Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, TX — one of the most famous roadside attractions along Route 66 — features a row of graffiti-covered Cadillacs buried nose down in the desert. Located in the Texas Panhandle and full of sunshiny days and endless amenities, it’s no surprise that Amarillo is one of the best places to live in the U.S.
Amarillo CVB

Amarillo, TXBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023

Amarillo captures the essence of the Lone Star State, from its rugged beauty to its warm Southern hospitality. With stunning sunsets and a thriving business district, the city uniquely blends Texas heritage and modern amenities.

Amarillo, TX, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America

You can breathe easy in Amarillo, TX, where the altitude, combined with a consistent breeze, gives way to some of the cleanest air in the country. Located in the Texas Panhandle and full of sunshiney days and endless amenities, it’s no surprise that Amarillo is one of the best places to live in the U.S. 

Outdoor-loving locals have access to Palo Duro Canyon State Park, which has the second-largest canyon in the United States, and arts and culture enthusiasts have plenty of museums to explore, including the admission-free Amarillo Museum of Art, which has a cool pop art exhibit, outdoor sculpture garden and more. And you betcha — there’s reason to brush off your cowboy boots (or buy a pair): The Amarillo Civic Center hosts the World Championship Ranch Rodeo.

Amarillo’s low cost of living and diversified economy also appeal to potential residents. Amarillo is an agricultural powerhouse with 14 million acres of farm and cropland. But industries like aerospace, biosciences and tech are also growing. 

Finally, the friendly community in Amarillo will make you feel right at home. The city embraces a strong sense of community spirit, provides support for local businesses and hosts a variety of community-focused events. 

Amarillo, TX Quality of Life LivScore

0 1000 1000 695

Amarillo, TX Top Categories

  • Housing & Cost of Living

  • Environment

  • Transportation

Amarillo ranks highest for housing, environment and transportation.

Weather and Outdoor Activities in Amarillo, TX

What is the weather like in Amarillo?

Summers are hot, and winters are cold, but the Texas Panhandle is windy. In case you were wondering, it does snow in Amarillo, and often in the spring. The average highs and lows are 90°F and 63°F (summer) and 52°F and 24°F (winter).

Does Amarillo get a lot of snow?

The average annual snowfall in Amarillo is 18 inches. Though it seems unexpected that a Texas city would receive that much, Amarillo’s snowiest months are December through February. 

Does Amarillo get a lot of rain? 

The average annual rainfall in Amarillo is 20 inches. 

How many sunny days does Amarillo get?

Amarillo averages 260 sunny days a year.

What are some things to do outside in Amarillo?

Go camping or glamping in Palo Duro Canyon State Park, considered the “Grand Canyon of Texas.” It has 30 miles of hiking and biking trails and outdoor musicals in the summertime.

Amarillo Weather

260 days

Average Annual Sun

20 inches

Average Annual Rain

18 inches

Average Annual Snow

Things To Do in Amarillo, TX

What makes Amarillo special?

In 1893, Amarillo’s population was listed as “between 500 and 600 humans and 50,000 head of cattle.” Today, Amarillo is home to more than 200,000 humans.

What are some free things to do in Amarillo?

Cadillac Ranch, one of the most famous roadside attractions along Route 66, is in Amarillo. Seeing the row of 10 graffiti-covered Cadillacs positioned nose-down in a field is free.

What are some fun things to do with kids in Amarillo?

Take classes focused on ladybugs, butterflies and more at the Amarillo Botanical Gardens or go roller skating at Skate Plex.

Where should you take a date in Amarillo? 

Movie nights are even better outdoors. Enjoy a double feature at Tascosa Drive-In Theater.

Lots of sunshine, a constant breeze and endless amenities make Amarillo, TX, one of the best places to live in the U.S.
Amarillo CVB
Lots of sunshine, a constant breeze and endless amenities make Amarillo, TX, one of the best places to live in the U.S.

The Local and State Economy in Amarillo, TX

What are the three largest industries in Amarillo?

Agriculture and livestock, energy and natural resources, and transportation and logistics are among the largest industries in Amarillo. The largest employers in the city are Amarillo Independent School District, Tyson Foods, Inc. and CNS Pantex. 

What is the sales tax rate in Amarillo?

In 2023, the sales tax rate in Amarillo is 8.25%. 

Does Texas have a state income tax?

No, Texas does not have a state income tax. 

Who are the major health care providers in Amarillo?

Some top hospitals in Amarillo include the Physicians Surgical Hospital-Quail Creek, Northwest Texas Health Care System-Amarillo and BSA Hospital. Northwest Texas health care System, BSA Health System and Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center also serve Amarillo residents. 

What colleges and universities are in Amarillo?

Although there aren’t any major colleges or universities in Amarillo, there are several higher education institutions within driving distance.

Quick Facts About Amarillo, TX

Median Household Income
$57,664
Amarillo CVB
Median Home Value
$166,592
Amarillo CVB
Average State Property Tax
$3,520
Amarillo CVB
Total Population
201,017
Amarillo CVB
Median Rent/Mo.
$729
Amarillo CVB
Average Commute
16.57 minutes
Amarillo CVB

Amarillo is one of the best places to live in the U.S., thanks to its robust local economy and diverse amenities. Read more about Amarillo and also check out a list of 8 reasons to move to Texas. Another good moving resource: The Ultimate Guide To Finding Your Best Place To Live.

Continue Reading Best Places To Live in the US in 2023

Newsletter Sign Up

Keep up to date with our latest rankings and articles!
Enter your email to be added to our mailing list.