Last Updated on: 25th July 2023, 12:50 am

Not only is Big Spring, Texas, the county seat of Howard County, but it’s also the largest city between Midland and Abilene. Living in Big Spring is desirable for many reasons, but the top of the list is its numerous nature trails, low cost of living, safe neighborhoods, and unique history. Big Spring, Texas, is a good place to live!

Also known as Spring City, the city has a rich history! Before it was a wonderful Texas city, it was the main trade route for the Comanche Indians; this route ran through Iowa, Wyoming, Idaho, and even as far as Mexico City. Established as the county seat in 1882, it remained the largest city in the county and is named after the large springs posited between the base of the Scenic Mountain on the southeast end. Like most Texas cities, you’ll find unique and interesting attributes that set it apart. Between its rich history and numerous family-friendly attractions, this wonderful city is awaiting your arrival.

Where is Big Spring Texas

Big Spring, TX, is located in Howard County, TX. The terrain is rocky and hilly due to limestone corrosion. Big Spring, TX is 290 miles from Dallas and 258 from Fort Worth and is boarded by smaller cities like Abilene, Lubbock, and San Angelo.

This city is beautiful, and while it’s located far away from any major city, it’s one of the largest, most developed cities in this area of Texas.

Map of Big Spring, TX

Big Spring Population and Demographics

The population of Big Spring is 26,144 and has decreased by 1,138 people since 2010. The median household income is $58,966, which is $9,055 below the US average.

Notable people from Big Spring:

Demographics:

  • Median age: 36.2 years
  • Gender demographics: 57% male, 43% female
  • Racial makeup: 50% Hispanic, 39% White, 7% Black, 3% two or more, 1% Asian
  • Foreign-born population: 12.9%
  • Educational attainment: 78.4% have high school diplomas, 11.9% have bachelor’s degrees

According to the FBI, Big Spring, TX, has a crime rate of 3,343 per 100k people, 24.2% higher than the state (2,691 per 100k people) and 42.5% higher than the country (2,346 per 100k people.)

Big Spring, Texas crime rate statistics, according to the FBI:

  • Big Spring violent crime rate: 498 per 100k people
  • Texas violent crime rate: 447 per 100k people
  • US violent crime rate: 388 per 100k people
  • Big Spring property crime rate: 2,845 per 100k people
  • Texas property crime rate: 2,245 per 100k people
  • US property crime rate: 1,958 per 100k people

While the overall crime rate is slightly higher than the state and national figures, that’s not to say there aren’t numerous safe areas to live in Big Spring. The higher crime rate can be blamed for a few problem areas!

The Big Spring Police Department has 38 officers dedicating their lives to the citizens.

Cost of Living in Big Spring

Big Spring has a very low COLI (Cost Of Living Index) of 74.6, 25.4% below the US average. The housing market is especially affordable, with a COLI of 41.2! According to the Economic Policy Institute, a family of four would only have to earn $73,321 to live in Howard County comfortably – expect similar figures for Big Spring.

Typical Big Spring living expenses:

  • 1 gallon of milk: $3.49
  • 1 loaf of white bread: $1.79
  • 1 pound of local cheese: $4.31
  • 1 regular cappuccino: $5.79
  • Average Big Spring utilities per month: $287

Source: Numbeo

The housing market in Redfin is a buyer’s market, and the prices are well below the national average. The home prices were down 70.5% compared to 2021. As of October 2021, the Big Spring median home price was $50,000. The average home price in Big Spring is $260,000, equivalent to $148 per square foot. Explore the numerous houses for sale in Big Spring TX

The rental market is just as affordable as the real estate market! According to RentCafe, the average rent in Big Spring is $1,163 for 1,001 square feet.

In addition to a reasonable cost of living, you’ll also find safe neighborhoods and plenty of job opportunities. If you’re looking for an affordable, unique Texas city, consider living in Big Spring, TX.

Big Spring Weather and Climate

The summer weather is clear, hot, and long, whereas the winter weather is short, cold, snowy, and windy! Its koppen classification of BSk is considered cold-semi-arid. During the warm months, the average temperature is 88 degrees, and the average temperature during the cold season is 65 degrees. The annual rainfall in Big Spring is 20 inches, and the annual snowfall is one inch.

One of the best times to visit is from early June to early September to partake in the warm-weather activities.

Things to Do in Big Spring

Looking for things to do in Big Spring, TX? Here is a list of the top attractions and activities in and near the city. First and foremost: let’s talk shopping! This is a great indoor activity, whether treating yourself or strictly browsing. Check out the best shopping centers: College Park Shopping Center and Spring Town Plaza.

Big Spring State Park 

Big Spring State Park is the main tourist attraction and what the city was named after! This 382-acre park has a 200-foot bluff and a 3-mile walking trail for your enjoyment. This is a great outdoor activity.

1 State Park Rd 8, Big Spring, TX 79720, (432) 263-4931

Aerial shot of Big Spring State Park

Hangar 25 Air Museum

Hanger 25 is a must-see for those history buffs. Hanger 25 uses entirely restored WWII hanger planes to educate individuals on the hangers, past wars, and veterans. This is a fantastic family-friendly activity or education project. 

1911 Apron Dr, Big Spring, TX 79720, (432) 264-1999

Comanche Trail Park

Complete with an amphitheater, fishing lake, golf course, walking trails, and playground, Comanche Trail Park is a must-do outdoor excursion with the kids.

100 Whipkey Dr, Big Spring, TX 79720, (432) 264-2323

Additional Attractions in Big Spring

Great city for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The beautiful parks are maintained by the hardworking Parks and Rec Department. Keep up with valuable information and upcoming events with their special events calendar.

Big Spring Restaurants

Not sure where to grub during your visit? Here are the best restaurants in Big Spring, TX!

Big John’s Feedlot by Brenda

It wouldn’t be Texas without BBQ! Big John’s FeedLot is a long-standing classic BBQ restaurant in Big Spring. Enjoy the relaxed ambiance and rustic feel amid a delicious pulled pork sandwich or brisket plate!

802 W 3rd St, Big Spring, TX 79720, (432) 264-7555

Cowboy’s Steakhouse & Restaurant

Cowboy’s is one of the most popular restaurants in Big Spring, and for a good reason too. They serve perfectly-cooked steaks paired with hearty side dishes. 

404 E Marcy Dr, Big Spring, TX 79720, (432) 263-0181

Wild West Wingz

Enjoy needs a reliable wing spot in their city! If you’re moving to Big Spring, give Wild West Wingz a try. Enjoy the full bar, sports, and delicious wings with over 30 different sauce options.

1506 E 4th St, Big Spring, TX 79720, (432) 517-4368

Jobs in Big Spring TX

There has been a 2.3% job market increase since 2022; the future job growth by 2033 is 27.7%. The unemployment rate is 8.3%. The main industries are oil and agriculture, but the city has since grown its diversity and has many job opportunities in the healthcare and education industries. According to PayScale, the average hourly wage in Big Spring is $18.07, equivalent to $67,000

Major employers of Big Spring, TX:

We understand how stressful job hunting can be! Here you can browse jobs in Big Spring, TX, and the Big Spring government job opportunities.

Big Spring Schools

Big Spring is a part of the Big Spring Independent School District

There are a few good schools in Big Spring:

The closest college to Big Spring is Howard Community College.

If you need a quiet place to catch up on studying, consider the Howard County Library in Big Spring.

Big Spring Statistics & Information

  • County: Howard County
  • Big Spring Area: 19.19 mi²
  • Big Spring Zip Code(s): 79720, 79721
  • Big Spring Area Code: 432
  • Big Spring Elevation: 2,441′
  • Big Spring Time Zone: Central Daylight Time (CDT)
  • Closest Airport to Big Spring: Midland International Air and Space Port (MAF) is 51 miles from Big Spring, Texas

Map of Big Spring

Explore more things to do, outdoor activities, and places to eat with this map of Big Spring!

From its low cost of living to safe neighborhoods, Big Spring is a wonderful place to live; many are happy to call this Texas city home. If you’re considering moving to Big Spring, you’ll need a reliable company to help get you to your new city! Brother Moving is a top-rated team of Big Spring movers ready to handle your relocation needs.