Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Palestine, TX
Considering a move to Palestine, TX? With a friendly population of 17,405, this East Texas city offers affordable living—median home prices around $136,000 and average rents of $870. Residents enjoy short 19-minute commutes, a mild climate with 64% sunny days, and local access to schools and healthcare. While property crime rates are above national averages, the area stands out for its low cost of living and community amenities. Explore the details below to see if Palestine is the right fit for your next home.
Demographics - Palestine, TX
Demographics - Palestine, TX
Palestine, TX is home to about 17,400 residents, with a median age of 36.6 and a balanced gender ratio. The city features a diverse community, where over half the population is White, nearly a quarter is Hispanic, and around 21% is Black, reflecting a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers. About 13% of residents speak a language other than English at home, adding to the city's cultural diversity.
Population:
17,405
Density:
815 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.6
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
12.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
52.1%
Black:
21.3%
Others:
2.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Palestine, TX?
Palestine offers an affordable lifestyle with a median home value of $136,000 and average rent around $870, making it attractive for families and individuals alike. The overall cost of living index is 78.6, well below the national average, and Texas has no state income tax, further enhancing affordability. Essential expenses like utilities and groceries remain budget-friendly, giving residents more value for their money.
Median House Value:
$136,000
Gross Rent:
$870
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,230
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,120
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$385
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.6
Grocery:
82.0
Housing:
64.3
Utilities:
95.1
Transportation:
93.2
Health Care:
97.0
Miscellaneous:
91.7
Crime
Is Palestine, TX a safe place to live?
While Palestine's property crime rate is higher than the national average, with a 1 in 35 chance, violent crime is less common at about 377 incidents per 100,000 residents. Residents should take standard precautions, but the community remains proactive in maintaining safety. Understanding these risks can help new arrivals make informed decisions about neighborhoods and security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
377
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,832
Crime Index:
3,209
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 265
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 35
Weather
What is the weather like in Palestine, TX year-round?
Palestine enjoys a mild climate with warm summers reaching up to 94°F and winters rarely dipping below 37°F. The city sees about 45.5 inches of rain annually and boasts 64% sunny days, making it ideal for outdoor activities year-round. Residents experience comfortable springs and falls, contributing to a pleasant and inviting atmosphere.
Winter
Min:
37°F
Max:
58°F
Spring
Min:
52°F
Max:
76°F
Summer
Min:
71°F
Max:
94°F
Fall
Min:
54°F
Max:
78°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
45.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
64%
Neighbors
Local households in Palestine have a median income of about $49,000, with a poverty rate of 20%. Most residents enjoy short commutes averaging under 19 minutes, and public transportation use is minimal. The area is characterized by a community focus, with over 81% of adults holding at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$34,600
Household Income:
$48,900
Family Income:
$56,200
Per Capita Income:
$22,800
Income Male:
$35,100
Income Female:
$29,400
Poverty Rate:
20.2%
Non English Speakers:
12.8%
Rent:
$870
Unemployment Rate:
5.3%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
18.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
81.4%
Bachelors or More:
14.9%
Education
How are the schools in Palestine, TX?
Palestine offers a range of educational opportunities, including well-rated public schools like Palestine High School with a student-teacher ratio of 13:1. The city is also home to private options and two college campuses, providing higher education without the need to relocate. This mix of educational resources supports families and lifelong learners alike.
Public Schools
Name:
Palestine High School
Street:
1600 S Loop 256
Phone:
903-731-8005
Students:
1,060
Student Teacher Ratio:
13:1
Name:
Southside Elementary School
Street:
1500 S Loop 256
Phone:
903-731-8008
Students:
610
Student Teacher Ratio:
15:1
Private Schools
Name:
St. Philip's Episcopal School
Street:
106 W Crawford St
Phone:
903-723-5997
Students:
120
Colleges
Name:
Trinity Valley Community College – Palestine Campus
City:
Palestine
State:
TX
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,100
Name:
The University of Texas at Tyler – Palestine Campus
City:
Palestine
State:
TX
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
250
Healthcare
Residents have convenient access to healthcare, anchored by the Palestine Regional Medical Center offering emergency and surgical services. With about 1.8 physicians per 1,000 people and 80.5% health insurance coverage, basic medical needs are well met. The healthcare index indicates solid care quality for a city of its size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Palestine Regional Medical Center
Address:
4000 S Loop 256, Palestine, TX 75801
Phone:
(903) 731-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
80.5%
Health Care Index:
65.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Palestine, TX?
The housing market in Palestine is affordable, with median home prices at $136,000 and average two-bedroom rents around $870. Over half of residents own their homes, and the market experiences steady appreciation, making it appealing for both buyers and renters. Vacancy and foreclosure rates remain low, supporting stable housing options.
Median Home Price:
$136,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$870
Owner Occupied Rate:
56.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.6%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Vehicle services in Palestine are managed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, with resources available online and at statewide locations. Residents benefit from accessible DMV services for licensing, registration, and title needs. The lack of state income tax also extends to vehicle-related expenses, contributing to overall affordability.
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.