Is Texas City Safe, Pros and cons of living in Texas City
Texas City, a port city on the Gulf Coast, offers a unique blend of industrial significance and coastal living. Situated in Galveston County, Texas, it is a key area for petroleum refining and petrochemical manufacturing. Its strategic location on Galveston Bay provides access to a deepwater port, influencing its economy and daily life.
The city presents a distinct environment for potential residents, balancing the opportunities of a robust industrial sector with the recreational possibilities of its coastal setting. Understanding the various facets of life in Texas City, from safety and cost of living to employment and education, is crucial for anyone considering a move to this dynamic Texas community.
Is it Safe to Live in Texas City?
Texas City experiences a crime rate that is higher than the national average. The chance of becoming a victim of violent crime in Texas City is approximately 1 in 292, with a rate of 3 per one thousand inhabitants (NeighborhoodScout). Property crime also presents a concern, with a rate of 22 per one thousand population (NeighborhoodScout).
When compared to other communities in America of all population sizes, Texas City has an above-average chance of becoming a victim of property crime. The city’s overall crime rate is higher than in most communities of all population sizes in America, relative to Texas, its crime rate is higher than 90% of the state’s cities and towns (NeighborhoodScout).
Violent Crime Statistics
The likelihood of experiencing violent crime in Texas City is notable. Specifically, the chance of becoming a victim of violent crime, such as robbery, aggravated assault, rape, or murder, is 1 in 292 (NeighborhoodScout). This translates to a rate of 3 violent crimes per 1,000 residents (NeighborhoodScout).
While these figures indicate a higher risk compared to national averages, it’s important to consider the specific types of crime and their distribution within the city. NeighborhoodScout’s analysis highlights that violent crime in Texas City occurs at a rate higher than in most communities across the United States, irrespective of population size.
Property Crime Statistics
Property crime is another area of concern in Texas City. The rate for property crime, which includes motor vehicle theft, arson, larceny, and burglary, is 22 per 1,000 population (NeighborhoodScout). This suggests an elevated risk for residents when compared to the national average for all communities.
The total property crime in Texas City is 1,288 incidents per 1,000 population (ERI Economic Research Institute). This figure contributes significantly to the city’s overall crime rate, making it a factor for individuals to consider when evaluating the safety of the area.
Cost of Living in Texas City
The cost of living in Texas City is generally lower than the national average, particularly in housing expenses. Overall, Texas City’s cost of living is 14% lower than the national average (PayScale). Housing expenses are notably lower, being 45% lower than the national average (PayScale).
Utilities and transportation also contribute to the affordability, with utility prices being 9% lower and transportation expenses 4% lower than the national average (PayScale). Grocery prices are slightly lower as well, at 2% below the national average (PayScale).
Housing Costs
Housing in Texas City is significantly more affordable than in many other parts of the United States. The median home price in Texas City is approximately $226,609, showing a decrease of 3.7% over the past year (Zillow). Renting is also a more accessible option, with the average rent for all bedrooms and property types being $1,600 (Zillow).
This average rent is 20% lower than the national average, making it an attractive factor for renters. For example, one-bedroom apartments are commonly found in the $900-$1,000 range, while two-bedroom apartments are typically between $1,200-$1,300 (Rentometer).
Daily Expenses
Beyond housing, daily expenses in Texas City are also relatively moderate. Healthcare costs are 4% lower than the national average (PayScale). Transportation expenses, including gas prices and bus fares, are 4% lower than the national average (PayScale).
The cost of living index for Texas City is calculated by accumulating the costs of food, transportation, health services, rent, utilities, taxes, and miscellaneous expenses. This comprehensive approach indicates that while housing is a major saving, other daily costs remain competitive (ERI Economic Research Institute).
Job Market and Economy
Texas City’s economy is significantly driven by its industrial sector, particularly petroleum refining and petrochemical manufacturing. The city is home to major industrial operations, contributing to its employment landscape. The economy employs approximately 25.7k people, with a 4.03% growth rate from the previous year (Data USA).
Key industries providing employment include Health Care & Social Assistance, Retail Trade, and Accommodation & Food Services. The highest-paying industries are Real Estate & Rental & Leasing, Manufacturing, and Public Administration (Data USA).
Major Employers
Several large companies have a significant presence in Texas City, offering substantial employment opportunities. Valero Energy Corporation, a major manufacturer and marketer of transportation fuels and petrochemical products, is a prominent employer (Zippia). Praxair, an industrial gases company, is another significant entity in the region (Zippia).
Other notable employers include Texas City Newspapers Inc., Galveston County Health District, and Del Papa Dist. Co. (Zippia). National companies with offices in Texas City also contribute to the job market, such as HCA Healthcare.
Unemployment Rate
The unemployment rate in Texas City is subject to monthly fluctuations. As of the latest data, the unemployment rate in Texas City, TX is 5.60% (YCharts). This figure is higher than the previous month’s rate of 4.90% and the rate from the previous year at 5.20% (YCharts).
However, this rate is lower than the long-term average of 7.92% (YCharts). The Texas state unemployment rate is also a relevant benchmark, with recent reports indicating it at 4.0% as of June 2025 (Texas Workforce Commission).
Climate in Texas City
Texas City experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by long, hot summers and short, cool winters. The weather is generally wet and partly cloudy throughout the year. Over the course of the year, temperatures typically range from 48°F to 90°F, rarely dropping below 37°F or exceeding 93°F (Weather Spark).
The hot season extends for about four months, from late May to late September, with average daily high temperatures surpassing 84°F. The coolest period occurs from early December to late February, with average high temperatures below 67°F (Weather Spark).
Temperatures and Rainfall
The hottest month in Texas City is typically August, with average highs around 90°F and lows near 79°F (Weather Spark). Conversely, January is the coldest month, with average temperatures ranging from 49°F to 61°F (Weather Spark). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, contributing to the city’s generally wet conditions.
The National Weather Service provides detailed forecasts and climate data for the region, offering insights into temperature variations and precipitation patterns. NOAA’s extensive network of sites, including those in Texas, plays a crucial role in weather forecasting and climate monitoring for the Gulf Coast area (Houston Chronicle Meteorologist).
Education in Texas City
The Texas City Independent School District serves the educational needs of the city’s students. The district has a rating of 3.89 out of 5 based on 57 reviews (Niche). It serves students from Pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade and has a student-teacher ratio of 16 to 1 (Niche).
State test scores indicate that 27% of students are proficient in math and 39% are proficient in reading within the district (Niche). While the district has received mixed reviews, some highlight dedicated teachers and a strong sense of community (Niche).
School District Performance
Texas City Independent School District is rated as a C+ overall by Niche. Some elementary schools within the district, such as Guajardo Elementary School and Heights Elementary School, have received B ratings (Niche). However, other schools within the district have received lower grades.
For those seeking alternative educational environments, Odyssey Academy in Texas City also offers educational programs with a rating of 4.17 out of 5 (Niche). When considering school districts, Clear Creek Independent School District and Galveston Independent School District are also in the surrounding areas, with ratings of 4.23 and 3.79 out of 5, respectively (Niche).
Demographics of Texas City
Texas City has an estimated population of 51,898 residents as of the 2020 Decennial Census (U.S. Census Bureau). The city’s population is projected to reach 58,462 by 2026, reflecting an annual rate of change of 2.8% (CUBIT). The median age of residents is 36.6 years (Census Reporter).
The racial and ethnic composition of Texas City includes White (36.9%), Hispanic (31.9%), and Black (26%) as the largest groups (CUBIT). The median household income in Texas City was $68,776 in 2024 (CUBIT).
Population and Diversity
As of 2024, Texas City is home to approximately 55,364 people, making it the 70th most populated city in Texas out of 1,795 cities (CUBIT). The population is diverse, with White (Non-Hispanic) residents constituting the largest group, followed by Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) and Hispanic residents (Data USA).
Approximately 8% of Texas City residents were born outside the United States, with a citizenship rate of 95.4% as of 2024 (Data USA). This indicates a community with a mix of long-term residents and a notable foreign-born population.
Income and Household Data
The median household income in Texas City was $68,776 in 2024 (CUBIT). This figure is slightly higher than some surrounding areas but indicates that 14.1% of Texas City families live below the poverty line (CUBIT). The per capita income is approximately $34,313 (Census Reporter).
Households led by residents aged 25 to 44 report a median income of $76,557, while those with a head of household aged 45 to 64 earn around $75,000 (Point2Homes). Households led by individuals over 65, often retired, have a median income of about $54,388 (Point2Homes).
Pros and Cons of Living in Texas City
Texas City offers a unique set of advantages and disadvantages for its residents. The lower cost of living, particularly in housing, is a significant pro. The city’s coastal location provides access to recreational activities and a distinct lifestyle.
However, the higher-than-average crime rates and the city’s strong industrial focus, which can impact air quality and the overall environment, are notable cons. The job market is robust, especially in the industrial sector, but this specialization might limit opportunities in other fields.
Advantages of Texas City
One of the primary advantages of living in Texas City is its affordability. Housing costs are substantially lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for homeowners and renters alike (PayScale). The proximity to Galveston Bay and the Gulf Coast also offers opportunities for water-based recreation and a lifestyle that many find appealing.
The city’s economy is anchored by a strong industrial base, providing stable employment in sectors like manufacturing and energy. This industrial presence also means Texas City is a vital port, facilitating trade and economic activity (ERI Economic Research Institute).
Disadvantages of Texas City
The crime rate in Texas City is a considerable disadvantage, being higher than the national average for both violent and property crimes (NeighborhoodScout). This can be a significant concern for individuals and families prioritizing safety. The city’s reliance on heavy industry, while economically beneficial, can also lead to environmental concerns, including potential impacts on air quality.
Furthermore, while the job market is strong in specific sectors, it may lack diversity compared to larger metropolitan areas. The climate, with its hot and humid summers, can also be a drawback for those sensitive to heat and humidity (Weather Spark).