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), and 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. Living in Dallas is approximately 31% more expensive than Amarillo, while Austin is about 44% more expensive. Even Oklahoma City, known for its reasonable cost of living, 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.
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 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, is one of the most sought-after neighborhoods, featuring upscale homes with modern amenities, well-maintained streets, and a strong community atmosphere. Prices in The Colonies typically range from $350,000 to $800,000 for luxury homes with spacious lots.
Sleepy Hollow, an established prestigious neighborhood, is known for its large lots, mature trees, and custom-built homes. This area is particularly popular among physicians due to its proximity to medical facilities and its quiet, family-friendly atmosphere. Home prices in Sleepy Hollow generally range from $400,000 to over $1 million for the most elaborate estates.
The City View area, situated in the growing southwest portion of the city, offers newer construction with modern amenities and excellent schools. This neighborhood is particularly attractive to families with school-age children and features homes typically priced between $300,000 and $600,000.
For those seeking historic charm, the Plemons-Eakle Historic District offers beautifully preserved homes from the early 1900s, many with stunning architecture and unique character. These homes typically range from $200,000 to $500,000, depending on size and level of restoration.
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 with lower price points while still providing easy access to the city's medical facilities and amenities.
Resources for finding housing in Amarillo are readily available through several channels:
- Amarillo Association of Realtors (www.amarillorealtors.com)
- Local real estate agencies such as Keller Williams, Coldwell Banker, and RE/MAX
- Online platforms like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Trulia maintain extensive listings for the area
- Local property management companies like Rockrose Property Management and Caprock Realty for rental properties
Many local real estate agents specialize in physician relocation and understand the unique needs of medical professionals, including proximity to medical facilities and specific neighborhood amenities. These specialists can provide detailed information about school districts, commute times, and community features that may be particularly relevant to physicians and their families.
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.
