Surprisingly Affordable College Towns You Can Actually Live In

By

Lisette Marie

December 8, 2025

3. Lubbock, Texas (Texas Tech University)

St. Elizabeth's Catholic Church in Lubbock, Texas (United States). Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons @Michael Barera

Lubbock, home to Texas Tech University, is one of the most budget-friendly cities in Texas. The cost of living is significantly lower than in Austin, Houston, or Dallas, particularly when it comes to housing and transportation. Lubbock offers a great quality of life with its booming local economy, excellent healthcare, and a growing arts and music scene. Known as the "Hub City," Lubbock provides big-city conveniences with small-town prices, making it a hidden gem for anyone looking for affordability and opportunity in Texas.

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