Midland, TXBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023
Standing as a beacon against the vast expanse of West Texas, Midland has a booming energy sector, a diverse cultural heritage and a thriving economy, where innovation meets tradition. From stunning sunsets to warm hospitality, Midland perfectly captures authentic Texas living.
Midland, TX, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America
You simply can’t miss the city skyline of Midland, TX, which sticks out against the flat, western prairie that seemingly goes on forever. Though the city is famous for striking oil in the 19th century, Midland has made moves to diversify its economy further into the aerospace, distribution and education sectors. Midland is also home to Midland College and the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Permian Basin Campus.
What makes Midland stand out as one of the best places to live in the U.S. is that even with all this economic success, it’s still largely an affordable place to live and buy a house. With a median housing value of about $280,000 (the median home price in the U.S. is nearly double), the dream of homeownership doesn’t seem completely unobtainable (especially if you are dreaming of owning a southwestern ranch-style house, of which there are plenty).
Midland is also located near several parks and recreational areas where residents can get out and explore. And, if you’re looking for culture, Midland’s got that, too. The Wagner Noel Performing Arts Center hosts a variety of concerts and shows. Plus, the city has several galleries and museums just waiting to be explored.
Midland, TX Quality of Life LivScore
Midland, TX Top Categories
Housing & Cost of Living
Environment
Transportation
Midland ranks highest for housing, environment and transportation.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Midland, TX
Long, hot Texas summers peak in Midland at about 96 degrees on average in July. But the good news is that the winters are short and mild and typically don’t dip below freezing too often. As a result, the average highs and lows are 96°F and 73°F (summer) and 63°F and 37°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Midland is less than 1 inch. While the city may experience occasional frost or freezing temperatures during the winter months, snowfall is extremely rare.
The average annual rainfall in Midland is 14 inches, with most rainfall occurring during the summer months.
Midland averages 266 sunny days a year.
Load up the kids and head to Dennis the Menace Park, which features a pretend village, a treehouse structure and a boat structure.
Midland Weather
266 days
Average Annual Sun
14 inches
Average Annual Rain
0.8 inches
Average Annual Snow
Things To Do in Midland, TX
Take your kiddos out to the ballgame to see the Midland RockHounds play. Or visit the Doug Russell Aquatic Center, which has slides, cabanas, splash pads and plenty of room to play Marco Polo.
Holiday cheer abounds year-round at Miss Cayce’s Wonderland, which is a seasonal home decor shop that’s gained quite a following in Midland and beyond.
Enjoy fine, fresh, creative dining at Opal’s Table. The restaurant pairs Texas mainstays with a clever twist. The tuna nachos are great for sharing with a group of friends.
Deemed Midland’s “original cocktail bar,” The Blue Door features an ever-changing menu of drinks and an all-seasons, dog-friendly patio.
The Local and State Economy in Midland, TX
Health care, education and transportation and logistics are major industries in Midland. Chevron Corporation, Concho Resources and Midland Independent School District are some of the largest employers in the area.
In 2023, the sales tax rate in Midland is 7%.
No, Texas does not have a state income tax.
Midland residents are in good health thanks to a variety of health care providers and hospitals, including Midland Memorial Hospital, Midland Health and Texas Tech Physicians of the Permian Basin. Midland Memorial Hospital has been nationally recognized for its high performance in stroke care.
Although there aren’t any major colleges or universities in Midland, the city is home to Midland College and several other smaller schools within driving distance.
Quick Facts About Midland, TX
- Median Household Income
- $83,871
- Median Home Value
- $281,679
- Average State Property Tax
- $3,520
- Total Population
- 132,139
- Median Rent/Mo.
- $1,085
- Average Commute
- 16.92 minutes
Midland is one of the best places to live in the U.S., performing especially well in the environment, housing and cost of living categories. Read more about why you should consider moving to Texas, plus a fun article about the foods you must try in Texas.
