Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Hale Center, TX
Considering a move to Hale Center, TX? With a small-town population of just over 2,000, this city offers affordable living—median home prices are only $78,100 and average rents around $710. Residents enjoy short 18-minute commutes, abundant sunshine (73% sunny days), and a laid-back rural vibe. While crime rates are slightly above national averages, the cost of living is low, and schools provide small class sizes. If you value affordability and friendly West Texas community life, Hale Center could be a great fit.
Demographics - Hale Center, TX
Demographics - Hale Center, TX
Hale Center is a close-knit community of just over 2,000 residents, with a median age of 36.4 and a balanced gender ratio. The city displays rich cultural diversity, as nearly half the population identifies as Hispanic or from other minority groups, and about 27% are non-English speakers. Residents enjoy a moderate population density, offering a small-town feel with a welcoming atmosphere.
Population:
2,004
Density:
1,350 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.4
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
27.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
50.1%
Black:
3.2%
Asian:
0.4%
Others:
46.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Hale Center, TX?
Living in Hale Center is highly affordable, with a median home value of $78,100 and average rents at $710, well below national averages. Utility costs and everyday expenses are also low, and Texas state taxes are minimal, making it a budget-friendly choice for families and retirees. The overall cost of living index of 78.9 reflects significant savings compared to most U.S. cities.
Median House Value:
$78,100
Gross Rent:
$710
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$135
Auto Insurance:
$1,240
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$940
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$355
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.9
Grocery:
92.0
Housing:
54.0
Utilities:
98.1
Transportation:
88.5
Health Care:
96.7
Miscellaneous:
83.2
Crime
Is Hale Center, TX a safe place to live?
Crime in Hale Center is slightly above the national average, with a property crime rate of 1,750 per 100,000 residents and a violent crime rate of 225 per 100,000. Residents face a 1 in 445 chance of experiencing violent crime and a 1 in 57 chance for property crime. While these rates warrant reasonable caution, the community remains generally safe and welcoming.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
225
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,750
Crime Index:
1,975
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 445
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 57
Weather
What is the weather like in Hale Center, TX year-round?
Hale Center enjoys a sunny climate, boasting 73% sunny days each year and an average annual rainfall of 19.2 inches. Winters are cool but not harsh, with lows around 26°F, while summers bring warm highs near 93°F. The city’s weather supports a comfortable, outdoor-friendly lifestyle year-round.

Winter
Min:
26°F
Max:
54°F

Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
76°F

Summer
Min:
64°F
Max:
93°F

Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
78°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
19.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
73%
Neighbors
Households in Hale Center have a median income of $42,000 and a family income of $52,500, with a poverty rate of 18.2%. Most residents commute just under 18 minutes to work, and public transportation usage is low, reflecting the city’s rural character. The community is predominantly owner-occupied, with affordable rents and a modest unemployment rate.
Median Income:
$42,000
Household Income:
$48,300
Family Income:
$52,500
Per Capita Income:
$22,100
Income Male:
$36,700
Income Female:
$29,400
Poverty Rate:
18.2%
Non English Speakers:
27.5%
Rent:
$710
Unemployment Rate:
4.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.4%
Commute Time:
17.6 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
78.5%
Bachelors or More:
13.0%
Education
How are the schools in Hale Center, TX?
Hale Center provides quality public education, with small class sizes at local schools such as Hale Center High School and Akin Elementary. While there are no private schools in town, families benefit from proximity to higher education options like Wayland Baptist University just 15 miles away. The majority of adults have completed high school, though rates of higher education are lower than national averages.

Public Schools
Name:
Hale Center High School
Street:
101 W Cleveland Ave
Phone:
806-839-2471
Students:
210
Student Teacher Ratio:
9.8
Name:
Akin Elementary School
Street:
300 W 7th St
Phone:
806-839-2451
Students:
260
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.3

Colleges
Name:
Wayland Baptist University
City:
Plainview
State:
TX
Distance:
15 miles
Students:
3,700
Name:
South Plains College
City:
Levelland
State:
TX
Distance:
49 miles
Students:
9,600
Healthcare
Hale Center residents have convenient access to local healthcare through the Hale Center Family Care Clinic, while more comprehensive and emergency services are available nearby at Plainview Hospital. With 1.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 82% having health insurance, most basic and urgent health needs are met locally. The healthcare index of 69.8 indicates satisfactory but not extensive medical resources.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Hale Center Family Care Clinic
Address:
315 W Cleveland Ave, Hale Center, TX 79041
Phone:
(806) 839-2639
Type:
General Practice
Emergency Services:
No
Name:
Plainview Hospital (Covenant Health)
Address:
2601 Dimmitt Rd, Plainview, TX 79072
Phone:
(806) 296-5531
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
82.3%
Health Care Index:
69.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Hale Center, TX?
The housing market in Hale Center is notably affordable, with a median home price of $78,100 and average two-bedroom rents at $710. About 69% of homes are owner-occupied, and vacancy rates remain moderate, making it accessible for both buyers and renters. Modest appreciation and low foreclosure rates suggest a stable and steady real estate environment.
Median Home Price:
$78,100
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$710
Owner Occupied Rate:
68.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing in Hale Center are managed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. Residents can access DMV services online, by phone, or at the main office in Austin. Texas offers straightforward vehicle services with helpful resources for new residents.
State:
Texas
Department:
Texas Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
4000 Jackson Ave, Austin, TX 78731
Phone:
1-888-368-4689
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.