Irving

Irving is a city in Texas that is just northwest of Dallas. It offers international students a mix of advantages and challenges.

Pros: The place is known for its cultural diversity, providing a welcoming environment for international students. It is home to universities like the University of Dallas and a campus of the University of Texas at Arlington, offering various programmes. Good public transportation options, including DART, make navigating the Dallas-Fort Worth area easier.

Cons: Severe weather, including thunderstorms, can be challenging for those unaccustomed to such climates. Public transportation outside major routes is limited, often making a car necessary for convenience.

San Antonio

San Antonio is approximately 80 miles (129 km) northeast of Texas. The cost of living is generally lower than the national average, which makes it an attractive option for students. Private rooms in shared apartments typically range from $500 to $700 per month.

Pros: Reputable institutions like the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) offer various academic programmes and resources tailored to students.

Cons: Adjusting the area can be uncomfortable because San Antonio has extremely hot summers, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C), accompanied by high humidity levels.

Wichita Falls

Wichita Falls is located in the northern part of the state. It takes approximately 140 miles (225 kilometres) by road to reach a major city like Dallas. A one-bedroom apartment typically costs about $769 per month.

Pros: The city offers programmes like the Housing Choice Voucher Program, which can assist low-income households in paying rent. This can be particularly beneficial for international students who may need financial support.

Cons: The public transportation system in Wichita Falls is not as developed as in larger cities, which may pose challenges for students without a car.

Beaumont

Beaumont is one of the cheapest places to live in Texas. Its median home price is only $145,200, and the average rent of a one-bedroom apartment is around $745 a month. The place is located on the southeastern coast of Texas and is only a 45-minute drive from the Gulf of Mexico.

Pros:

Beaumont offers great weather, is close to Houston and Austin, and has affordable rent. It is known for its friendly and welcoming residents, who help people settle in quickly and easily. The nearby San Bernardino National Forest offers hiking, camping and other recreational activities.

Cons:

The city has huge traffic, which may cause problems when commuting. Beaumont has limited public transportation options, which can be inconvenient for residents who rely on public transit. Moreover, it has a smaller healthcare infrastructure than larger cities, which may concern residents requiring specialised medical care.

Victoria

Victoria is a city in the South-eastern part of the state. One of the pros of living in Victoria is its affordability. The average cost of a one-bedroom apartment is about $835.

Pros:

With a safe and friendly neighbourhood, Victoria has plenty of parks and recreation options.

Cons:

Victoria has a humid subtropical climate, and it can get very humid in the summer months. Although some bus routes and taxi services are available, Victoria also lacks proper public transportation.