News Summary
Round Rock, Texas has been recognized as the 10th Most Affordable and Fastest-Growing City in the U.S. according to GoBankingRates.com. The city’s significant population growth of 3.4% over the last five years and competitive housing costs, with an average home value of $433,767, contribute to its appeal. With a median household income of $97,187, Round Rock stands out amongst Texas cities, offering a promising environment for new residents in search of affordable living options.
Round Rock Named 10th Most Affordable and Fastest-Growing City in the U.S.
Round Rock, Texas, has been recognized as the 10th Most Affordable and Fastest-Growing City on GoBankingRates.com’s latest list. This recognition highlights the city’s significant population growth and relatively low housing costs when compared to its median household income.
The ranking puts Round Rock in a competitive position within Texas, a state that dominates the national list with a total of 12 cities appearing in the top 50. Other notable mentions from Texas include Frisco, which took the top spot, and McKinney at 2nd, Allen at 5th, Lewisville at 8th, and League City at 7th.
Population Growth and Housing Affordability
According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community surveys, Round Rock’s population experienced a growth rate of 3.4% over the past five years. The city currently boasts a median household income of $97,187, which contributes to the affordability of housing.
Round Rock’s average home value is $433,767, which is significantly below that of nearby Austin, where the average home value stands at $543,000. The total annual cost of living for homeowners in Round Rock is calculated at $52,364. For renters, the annual cost of living is substantially lower at $42,390.
Comparative Growth Rates
Round Rock is not alone in its growth trajectory. Austin, which is located in close proximity, reported a similar 3.4% increase in population. However, its median household income is lower at $91,461, making Round Rock a more affordable option for its residents.
Other Texas cities also noted for their growth include Pearland at 11th, Denton at 19th, and Fort Worth at 26th. This reinforces Texas’s appeal as a growing and affordable state for newcomers.
New Construction Trends in Texas
Austin ranks 9th in the nation for new home construction, with 3,889 building permits issued in January and February of 2025. Houston and Dallas have higher rankings in this category, with Houston leading the charge by issuing over 11,000 new permits in the same time frame. This influx suggests a robust ongoing demand for housing across the state.
Interestingly, the median rent price in Austin has decreased by 3.5%, offering a slight relief in housing costs. Meanwhile, Houston’s lack of zoning laws has facilitated easier development and higher housing density, further contributing to its construction surge.
Methodology of the Study
The study’s criteria included U.S. cities with populations exceeding 100,000, where both one-year and five-year population growth rates surpassed the national averages. Additionally, it considered affordability relative to the median household income, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of housing access in relation to population growth.
As a result, Round Rock’s ranking doesn’t just reflect a statistical accolade. It highlights a broader trend in Texas, where the combination of strong economic performance, favorable living conditions, and an influx of new residents creates an attractive environment for both families and individuals seeking affordable homes.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- CultureMap Austin
- Wikipedia: Round Rock, Texas
- AOL
- Google Search: fastest growing cities 2025
- CultureMap Houston
- Google Scholar: population growth in Texas
- Southern Living
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Round Rock Texas
- Site Selection
- Google News: League City
