Key Takeaways:
- Texas is one of the best states to buy a home right now. No state income tax, fair home prices, and fast-growing cities make it a smart move for families and self-employed buyers alike.
- Self-employed buyers and freelancers can still get a mortgage without tax returns. Programs like self-employed loans no proof income use 12 to 24 months of bank statements to verify your income.
- Where you buy in Texas can directly affect how much help you get. Cities like McKinney offer up to $10,000 in homebuyer assistance. State programs like TSAHC and TDHCA cover down payment costs in multiple cities on this list.
Open skies, no state income tax, and some of the best cities in the country. Texas is not just a great place to live. It is one of the smartest places to buy a home right now. Texas added over 391,000 new residents in 2025 alone, the most of any state in the country. The state’s population has now crossed 31.7 million. Suburban counties are leading the charge, with Collin County growing 17.9% since 2020. Home prices here are still fair compared to states like California. We picked 6 top cities to buy right now, three are ideal for families. While, the other three are a strong fit for self-employed buyers and freelancers as well as best cities to buy a home in Texas. And if tax returns are a hurdle, self-employed loans no proof income let you qualify using bank statements instead.
Top 3 Texas Cities for Families Buying Their First Home
Texas has some of the most family-friendly cities in the country. Good schools, safe streets, and room to grow are easy to find here. These three cities check every box a family needs right now.
1. Katy, TX
Katy is one of the best family cities in Texas and is ranked among the top school districts in the state. Homes here are affordable and neighborhoods are safe. The city has great parks, restaurants, and retail areas. LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch is a popular family shopping and dining spot. While, Katy Mills Mall adds more options for weekend trips. Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital provides strong medical care nearby. It is a great place to raise a family and build roots.
First-time buyers in Katy may qualify for help from the Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation (TSAHC). TSAHC offers up to 5% of your loan amount as down payment help. The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) also runs the My First Texas Home program. It covers down payment and closing costs for eligible buyers.
Why Katy works for families:
- Top-rated schools in Katy ISD
- Safe, quiet neighborhoods
- Affordable home prices
- Great parks and outdoor spaces
- Strong shopping and dining options
2. McKinney, TX
McKinney has been ranked one of the best places to live in America by Money magazine. It has low crime and great schools. The city feels like a small town but has big-city ease. Downtown McKinney is full of local shops and restaurants. The Heard Natural Science Museum is a favorite for kids and families. McKinney National Airport also gives business owners easy travel access. Home values here stay strong over time.
The City of McKinney Homebuyer Assistance Program helps income-qualified buyers with down payment costs. Eligible buyers may receive up to $10,000 in help. TSAHC programs are also open to McKinney buyers.
Why McKinney works for families:
- Ranked best city to live in the US
- Great schools and very low crime
- Charming and walkable downtown
- Long-term home value growth
- Strong community feel
3. Lewisville, TX
Lewisville is one of the most affordable cities in the DFW area. You get more square footage for less money here, which makes it one of the best cities to buy a home in Texas. Schools are solid and the neighborhoods are family-friendly. Lewisville Lake is a big draw for outdoor lovers. It has boating, fishing, and trails. The city sits close to DFW Airport, which is great for working parents who travel. Lewisville is ideal for first-time buyers stretching their budget.
Buyers in Lewisville can check the TDHCA My First Texas Home program for down payment help. TSAHC Home Sweet Texas is another option for income-eligible buyers in this area.
Why Lewisville works for families:
- Most affordable entry point in DFW
- Great value for square footage
- Family-friendly neighborhoods
- Close to DFW Airport
- Good long-term investment potential
Top 3 Texas Cities for Self-Employed Buyers
Working for yourself does not mean buying a home is out of reach. Texas has cities built for people who hustle on their own terms. These three are the best spots to plant your roots and grow your business.
1. Plano, TX
Plano is a major business hub in Texas. Companies like Toyota, Liberty Mutual, and JPMorgan Chase have offices here. That means strong networking and contract opportunities for freelancers. The Legacy West area is packed with tech firms and co-working spaces. Home values in Plano are consistently strong. That makes buying here a smart investment for self-employed buyers. The city also has great restaurants, trails, and cultural events.
Eligible buyers in Plano can apply for help through TSAHC and TDHCA programs. These are state-level programs that do not require you to work for an employer.
Why Plano works for self-employed buyers:
- Home to major national companies
- Great networking and co-working options
- High home value retention
- Excellent lifestyle and dining scene
2. Frisco, TX
Frisco is one of the fastest-growing cities in the US. It has modern roads, fast internet, and top amenities. Remote workers and freelancers feel right at home here. The city has great cafes and co-working spaces. Stonebriar Centre Mall and Toyota Stadium are major attractions. Frisco also has top-rated schools, so it works for self-employed buyers with families too. The growth here means strong property values for years to come.
Eligible Frisco buyers can check Collin County housing assistance programs. TSAHC also covers this area under its Home Sweet Texas program.
Why Frisco works for self-employed buyers:
- One of the fastest-growing US cities
- Great for remote work and freelancing
- Business-friendly environment
- Near Dallas for client meetings
- Modern infrastructure and top schools
3. The Woodlands, TX
The Woodlands is a master-planned community near Houston. It has a strong local economy and a high quality of life. The area is home to many business parks and corporate offices. Town Center has top dining, retail, and event spaces. The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion is a famous music venue. Hughes Landing offers waterfront offices and mixed-use spaces. Self-employed buyers do very well here because the community is built for professionals.
Buyers in The Woodlands area can look into Montgomery County Community Development programs. TSAHC Home Sweet Texas also covers this area.
Why The Woodlands works for self-employed buyers:
- Master-planned community with great infrastructure
- Strong business and professional network
- High home value retention
- Excellent lifestyle and wellness amenities
- Close to Houston for meetings and growth
Your Local Texas Lender for the Right Home Loan
The right city is on this list and the right loan is already waiting for you. Whether you are a family ready to put down roots in Katy or a freelancer looking to invest in Frisco, we have a program built for you. Do not let paperwork or income questions slow you down when it comes to buying a home in one of the best cities to buy a home in Texas. We have helped thousands of buyers just like you get into their dream homes. Our team, who are well-versed in local Texas real estate, are with you at every step.
From your first question to closing day, we make the process smooth and stress-free. Take the first step right now by booking a free consultation session with our team today and let us do the heavy lifting for you. Your dream home in Texas is not just a dream anymore!
FAQs
- Can I buy a home in Frisco or Plano without W-2s or tax returns?
Yes. You can use 12 to 24 months of bank statements instead. Our no tax return mortgage program covers both cities. - Are there down payment grants for first-time buyers in Katy or McKinney?
Yes. State programs like TSAHC and TDHCA offer down payment help for eligible buyers in both cities. - I am a freelancer with inconsistent income. Can I still qualify for a home loan?
Yes. We look at your bank statements and full income picture. Consistent deposits matter more than a steady paycheck. - Is a 580 credit score enough to buy a home in Texas right now?
It can be. A 580 score may qualify you for an FHA loan with as little as 3.5% down. - How fast can I get approved if I find a home in The Woodlands or Lewisville?We can get your loan approved in as little as 14 days. Fast enough to keep up with Texas’s competitive market.
