Quick Q&A Summary

Is Central Texas still affordable compared to other major U.S. markets?
Yes — even with growth, Central Texas remains significantly more affordable than coastal markets like California, New York, and Washington.

Is now a good time to buy a home or investment property in Texas?
Yes. Prices have stabilized, inventory is improving, and long-term population growth trends continue to push demand upward.

What types of properties can Byrne Real Estate Group help with?
Residential homes, new construction, rural land, farm and ranch, investment properties, short-term rentals, and relocation purchases.

Is Texas still seeing strong inbound migration?
Absolutely. Texas remains one of the top inbound states for families, retirees, and companies looking for affordability and opportunity.

How can Byrne Real Estate Group help buyers relocating from out of state?
We provide full-service guidance: virtual tours, neighborhood matching, cost-of-living analysis, lender introductions, school insights, and boots-on-the-ground support.

The Advantage of Living in Central Texas

Central Texas is no longer the “up-and-coming” region it once was — it has arrived. Anchored by Austin and surrounded by fast-growing communities such as Georgetown, Cedar Park, Liberty Hill, Round Rock, Dripping Springs, Kyle, and San Marcos, this region has become one of the most desirable places to live in the country.

And yet, despite national headlines about growth and rising demand, Central Texas continues to offer favorable cost of living, strong long-term value, and accessible opportunities for buyers in almost every category — from first-time homebuyers to relocators and investors.

If you’re exploring a move to Texas or considering expanding your investment portfolio, now is a strategic time to act.

This article breaks down the cost-of-living advantages, market opportunities, and why partnering with Byrne Real Estate Group gives you a true, trusted advisor at every step.

Why Central Texas Continues to Offer a Favorable Cost of Living

1. Housing Costs Are Still Competitive

Even with sustained population growth over the past decade, Central Texas home prices remain far below those in major U.S. metropolitan areas. Buyers relocating from California, New York, Illinois, Colorado, and Washington often find that:

• They can double their space for the same price
  
  
• They can get newer construction, larger lots, and better amenities
  
  
• They can enjoy lower property taxes than high-tax blue states, even if not the lowest nationally
  
  
• They can often transition from renting to ownership without sacrificing lifestyle
  
  

For investors, rent-to-value ratios remain far more attractive than coastal markets, allowing you to buy properties that actually cash flow.

2. No State Income Tax — A Massive Lifetime Savings

Texas is one of the few states with no state income tax, which directly impacts quality of life and long-term financial planning.

For a household earning $150,000 in a state with a 7%–10% income tax bracket, relocating to Texas can save:

• $10,500–$15,000 per year
  
  
• $105,000–$150,000 over ten years
  
  
• $315,000–$450,000 over thirty years
  
  

That’s real money — money that can go into home equity, investment properties, college savings, or retirement accounts.

3. Comparative Cost of Living Remains Favorable

While Austin itself has seen price growth, Central Texas as a whole offers:

• Lower housing costs compared to other major tech hubs
  
  
• Lower utilities and transportation costs
  
  
• Lower overall tax burden
  
  
• Lower insurance rates than coastal or wildfire-risk states
  
  
• Strong employer growth, which supports rising incomes
  
  

In many cities around Austin, it is still possible to buy:

• A beautiful, modern home under $400,000
  
  
• Larger acreage properties under $750,000
  
  
• Starter condos under $300,000
  
  
• Investment properties with long-term appreciation potential
  
  
• Vacation properties near lakes, rivers, and Hill Country destinations
  
  

4. Strong Job Market + Long-Term Growth = Housing Stability

The region is home to mega-employers and economic anchors:

• Tesla
  
  
• Samsung
  
  
• Apple
  
  
• Dell Technologies
  
  
• Google
  
  
• Meta
  
  
• Oracle
  
  
• Multiple semiconductor fabs
  
  
• Major healthcare expansions
  
  

Population growth projections continue to rise year after year. More people and more companies equal long-term stability, rising housing demand, and strong appreciation.

Buying in Central Texas means investing in a region with one of the strongest future outlooks in the country.

Why This Is a Smart Time To Buy in Texas

1. Price Stability Creates Buying Opportunities

While many markets across the U.S. have faced volatility, Central Texas has largely stabilized. New construction is creating more options for buyers, and sellers are increasingly motivated — opening the door for:

• Better negotiation
  
  
• Seller concessions
  
  
• Builder incentives
  
  
• Lower competition compared to peak years
  
  

When demand begins rising again — and with population trends, it will — buyers entering now will be glad they secured a home during this more balanced period.

2. Interest Rates Will Eventually Come Down

Nobody can time rates perfectly, but the writing is on the wall: rates are far more likely to decline over the next 12–24 months than increase.

Buying now gives you:

• A better price
  
  
• The ability to refinance later
  
  
• The ability to build equity immediately
  
  

Waiting for perfect conditions often results in missing the window when prices are lower and competition is limited.

3. Texas Remains a Top Destination for Relocation

Top reasons people move to Texas:

• Lower taxes
  
  
• Affordable housing
  
  
• Business-friendly environment
  
  
• Space
  
  
• Job opportunities
  
  
• Strong economy
  
  
• No natural income tax drag
  
  
• Friendly culture and strong community values
  
  

More inbound migration means home values continue to appreciate over time.

If you’re an investor, Central Texas offers the trifecta: population growth, job growth, and housing demand — the foundation of long-term returns.

What Byrne Real Estate Group Brings to the Table

Byrne Real Estate Group isn’t just a brokerage — we operate as a full-service advisory team, helping buyers make smart, confident decisions.

Whether You’re:

• Relocating to Texas from another state
  
  
• Buying your first home
  
  
• Purchasing an investment property
  
  
• Expanding a rental portfolio
  
  
• Looking for land, acreage, farm, or ranch
  
  
• Buying a second home or vacation property
  
  
• Investing in new construction
  
  
• Exploring off-market opportunities
  
  

We are your one-stop shop in Central Texas.

Our advisory advantage includes:

Relocation Expertise

Virtual tours, lifestyle matching, commute analysis, school district guidance, cost-of-living comparisons, and hands-on transition support.

Investment Strategy

Local rent trends, STR market analysis, rental projections, cap rate targeting, and neighborhood selection for long-term appreciation.

Land, Farm & Ranch Guidance

Acreage, utilities, water rights, soil considerations, agricultural exemptions, and rural financing guidance.

Concierge-Level Support

Financing introductions, mortgage coordination, inspection management, project recommendations, and everything you need from offer to closing.

You’ll never feel lost or unsupported during the process — we anticipate your needs, simplify the path, and help you make intelligent, informed decisions.

If you’re considering a move to Central Texas — or you’re exploring residential, investment, vacation property, land, or farm & ranch opportunities — now is the time.

Contact Byrne Real Estate Group today to schedule a consultation.
Let’s talk through your goals, outline your strategy, and help you take the next step with confidence.

Extended FAQ

Is Central Texas more affordable than major coastal markets?

Yes. Housing, utilities, insurance, and taxes are significantly lower compared to markets like Los Angeles, San Diego, Seattle, Boston, New York, and San Francisco.

Are home prices expected to rise again?

Given sustained job growth and inbound population trends, long-term appreciation remains strong. Buying now positions you ahead of the next wave.

What are the best cities in Central Texas for affordability?

Some of the most cost-effective communities include:
Hutto, Taylor, Kyle, Buda, Lockhart, Elgin, Jarrell, Liberty Hill, and parts of Georgetown and Leander.

Is Texas good for investment properties?

Yes. Texas offers favorable rent-to-value ratios, strong demand, landlord-friendly laws, and long-term appreciation potential.

Does Byrne Real Estate Group work with out-of-state buyers?

Daily. We specialize in relocations and have a full onboarding process to make the transition smooth and stress-free.

Can I buy land or acreage in Central Texas?

Absolutely. We help buyers purchase lots, acreage, development land, farm, and ranch properties across the greater Central Texas region.

Is it a good time to buy a vacation property or short-term rental?

Yes — especially near Hill Country destinations like Wimberley, Dripping Springs, Marble Falls, Canyon Lake, and Lake Travis.

Can Byrne Real Estate Group assist with financing?

We collaborate closely with trusted lenders to offer clear options, mortgage strategies, and transparent comparisons.

What makes Byrne Real Estate Group different from typical brokerages?

We operate as advisors, not just agents. We offer a full-service, relationship-driven, strategic approach that helps clients make the smartest decisions possible.

What makes Byrne Real Estate Group different from typical brokerages?

We operate as advisors, not just agents. We offer a full-service, relationship-driven, strategic approach that helps clients make the smartest decisions possible.

Visit our website or follow us on Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram for the latest listings and Texas real estate investment opportunities.

📞 Reach out to Byrne Real Estate Group at (512) 942-7880