Are you considering moving to Ector County, Texas? Nestled in the heart of the Permian Basin, this growing West Texas region is gaining attention for its booming economy, sunny weather, and affordable lifestyle. Anchored by Odessa—the county seat and its commercial powerhouse—Ector County attracts newcomers for its strong job market, welcoming communities, and expansive desert landscapes. In this detailed guide, we explore what living in Odessa, Texas and greater Ector County entails, from housing and employment to schools and recreation. Whether you’re relocating for work, family, or a fresh start, this blog will help you navigate your move with confidence.
Where Is Ector County and Why Move Here?
Ector County lies in West Texas, spreading across 902 square miles at nearly 2,900 feet in elevation. It’s home to Odessa, Goldsmith, and communities like Gardendale and West Odessa. The county’s population has surged by more than 25% since 2010, currently estimated at 171,400 in 2025—and continues to grow at roughly 2% per year. This rapid growth is driven by a flourishing economy anchored in the energy sector and supported by strong infrastructure and public services.
Big Sky Beauty and Unique Climate
One of the distinctive features of living in Odessa, Texas is the wide-open West Texas sky. With 256 sunny days per year, low humidity, and only 14–15 inches of annual rainfall, the climate fosters an enviable outdoor lifestyle. Summers can be hot—mid-90s °F, occasionally topping 100—but winters are mild, with crisp mornings dropping to the 30s. These conditions afford residents an eight-month patio season and nightly cotton-candy sunsets that turn the flat landscape into something magical.
Affordable Housing in West Texas
Compared to other regions of Texas, affordable housing in West Texas—especially in Ector County—is a major draw for new residents. Here’s what you can expect:
- Median Asking Price (April 2025): $293,000 county-wide
- West Odessa: Older ranch-style homes for under $230,000
- Gardendale: One-acre tracts starting around $80,000
Renters also benefit from reasonable prices, with one-bedroom apartments averaging $1,150 and two-bedroom units in the high $1,500s. Overall, the cost of living in Ector County is about 7% below the national average and 2% lower than the Texas state average.
Property Taxes and Utility Costs
The county’s 2024 no-new-revenue property-tax rate is $0.353 per $100 valuation. After hospital, college, and school levies, most homeowners hover near a mid-1% effective tax rate. The maximum sales tax rate is capped at 8.25%, consistent with Texas state law.
Utility costs are manageable and reliable. Electricity is deregulated, allowing residents to shop for their best fixed-rate plans. Water is supplied by different entities depending on location, including the City of Odessa and the Ector County Utility District.
Economic Opportunities in Ector County
One of the biggest reasons people are relocating to the Permian Basin is economic opportunity. The local economy revolves around oil, gas, and logistics, but there’s also a growing demand in healthcare, education, and technology sectors.
Employment Stats and Opportunities
- Upstream oil and gas jobs: 1,900 added statewide in early 2025—many in Midland-Odessa
- County unemployment rate: 3.1% as of April 2025
- Median household income: Over $71,000, bolstered by high petroleum sector wages
Jobseekers with skills in welding, CDL driving, healthcare tech, and software engineering will find above-average wages and strong demand in this region.
Education: From Kindergarten to College
Families concerned about schooling will be pleased to know that Ector County ISD is making strides. The district was named K-12 Dive’s 2024 “District of the Year” due to major improvements in both academic performance and teacher retention. This commitment to education enhances long-term community prosperity and family appeal.
Higher Education in Ector County
- University of Texas Permian Basin (UTPB): Serving nearly 7,500 students
- Odessa College: Offers open-enrollment trade and nursing programs
These institutions provide affordable pathways into thriving local industries, supporting both young adults and adult learners.
Healthcare Access and Quality
Access to quality healthcare is a priority for families and retirees alike. Ector County is home to two full-service hospitals and multiple urgent-care options that serve both urban and rural patient populations.
- Medical Center Hospital: 402 beds and Level II trauma services
- Odessa Regional Medical Center: 211-bed facility specializing in maternity and cardiac care
- Texas Tech Health Sciences Center: Offers cutting-edge research and care
With excellent service coverage, Ector County supports a health-focused lifestyle.
Transportation: Getting Around Ector County
Modern infrastructure makes commuting and travel convenient. Here’s how:
- Highways: I-20 and US-385 cross east-west and north-south in Odessa
- State Highway 191: Connects Odessa to Midland in under 25 minutes
- Average commute time: 26 minutes one-way
For air travel, the Midland International Air & Space Port—18 miles east—recently set an outbound passenger record and now hosts four major carriers, including Delta.
Things to Do in and Around Ector County
Weekends in Ector County hold a variety of recreational and cultural activities. Here are some top choices:
- Monahans Sandhills State Park: Surf massive dunes just 31 miles west
- Odessa Meteor Crater: Explore a 550-foot-wide impact site
- UTPB Stonehenge Replica: Walk among limestone trilithons
- Midland RockHounds Baseball: Catch a game at Momentum Bank Ballpark
- Ellen Noël Art Museum: Celebrating 40 years with rotating exhibits
- Odessa Farmers Market: A weekend staple year-round
Internet and Utilities
Modern life demands high-speed connectivity and reliable utilities. Ector County delivers on both fronts:
- Electricity: Provided by Oncor, within a deregulated market
- Internet: 98% coverage from Resound Networks; AT&T Fiber offering multi-gig plans
- Water: Multiple providers including municipal and rural systems
These utilities keep both urban lofts and rural ranches functioning seamlessly for families, professionals, and businesses alike.
Best Neighborhoods in Ector County
If you’re searching for the best neighborhoods in Ector County, consider the following options based on lifestyle needs:
- Gardendale: Ideal for spacious rural living and affordability
- West Odessa: Offers value-driven homes and a quieter pace
- East Odessa: Gaining popularity for new builds and proximity to services
- Downtown Odessa: A mix of history, walkability, and emerging cultural life
Getting Help With Your Move
If you’re ready to act on your plan to start living in Odessa, Texas, consider hiring a mover who understands the intricacies of this region. Brothers Moving and Storage offers local expertise, full-service packing, climate-controlled storage, and custom crating. Whether you’re relocating a compact studio or a 5,000-square-foot ranch estate, they’ll ensure your transition into West Texas life is smooth and efficient.
Conclusion
Moving to Ector County, Texas offers a compelling blend of economic opportunity, low living costs, and natural beauty. With reliable public services, strong schools, and a resilient job market—anchored in energy, logistics, and healthcare—the region appeals to families, professionals, and retirees alike. From affordable housing in West Texas to rich cultural highlights and friendly neighborhoods, Ector County invites newcomers to build a fulfilling life under the wide-open skies of the Permian Basin. If you’re planning to make the leap, now is the time to explore all that this thriving corner of Texas has to offer.
