Assisted living in Texas costs approximately $5,666 per month on average (about $67,992 annually), based on statewide pricing trends and the standardized range-based modeling framework used across SeniorCareCostGuide. This places Texas below the national median of $6,200 — making it one of the more affordable large-state assisted living markets, though costs have risen meaningfully from prior estimates.
Pricing varies significantly across the state. Austin and parts of the Dallas-Fort Worth corridor frequently exceed the statewide median due to rapid population growth, higher labor costs, and strong demand for senior housing, while smaller inland markets such as Amarillo, Lubbock, and El Paso offer considerably more moderate pricing.
Families comparing regional pricing may also want to review assisted living costs in Oklahoma and New Mexico.
Texas Assisted Living Cost Snapshot (2026)
| Metric | Estimate |
|---|---|
| Statewide Median | ~$5,666/mo |
| Annual Equivalent | ~$67,992 |
| Lowest Major Markets | Amarillo, Lubbock, El Paso |
| Highest Major Markets | Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth |
| Compared to National Median | Lower |
| Most Comparable States | Florida, Tennessee, Georgia |
On This Page
- Average assisted living cost in Texas
- Texas monthly pricing
- City-by-city assisted living costs
- Regional cost patterns
- Medicaid coverage in Texas
- Texas vs other states
- Long-term cost planning
- How to compare Texas communities
How Texas Assisted Living Costs Compare Nationally
Texas’s assisted living median of approximately $5,666 per month falls below the national median of $6,200 by roughly $534 per month — positioning Texas as a relatively affordable large-state market. This represents an upward shift from prior data which showed Texas at $5,250, and reflects broader Southeastern and South-Central cost increases in the 2025 CareScout survey.
One highly unusual Texas data point: the nursing home semi-private room median of $5,627 per month (CareScout 2025) is actually lower than the assisted living median of $5,666 — making Texas one of the very few states where nursing home semi-private costs are comparable to or below assisted living. This reflects Texas’s unusual nursing home cost structure and makes the assisted living vs nursing home decision particularly nuanced for Texas families.
For a broader benchmark, see our guide to the national average assisted living cost.
What Is the Average Cost of Assisted Living in Texas?
The CareScout 2025 Cost of Care Survey reports Texas’s assisted living median at approximately $67,992 per year, about $5,666 per month.
Estimated Annual Cost
At $5,666/month:
| Period | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| 1 Year | $67,992 |
| 3 Years | $203,976 |
| 5 Years | $339,960 |
These projections do not account for annual rate increases, which typically range between 3% and 7%.
How Much Does Assisted Living Cost Per Month in Texas?
Most assisted living communities in Texas charge between $4,550 and $6,800 per month, with a statewide median near $5,666 per month.
Monthly pricing varies significantly by city, care level, and community type. Austin and the Dallas-Fort Worth metro frequently exceed the statewide median, while smaller inland cities offer considerably more moderate pricing.
Assisted Living Costs by City in Texas
Texas’s size and economic diversity create substantial pricing variation across regions. The figures below reflect planning ranges consistent with the statewide median of approximately $5,666 per month.
| City | Low Range | High Range | Estimated Median | Annual Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austin | $5,700 | $7,700+ | ~$6,700 | ~$80,400+ |
| Dallas | $4,850 | $6,550+ | ~$5,700 | ~$68,400+ |
| Fort Worth | $4,700 | $6,300+ | ~$5,500 | ~$66,000+ |
| Houston | $4,700 | $6,300+ | ~$5,500 | ~$66,000+ |
| San Antonio | $4,300 | $5,800+ | ~$5,050 | ~$60,600+ |
| Corpus Christi | $4,200 | $5,700+ | ~$4,950 | ~$59,400+ |
| El Paso | $4,050 | $5,450+ | ~$4,750 | ~$57,000+ |
| Lubbock | $4,050 | $5,450+ | ~$4,750 | ~$57,000+ |
| Amarillo | $3,950 | $5,350+ | ~$4,650 | ~$55,800+ |
Austin commands the highest assisted living pricing in the state — significantly above the statewide median — driven by rapid population growth, strong labor market competition, and newer luxury community development. Amarillo and Lubbock offer the most moderate pricing among major Texas markets.
Highest and Lowest Assisted Living Costs in Texas
Highest-Cost Texas Markets
- Austin — The most expensive major market in the state by a meaningful margin, driven by rapid in-migration, technology sector labor competition, and strong retiree demand.
- Dallas — Reflects North Texas metro pricing dynamics with above-median demand in suburban communities.
- Fort Worth — DFW metro pricing supported by population growth and healthcare infrastructure expansion.
More Affordable Texas Markets
- Amarillo — Generally the most moderate pricing among major Texas cities, reflecting the Texas Panhandle’s lower real estate costs and limited demand pressure.
- Lubbock — West Texas market pricing reflects lower population density and more moderate labor costs.
- El Paso — Far West Texas market offers below-median pricing driven by lower real estate values and border economy dynamics.
Regional Assisted Living Cost Patterns in Texas
Assisted living pricing in Texas varies dramatically by region, largely tracking proximity to Austin and the DFW growth corridor.
Central Texas (Austin)
Pricing: $5,700 to $7,700+ per month
Austin consistently reflects the highest assisted living pricing in the state. Rapid population growth, technology sector employment, and sustained retiree in-migration from California and the Northeast have all contributed to significant pricing pressure. Limited assisted living supply relative to demand in some Austin submarkets further supports above-median pricing.
North Texas (Dallas, Fort Worth)
Pricing: $4,700 to $6,550+ per month
North Texas markets reflect pricing near or slightly above the statewide median. The DFW metropolitan area benefits from diversified economic growth and strong healthcare infrastructure including UT Southwestern Medical Center and Baylor Scott and White Health, supporting stable senior housing demand.
Gulf Coast (Houston)
Pricing: $4,700 to $6,300+ per month
Houston area pricing aligns broadly with the statewide median. Despite being the state’s largest city, Houston’s more moderate real estate costs relative to Austin and the DFW suburbs keep pricing near the median. Houston benefits from strong healthcare infrastructure including Houston Methodist and MD Anderson Cancer Center.
South Texas (San Antonio, Corpus Christi)
Pricing: $4,200 to $5,800+ per month
South Texas markets offer below-median pricing with San Antonio reflecting more moderate costs than the Austin-DFW corridor. San Antonio benefits from a significant military retiree demographic and University Health System anchoring healthcare demand.
West Texas (El Paso, Lubbock, Amarillo)
Pricing: $3,950 to $5,450+ per month
West Texas generally offers the most moderate assisted living pricing in the state. Lower real estate costs, smaller population centers, and more limited labor market competition all contribute to below-median pricing. Families with geographic flexibility may find meaningful savings in West Texas markets.
Texas Senior Housing Market Trends (2026)
Austin Corridor Drives Above-Median Statewide Pricing: Austin’s sustained population growth and technology sector expansion have created structural pricing pressure unlike any other Texas market. Labor costs, real estate values, and demand in Austin now reflect dynamics more similar to coastal metros than the broader Texas market.
Unusual Nursing Home vs Assisted Living Dynamic: Texas’s nursing home semi-private room median of $5,627 per month (CareScout 2025) is slightly below the assisted living median of $5,666 — a highly unusual situation. This reflects Texas’s specific nursing home cost structure and Medicaid reimbursement environment. Families comparing care options in Texas should evaluate the actual care needs required rather than making cost-driven assumptions about which option is more affordable.
Strong In-Migration from Higher-Cost States Supports Demand: Texas continues attracting retirees from California, the Northeast, and other higher-cost markets due to its lack of state income tax, relatively moderate overall cost of living, and warm climate. This in-migration supports occupancy and pricing resilience in major metro markets.
Annual Rate Increases Consistent with Southern U.S. Trends: Annual assisted living rate increases across Texas typically range between 3% and 7%, consistent with broader Southern U.S. trends. Austin area communities may experience increases at the higher end of this range.
What Does Assisted Living Typically Include in Texas?
Assisted living communities in Texas generally structure pricing into a base monthly rate plus additional care-related fees.
Typically Included in Base Monthly Cost
- Private or semi-private accommodations
- Meals and dining services
- Housekeeping and laundry
- Utilities
- Scheduled transportation
- Social and recreational programming
- Basic assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs)
Often Billed Separately
- Medication administration
- Higher levels of personal care
- Memory care services
- One-time move-in or community fees
- Specialized therapies or health monitoring
Texas licenses assisted living communities as Type A or Type B, with Type B communities serving residents who require higher levels of assistance and carrying greater staffing requirements. Communities frequently use tiered care models — as a resident’s needs increase, monthly charges rise accordingly.
Assisted Living vs Other Care Options in Texas
| Care Type | Average Monthly Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Assisted Living | ~$5,666 | Moderate daily support |
| Memory Care | ~$6,800 to $8,000 | Dementia or Alzheimer’s care |
| Nursing Home Semi-Private | ~$5,627/mo | Skilled medical supervision |
| Nursing Home Private | ~$7,604/mo | Skilled nursing with private room |
| Home Care | ~$5,720/mo | Aging in place with part-time support |
Texas presents an unusual cost comparison: the nursing home semi-private room median of $5,627 per month (CareScout 2025) is slightly below the assisted living median — one of very few states where this occurs. Families should evaluate the actual care level required rather than making cost-driven assumptions. The nursing home private room median of $7,604 is above assisted living. Home care at $5,720 per month is broadly comparable to assisted living costs.
What Affects Assisted Living Costs in Texas?
- Location: Austin and DFW corridor communities command higher rates due to population growth, labor competition, and real estate costs.
- Level of Care Required: Increased assistance with daily activities raises monthly costs as residents transition to higher care tiers.
- Licensing Type: Type B facilities serving higher-acuity residents carry greater staffing requirements and operating costs.
- Private vs. Shared Units: Private apartments typically cost more than shared accommodations.
- Memory Care: Specialized staffing and secure environments increase pricing relative to standard assisted living.
- In-Migration: Continued retiree migration from higher-cost states supports occupancy and pricing resilience in major markets.
- Regulatory Environment: Texas assisted living communities are licensed and inspected by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, with staffing standards and compliance requirements contributing to operating costs.
Does Medicaid Cover Assisted Living in Texas?
Medicare does not cover long-term assisted living costs.
Texas Medicaid may provide limited service-based assistance through STAR+PLUS Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) for eligible individuals, administered by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. Coverage is service-based rather than comprehensive housing support.
Important considerations:
- Room and board expenses are generally not covered
- Income and asset eligibility limits apply
- Functional eligibility criteria must be met
- Processing timelines and program capacity may affect enrollment
Families should confirm current eligibility requirements directly with Texas HHS or consult a qualified elder law advisor before making financial decisions.
How Texas Assisted Living Costs Compare to Other States
Texas’s median of $5,666/mo is below the national median and broadly comparable to other large Southeastern and South-Central states.
| State | Estimated Monthly Median | Relative to Texas |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | ~$5,666 | — |
| Florida | ~$5,610 | Similar |
| Tennessee | ~$5,845 | Slightly Higher |
| Georgia | ~$5,300 | Lower |
| Oklahoma | ~$6,150 | Higher |
| New Mexico | ~$5,950 | Slightly Higher |
Texas is now more expensive than Georgia ($5,300/mo) and broadly comparable to Florida ($5,610/mo), while remaining below Oklahoma ($6,150/mo) and Tennessee ($5,845/mo).
Compare Texas Assisted Living Costs to Nearby States
- Oklahoma Assisted Living Costs
- New Mexico Assisted Living Costs
- Florida Assisted Living Costs
- Tennessee Assisted Living Costs
- Georgia Assisted Living Costs
Long-Term Cost Planning in Texas
Assisted living should be evaluated as a multi-year financial commitment. At $5,666 per month with a 5% annual increase, projected costs may look like:
| Year | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | $5,666/month |
| Year 2 | $5,949/month |
| Year 3 | $6,247/month |
| Year 4 | $6,559/month |
| Year 5 | $6,887/month |
Over five years, cumulative spending may exceed $375,000, excluding additional care needs or care level transitions.
Families should account not only for annual rate increases but also for potential care level escalations. Transitioning from assisted living to memory care in Texas can increase monthly costs by 15% to 30%, potentially pushing costs above $8,000 per month in Austin area communities.
How to Plan for Assisted Living Costs in Texas
Common financial strategies families use to fund assisted living in Texas include:
- Home sale proceeds (particularly valuable for families relocating from California or the Northeast)
- Long-term care insurance
- Veterans benefits (Aid and Attendance program)
- Retirement income and savings
- Bridge financing
Projecting 3 to 5 years of potential expenses provides a more realistic financial outlook, particularly when incorporating annual rate increases and possible care level transitions.
Who Texas Assisted Living May Be Best Suited For
Texas assisted living may appeal most to:
- Seniors with established community and family ties in Texas who wish to remain close to home
- Retirees drawn by Texas’s lack of state income tax and favorable overall tax environment
- Families relocating from California or the Northeast seeking meaningful cost savings
- Seniors comparing large Southeastern and South-Central retirement markets across Texas, Florida, and Tennessee
- Families evaluating Austin vs lower-cost Texas markets for long-term affordability
How to Compare Assisted Living Communities in Texas
Because pricing structures vary widely across Texas, families should request a detailed fee schedule from each community under consideration. Base monthly rates may not fully reflect higher care tiers, medication management, or memory care services.
When comparing communities, consider:
- What level of care is included in the base rate (Type A vs Type B licensing)
- How care levels are assessed and priced over time
- Whether annual rate increases are capped or discretionary
- Staffing ratios and caregiver training standards
- Proximity to hospitals and specialty healthcare providers
- Contract structure (month-to-month vs. long-term agreements)
In Austin and affluent Dallas suburbs, premium pricing does not always correlate directly with care quality. Some communities command elevated rates due to location and newer construction rather than materially different care delivery models.
Requesting a written breakdown of all potential fees helps families avoid unexpected cost escalations over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does assisted living cost per month in Texas?
Most assisted living communities in Texas range between $4,550 and $6,800 per month, with a statewide median near $5,666 per month based on the CareScout 2025 Cost of Care Survey.
Is Texas below the national average for assisted living?
Yes. Texas’s median of $5,666/mo falls roughly $534 below the national median of $6,200 — making Texas one of the more affordable large-state assisted living markets.
Is nursing home care cheaper than assisted living in Texas?
Unusually, yes — on a semi-private room basis. Texas’s nursing home semi-private room median of $5,627/mo (CareScout 2025) is slightly below the assisted living median of $5,666 — one of very few states where this occurs. Nursing home private room costs ($7,604/mo) are higher than assisted living. Families should evaluate actual care needs carefully when comparing options in Texas.
What is the most expensive city in Texas for assisted living?
Austin consistently reflects the highest assisted living pricing in the state, with communities frequently ranging between $5,700 and $7,700+ per month due to rapid population growth and labor market competition.
Are assisted living costs in Texas increasing each year?
Yes. Most communities implement annual rate increases between 3% and 7%. Austin area communities may experience increases at the higher end of this range due to ongoing population growth and labor cost pressures.
Can Medicaid help pay for assisted living in Texas?
Texas Medicaid may provide limited service-based assistance through STAR+PLUS HCBS, though room and board costs are generally not covered. Eligibility depends on income, assets, and demonstrated care needs. Families should confirm current program details with Texas HHS or a qualified elder law advisor.
Methodology
Pricing estimates are modeled using a range plus midpoint planning framework anchored to national industry data, including statewide median figures from the CareScout 2025 Cost of Care Survey (data collected July through November 2025, published March 2, 2026).
State comparisons reflect standardized median estimates used across SeniorCareCostGuide. Long-term projections are illustrative planning models based on consistent annual growth assumptions and are intended for planning purposes only.
For a detailed explanation of how pricing estimates are modeled, see our Assisted Living Cost Methodology.
Sources
- CareScout 2025 Cost of Care Survey
- State-level pricing estimates modeled using a standardized range and midpoint framework
- Local market observations based on publicly available senior living data and community-level pricing trends
Last reviewed: May 2026.