Is Wichita Falls Safe, Pros and cons of living in Wichita Falls
Wichita Falls, Texas, offers a unique blend of affordability and a relaxed pace of life, making it an appealing option for those seeking a change of scenery. Nestled in North Texas, close to the Oklahoma border, this city provides a distinct climate and a strong sense of community. Understanding the various facets of life in Wichita Falls, from its economic landscape to its daily living costs, is crucial for anyone considering a move to this North Texas hub.
The city’s character is shaped by its geographic location and its history, which has seen it evolve from its agricultural and oil-driven roots into a more diversified economy. This evolution has brought new opportunities while maintaining a connection to its past. Exploring the pros and cons of Wichita Falls allows for a well-rounded perspective on what residents can expect.
Is it Safe to Live in Wichita Falls?
Wichita Falls presents a complex picture regarding safety, with crime rates that are generally higher than national averages. Overall crime in Wichita Falls is reported to be 40.1% higher than the national average (according to AreaVibes). This figure encompasses both violent and property crimes, with property crime rates being significantly higher than the national average.
Violent crime in Wichita Falls closely mirrors the national average, with approximately 350 incidents per 100,000 people (according to AreaVibes). However, property crime rates are considerably higher, standing at 2,619 per 100,000 residents, which is 48.8% above the national average (according to AreaVibes). Your chance of becoming a victim of property crime in Wichita Falls is about 1 in 38 (according to NeighborhoodScout).
Motor vehicle theft is a notable concern, with Wichita Falls experiencing one of the highest rates in the nation compared to communities of all sizes (according to NeighborhoodScout). While the northwest part of the city is generally considered safer by residents, crime statistics can vary significantly by neighborhood (according to Crime in Wichita Falls). Understanding these localized differences is key to assessing personal safety within the city.
Cost of Living in Wichita Falls
The cost of living in Wichita Falls is notably lower than both the state and national averages, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. Overall, the cost of living in Wichita Falls is 10.1% lower than the national average (according to Apartments.com). Housing expenses are a significant contributor to this affordability, being approximately 35% cheaper than the U.S. average (according to RentCafe).
While housing costs are low, utility prices in Wichita Falls are about 3% pricier than the national average (according to RentCafe). Transportation expenses, however, are considerably lower, being 14.3% less expensive than the national average (according to Apartments.com). Grocery prices also tend to be slightly lower than the national average.
For renters, the median monthly rent in Wichita Falls hovers around $1,042 (according to RentCafe), though other sources indicate a slightly lower average rent of $814 per month as of May 2026 (according to Apartments.com). This range provides a good estimate for those considering renting in the city.
Housing Costs
Wichita Falls offers a housing market that is considerably more affordable than the national average. The median listing price for a home in Wichita Falls is approximately $204,100 (according to realtor.com®), with the median sale price of a home being around $210,000 as of March 2026 (according to Redfin). This is significantly lower than the national median sale price, with Wichita Falls’s median sale price being 71% lower than the national average (according to Redfin).
The median property value in Wichita Falls was $156,800 in 2024 (according to Data USA). The homeownership rate in the city is 56.4% (according to Data USA), which is lower than the national average. For those looking to rent, the median rental price is around $1,200 per month (according to realtor.com®), or more specifically, an average rent of $814 per month as of May 2026 (according to Apartments.com).
The rental market shows a range for apartments, with studios averaging $648, one-bedrooms around $814, and two-bedrooms approximately $981 per month (according to Apartments.com). For homeowners, the average listing price for a home is around $351,044, which is 34.3% lower than the national average (according to Apartments.com).
Income and Employment
The average annual salary in Wichita Falls is approximately $51,741 as of April 26, or $24.88 per hour (according to ZipRecruiter). However, other sources report the average salary to be around $61,105 per year, or $29 per hour (according to ERI SalaryExpert). The median household income in Wichita Falls was reported as $60,177 in 2024 (according to Data USA), which is below the national median.
The unemployment rate in Wichita Falls was 4.2% in 2026 (according to Data USA), which is lower than the long-term average of 5.27% (according to YCharts). As of April 2026, the average annual pay for a Wichita Falls Tx in the United States was $43,251 a year (according to ZipRecruiter). This indicates a range in reported salary figures, with individual earnings varying based on occupation and experience.
The most common employment sectors in Wichita Falls are Health Care & Social Assistance, followed by Retail Trade and Educational Services (according to Data USA). Major employers in the area include Sheppard Air Force Base, Wichita Falls Independent School District, and United Regional Health Care System (according to Wikipedia).
Wichita Falls Climate
Wichita Falls experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and cool winters. The city’s inland position contributes to temperature extremes and significant diurnal temperature variations. Summers are typically hot and humid, with average high temperatures in the mid-90s°F, and days exceeding 100°F are common (according to The Climate of Wichita Falls, Texas). Overnight lows in the summer can offer some relief, dropping to around 72°F (according to The Climate of Wichita Falls, Texas).
Winters are generally mild but can be cold, with average high temperatures around 55°F and overnight lows near freezing (according to The Climate of Wichita Falls, Texas). Snowfall is minimal, averaging around 2 to 4 inches annually (according to The Climate of Wichita Falls, Texas and Wikipedia). Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather, with moderate temperatures and lower humidity.
Precipitation in Wichita Falls averages about 30 inches per year (according to The Climate of Wichita Falls, Texas and myPerfectWeather). The majority of this rainfall occurs during the spring storm season, particularly in May and June (according to The Climate of Wichita Falls, Texas). The city can experience sudden temperature changes due to its exposure to clashing air masses.
Seasonal Temperatures
Summer in Wichita Falls is notably hot, with average daily highs reaching 94°F, and temperatures frequently surpassing 100°F (according to The Climate of Wichita Falls, Texas). July is the warmest month, with average high temperatures around 98°F (according to myPerfectWeather). Evenings offer some respite, with average lows around 72°F during the summer months (according to The Climate of Wichita Falls, Texas).
Winter temperatures are considerably milder, with average highs around 55°F. January is the coldest month, with average low temperatures around 29°F (according to myPerfectWeather). Freezing lows can occur, and an average of 4.8 days per season see highs that do not rise above freezing (according to Wikipedia).
Spring and fall provide a more temperate climate. Spring sees highs ranging from 70-80°F, while fall daily highs are in the 70s-80s°F, gradually cooling into November (according to The Climate of Wichita Falls, Texas). The diurnal temperature range can be significant, with temperature swings of 30-40°F not uncommon as seasons transition (according to The Climate of Wichita Falls, Texas).
Rainfall and Weather Patterns
Wichita Falls receives an average annual rainfall of approximately 30 inches (according to myPerfectWeather). The wettest months are typically May and June, coinciding with the spring storm season, which can sometimes bring heavy rains and flooding (according to The Climate of Wichita Falls, Texas). Winters are the driest period, with minimal precipitation.
The city is known for being windy year-round, with average wind speeds around 11 mph, which can offer some relief during warmer months (according to myPerfectWeather). Wichita Falls is also located within “tornado alley,” making it susceptible to severe weather events, including tornadoes (according to Wikipedia).
Overall, the weather can fluctuate, with rapid changes in temperature being a characteristic of the region due to the interaction of different air masses (according to The Climate of Wichita Falls, Texas). Residents can expect a wide range of weather conditions throughout the year.
Major Employers and Job Market
The job market in Wichita Falls is diverse, with several key industries and major employers contributing to its economic stability. Healthcare and Social Assistance is the largest employment sector, followed by Retail Trade and Educational Services (according to Data USA). Manufacturing, particularly in aerospace and aviation, is also a significant cluster, with companies like Arconic and Pratt & Whitney having a presence in the area (according to Wichita Falls Economic Development).
The top employers in Wichita Falls include Sheppard Air Force Base, which is a significant contributor to local employment with over 7,000 employees (according to Wikipedia). Other major employers include the Wichita Falls Independent School District, United Regional Health Care System, and Midwestern State University (according to Wikipedia).
The city is actively working to attract and retain businesses, focusing on sectors like aerospace, aviation, and advanced manufacturing. This diversification aims to create a robust and resilient economy for the region. The presence of these established employers provides a stable job market for residents.
Demographics of Wichita Falls
Wichita Falls has a population of approximately 102,372 as of 2024 (according to Data USA). The city’s population has seen a slight decline in recent years, with projections indicating a continued gradual decrease (according to Data USA and Wikipedia). The median age in Wichita Falls is 33.8 years (according to Data USA).
The racial composition of Wichita Falls is primarily White, followed by Hispanic and Black or African American populations. White residents constitute about 57.1% of the population, with Hispanic residents at 23.2% and Black or African American residents at 12.6% (according to Data USA). Other racial groups are represented in smaller percentages.
The majority of residents in Wichita Falls are U.S. citizens, with a high percentage reporting citizenship (according to Data USA). The city’s demographic profile reflects a mix of long-term residents and those drawn to the area for its affordability and specific employment opportunities.
Age and Gender Distribution
The median age in Wichita Falls is 33.8 years (according to Data USA), indicating a relatively young population compared to some other cities. The gender distribution shows a slight majority of females, with 50.9% of the population being female and 49.1% being male (according to Demographics of Wichita Falls, TX).
For every 100 females, there are approximately 109.9 males in Wichita Falls (according to Wichita Falls, Texas Population 2026). This gender ratio can be influenced by various factors, including employment opportunities and migration patterns within the region.
The age distribution suggests a community with a significant number of working-age adults and a growing segment of younger families. This demographic makeup can influence the demand for local services, schools, and recreational activities within the city.
Race and Ethnicity
The ethnic landscape of Wichita Falls is diverse, with White individuals forming the largest demographic group. White (Non-Hispanic) residents make up approximately 58.6% of the population, followed by Black or African American residents at 12.9% (according to Data USA). Hispanic or Latino individuals represent a significant portion of the population, at 23.2% (according to Data USA).
Other racial categories, such as Asian and those identifying with two or more races, are present in smaller percentages. The city’s racial and ethnic composition is largely consistent with broader trends in Texas, reflecting a blend of historical demographics and evolving community makeup.
Understanding these demographic details is important for appreciating the cultural fabric of Wichita Falls and its community dynamics. The city’s diversity contributes to its unique character and provides a rich social environment for its residents.
Pros and Cons of Living in Wichita Falls
Wichita Falls offers a compelling mix of advantages and disadvantages for potential residents. One of the most significant draws is the affordability of living, particularly when it comes to housing costs, which are substantially lower than the national average (according to RentCafe and Apartments.com). This makes it an attractive location for those looking to maximize their budget.
The job market is supported by a diverse range of major employers, including those in healthcare, education, manufacturing, and government, offering various employment opportunities (according to Wikipedia). The city also experiences a generally mild climate, with pleasant spring and fall seasons, though summers can be very hot (according to The Climate of Wichita Falls, Texas).
However, the city faces challenges, including a crime rate that is higher than the national average, particularly concerning property crimes (according to AreaVibes and NeighborhoodScout). While violent crime rates are comparable to the national average, the higher incidence of property crime requires consideration for personal safety. The climate, while having mild winters, features very hot and humid summers that can be uncomfortable for some.
Furthermore, the population has been experiencing a slight decline (according to Data USA and Wikipedia), which can sometimes impact local amenities or economic dynamism. Despite these challenges, the lower cost of living and stable employment sectors present a balanced outlook for those considering Wichita Falls as their new home.