Texas is a growing destination for seniors for a variety of reasons–lower cost of living, more reasonable real estate prices, and a warm climate, to name a few. And it’s true, life really could be better in Texas, especially for seniors! In Texas, you can afford a higher quality of life. No state income tax means your fixed income goes further, you’ll pay less for groceries and housing, and there are tons of recreational opportunities and a great healthcare system. From culture, art, and music to beaches and golf, Texas has something for everyone, including some Stellar senior living communities. Keep reading to find out more about senior living in Texas.
Why is Texas Great for Retirees?
In 2025, Texas ranked as #6 of the top 10 most popular states for seniors (source). Finances play a large part in what makes Texas attractive to retirees. For one, Texas is one of only 9 states with no state income tax. This can be a huge difference for retirees, who are on a fixed retirement income and who often worry about increasing taxes. The cost of living in Texas is also generally lower than the nationwide average, though this can vary depending on where you live within Texas. Gas prices, grocery prices, and housing prices are typically below average as well.
Climate and weather also play a part in Texas’ popularity. Seniors often grow tired of dealing with cold and snow, and many health conditions can even be exacerbated by cold. Texas is a large state with a variety of climates, but southern Texas is typically warm and humid. While cold snaps and heat waves do happen, outdoor living is generally possible year-round for most Texans.
Texas is also home to tons of different recreation opportunities. There’s plenty of golf, miles and miles of beaches, hiking, walking, shopping, history, and culture. Different parts of Texas have different options. Austin, of course, has a thriving music scene. San Antonio is known for the Alamo and the River Walk, with over 300 years of history on display. Dallas is known for football (and cheerleading), shopping, and nightlife. Houston has a legendary rodeo, a vibrant arts and theater scene, and lots of American Space history. And San Marcos has the San Marcos river, with all the water sports and outdoor recreation you could want.
Why Seniors Love Senior Living Communities
There are over 1,500 senior living communities in the state of Texas, which is certainly more than the average state. Senior living communities are also becoming increasingly popular with retirees. While some have antiquated ideas of senior living, like your grandma’s “nursing home”, modern senior living communities are an entirely new experience. Most senior living communities have more in common with luxury cruises than with hospital rooms. The amenities and activities often rival a 5-store resort, not to mention fantastic chef-prepared meals, as well as upscale decor and design.
Senior living communities are also a great way to make friends and maintain an active lifestyle. Most senior living communities offer daily exercise classes, high-end gyms, nutritious (and delicious) meals, and often even in-house physical therapy to keep you in your best physical health. There are also tons of social activities that offer ways to make friends. Can you imagine living next door to your best friend? What about your 5 best friends? In a senior living community, that could be your reality. You’ll be in a community of people with similar ages and stages of life as you, and you’ll be able to find people with similar hobbies, interests, and experiences.
Active seniors with close friendships and full social lives live longer, stay healthier, and have a higher quality of life than their lonelier counterparts (source). This is reason enough to consider moving to a senior living community!
What to Look For In A Texas Senior Living Community
Considering moving to a senior living community in Texas? Here’s what to look for as you begin your search:
- Happy, friendly staff members
- A warm, homey feel when you walk into the community
- A community that looks like home and smells great
- Robust activities programs and schedules
- Amenities and care levels that meet your needs
- High-quality dining and wellness programs
- Ability to “age in place,” so you don’t have to move if your care needs change
Some questions to ask yourself could include:
- Where do I want to live?
- What is my budget for senior living (take into account the all-inclusive cost of the community versus what you’re currently paying for rent/mortgage, home or renter’s insurance, utilities, property taxes, lawn care, housekeeping, transportation, vehicle insurance, parking, healthcare, and entertainment)?
- What kinds of activities and amenities am I looking for?
- Do I want to live near friends and family members?
- What level of care do I need now, and what level of care am I likely to need in the future?
Here are some questions to ask the community before moving in:
- What is the monthly cost, and what does it include?
- Are there entrance fees or deposits? Are they refundable?
- What happens if care needs change after move-in?
- Are there additional charges for medication management, bathing assistance, etc.?
- What floor plans are available, and what is included in each room or apartment?
- Are rooms furnished or unfurnished?
- Is housekeeping provided? If so, how often?
- Are laundry services included?
- How many meals are provided daily? Are snacks included?
- Can you accommodate dietary restrictions (e.g., diabetic, gluten-free, low-sodium)?
- Are meals prepared on-site by a chef?
- Can I eat in my room if I want to?
- What hours is the dining room open?
- Can I have visitors?
- What levels of care do you offer (independent, assisted, memory care, etc.)?
- How are care plans developed and updated?
- Are nurses or medical staff on-site 24/7?
- How do you handle emergencies or falls?
You may also want to ask about staff-to-resident ratio, hiring practices, care philosophy, security measures, activities, and transportation services.
Best Senior Living Communities in Texas
If you’re looking for a senior living community in Texas, Stellar communities are your best bet. Whether you’re looking for independent living, assisted living, memory care, or all of the above, we’ve got you covered. Here are some of the best senior living communities in Texas. These communities are award-winning, well-reviewed, and offer luxury resort-style living with compassionate, respectful care when necessary.
- Orchard Park of Kyle in Kyle, Texas offers Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care in the Austin area.
- Orchard Park at Southfork in Manvel, Texas has Assisted Living and Memory Care near Houston.
- The MonteVista at Coronado also offers Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care in a gorgeous community in El Paso, Texas.
- The Reserve at North Dallas is an incredibly high-end community with Independent and Assisted Living in Dallas, Texas
- Orchard Park at Victory Lakes in League City, Texas, between Houston and Galveston Bay, has both Assisted Living and Memory Care.
These senior living communities will give you the luxury, cruise-style lifestyle combined with the peace of mind that comes with 24/7 staff, security, transportation, and more.
Clearly, Texas offers an unbeatable combination of affordability, comfort, and recreation for seniors. Whether you’re drawn to the warm weather, lower taxes, or rich cultural experiences, Texas provides the perfect environment to enjoy retirement to the fullest. And with Stellar senior living communities located across the state, it’s easy to find a senior living community that gives you a truly remarkable life. Considering senior living? Call a Family Advisor today to learn more.
