Texas Affordability and Tourism Trends in 2025

A DWS Group study of 80 global cities ranked Austin among the most affordable major U.S. metros (behind Salt Lake City) and placed Dallas in the top 10, while households in the surveyed cities still spend about 38% of disposable income on rent. Austin’s improved affordability is attributed to slowed population growth and a cooling tech-hub reputation that has softened rents, whereas the Dallas–Fort Worth area is seeing strong population gains and higher rents. Travel Awaits named Port Isabel one of 11 great spots for winter beach vacations in 2025—the only Texas coastal city on the list—highlighting its nearly century-old lighthouse, seafood and shrimping culture, and Arturo Galvan Coastal Park. A GOBankingRates ranking identified Brownsville, McAllen and Harlingen among America’s most budget-friendly tourist destinations for 2025, with Brownsville the least expensive three-night vacation and San Antonio notably pricier. Archer City remains a culturally significant North Texas day‑trip destination tied to Larry McMurtry, featuring sites such as the Royal Theater and the Larry McMurtry Literary Center.