Living in Lubbock, Texas: 18 Things To Know About This Not-So-Little Town on the Prairie

Is Lubbock, Texas, a good place to live? With a growing economy, affordable cost of living, and a strong sense of community, you’d be hard-pressed to find anyone who says no. Living in Lubbock, Texas, also presents a variety of job industries to explore — including agriculture, healthcare, and education. With a vibrant music and arts scene, along with various family-friendly activities, there’s always fun to be had in Lubbock.

Lubbock at a Glance

• Located in the northwestern part of Texas, Lubbock is situated on the Southern High Plains.
• Lubbock has a land area of about 134.7 square miles.
• Lubbock has a population of just over 272,000.
• The median age in Lubbock is 31.1 years.

18 Things To Know About Living in Lubbock, Texas

When the time comes to pick a new city, it’s essential to know your priorities. Living in Lubbock, Texas, is great for any walk of life, but no place is perfect. You’ll need to consider the city’s overall affordability, job market, and even the best neighborhoods to settle down. What about the downsides, though? Our 18 tips have the lowdown on it all.

1. The Cost of Living in Lubbock, Texas, Is Pretty Affordable

The cost of living is generally affordable in some of the best places in Texas, and the best places to live in Lubbock are even cheaper. The city has a cost of living score of 81.1 — nearly 14 percent below the state average and 19 percent below the national average.

To cover basic expenses, MIT’s Living Wage Calculator can help you get a clear idea. Here’s what you’ll need to cover the basic cost of living in Lubbock, Texas:

• A single person living alone would need an annual income of about $38,700 before taxes.
• A couple with no children and both adults working would need an annual income of $55,800 before taxes.
• A family of four with two working adults would need an annual income of $91,600 before taxes.

But there’s a large difference between covering basic expenses and living comfortably. So, what salary is needed to live comfortably in Lubbock? SmartAsset recommends that 50 percent of your budget be allocated to cover basic needs, 30 percent to entertainment and fun, and 20 percent to pay down debt, invest, and save. So, by applying that 50/30/20 budget to MIT’s living wage estimate, the same annual salary before taxes for a single person living alone would come out to $77,400, while the amount for a couple with no children would come out to $111,600. A family of four with two working adults would total $183,200.

The affordable cost of living in Lubbock, Texas, could mean more dinners out.

2. Pros and Cons of Living in Lubbock, Texas

Major Pros of Living in Lubbock, Texas:

• Affordable cost of living.
• Blend of rural and city amenities.
• Adequate job opportunities.

Major Cons of Living in Lubbock, Texas:

• Isolation from other major Texas cities.
• High crime rates in certain areas.
• The potential health concerns that come from dust storms in spring and fall.

3. Lubbock’s Housing Market Is Heating Up

In Lubbock, single-family homes are very popular and can be found in various styles. Homes in master-planned communities are often located in areas with recreational facilities and parks. Architectural styles generally favor Spanish Colonial, Georgian, and Greek Revival. Townhouses are also plentiful in Lubbock, many in gated communities. If you’re looking to buy a new home, the average value in Lubbock is $213,200.

4. Be Prepared for Hot Summers in Lubbock

Living in Lubbock, Texas, means hot summers. It’s a semi-arid climate with mild winters and sunny weather, with about 277 days of sunshine per year — which makes it the fifth-sunniest city in the U.S. The rainy season runs from spring into summer, but the annual average is just 19 inches.

Lubbock summers get hot and steamy, with average temperatures hovering around 90 degrees Fahrenheit and daily highs sometimes hitting triple digits. Winters are pleasant, with about seven inches of snow, on average, and daily high temps mainly in the sixties.

The one thing to look out for is dust storms called haboobs that occur most commonly in the spring and fall.

5. There Are Lots of Great Rental Options in Lubbock

While the cost of living and real estate prices are relatively affordable in Lubbock, sometimes renting an apartment is a more suitable option when compared with buying. You’ll find plenty of great apartment complexes in Lubbock, along with condominiums with pools on-site and great amenities to boot. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city is $875.

6. You’ll Find Plenty of Neighborhoods Among the Best Places To Live in Lubbock

No matter where you are in life, there’s a place to call home and something to enjoy when you’re living in Lubbock, Texas. Take a look at some of the top neighborhoods.

1. Hatton Place

Hatton Place is great for families. The neighborhood is located in a newer area of Lubbock, featuring contemporary homes with unique flair. There are various architectural styles in this area, including French country, traditional, and modern farmhouse.

The children living in this community can easily walk or ride their bicycles to Laura Bush Middle School. And when you're looking for a place to take the family for a fun night out, The Range is a local hotspot to unwind and enjoy a cold beer, grab a bucket of balls and head out to the driving range, or chow down on a wood-fired pizza.

2. Tech Terrace

The Tech Terrace neighborhood is near Texas Tech University, making it ideal for students and young professionals. Many of the houses in the area were built in the 1920s, with diverse styles that include traditional, ranch, and cottage homes. Thanks to the nearby university, entertainment and shopping options are plentiful.

3. LakeRidge

The LakeRidge community is one of the most peaceful areas for retirees in Lubbock, surrounded by mature trees and a variety of outdoor features — including a swimming pool, tennis courts, and an 18-hole golf course.

Besides the abundant country club amenities, LakeRidge is known for its dining scene with restaurants and bars that cater to different tastes. One of these is Ike's Woodfire Grill, which serves up a variety of delicious dishes prepared in the restaurant’s wood-fired grill.

Living in Lubbock, Texas, is so appealing that the population has grown nearly six percent since the 2020 census.

7. More People Are Calling Lubbock Home as the Population Continues To Grow

How many people live in Lubbock, Texas? It’s estimated that the city has a population of around 276,100. The city has grown by nearly six percent since the 2020 census, at a rate of about 1.1 percent annually. But even with the steady uptick, Lubbock is nowhere near as crowded as most major cities across the state. Dallas alone is home to more than 1.3 million residents, while San Antonio’s population sits at over 1.6 million.

8. Getting Around Lubbock Is Easy Thanks to Surprisingly Solid Public Transportation

Citibus is the primary provider of public transportation in Lubbock. It provides fixed-route services all across the city and even operates on-demand services with the help of CitiBus On-Demand. (Make sure you’re in an area that offers it first, though!)

On a budget? Various pass discounts are available depending on your situation. Seniors living in Lubbock, Texas, receive reduced fares via the Special Efforts Card, and people with disabilities are also at lower rates.

9. Kids and Adults Can Chase Their Educational Dreams in Lubbock

The city of Lubbock offers a wide range of educational options for both children and adults. One of the most prominent local universities is Texas Tech University, known for its impressive research and academic opportunities. Other notable institutions include South Plains College and Lubbock Christian University.

Kids still in school? Don’t worry, there are plenty of well-regarded options. On the Niche list of best schools, the Frenship Independent School District is rated the No. 1 district in Lubbock, and Lubbock-Cooper Independent School District comes in at No. 3.  

10. Sports Lovers Will Feel Right at Home in This Active West Texas City

The most dominant sports teams in the city of Lubbock, Texas, are the Texas Tech University Red Raiders — a Division I football team that plays in the Big 12 Conference — and the National Premier Soccer League’s Lubbock Matadors.

You can catch all their games at Jones AT&T Stadium and Lowrey Field at Plains Capital Park.

11. There’s Always Something Fun To Do When You’re Living in Lubbock, Texas

Need more options? Lubbock has plenty to offer.

• Play Street Museum: A fun and educational facility that lets kids explore and create through play. Its staff is composed of experienced and caring individuals who will ensure a memorable and delightful experience for the kids.
• Buffalo Springs Lake: The location and beauty of Buffalo Springs Lake make it a popular choice for people living in Lubbock. You’ll find a wide range of activities such as fishing, camping, picnicking, and swimming.
• Cactus Theater: Opened in 1938 as Lubbock’s first movie theater, the historic Cactus Theater hosts live performances and other special events like film screenings.
• National Ranching Museum: This 19-acre museum brings the history of ranching and the American West to life through ranch building replicas, public art, and seven galleries of Western art, photography, and artifacts.
• Lubbock Uncorked: Celebrate the Texas wine industry with tastes from around the Lone Star State during this annual festival, along with food, live music, and fun activities like “sip-and-paint.”

12. Lubbock’s Crime Rate Might Be a Turn-Off

Crime in Lubbock is among the highest in the nation, with a rating of four meaning living in Lubbock, Texas, is safer than living in just four percent of other U.S. cities. Overall, your chance of becoming a victim of either property or violent crime is one in 29. But like in any city, crime rates vary by neighborhood, so researching specific areas and finding your comfort level will help you make the right decision for you and your family.

Lubbock is considered a healthcare hub, but its diverse economy is powered by many sectors.

13. Lubbock’s Job Market Offers Big Opportunities for Career Builders

The Lubbock job market has steadily risen in recent years, with job growth averaging 9.8 percent and annual wages up 37 percent over the past decade. The city is considered a healthcare hub, thanks in part to the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. Some other major healthcare employers include Covenant Medical Center and University Medical Center.

14. Despite Lubbock’s Central Location, It Can Feel a Bit Isolated

It’s known as the “Hub of the Plains,” but living in Lubbock, Texas, can feel like you’re on a desert island. The city is five hours from Dallas and about six hours from Austin, San Antonio, and Albuquerque, New Mexico. You’ll have easy access since it’s situated at the crossroads of Interstate 27 and four major highways, but you’ll have to drive quite a ways to reach other major metros.

15. Lubbock Boasts Low Commute Times and an Easier Rush Hour Than Other Texas Cities

That lower population also means less traffic. Despite being one of Texas's fastest-growing cities, commuting in Lubbock is still considered easy. At 24.2 minutes, the city has the shortest average commute time in Texas, along with plenty of access to interstates. If traffic does get backed up, there are several interstates that can reroute the overflow. Interstate 27 is commonly used, but other routes, such as US 62, are also ideal.

16. Your Taste Buds Will Thank You for Exploring Lubbock’s Flavorful Dining Scene

The dining scene in Lubbock is booming, to say the least. Some of the most popular upscale establishments include The West Table and The Nicolett. A local favorite Mexican spot is Abuelo's, and for Latin American fare try La Sirena. And for Indian and Mediterranean options, check out Tikka Shack and MotoMedi, respectively.

17. Lubbock’s Craft Beer Scene Is Rising Fast

With at least five breweries within the city limits, Lubbock has become a destination for beer aficionados. Whether you’re a long-time fan of craft beer or you’re just beginning to learn about the art of suds, Lubbock has the places you need to take your taste to a whole new level.

18. The Story of Buddy Holly Still Rocks Lubbock

Lubbock is forever linked to rock ‘n’ roll legend Buddy Holly, who grew up here before launching his legendary career with the Crickets. His legacy lives on at the Buddy Holly Center, where you can see everything from his iconic black-rimmed glasses to guitars, photos, and other artifacts and archives. The museum also hosts exhibits and live performances.

Living in Lubbock, Texas — FAQs

Q: Is Lubbock, Texas, a good place to live?
A: Yes, living in Lubbock, Texas, is a great option, whether you’re a student, young professional, have a family, or you’re looking to settle down for your golden years. The city has a steady job market, a lively arts and music scene, lots of tasty local restaurants, and a relatively low cost of living compared with other Texas metros.

Q: Where does Lubbock rank in crime in Texas?
A: It’s estimated that 97 percent of other communities in Texas have a lower crime rate than Lubbock. The national average is also lower. But crime can vary quite a bit by neighborhood and even by block. Living in Lubbock, Texas, doesn’t automatically mean living with crime, so do your research and find the best spot for you.

Q: What is a livable wage in Lubbock, Texas?
A: A livable wage for a single adult in Lubbock is roughly $18.82 an hour. That will generally cover basic expenses, thanks mostly to Lubbock’s relatively low housing costs. But households with children will need to earn more — for instance, for two working adults with two children, the hourly rate would need to be $22.04.

Q: Is Lubbock a good place to raise a family?
A: The schools in Lubbock are consistently highly rated and there are plenty of museums, parks, and sports programs. Attractions like Prairie Dog Town, which has been welcoming families since 1935, and the Science Spectrum Museum are always good bets for fun with a side of education.

Q: Does Lubbock, TX, get a lot of snow?
A: No, snowfall in Lubbock is minimal, with an average of seven inches per year. Winters are mostly cool and dry, with many more sunny days than snowy ones.

Q: How hot does Lubbock get in the summer?
A: The Texas Plains in the summer are hot, no doubt about it. Typical daytime highs in Lubbock in the summer are in the low to mid-90s, with occasional 100+ days. But Lubbock’s low humidity and cooler evenings make it more comfortable in summer than a lot of other Texas towns.

Make your move to Lubbock, TX, flexible with a PODS portable moving container.

Make Your Move to Lubbock Flexible With PODS

Whether you’re moving across the country or across Texas, portable moving containers from PODS give you the flexibility to move on your schedule. The container will arrive directly to your driveway, where you can pack and load it on your own schedule. If you need a hand with the heavy lifting, PODS can connect you with local packing and loading assistance. And once you’re ready to head for Texas, PODS will pick up your container and deliver it to your new Lubbock home. If you need more time to get settled before you unpack, no sweat: One month’s storage is included in the cost of every move.

Visit PODS online for a free local moving quote or call 877-350-7637 for long-distance moving.

Editor’s note: For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100. Home values in the millions were rounded to the nearest $100,000.

_{*This article was written on behalf of PODS Enterprises, LLC (“PODS”). PODS does not warrant the completeness or accuracy of any information contained in this article and disclaims any liability for reliance upon the content herein.}