This New Report Explains Why Living in Texas Feels More Expensive Than Ever

We Texans love to brag about no state income tax, wide-open roads, and “cheap living.” But lately? A lot of folks are staring at their bills like they’re written in another language.

According to a new United Way analysis, about 42% of U.S. households can’t comfortably afford the basics like housing, food, gas, utilities, healthcare, all the fun adult stuff. And nope, that’s not just people below the poverty line. A big chunk are working full-time and still falling behind.

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Texas Isn’t Immune

Even with our Texas confidence, the Lone Star State ranks 10th in the nation for how hard it is for residents to cover basic expenses.

Here’s how it breaks down:

• Around 40% of Texans say paying everyday bills is tough
• More than half struggle with fuel costs (which hurts extra when everything is 20 minutes away)
• Over one-third are behind on rent or mortgages and at risk of losing their place

Highway Alert: Texas Ranks High With The Most Dangerous Highways In The Nation

United Way calls a lot of these folks ALICE, which is a fancy acronym for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. Translation: you work, you try, you still stress when the AC makes a weird noise.

The Real Cost of “Getting By” in Texas

• To live a no-frills life in Texas:
• A single adult needs about $28,700/year
• A family of four needs around $74,600/year

That’s not luxury. That’s rent paid, groceries bought, kids cared for, and your car not getting repossessed.

Not Just a Texas Thing

Nationwide, 13% of households live in poverty, and another 29% fall into the ALICE category. States like Mississippi and Louisiana have it even worse. A few up north do better. Texas? We’re awkwardly in the middle… leaning toward “yikes.”

Texas is still a great place to live. But for a lot of hardworking people, it’s starting to feel less like the land of opportunity and more like the land of “please don’t let another bill hit this week.”

Big state. Big pride. Big bills. That's what I like about Texas....wait.