Is Silsbee Safe, Pros and cons of living in Silsbee
Silsbee, Texas, offers a glimpse into small-town living within the broader landscape of Southeast Texas. Nestled in Hardin County, it’s a community that balances a connection to its local roots with proximity to larger urban centers like Beaumont. This positioning provides residents with a unique blend of tranquility and access to amenities.
The town’s character is shaped by its environment and the people who call it home. As with any community, understanding its various facets is key for those considering a move or simply seeking to learn more about Silsbee. This includes insights into its safety, economic landscape, cost of living, and educational opportunities.
Is it Safe to Live in Silsbee?
Silsbee’s overall crime rate is reported as being near the average for cities of all sizes in America (according to NeighborhoodScout). However, analysis of FBI crime data indicates that the chance of becoming a victim of crime in Silsbee is about 1 in 110 (according to NeighborhoodScout). This suggests a need for awareness, though the city’s crime rate is lower than approximately 50% of communities in Texas (according to NeighborhoodScout).
When examining violent crime, Silsbee’s rate is higher than in many communities across the nation. The likelihood of being a victim of violent crime, such as robbery or aggravated assault, is about 1 in 516 (according to NeighborhoodScout). Conversely, property crime rates in Silsbee are about average for cities of all sizes in America (according to NeighborhoodScout).
Housing and Cost of Living
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Silsbee presents a range of options for potential homeowners and renters. The median listing home price in Silsbee, Texas, is around $162,500 (according to Realtor.com®). More recent data indicates that the average home value in Silsbee, TX, was $172,424 as of March 2026, showing a slight decrease over the past year (according to Zillow).
For those considering renting, the average rent in Silsbee, TX, varies by property type and size. As of April 2026, the median rent for all bedroom counts and property types was approximately $795 per month (according to Zumper). This is significantly lower than the national average, making Silsbee a more affordable option for renters.
Cost of Living Insights
Silsbee’s overall cost of living is notably lower than the national average. In fact, living costs in Silsbee are about 12% lower than the U.S. national average (according to Salary.com). This affordability extends to various aspects of daily life, contributing to a lower overall expense for residents.
Housing expenses are a significant factor in the cost of living, and in Silsbee, these are considerably lower than the national average. Housing costs are approximately 29% lower than the national average (according to Payscale). Utility prices and transportation expenses also tend to be below the national average, further enhancing Silsbee’s appeal as an affordable place to live.
Economic Landscape
Employment and Major Employers
The employment landscape in Silsbee is characterized by key industries that drive its economy. Major employment sectors for residents include Retail Trade, Health Care & Social Assistance, and Educational Services (according to Data USA). These sectors provide a diverse range of job opportunities within the community.
The unemployment rate in Silsbee, TX, is currently reported at 97.72% employment (according to DoorProfit). This indicates a stable job market, though specific figures for unemployment can fluctuate. Major employers in the area likely include entities within these key sectors, contributing to the town’s economic stability.
Income and Salary Averages
The median household income in Silsbee, Texas, is approximately $59,907 (according to Data USA). This figure provides a benchmark for the economic well-being of households within the city. For those seeking employment, the median wage in Silsbee is around $39.7K per year (according to ZipRecruiter).
When considering salaries, it’s important to note that figures can vary based on profession and experience. For instance, the average salary for a school teacher in Silsbee, TX, is approximately $17.39 per hour (according to Indeed). This highlights the range of earning potential within the local job market.
Climate and Environment
Temperature and Weather Patterns
Silsbee experiences a climate typical of Southeast Texas, with long, hot, and humid summers and short, mild winters. The temperature throughout the year generally ranges from about 42°F to 93°F, rarely dropping below 29°F or exceeding 98°F (according to myPerfectWeather). The hottest month is typically July, with average highs around 92°F (according to myPerfectWeather).
Winters are considerably cooler, with January being the coldest month, featuring average lows around 43°F and highs of 61°F (according to myPerfectWeather). The shoulder seasons, spring and fall, offer more moderate temperatures, generally considered the most comfortable times to visit or live in the area.
Precipitation and Seasonal Conditions
Silsbee receives a significant amount of rainfall annually, averaging around 60 inches per year (according to myPerfectWeather). The wettest month is typically June, with an average of about 4.9 inches of rain (according to myPerfectWeather). Rain is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, although certain periods are wetter than others.
The chance of a wet day varies seasonally, with the period from May to September being particularly prone to rain. Humidity levels are also notably high during the summer months, contributing to the oppressive feel of the heat. Snowfall is virtually non-existent in Silsbee (according to Livability.com).
Education and Community
School District Performance
Silsbee’s public education system is managed by the Silsbee Independent School District. The district has received an overall “D” rating from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) for 2024 (according to Texas Tribune Schools Explorer). This rating is based on student performance, academic progress, and the success of educating disadvantaged students.
Within the district, Silsbee Elementary School, Edwards-Johnson Memorial Middle School, and Silsbee High School are noted as key institutions. However, the overall testing performance in Silsbee public schools, in terms of math and reading proficiency, is below the state average (according to Niche). The Silsbee Independent School District has, however, received a Superior ‘A’ rating on the TEA’s financial accountability report in recent years (according to Silsbee ISD).
Demographics and Population
As of the 2020 census, Silsbee had a population of 6,935 residents (according to Wikipedia). More recent estimates place the population at around 6,842 in 2024 (according to Data USA). The city’s population is projected to be 6,928 in 2026 (according to Data Commons).
The racial makeup of Silsbee includes a majority of White residents, followed by a significant African American population. In 2024, White (Non-Hispanic) residents constituted the largest group, with Black or African American residents being the second most common ethnic group (according to Data USA). The median age in Silsbee is around 40.3 years (according to Data USA).
Pros and Cons of Living in Silsbee
Advantages of Silsbee Living
One of the primary advantages of living in Silsbee is its affordability. The cost of living is significantly lower than the national average, particularly in housing expenses (according to Payscale, Salary.com). This makes it an attractive option for individuals and families looking to reduce their financial burden.
Silsbee also offers a small-town atmosphere, which can appeal to those seeking a quieter pace of life away from the hustle and bustle of larger cities. Its location provides access to the amenities of the Beaumont-Port Arthur metropolitan area while maintaining a distinct community identity.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
While Silsbee offers affordability, the quality of its public schools is a point of concern, with the district receiving a “D” rating (according to Texas Tribune Schools Explorer). The crime rate, particularly for violent offenses, is also noted as being higher than the national average (according to NeighborhoodScout).
The climate, characterized by long, hot, and humid summers, can also be a drawback for those sensitive to heat and humidity. Additionally, employment opportunities may be more concentrated in specific sectors, potentially limiting career diversity for some residents.