Is North Texas Real Estate Cheap?

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If you’ve been eyeing the North Texas real estate market, you might be wondering:"Is it actually cheap, or just cheap compared to LA, NYC, and Austin?"

Short answer? It depends on where you're coming from.

Compared to major markets like San Francisco, New York, or even Austin, North Texas real estate is an absolute steal. But if you’re moving from a small Texas town or another affordable state? You might have a different perspective.

Let’s take a closer look at why North Texas real estate seems affordable—and what you need to know before buying.

1. How North Texas Compares to Other Major U.S. Markets

Real estate prices always feel relative. If you're moving from California, you're about to feel rich. If you’re from Lubbock, you might do a double-take at DFW prices.

Here’s how North Texas stacks up against other big markets:

City	Median Home Price (2025)
San Francisco	$1.5M+
Los Angeles	$800K–$1M
New York City	$750K+ (higher in Manhattan)
Seattle	$750K+
Denver	$600K+
Dallas/Fort Worth	$350K–$450K

✔ Dallas-Fort Worth homes cost HALF of what you’d pay in LA or NYC.

✔ Even compared to Denver or Seattle, DFW is significantly more affordable.

✔ If you're coming from a smaller Texas town, these prices may feel high—but you're getting major city amenities.

💡 Translation: If you're moving from the West or East Coast, North Texas feels like a discount. If you're from a more rural area, it's an upgrade—but at a price.

2. Why is North Texas More Affordable?

✔ Lower Cost of Living – Everything from groceries to gas is cheaper here compared to high-tax states.

✔ Plenty of Land – Unlike land-locked markets (looking at you, California), North Texas has room to expand. More land = more housing supply.

✔ No State Income Tax – Texas lets you keep more of your paycheck (you’re welcome).

✔ Business-Friendly Economy – Jobs are booming, but without the inflated wages and housing costs of Silicon Valley or NYC.

💡 Texas home prices are rising, but thanks to land availability and a strong economy, we’re still way below what you'd pay on the coasts.

3. Is North Texas Actually Cheap? It Depends Where You Look.

North Texas isn’t one real estate market—it’s a collection of very different price points depending on location.

Here’s a quick breakdown of current 2025 home prices in North Texas:

City	Median Home Price
Dallas	$410K
Fort Worth	$370K
McKinney	$500K
Frisco	$550K
Plano	$600K
Allen	$460K
Tarrant County	$370K

✔ Downtown Dallas or trendy areas? Expect $400K+

✔ Fort Worth & outer suburbs? More homes under $400K

✔ Frisco & Plano? These family-friendly suburbs are climbing past $500K

💡 If you’re looking for affordability, aim for emerging suburbs or smaller towns outside major job hubs.

4. Property Taxes: The One Downside

Let’s address the elephant in the room: Texas property taxes are higher than some states.

✔ No state income tax means Texas relies on property taxes to fund schools & services.

✔ Rates vary by county, but expect 2–3% of your home’s value in annual taxes.

✔ Still, even with higher property taxes, you often come out ahead compared to states with both high taxes AND high home prices (looking at you, California and New York).

💡 If you’re moving from a state with a high income tax, your savings will often outweigh the property tax difference.

5. North Texas vs. Long-Term Investment Markets

If you’re buying a home to live in, North Texas is still affordable compared to major metros. But if you’re an investor, here’s what to keep in mind:

✔ Home Values Are Rising – DFW has seen steady appreciation, making it a solid long-term bet.

✔ Rentals Are in High Demand – As more people move in, rental properties continue to perform well.

✔ Compared to Other Investment Markets? – North Texas isn’t as “cheap” as it used to be, but it’s still more accessible than places like Phoenix, Denver, or Miami.

💡 North Texas real estate isn’t a dirt-cheap hidden gem anymore, but it’s still one of the best value markets in the country.

Final Verdict: Is North Texas Real Estate “Cheap”?

✔ Compared to the Coasts? Yes. DFW real estate is half the price of LA or SF.

✔ Compared to Austin? Also yes—DFW is still more affordable than Austin’s housing market.

✔ Compared to Rural Texas? Not so much—DFW prices have climbed, and suburban areas like Frisco & Plano are no longer "cheap."

💡 The takeaway? North Texas isn’t the bargain it was 10 years ago, but it’s still one of the best deals in major metro real estate.

Looking for the Best Deal in North Texas? Let’s Find It.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, North Texas has opportunities for every budget—if you know where to look.

📞 Let’s talk about your next move.

🏡 Lake Cities Living Starts Here! Call/Text 469.390.9050 or

Email KellyMason@lakecitieshome.com Today!