Just because you can retire anywhere in Texas doesn’t mean you should.
From lackluster healthcare to entertainment that’s about as exciting as watching paint dry—these spots have it all… or rather, they don’t.
Let’s take a detour around the Lone Star State’s less desirable retirement locales.
Table of Contents
1. Pecos, Texas
Pecos sits in the stark landscape of West Texas, known more for its oil fields than its amenities for retirees. The town has a quiet charm but lacks the medical facilities and active communities that retirees might seek. Despite its historic role in the Texas cattle industry, Pecos struggles with some modern challenges.
Local services are somewhat limited, and the community is relatively isolated, making it difficult for residents to travel to larger cities for specialized care or entertainment. The climate here is harsh, with extreme temperatures that can be tough for those in their golden years.
Reason for Ranking: Limited healthcare services and extreme weather conditions make Pecos less appealing for retirees.
2. Port Arthur, Texas
Port Arthur faces challenges such as high crime rates and economic instability, which are significant considerations for anyone, especially retirees. It’s situated on the Gulf Coast, which means it’s prone to hurricanes and flooding, adding to potential worries.
The town does offer some coastal beauty, but the risk of natural disasters and the lack of robust healthcare facilities place it on this list. Additionally, the local economy relies heavily on the oil industry, which does not provide much for the community’s older residents.
Reason for Ranking: High crime rates and a high risk of natural disasters make Port Arthur a less desirable location for retirement.
3. Vidor, Texas
Vidor is known for its rural setting and small-town feel, which can be appealing to some. However, it has a history of racial tension and lacks the diversity and cultural richness that retirees might enjoy. The amenities for older adults are also limited in Vidor.
The town is relatively isolated, with limited access to major hospitals or recreational activities that are senior-friendly. Public transportation is almost non-existent, which can be a hurdle for those who no longer drive.
Reason for Ranking: A lack of amenities and a history of social issues contribute to its placement on this list.
4. Alice, Texas
Alice has a storied past with roots in the cattle and oil industries, but today it faces challenges such as a lack of investment in new infrastructure and services important to retirees like healthcare and entertainment. The population is declining as younger people move away for more opportunities.
This exodus leaves a gap in the community and the local economy, making it less vibrant for those who remain. The climate here is also challenging, with high temperatures that can be difficult for older adults to manage.
Reason for Ranking: Insufficient healthcare options and a declining population make Alice less attractive to retirees.
5. Cleveland, Texas
Cleveland, Texas, offers a rural lifestyle that might initially seem ideal for retirement. However, the town’s limited healthcare facilities and lack of cultural and recreational activities for seniors place it on this list. It is also relatively far from major cities, which could be a disadvantage for those seeking diverse experiences.
The local economy is primarily based on agriculture and small businesses, which doesn’t provide much support or services for retirees. Additionally, the public transportation options are sparse, making it challenging for those who do not drive.
Reason for Ranking: The lack of medical facilities and recreational activities for seniors makes Cleveland a less favorable choice for retirees.
6. Crockett, Texas
Crockett is a small town with a rich history in East Texas. While it may offer a peaceful retirement setting, the town lacks modern healthcare facilities and amenities that can enhance a retiree’s quality of life. It is also somewhat isolated, with limited access to larger, more equipped urban centers.
The local community is tight-knit, but this can sometimes mean fewer activities and opportunities for new residents to integrate. The cost of living is low, but so are the options for entertainment and social engagement.
Reason for Ranking: Limited healthcare and social isolation are key factors why Crockett is not ideal for retirees.
7. Dalhart, Texas
Dalhart, located in the extreme northwest part of Texas, offers stunning natural beauty but falls short in amenities for retirees. The town is far from major healthcare centers, and the local facilities are not equipped to handle complex health needs.
Its remote location makes it difficult to access services and necessities, especially in winter when roads can be hazardous. The community focuses more on agriculture, leaving little in the way of leisure or entertainment for older adults.
Reason for Ranking: Its remoteness and lack of adequate medical facilities place Dalhart on this list.
8. Livingston, Texas
Livingston is home to beautiful lakes and outdoor spaces, but it has significant drawbacks for retirees. The town has a higher-than-average crime rate and limited investment in new amenities or services for the elderly. Healthcare options are also sparse, which is a critical factor for this demographic.
The cost of living is low, but so is the quality of available services, including public transportation, which is crucial for retirees who may not drive.
Reason for Ranking: High crime rates and inadequate healthcare facilities make Livingston a less ideal retirement spot.
9. Jasper, Texas
Jasper is nestled in the East Texas Piney Woods, offering scenic beauty but lacking in necessary retiree-friendly amenities. It has a history of being a close-knit community but doesn’t provide the medical facilities or leisure activities that retirees require.
The town also has a somewhat tumultuous history with racial issues, which might be uncomfortable for potential new residents. Public transportation and access to larger markets are limited, adding to the challenges for retirees.
Reason for Ranking: Limited healthcare and historical social tensions place Jasper among the less desirable towns for retirees.
10. Liberty, Texas
Liberty is a historic town with charm, but it struggles with providing modern conveniences and services that are essential for retirees. The healthcare system is underdeveloped, and there are few cultural or recreational activities tailored to older adults.
The town is somewhat isolated, which means residents often have to travel long distances for specialized medical care or entertainment, which can be a significant inconvenience as one ages.
Reason for Ranking: Insufficient healthcare and isolation contribute to Liberty’s ranking as a less favorable place for retirees.
11. Beeville, Texas
Beeville, a small town in South Texas, lacks the infrastructure and services that are essential for a comfortable retirement. While the cost of living is relatively low, the availability of healthcare and senior-specific amenities is limited. The town is quiet, which might appeal to some, but it offers little in the way of social or recreational activities for seniors.
Additionally, Beeville is somewhat remote, with the nearest major city over an hour away. This makes access to advanced medical facilities and diverse entertainment options challenging.
Reason for Ranking: Beeville’s limited healthcare options and lack of recreational activities make it less appealing for retirees.
12. Borger, Texas
Located in the Texas Panhandle, Borger suffers from high pollution levels due to local oil refineries and chemical plants, which can be a health concern for retirees. The town also has limited medical facilities and lacks cultural and recreational opportunities that can enrich the lives of older adults.
The community is tight-knit, but its industrial focus does little to attract retirees looking for a tranquil and healthy environment. Public transportation options are scarce, further isolating residents who don’t drive.
Reason for Ranking: High pollution levels and insufficient healthcare facilities contribute to Borger’s placement on this list.
13. Center, Texas
Center, Texas, might be geographically at the heart of the state, but it’s lacking when it comes to amenities for retirees. The healthcare system here is modest, with few specialists or advanced medical services. The town’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, which doesn’t provide much in terms of leisure or health services for the elderly.
While the community is welcoming, the lack of essential services like public transportation and accessible healthcare makes it difficult for retirees to enjoy their golden years to the fullest.
Reason for Ranking: Center’s inadequate healthcare and limited senior services make it an undesirable location for retirees.
14. Dimmitt, Texas
Dimmitt is a small town located in the vast plains of the Texas Panhandle. It offers a quiet lifestyle but lacks the healthcare facilities and senior-friendly amenities that are crucial for retirees. The town is also remote, making travel to larger cities for specialized care or cultural events a daunting task.
Additionally, the harsh weather conditions, characterized by cold winters and hot summers, can be challenging for older adults. Social activities tailored to seniors are few, which can lead to feelings of isolation.
Reason for Ranking: Dimmitt’s remoteness and lack of suitable amenities for retirees place it on this list.
15. Electra, Texas
Electra, once booming in the early 20th century due to oil, now struggles with economic stagnation and a declining population, factors that can impact the quality of life for retirees. The town has very few healthcare options and limited social activities available for seniors.
The local infrastructure is in need of updating, and public services for the elderly are not a priority. The isolation from larger metropolitan areas also poses a significant challenge for those seeking comprehensive medical care or vibrant community life.
Reason for Ranking: Electra’s economic challenges and limited healthcare services make it a less favorable place for retirement.
16. Freer, Texas
Freer is a small town deep in the heart of South Texas. It is known for its annual Rattlesnake Roundup, but beyond this event, the town offers little to attract retirees. The healthcare facilities are inadequate, and there are minimal entertainment or leisure activities that cater to the needs of older adults.
The town’s remote location compounds the issue, with nearest cities offering better amenities several hours away. This isolation can be particularly tough for retirees who need regular medical care or wish to maintain an active social life.
Reason for Ranking: The lack of healthcare and isolation from urban centers are why Freer ranks poorly for retirees.
17. Groveton, Texas
Located in East Texas, Groveton offers scenic beauty with its pine forests and proximity to lakes. However, it falls short in providing essential services for retirees. The local healthcare system is basic, lacking in specialty care, which is often needed by older adults. The small town feel might be appealing, but it comes with the downside of limited shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Moreover, the town’s economy is not very robust, which affects the availability and quality of services for retirees. Access to larger cities is limited, further reducing the attractiveness of Groveton for retirement.
Reason for Ranking: Basic healthcare and limited amenities contribute to Groveton’s low ranking for retirees.
18. Hemphill, Texas
Hemphill, while rich in history and surrounded by natural beauty, lacks several key amenities that can make retirement comfortable and enjoyable. The town’s medical facilities are few and far between, and it lacks the infrastructure to support a growing elderly population.
Its remote location makes it difficult for residents to access larger healthcare centers and specialty services. Additionally, Hemphill’s small-town atmosphere does not offer much in terms of cultural or recreational activities suited to retirees.
Reason for Ranking: Inadequate medical facilities and limited cultural activities make Hemphill a less suitable choice for retirees.
19. Junction, Texas
Junction is located at the gateway to the Texas Hill Country, offering beautiful landscapes but little else for the retiree community. The town has minimal healthcare facilities and lacks diversity in housing options suitable for older adults. Recreational activities that cater to the interests of seniors are also scarce.
The economy is primarily based on agriculture and tourism, which do not directly benefit the needs of retirees looking for comprehensive community services and healthcare.
Reason for Ranking: Junction’s limited healthcare and senior housing options make it an unfavorable choice for retirees.
20. Kirbyville, Texas
Kirbyville, like many small towns in East Texas, has a charm that can initially attract retirees. However, it falls short in providing the necessary services and amenities. The town lacks sufficient medical facilities, and its local economy does not support a variety of leisure or cultural activities that are important for a fulfilling retirement.
Its isolated location also means that residents often have to travel significant distances for specialized medical care or for more diverse social and cultural experiences, which can be a major drawback for retirees.
Reason for Ranking: Kirbyville’s lack of healthcare services and isolation make it less appealing for retirees seeking a vibrant community life.