20 Worst Places to Live in Texas: Ranking Undesirable Locations in the Lone Star State

A rundown, dilapidated trailer park sits in the middle of a barren, dusty landscape. The trailers are rusted and falling apart, with overgrown weeds and trash scattered around

Texas, the Lone Star State, offers diverse landscapes and vibrant cities. But not all areas provide an ideal living experience. Some locations face challenges that impact residents’ quality of life.

This article examines 20 places in Texas considered among the worst to live based on factors like crime rates, economic opportunities, and living costs.

The list highlights areas struggling with various issues, from urban decay to limited access to essential services.

By exploring these locations, readers can gain insights into the complexities of choosing a place to call home in Texas.

1. Houston

A rundown neighborhood with dilapidated houses, overgrown yards, and graffiti-covered walls. Trash litters the streets, and the atmosphere feels desolate and unwelcoming

Houston, Texas’s largest city, faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city’s notorious traffic congestion leads to long commute times and increased stress for drivers.

Houston’s air quality ranks among the worst in the nation, contributing to respiratory issues and other health concerns. The city’s humid subtropical climate results in hot, muggy summers that can be uncomfortable for many.

Flooding is a recurring problem in Houston, with severe weather events causing property damage and disrupting daily life. The city’s sprawling layout makes it highly car-dependent, limiting transportation options for those without vehicles.

Crime rates in certain areas of Houston remain a concern for residents. The city’s economy, while diverse, can be vulnerable to fluctuations in the energy sector, potentially affecting job stability.

2. Dallas

A rundown neighborhood with dilapidated houses, overgrown yards, and graffiti-covered walls. Trash litters the streets, and the atmosphere feels unsafe

Dallas, a major city in Texas, faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. High crime rates plague certain neighborhoods, raising safety concerns for inhabitants.

The city’s traffic congestion is notorious, with commuters often spending hours stuck in gridlock. This contributes to increased stress levels and reduced productivity for many Dallas residents.

Air pollution is another pressing issue in Dallas. Poor air quality can lead to respiratory problems and other health complications for vulnerable populations.

The cost of living in Dallas has risen sharply in recent years. Housing prices and rental rates have become increasingly unaffordable for many, pushing some residents to the outskirts or forcing them to leave entirely.

Dallas also experiences extreme weather conditions. Summers are scorching hot, while winters can bring ice storms that paralyze the city. These climate challenges can make daily life uncomfortable and sometimes hazardous.

3. San Antonio

A rundown neighborhood in San Antonio, with dilapidated buildings, overgrown lots, and graffiti-covered walls

San Antonio faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with high crime rates, particularly in certain neighborhoods. Property crimes and violent offenses are concerns for many inhabitants.

Traffic congestion plagues San Antonio’s roadways, leading to long commute times and increased stress for drivers. The public transportation system is limited, making it difficult for those without cars to navigate the city efficiently.

Air quality issues affect San Antonio, with ozone levels frequently exceeding federal standards. This can pose health risks, especially for those with respiratory conditions.

The city experiences extreme heat during summer months, with temperatures often soaring above 100°F. This can lead to discomfort and increased energy costs for cooling.

San Antonio’s education system faces challenges, with some schools underperforming compared to state averages. This can impact students’ academic opportunities and future prospects.

4. El Paso

A desolate street in El Paso, with run-down houses and graffiti-covered walls. Trash litters the sidewalks and broken streetlights cast an eerie glow

El Paso, located in far west Texas, faces several challenges that contribute to its reputation as one of the worst places to live in the state. The city’s proximity to the Mexican border has led to concerns about drug trafficking and related crime issues.

El Paso experiences extreme heat, with temperatures often soaring above 100°F during summer months. This harsh climate can make outdoor activities uncomfortable and increase energy costs for residents.

The city’s economy heavily relies on government and military sectors, limiting job diversity and growth opportunities in other industries. This dependence can lead to economic instability during periods of reduced government spending.

El Paso’s educational system struggles with overcrowded classrooms and limited resources, potentially impacting the quality of education for students. The city also faces challenges in healthcare access, with a shortage of medical professionals in certain specialties.

5. Fort Worth

A rundown neighborhood with dilapidated buildings and overgrown yards, surrounded by chain-link fences. Trash litters the streets and graffiti covers the walls

Fort Worth faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. Crime rates in certain areas of the city remain a concern, with property crimes and violent offenses occurring at higher rates than the national average.

The city’s public transportation system is limited, making it difficult for those without personal vehicles to navigate efficiently. This can lead to longer commute times and reduced job opportunities for some residents.

Fort Worth experiences hot and humid summers, with temperatures often soaring above 100°F (38°C). These extreme weather conditions can be uncomfortable and potentially dangerous, especially for vulnerable populations.

Air quality in Fort Worth can be poor at times due to industrial emissions and vehicle exhaust. This may contribute to respiratory issues for some residents, particularly those with pre-existing conditions.

The city’s rapid growth has led to increased traffic congestion on major highways and roads. This can result in frustrating commutes and longer travel times for residents.

6. Arlington

A rundown street in Arlington, Texas with dilapidated buildings and overgrown weeds. Trash litters the sidewalks and graffiti covers the walls

Arlington, a city situated between Dallas and Fort Worth, faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. Crime rates in certain areas of Arlington remain a concern for many inhabitants.

The city’s public transportation system is limited, making it difficult for those without personal vehicles to navigate efficiently. This lack of robust public transit options can lead to increased traffic congestion during peak hours.

Arlington’s educational system has received mixed reviews, with some schools performing below state averages. This can be a significant drawback for families with school-aged children.

The city experiences hot and humid summers, which can be uncomfortable for those unaccustomed to such weather conditions. Additionally, Arlington is vulnerable to severe weather events, including tornadoes and flash floods.

Job opportunities in Arlington are somewhat limited compared to neighboring cities, potentially affecting residents’ economic prospects. The cost of living, while lower than some major metropolitan areas, has been steadily increasing in recent years.

7. Corpus Christi

A rundown street in Corpus Christi with dilapidated buildings and littered sidewalks. The area appears neglected and unwelcoming, with graffiti and broken windows

Corpus Christi faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city’s crime rate exceeds the national average, with property crimes being particularly prevalent.

Air quality in Corpus Christi is a concern due to industrial emissions from nearby refineries and chemical plants. This can lead to respiratory issues for residents.

The city’s infrastructure struggles to keep up with population growth. Roads and public transportation systems often require improvements, leading to traffic congestion and commuting difficulties.

Corpus Christi’s economy heavily relies on the oil and gas industry, making it vulnerable to market fluctuations. This can result in job instability for many residents.

The area is prone to hurricanes and tropical storms, posing risks to property and personal safety. Recovery efforts after such events can be lengthy and disruptive to daily life.

8. Plano

A desolate, run-down neighborhood with dilapidated houses and overgrown yards. Trash litters the streets and graffiti covers the walls. The atmosphere is bleak and unwelcoming

Plano, a city in Texas, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The cost of living in Plano is higher than the national average, making it difficult for some residents to afford housing and other necessities.

Traffic congestion is a significant issue in Plano, especially during rush hours. Commuters often experience long delays and frustration on major roads and highways.

The city’s rapid growth has led to overcrowding in schools, straining educational resources and potentially affecting the quality of education for students.

Plano’s lack of cultural diversity compared to other major Texas cities can be a drawback for those seeking a more varied community experience.

The city’s hot and humid summers can be uncomfortable for some residents, with temperatures frequently soaring above 100°F during peak months.

9. Laredo

A rundown neighborhood in Laredo, Texas with dilapidated buildings, overgrown weeds, and litter strewn across the streets

Laredo, situated on the U.S.-Mexico border, faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with high poverty rates, with nearly 30% of its population living below the poverty line.

Crime rates in Laredo are a concern for many residents. Property crimes and drug-related offenses are particularly prevalent, contributing to a sense of unease among community members.

Education is another area where Laredo falls short. The city’s schools consistently underperform compared to state averages, limiting opportunities for young residents.

Laredo’s economy heavily relies on international trade, making it vulnerable to economic fluctuations and policy changes. This dependence can lead to job instability for many workers in the area.

The city’s infrastructure needs improvement, with aging roads and limited public transportation options. These issues can make daily commutes and errands more challenging for residents.

10. Lubbock

A rundown street lined with dilapidated houses, overgrown yards, and abandoned cars. Trash litters the sidewalks, and the area appears neglected and desolate

Lubbock, located in northwest Texas, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city experiences frequent dust storms due to its position in a semi-arid region, which can affect air quality and visibility.

Crime rates in Lubbock are higher than the national average, particularly for property crimes. This has raised concerns among residents about safety and security in certain areas of the city.

The local economy heavily relies on agriculture and education, limiting job diversity. This can make it difficult for some residents to find employment opportunities outside these sectors.

Lubbock’s climate is characterized by extreme temperature fluctuations, with hot summers and cold winters. The area is also prone to severe weather events, including tornadoes and hailstorms.

Public transportation options in Lubbock are limited, making it challenging for those without personal vehicles to navigate the city efficiently.

11. Garland

A rundown street lined with dilapidated houses, overgrown yards, and broken sidewalks. Trash litters the area, and the atmosphere feels desolate and unwelcoming

Garland, located northeast of Dallas, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city struggles with higher crime rates compared to the national average, particularly in property crimes.

Traffic congestion is a significant issue for Garland residents, especially during peak hours. This leads to longer commute times and increased stress for those traveling to and from work.

The city’s public education system has received mixed reviews, with some schools performing below state averages. This can be a concern for families with school-age children.

Garland’s aging infrastructure, including roads and public facilities, requires attention and upgrades. This affects the overall quality of life for residents and can lead to increased maintenance costs.

The city’s limited nightlife and entertainment options may disappoint those seeking a vibrant social scene. Some residents find themselves traveling to nearby Dallas for more diverse recreational activities.

12. Irving

A rundown street in a neglected neighborhood, with dilapidated houses and overgrown yards. Trash litters the sidewalks, and the atmosphere feels desolate and unwelcoming

Irving, located in Dallas County, faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city’s rapid growth has led to increased traffic congestion, making daily commutes frustrating for many.

Housing costs in Irving have risen significantly in recent years. This has made it difficult for some residents to afford suitable homes or apartments within the city limits.

Crime rates in certain areas of Irving are higher than the state average. This has raised concerns about safety among some community members.

The city’s public transportation system is limited, making it challenging for those without personal vehicles to navigate efficiently. This can be particularly problematic for elderly residents or those with mobility issues.

Irving’s air quality is affected by its proximity to major highways and industrial areas. This can pose health risks, especially for individuals with respiratory conditions.

13. Amarillo

A rundown neighborhood with dilapidated houses, overgrown yards, and abandoned cars scattered throughout. The streets are littered with trash and graffiti covers the walls

Amarillo, located in the Texas Panhandle, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city experiences extreme weather conditions, with scorching summers and harsh winters that can make daily life uncomfortable.

Crime rates in Amarillo are higher than the national average, raising concerns about safety for residents. The city’s economy relies heavily on industries like meat packing and petroleum, which can limit job diversity and opportunities for career growth.

Air quality in Amarillo is a persistent issue due to dust storms and agricultural activities in the surrounding areas. This can lead to respiratory problems for some residents, especially those with pre-existing conditions.

The city’s infrastructure is aging, with some areas experiencing problems with roads and utilities. Limited public transportation options can make getting around difficult for those without personal vehicles.

14. Grand Prairie

An abandoned, graffiti-covered building stands in the center of a desolate neighborhood. Trash litters the streets, and broken windows hint at the area's neglect

Grand Prairie, located between Dallas and Fort Worth, faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with high crime rates, particularly property crimes, making safety a concern for many.

Traffic congestion is a significant issue in Grand Prairie. Commuters often experience long delays on major roads and highways, leading to increased stress and reduced free time.

The city’s public education system has room for improvement. Some schools in Grand Prairie have lower test scores and graduation rates compared to state averages.

Air quality can be problematic in Grand Prairie due to its proximity to industrial areas and heavy traffic. This may contribute to respiratory issues for sensitive individuals.

Limited public transportation options in Grand Prairie make it difficult for residents without personal vehicles to get around efficiently. This can impact job opportunities and access to services.

15. Brownsville

A rundown street in Brownsville, Texas, with dilapidated buildings and trash strewn across the sidewalk. The area appears neglected and unsafe

Brownsville, located in the southernmost part of Texas, faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with a high poverty rate, which affects many aspects of daily living for its inhabitants.

Education in Brownsville lags behind state averages, with lower test scores and graduation rates. This can limit opportunities for young people in the area.

Crime rates in Brownsville are higher than the national average, particularly for property crimes. This creates safety concerns for residents and can negatively impact community well-being.

The city’s economy relies heavily on low-wage jobs, resulting in limited career advancement opportunities for many workers. This contributes to ongoing financial difficulties for families in the area.

Brownsville’s location makes it vulnerable to tropical storms and hurricanes, posing potential risks to property and infrastructure. The threat of natural disasters adds an element of uncertainty for residents.

16. Pasadena

A rundown street in Pasadena, Texas with dilapidated houses and overgrown yards, surrounded by industrial buildings and busy highways

Pasadena, Texas, located southeast of Houston, faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with air pollution due to its proximity to numerous oil refineries and chemical plants.

Crime rates in Pasadena are higher than the national average, raising concerns about safety. The city’s education system also lags behind, with some schools underperforming compared to state standards.

Pasadena’s economy heavily relies on the petrochemical industry, leaving it vulnerable to economic fluctuations. This dependence limits job diversity and opportunities for residents seeking careers in other fields.

The city’s infrastructure needs improvement, with aging roads and utilities requiring attention. Public transportation options are limited, making car ownership a necessity for most residents.

Pasadena’s lack of cultural amenities and entertainment options contributes to its reputation as a less desirable place to live. Many residents travel to nearby Houston for recreational activities and cultural experiences.

17. McKinney

A rundown street with dilapidated houses, overgrown yards, and broken sidewalks. Trash litters the area, and abandoned cars sit in driveways. The atmosphere is bleak and unwelcoming

McKinney, a rapidly growing suburb north of Dallas, faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city’s population explosion has led to increased traffic congestion, particularly during rush hours.

Housing costs in McKinney have risen significantly, making it difficult for many to afford homes in the area. This has led to concerns about affordability and potential gentrification.

The city’s infrastructure struggles to keep pace with its growth. Some neighborhoods lack adequate public transportation options, forcing residents to rely heavily on personal vehicles.

McKinney’s rapid development has also resulted in the loss of green spaces and natural habitats. This reduction in open areas has disappointed long-time residents who valued the city’s formerly rural character.

Despite its growth, McKinney still lacks some of the amenities and job opportunities found in larger neighboring cities. This can lead to long commutes for those seeking diverse employment options.

18. Mesquite

A desolate, run-down neighborhood with abandoned buildings and overgrown lots. Trash litters the streets, and the atmosphere is bleak and unwelcoming

Mesquite, a suburb of Dallas, faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with a higher crime rate compared to the national average, raising safety concerns for its inhabitants.

Education in Mesquite also presents difficulties. The local school district has received mixed reviews, with some schools underperforming academically. This can affect students’ future prospects and the overall appeal of the area to families.

The city’s economy has shown signs of stagnation in recent years. Job opportunities are limited, and income levels lag behind those of neighboring communities. This economic situation can make it challenging for residents to afford housing and maintain a comfortable standard of living.

Traffic congestion is another issue plaguing Mesquite. The city’s proximity to Dallas results in heavy commuter traffic, leading to longer travel times and increased stress for residents who work outside the area.

19. Killeen

A rundown neighborhood with dilapidated houses and overgrown yards, surrounded by litter and graffiti

Killeen, Texas, faces significant challenges that impact its livability. The city’s crime rate exceeds the national average, with property crimes being a particular concern for residents.

The economy in Killeen heavily relies on the nearby Fort Hood military base. This dependence can lead to economic instability when troop deployments or base activities fluctuate.

Education in Killeen presents difficulties, with some schools underperforming compared to state averages. This may affect the quality of education available to local students.

Traffic congestion is a common issue in Killeen, especially during peak hours. The city’s infrastructure struggles to keep pace with its growing population.

Limited entertainment and cultural options in Killeen can make it less appealing for some residents. The city lacks diverse recreational activities compared to other Texas urban areas.

20. Frisco

A run-down neighborhood with dilapidated buildings, graffiti-covered walls, and littered streets. The area appears neglected and unsafe

Frisco, a rapidly growing suburb north of Dallas, faces challenges despite its popularity. The city’s explosive growth has led to overcrowding and strain on local infrastructure.

Traffic congestion is a major issue, with commute times increasing significantly in recent years. This problem is exacerbated by ongoing construction projects throughout the city.

Housing costs in Frisco have skyrocketed, making it difficult for many residents to afford homes. The median home price is well above the state average, pricing out many potential buyers.

The city’s schools, while highly rated, are becoming overcrowded due to the population influx. This has resulted in larger class sizes and potential impacts on educational quality.

Frisco’s rapid development has also led to a loss of natural spaces and wildlife habitats. Green areas are diminishing as new housing developments and commercial centers expand across the landscape.

Factors Affecting Livability In Texas

A desolate, run-down neighborhood with dilapidated houses, overgrown yards, and abandoned buildings, surrounded by industrial pollution and lacking in basic amenities

Several key elements influence the quality of life in Texas cities. These factors shape residents’ experiences and contribute to the overall desirability of different locations across the state.

Crime Rates

Crime levels vary significantly across Texas cities. High-crime areas often struggle with property offenses and violent incidents. These issues can make residents feel unsafe and negatively impact community cohesion.

Some cities invest heavily in law enforcement and community policing programs. These efforts aim to reduce crime rates and improve public safety. Neighborhood watch initiatives and youth outreach programs also play a role in crime prevention.

Cities with lower crime rates typically attract more residents and businesses. This influx can lead to economic growth and improved quality of life for the community.

Economic Challenges

Economic factors greatly influence livability in Texas cities. Unemployment rates, job opportunities, and income levels vary across the state. Cities with diverse job markets and growing industries tend to offer better prospects for residents.

Some areas face economic hardships due to industry declines or lack of investment. These challenges can lead to:

  • Higher poverty rates
  • Limited access to quality education
  • Reduced funding for public services

Cities that successfully attract new businesses and industries often see improvements in their local economies. This growth can lead to better job opportunities and increased tax revenue for public services.

Environmental Concerns

Environmental factors play a crucial role in Texas’s livability. Air and water quality issues affect many areas, particularly those near industrial zones or with high traffic congestion.

Climate-related challenges include:

  • Extreme heat waves
  • Drought conditions
  • Flooding risks in coastal and low-lying areas

Cities implementing sustainable practices and green initiatives often see improvements in their environmental quality. These efforts can include:

  • Expanding public transportation
  • Promoting renewable energy use
  • Implementing water conservation measures

Natural disaster preparedness also impacts livability. Areas prone to hurricanes, tornadoes, or wildfires require robust emergency response systems and infrastructure to ensure resident safety.

Impact On Quality Of Life

A run-down, dilapidated neighborhood with abandoned buildings and littered streets. The atmosphere is desolate and unwelcoming, with little sign of community or care

Living conditions in Texas’s worst-rated areas significantly affect residents’ daily lives and long-term prospects. Limited access to essential services and opportunities can create substantial challenges.

Healthcare Access

Many of Texas’s lowest-ranked places struggle with inadequate healthcare facilities. Rural areas often lack nearby hospitals or clinics, forcing residents to travel long distances for medical care. This can be particularly problematic for emergencies or chronic conditions requiring frequent treatment.

In some urban areas, overcrowded facilities and long wait times plague the healthcare system. Shortages of specialists and advanced medical equipment further compound these issues.

Uninsured rates tend to be higher in these locations, leaving many unable to afford necessary care. This can lead to untreated health problems and poorer overall community health outcomes.

Educational Opportunities

Subpar educational systems characterize many of Texas’s worst-rated places to live. Schools in these areas often face funding shortages, resulting in outdated materials and facilities.

Teacher retention can be a significant challenge, leading to high turnover rates and less experienced educators. This instability can negatively impact student learning and achievement.

Limited advanced placement courses and extracurricular activities may hinder students’ college preparedness and future career prospects. Dropout rates in these areas typically exceed state averages.

Adult education and job training programs are frequently scarce, making it difficult for residents to improve their skills or change careers. This lack of educational resources can perpetuate cycles of poverty and limit economic mobility.

Improvement Efforts

A desolate town with rundown buildings and trash-strewn streets. Abandoned homes and dilapidated infrastructure. A general sense of neglect and despair

Several cities in Texas have launched initiatives to address challenges and enhance quality of life for residents. These efforts aim to tackle issues like infrastructure, education, and economic development.

Community Initiatives

Local organizations and residents have stepped up to improve their neighborhoods. In Houston, the “Complete Communities” program focuses on revitalizing under-resourced areas. Volunteers clean up parks, paint murals, and organize community events.

Grassroots groups in Dallas work to reduce crime through neighborhood watch programs and youth mentoring. San Antonio’s “SA2020” initiative engages citizens in shaping the city’s future, setting goals for education, health, and environmental sustainability.

Austin’s “Spirit of East Austin” project aims to boost economic opportunities in historically disadvantaged areas. Community leaders collaborate with businesses to create job training programs and support local entrepreneurs.

Government Programs

State and local governments have implemented various programs to address urban challenges. The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs offers grants for affordable housing development and home repairs in low-income areas.

Cities like Fort Worth have launched ambitious infrastructure improvement plans. These include road repairs, flood control measures, and upgrades to public transportation systems.

The Texas Education Agency provides additional funding and resources to struggling school districts. This includes teacher training programs and after-school tutoring services.

El Paso’s “Resilient El Paso” strategy focuses on economic development, public safety, and environmental sustainability. The city has invested in renewable energy projects and implemented water conservation measures.

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