Cost of Living in Hudson, Texas
Hudson offers genuine affordability paired with one of the best-regarded school districts in the Lufkin area — a combination that has helped draw families. The overall cost of living runs below the national average, homes are notably inexpensive, and there's no state income tax, all just minutes from Lufkin's jobs and services.
Here's a realistic look at what it costs to live in Hudson.
Housing
Housing is where Hudson stands out. The median home value is about $171,700 (Census Bureau, 2020–24 American Community Survey) — well below the national median of $332,700 and a solid value by East Texas standards, especially for a community with such well-regarded schools. Housing costs overall run below the national average.
Hudson's growth means a healthy supply of newer construction alongside established homes, and the town has a higher share of renters than many small towns, giving newcomers flexible options. As across Texas, the trade-off for affordable home prices is property taxes, which buyers should factor into their budgets — though they help fund the schools the town is known for.
Everyday Costs
Beyond housing, Hudson's everyday expenses are reasonable. The overall cost of living runs below the national average, with housing the main driver of the savings. Groceries, services, and routine costs are typical for East Texas.
What makes the value work is the location: Hudson residents get suburban affordability while sitting right next to Lufkin's shopping, healthcare, and jobs. You don't pay a premium to live here, and you're never more than a few minutes from the county seat's conveniences.
Taxes and the Bottom Line
Texas has no state income tax, a meaningful advantage for working households and retirees. The state relies on property and sales taxes instead, so Hudson homeowners should plan for property taxes that, as a percentage, run higher than in many other states even with modest home values.
The overall picture: Hudson is one of the more affordable school-strong communities in East Texas. Below-average housing and everyday costs, no state income tax, and a location right on Lufkin's edge make it an excellent value — which is why it draws families.
FAQ: Cost of Living in Hudson
Yes. Hudson's overall cost of living runs below the national average, with housing below average. Texas also has no state income tax, making Hudson an affordable option — especially notable given its well-regarded schools.
The Census median home value in Hudson is about $171,700 — well below the national median and a strong value for a community with such well-regarded schools. The town's growth means a mix of newer construction and established homes.
Like the rest of Texas, Hudson has relatively high property taxes, the trade-off for the state having no income tax. Those taxes help fund Hudson ISD, the well-regarded district that draws many families to the community.
Hudson combines below-average housing and living costs and no state income tax with a well-regarded school district and a location right next to Lufkin's jobs and services. That mix of affordability and quality schools is a big part of its appeal.
East Texas guides
Region-wide guides that put Hudson in context — where to go, what things cost, and how people actually live here.
Cost of Living in East Texas
What it costs to live in East Texas, using Census figures: home values and rents in Tyler, Jacksonville and Athens compared with Texas and the big metros, plus taxes, utilities, healthcare and driving.
Read Guide →East Texas Real Estate Guide
East Texas real estate by the numbers: Census home values for Tyler, Athens and Jacksonville, drive times, property-tax basics and what buyers should check.
Read Guide →Moving to East Texas: What You Need to Know
Thinking about moving to East Texas? A fact-checked guide to healthcare, schools, getting around, weather, and daily life in Tyler, Jacksonville, and the towns around them.
Read Guide →Retiring in East Texas: Why Retirees Love It Here
Retiring in East Texas: Tyler's trauma-designated hospitals, Texas 65+ school-tax exemptions, lake towns like Gun Barrel City and Hideaway, and sourced drive times and weather.
Read Guide →Business Owner?
Want Your Business Featured in Hudson?
People are searching for businesses like yours in Hudson. Get listed in our city guide and local directory so they can find you.