Key Things To Know Before Moving To Lubbock.
Are you thinking about the good and bad sides of living in Lubbock, Texas? If yes, you’re in the right place.
Some people call Lubbock the “Hub City” or the heart of West Texas. Here, we’ve put together all the facts about life in Lubbock for you.
So, let’s check out all the details before you start packing your stuff.
Is Lubbock A Good Place To Live?
Lubbock is a great place to call home. The city has everything you could need: job opportunities, good schools, healthcare facilities, shopping centers, restaurants, and beautiful landscapes.
Also, residents enjoy a relaxed, friendly lifestyle that’s hard to beat once you’ve settled in Lubbock.
However, Lubbock is one of those cities where it either feels right or it doesn’t. You either feel at home, or you don’t.
So, it’s super important to look closely at all the pros and cons of moving to Lubbock before you decide to make it your new home.
Let’s dig into it.
Pros of Living In Lubbock
Lubbock, TX is a city located in the northwestern portion of Texas. With over 260,000 people, it is the 11th most populous city in the state.
There are several reasons to fall in love with this West Texas town, from its low cost of living to its thriving job market. Here are the top seven pros of living in Lubbock, TX:
Low Cost of Living
For those looking to save money, Lubbock, TX, is an excellent place to call home. Lubbock’s cost of living is lower than the state and national averages.
According to Numbeo, the cost of living in Lubbock is 2% lower than the state average and 10% lower than the national average.
Essentials like groceries, transportation, and healthcare are cheaper in Lubbock than in other cities, which can make a significant difference in your budget.
Thriving Housing Market
The housing market in Lubbock is thriving, and that’s great news for homebuyers. According to Realtor, the median home value in Lubbock is $159,200, which is 16% cheaper than the national average.
Lubbock’s home values are projected to increase by 5.6% over the next year. That said, not only can you find a great deal on a home in Lubbock, but your investment is also likely to appreciate over time.
Plentiful and Inexpensive Land
Lubbock’s land is plentiful and inexpensive, making it a great place to start a business or build a home.
According to the Lubbock Economic Development Alliance, over 28,000 acres of undeveloped land are available for commercial use in Lubbock, which is more than any other Texas city with a population of over 100,000.
The average price of residential land in Lubbock is only $20,000 per acre, which is much cheaper than in other cities.
Extra reading: 10 Cheapest Places To Buy Land In The US
Low Unemployment and High Job Creation
Job hunters will be pleased to know that unemployment in Lubbock is low and job creation is high.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate in Lubbock was only 3.7% in June 2023, which is well below the national average. Lubbock’s job growth rate has been consistently positive over the past decade, averaging 1.8% annually.
There are plenty of job opportunities in Lubbock, especially in healthcare, technology, and agriculture.
Great Place to Start a Business
Lubbock is a great place to start a business, thanks to its low cost of living, affordable land, and favorable business climate.
Forbes has named Lubbock one of the Best Small Places for Business and Careers, and its healthy economy has attracted major companies like Cargill, AT&T, and Xcel Energy.
Lubbock’s small business scene is thriving, with numerous resources available for entrepreneurs, such as the Lubbock Economic Development Alliance and the Texas Tech Small Business Development Center.
Home to Texas Tech University
Lubbock is best known as the home of Texas Tech University, which offers over 150 undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs.
With over 40,000 students, Texas Tech is one of the largest universities in Texas, and its presence significantly impacts the local economy.
Texas Tech is home to several museums, including the National Ranching Heritage Center and the Museum of Texas Tech University, which offer cultural and educational experiences for residents and visitors.
Abundant Cultural and Recreational Opportunities
Lubbock offers many cultural and recreational opportunities, from live music and art festivals to outdoor adventures and family-friendly attractions.
Lubbock is known as the birthplace of the famous Texas music pioneers Buddy Holly and Waylon Jennings, and it continues to be a hub for live music and entertainment.
Several parks and nature preserve in Lubbock, such as Mackenzie Park and the Lubbock Lake Landmark, offer hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
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Cons of Living In Lubbock
Here are the cons of living in Lubbock, TX:
Extreme Weather
Lubbock is located in West Texas, which experiences extremely hot and dry summers and cold winters with occasional snowstorms.
The city is also prone to hailstorms, dust storms, and high winds, which can cause damage to homes and disrupt daily life.
Poor Public Transportation
Lubbock is a car-dependent city that lacks a reliable and efficient public transportation system.
Its public bus service has limited routes, and the frequency of buses is low, making it difficult for people to get around town.
Taxis and ride-share apps like Uber and Lyft are available but can be expensive.
High Crime Rate
Lubbock’s crime rate is 102% higher than the national average, a major concern for residents.
The city has experienced a rise in property crimes, such as theft and burglary, and violent crimes, like assault and robbery.
While the city has a police force dedicated to ensuring public safety, residents must take precautionary measures to protect themselves and their belongings.
Limited Diversity
Lubbock’s population is predominantly white at 76.3%, resulting in limited city diversity.
This can make it difficult for people from different cultures and backgrounds to feel welcome and accepted in the community.
While the city has made strides to promote diversity and tolerance, it still has a long way to go.
Limited Healthcare Options
Lubbock might be home to excellent healthcare facilities like the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center.
Still, the city has limited healthcare options for those without insurance or with limited income.
Lubbock’s public healthcare system is limited, and many residents struggle to access affordable healthcare. This can be a major concern for people who value healthcare access and affordability.
Final Thoughts
Living in Lubbock, Texas isn’t for everyone.
Firstly, you have to consider if it fits your budget. Secondly, the community should align with your lifestyle preferences.
Even individuals who can comfortably afford to live in Lubbock may not appreciate the unique character of the city. This isn’t a criticism – Lubbock has its charm and is a great place to put down roots for the right person. However, it might not be the perfect match for everyone.
If Lubbock doesn’t strike a chord, check out our other safe places to live in Texas:
13 Pros & Cons of Living In Corpus Christi
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