Cost Of Living & Real Estate

Cost of Living: Budgeting and Expenses in Our Community

Cost of Living Advantage

Amarillo stands out as one of Texas's most affordable cities, offering an exceptional quality of life at a remarkably reasonable cost. According to Sperling's Best Places, Amarillo's overall cost of living index is 79.9, significantly lower than the U.S. national average of 100, making it an especially attractive option for physicians looking to maximize their earning potential.

The housing market in Amarillo is particularly favorable, with a housing cost index of just 61.5 compared to the national average of 100. This dramatic difference becomes even more apparent when compared to nearby major cities:

  • Dallas (housing index: 116.7)
  • Austin (housing index: 134.3)
  • Oklahoma City (housing index: 89.4)

This means physicians relocating to Amarillo can expect to get substantially more house for their money compared to these metropolitan areas.

The overall cost of living comparison with nearby major cities further highlights Amarillo's affordability:

  • Dallas is approximately 31% more expensive than Amarillo
  • Austin is about 44% more expensive
  • Oklahoma City is still about 12% more expensive than Amarillo

Texas's favorable tax structure adds to Amarillo's financial appeal. The state has no personal income tax, providing a significant advantage for high-earning professionals like physicians. Property taxes in Amarillo are assessed at a rate of approximately 2.1%, which, while not the lowest in Texas, is offset by the significantly lower property values. The city and county also offer various exemptions and programs that can help reduce the property tax burden.

For physicians considering relocation, Amarillo's cost structure presents a compelling opportunity. The combination of high professional salaries and low living costs creates excellent potential for wealth building and a comfortable lifestyle. A physician's salary in Amarillo goes considerably further than in larger metropolitan areas, allowing for more substantial investments in retirement, children's education, or lifestyle preferences. The lower cost of living also means that physicians can afford larger homes, often in premium neighborhoods, while maintaining more disposable income for savings, investments, or leisure activities.

Finding Your Place: Homes and Properties

Real Estate & Housing in Amarillo

Amarillo's real estate market offers physicians and their families an impressive range of housing options, from historic homes to modern new construction, with remarkable value compared to other Texas cities. The median home price in Amarillo hovers around $200,000, significantly below the national average, allowing physicians to secure luxurious homes at a fraction of the cost found in larger metropolitan areas.

The city's most desirable neighborhoods offer distinct characteristics to suit various preferences:

  • The Colonies – Located in southwest Amarillo, this is one of the most sought-after neighborhoods, featuring upscale homes with modern amenities and a strong community atmosphere. Prices typically range from $350,000 to $800,000.
  • Sleepy Hollow – Known for large lots, mature trees, and custom-built homes, this neighborhood is popular with physicians for its proximity to medical facilities and family-friendly atmosphere. Homes range from $400,000 to over $1 million.
  • City View – Situated in the growing southwest, City View offers newer construction with excellent schools and family appeal. Prices range from $300,000 to $600,000.
  • Plemons-Eakle Historic District – For those seeking historic charm, this area features preserved homes with stunning architecture from the early 1900s. Homes typically range from $200,000 to $500,000.

The rental market in Amarillo is equally attractive, with luxury apartments and rental homes available at competitive rates. High-end apartments typically range from $1,000 to $2,000 per month, while rental homes in desirable neighborhoods generally range from $1,500 to $3,000 monthly.

For those seeking more affordable options while maintaining proximity to Amarillo's amenities, nearby communities such as Canyon (15 minutes south) and Bushland (15 minutes west) offer additional housing options at lower price points with easy access to medical facilities and city conveniences.

Resources for finding housing in Amarillo include:

  • Amarillo Association of Realtorswww.amarillorealtors.com
  • Local real estate agencies – Keller Williams, Coldwell Banker, RE/MAX
  • Online platforms – Zillow, Realtor.com, Trulia
  • Local property management companies – Rockrose Property Management, Caprock Realty

Many local real estate agents specialize in physician relocation and understand the unique needs of medical professionals, including proximity to medical campuses, school district quality, and neighborhood amenities. These specialists can assist in finding the ideal home to meet both professional and personal lifestyle preferences.

$325,000

4 bd2 ba2,079 sqft

7303 City View Dr
amarillo, TX 79118

$569,000

4 bd2 ba2,337 sqft

14950 Hold Your Hand Dr
amarillo, TX 79119

$729,400

12971 Humble Springs Dr, Amarillo, TX 79119

Safety First: Our Secure Community

Public Safety & Neighborhood Security

Amarillo's commitment to public safety is evident through its well-staffed police department and strategic approach to community protection. The Amarillo Police Department employs over 370 sworn officers and maintains several neighborhood-focused programs designed to enhance community safety and engagement.

The city's safest neighborhoods are predominantly located in the southwest and west areas of Amarillo. The Colonies, City View, and Sleepy Hollow consistently rank among the safest neighborhoods, making them particularly attractive to medical professionals and their families. These areas benefit from active neighborhood watch programs, regular police patrols, and strong community involvement in safety initiatives.

Southwest Amarillo, where many medical facilities are located, maintains lower crime rates compared to the city average. This area includes newer developments with modern security features and well-lit streets. The medical district itself benefits from enhanced security measures, including dedicated hospital police forces and surveillance systems.

The Wolflin neighborhood and nearby Plemons-Eakle Historic District also maintain strong safety records, attributed to their close-knit community atmosphere and active neighborhood associations. These established areas feature well-maintained properties and streets, contributing to their overall security.

Compared to larger Texas metropolitan areas like Dallas, Houston, or San Antonio, Amarillo offers several safety advantages. The city's smaller size allows for faster emergency response times, and the police department's community-oriented policing approach has fostered strong relationships between law enforcement and residents. The department's neighborhood liaison program assigns specific officers to different areas of the city, allowing them to become familiar with local residents and their concerns.

The Amarillo Police Department operates several programs to enhance community safety, including:

  • Neighborhood Watch Programs
  • Citizens Police Academy
  • Business Watch Programs
  • Crime Free Multi-Housing Program
  • School Resource Officer Program

Additionally, many of Amarillo's medical professionals choose to live in gated communities or subdivisions with additional security measures, providing an extra layer of safety and peace of mind for residents and their families.

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