenes are more limited than in larger Texas cities. However, many retirees appreciate the straightforward lifestyle and lower cost of living.
These communities work especially well for retirees who prioritize affordability and simplicity over luxury amenities.
San Angelo
San Angelo is among the best places to retire in West Texas for retirees seeking balance. With roughly 100,000 residents, the city offers enough services and entertainment to stay active while maintaining a manageable size and slower pace.
The city has built a reputation for being affordable and community-oriented. Downtown San Angelo features quaint restaurants, boutiques, and galleries, while the city’s arts scene includes theaters and cultural festivals.
People who live in San Angelo can take advantage of a variety of outdoor recreation options. For example, Lake Nasworthy offers boating, fishing, kayaking, and walking trails, while San Angelo State Park offers nearby hiking and wildlife viewing.
When it comes to health care access, residents can often find the care they need at Shannon Medical Center, which serves much of the surrounding region.
For retirees who want a true small-city atmosphere without feeling isolated, San Angelo offers an attractive middle ground.
Abilene
Abilene combines affordability with an active cultural and educational environment, making it especially appealing for retirees who enjoy lifelong learning and community involvement.
The city is home to three universities: Abilene Christian University, Hardin-Simmons University, and McMurry University. From the lectures and continuing education programs to the concerts and sporting events, people often find that Abilene is a little livelier than they anticipated.
The city’s downtown area has also experienced steady revitalization in recent years, with new restaurants, coffee shops, breweries, and local businesses helping create a more vibrant atmosphere.
Hendrick Health anchors the city’s medical care system, providing retirees with access to a wide range of regional health services. Housing remains affordable compared to other parts of the state, and retirees often appreciate the city’s friendly atmosphere and manageable pace.
Abilene offers many of the conveniences of larger cities while still feeling approachable and easy to navigate.
Alpine, Marfa, and Fort Davis
For retirees exploring the best places to retire in West Texas, the Big Bend region delivers one of the most distinctive living experiences in the state. Alpine, Marfa, and Fort Davis each offer something different, but all share the same peaceful landscape that far West Texas is known for.
Marfa has gained national attention for its contemporary art scene and minimalist installations inspired by artist Donald Judd. Today, the town blends ranching culture with a creative energy that attracts visitors from around the world.
Alpine stands out as the region’s largest town and as the home of Sul Ross State University. Retirees living here enjoy access to restaurants, local shops, and community events while remaining close to Big Bend National Park.
Fort Davis offers a quieter atmosphere surrounded by the Davis Mountains. The town is known for historic sites and some of the darkest night skies in the continental United States.
This region is ideal for retirees who seek solitude and enjoy scenic landscapes. However, retirees should also consider the trade-offs that come with remote living. Access to specialized medical care can be limited, and major hospitals may be far away, requiring long drives.
For healthy, independent retirees seeking a slower and more adventurous lifestyle, though, the Big Bend region can feel truly special.
Outdoor Recreation and Lifestyle
National Parks and Hiking Trails
Many retirees consider relocating to West Texas for the endless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. The region is home to Big Bend National Park and Guadalupe Mountains National Park, which offer some of the state’s most breathtaking scenery. Here, people can enjoy mountains, canyons, and miles of hiking trails.
West Texas, which sits along major migration routes, is also a haven for birdwatchers. The Trans-Pecos region offers a wide variety of species that draw enthusiasts from across the country.
Affordable Year-Round Golf
Golfers can find courses in cities like El Paso, Midland, and Abilene, where sunny weather allows for year-round play. Many courses are also more affordable than those found in more popular retirement markets like Scottsdale or Palm Springs.
Fishing, Boating, and Camping
Fishing, boating, and camping opportunities are available at lakes throughout the region, including Lake Nasworthy, O.H. Ivie Reservoir, and J.B. Thomas Reservoir.
For retirees who want nature woven into everyday life rather than reserved for vacations, West Texas delivers numerous opportunities to stay active outdoors. Check out our guide to the best places to retire for your health for more on how outdoor access factors into a fulfilling retirement.
Health Care Considerations in West Texas
When considering Texas for retirement, active adults shouldn’t overlook health care. In larger cities like El Paso, Midland, Abilene, and San Angelo, established hospital systems and regional providers make it fairly straightforward to handle everything from routine checkups to specialist care. But for retirees who move to smaller towns and more remote stretches of West Texas, access can become more limited. They may need to factor in longer drives for specialized treatment.
El Paso, in particular, has one of the region’s strongest health care networks, while Hendrick Health in Abilene and Shannon Medical Center in San Angelo provide important care throughout central and western Texas.
However, access to health care becomes more limited in remote areas, especially throughout the Big Bend region. Retirees managing chronic conditions or requiring frequent specialist visits should carefully weigh those realities before choosing a more isolated location. Our post on the best places to retire for your health explores how health care infrastructure should factor into any decision about a retirement location.
55+ Communities and Housing Options in West Texas
Unlike the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex or the Austin area, West Texas is not heavily dominated by large-scale active adult developments. Some 55+ communities exist, but they are far less common than in other retirement destinations across the state and the country.
Instead, many retirees choose traditional single-family homes in established neighborhoods. That approach often allows buyers to find larger homes and more outdoor space at much lower prices.
At the same time, retirees specifically seeking amenity-rich active adult communities may find more options in places like San Antonio, Georgetown, or the Texas Hill Country. Browse our best-reviewed 55+ communities in Texas to explore top-rated options across the state.
Is West Texas Right for You?
West Texas isn’t the right fit for every retiree. For those who picture retirement filled with beach walks, near-perfect year-round weather, or quick access to upscale shopping and major airports, this region may feel a bit too rugged and remote.
Summers can be intensely hot, and distances between towns can be long. Still, for retirees who value wide-open space and a slower, quieter pace of life, West Texas can be a good fit. Our guide to where to retire can help you compare West Texas to other destinations across the country.
The region tends to appeal to those who are comfortable being on their own and don’t mind driving longer stretches between everyday destinations. It also draws retirees who feel more connected to nature than to crowds or constant activity.
That said, there are real trade-offs. Walkability is limited in many towns, and access to medical specialists, entertainment, and large-scale amenities can be more challenging. Retirees looking for highly social, amenity-rich 55+ communities will also find fewer options here than in other parts of the state and the country.
But for active adults ready to step away from congested freeways and embrace a quieter rhythm of life, West Texas offers space to simply slow down and enjoy life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Retiring in West Texas
Is West Texas a good place to retire?
West Texas can be a good place to retire for active adults who value affordability, wide-open spaces, and a slower pace of life. The region offers lower housing costs than major Texas metros like Austin, Dallas, and Houston, and Texas has no state income tax. However, it may not suit retirees who need frequent access to specialized medical care or prefer walkable, amenity-rich communities.
What cities in West Texas are best for retirees?
El Paso, San Angelo, and Abilene are among the best cities for retirees in West Texas. El Paso offers the largest metro amenities and the strongest health care network, including University Medical Center of El Paso. San Angelo provides a community-oriented small-city atmosphere with outdoor recreation at Lake Nasworthy and San Angelo State Park. Abilene stands out for its cultural scene and three university campuses.
Does Texas have a state income tax for retirees?
No, Texas does not impose a state income tax. This applies to all income types—including Social Security benefits, pension income, and retirement account withdrawals—making Texas one of eight states in the country with no state income tax. For retirees on fixed incomes, this can meaningfully stretch their purchasing power.
What is the cost of living like in West Texas?
The cost of living in West Texas is generally lower than in Texas‘s major metro areas. Housing in cities like Midland, Odessa, San Angelo, and Abilene is more affordable than in Austin, Dallas, or Houston. Retirees can often find larger homes with more land at lower price points, and the absence of a state income tax offers additional financial benefits.
What is the weather like in West Texas for retirees?
West Texas has a dry, sunny climate with mild winters and very hot summers that often reach the triple digits. The region is within Tornado Alley, and Texas averages over 155 tornadoes per year—more than any other state. Retirees who want to escape harsh northern winters often find the trade-off worthwhile, though those sensitive to extreme heat should plan accordingly.
Are there 55+ communities in West Texas?
55+ communities and active adult developments exist in West Texas but are far less common than in other parts of Texas. Unlike the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex or the Austin area, West Texas lacks large-scale master-planned retirement communities. Most retirees in the region opt for traditional single-family homes in established neighborhoods, which often offer more space at lower prices.
Where can I find more 55+ communities in Texas if West Texas doesn’t have many?
Retirees looking for amenity-rich active adult communities in Texas will find more options in the San Antonio area, Georgetown, and the Texas Hill Country. These regions have a higher concentration of age-restricted and active adult communities with resort-style amenities. The Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston metro areas also have numerous 55+ community options at a range of price points.
How is health care in West Texas for retirees?
Health care quality varies significantly across West Texas depending on location. El Paso has the strongest network, anchored by University Medical Center of El Paso and The Hospitals of Providence. Abilene is served by Hendrick Health, and San Angelo by Shannon Medical Center. In remote areas like the Big Bend region, specialized care can require long drives, which is an important consideration for retirees with chronic health needs.
How does West Texas compare to other Texas retirement destinations?
West Texas offers significantly lower housing costs and a much quieter pace of life than destinations like Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, San Antonio, or the Texas Hill Country, but it trades amenities for space. Major metro areas have larger concentrations of 55+ communities, specialist health care, entertainment, and walkable urban cores. West Texas is best for retirees who prioritize simplicity and affordability over social amenities and urban convenience.
How do I find a 55+ community or home in West Texas?
The best way to find a 55+ community or retirement home in West Texas is to work with a real estate expert who specializes in active adult housing in the region. A 55places.com advisor can help you explore available options—whether that’s a rare age-restricted community or a traditional single-family home in an established neighborhood—and match your priorities to the right city and lifestyle.
A Different Kind of Retirement
Retirement in Texas is often associated with sprawling suburbs and massive master-planned communities. The picture looks different in West Texas. Here, retirees will find small-town charm and wide-open spaces, and daily life often becomes less about rushing and more about enjoying where you are. For retirees seeking affordability and a lifestyle rooted in simplicity, West Texas has a lot to offer. Contact 55places.com today!
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