Amarillo, TX


31 Reviews



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Amarillo, TX

About Amarillo, TX

Amarillo, Texas is a vibrant city full of attractions for everyone. Nature lovers can explore Palo Duro Canyon or take a stroll through one of the city's many parks. History buffs should check out sites like The Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum to learn more about Amarillo's past. Sports fans can catch a game at the Amarillo Civic Center, while foodies can sample all kinds of delicious eats throughout town. Shopping lovers should head to Westgate Mall or La Paloma Plaza for great deals on all kinds of items. With its friendly people and diverse activities, Amarillo is the perfect place to visit! Moderate-size metro area set in the plains and high desert of Texas. Primary industries include manufacturing and agriculture. - Located in north Texas, 120 miles south of Dalhart and 180 miles north of Lubbock..

Location Details

State: Texas
County: Potter County
Metro Area: Amarillo Metro Area
City: Amarillo
Zip Codes: 79109, 79107, 79106, 79118, 79110, 79108, 79119, 79103, 79102, 79124, 14 total
Cost of Living: -26.4% lower
Time zone: Central Standard Time (CST)
Elevation: 3668 ft above sea level
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Dig Deeper on Amarillo

Amarillo, TX, located in the heart of the Texas Panhandle, has a long history that begins as a railroad town in the late 19th century. It quickly became an important center for the cattle industry, earning it the nickname "Helium Capital of the World" due to its significant role in the early helium fields. Amarillo is also known for its strong agricultural roots, particularly in wheat farming and cattle ranching.

The geography of Amarillo is marked by its placement on the flat plains of the High Plains region of the Great Plains, which means the landscape around the city is mostly flat with wide-open spaces. This geographical setting contributes to Amarillo's semi-arid climate, characterized by hot summers, cold winters, and relatively low precipitation throughout the year. The city's location also makes it prone to windstorms and, occasionally, tornadoes.

The economy in Amarillo is diverse, with a strong base in agriculture, energy, healthcare, and manufacturing. Key industries include cattle ranching, meatpacking, oil and gas production, and wind power. The presence of major employers like Tyson Foods, Bell Helicopter, and Pantex Plant, the nation's primary nuclear weapons assembly and disassembly facility, stabilizes the job market. Despite its growth, Amarillo maintains a relatively low cost of living compared to other parts of Texas and the United States.

Politically, Amarillo and the surrounding area have historically leaned conservative, with a majority of residents supporting Republican candidates in local, state, and national elections. This reflects the traditional values and conservative outlook of the community.

Life in Amarillo offers a blend of small-town feel with some big-city amenities. Residents enjoy a variety of activities, from outdoor adventures in the nearby Palo Duro Canyon State Park, one of the nation's largest canyons, to cultural experiences at museums, galleries, and theaters. The city is also famous for the Cadillac Ranch, an iconic public art installation featuring a row of half-buried Cadillacs.

New residents should be prepared for the weather, which can include hot, dry summers and chilly winters. The community is welcoming, with a strong sense of pride in their city and its history. Amarillo's strategic location along major highways makes it a key transportation hub, though it also means residents should be ready for occasional traffic. Despite its challenges, including dealing with windstorms and the need for water conservation due to the semi-arid climate, Amarillo offers a comfortable lifestyle with a strong sense of community and affordable living options.

In summary, Amarillo, TX, is a city with a rich history in agriculture and energy, set in a unique geographical location on the High Plains. Its economy is stable, supported by diverse industries, and the cost of living is low. The political landscape is conservative, and there are plenty of activities for residents to enjoy, from exploring natural wonders to engaging in cultural events. New residents will find a warm, welcoming community ready to embrace them.

Amarillo Cost of Living
$$$$

Affordable home prices, moderate growth, and excel health resources make Amarillo a great place to live.

$188,500
-79.4% lower than avg
$55,174
-25.1% lower than avg
$1,020 /mo
Monthly rent (2br)
-40.2% lower than avg
Amarillo Crime
63.2 / 100
Crime is ranked on a scale of 1 (low) to 100 (high). US average: 35.4
Minimum annual income
To live comfortably in Amarillo, Texas
$36,000
for a family
$32,800
for a single person
Pros & Cons of Amarillo
   Affordable home prices
Summer heat
   Moderate growth
Tornados, hail, winter storms, freezing
   Excel health resources
High sales tax (but no income tax)
Reviews for Amarillo
    See all (31)

I was originally from here, left for a number of years, and ended up back for a short time due to life circumstances. I have really tried to make the most of my time  More

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Over 5 years ago

I moved to Amarillo when I was five and left at 34, the best thing I ever did. Sadly, I came back to help care for my aging grandmother, and as soon as I can, i am  More

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Over 5 years ago

Amarillo is not a good place to live. For me it was like living in Hell. I lived there for 50 years. I graduated Canyon High. raised two kids. went through a divorce  More

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