Land sales across the US have been on the rise in recent years due to interest in rural living, investment diversification and sustainable development. In 2023 alone, over 2 million acres of rural land were sold in the US, with Texas leading the way for volume and dollar value.
Why Texas?
- No state income tax attracts businesses and individuals.
- Lower cost of living than coastal states.
- Cultural appeal with a mix of Western heritage, music and food.
- Good climate for farming, homesteading and solar.
- Landowner rights are some of the strongest in the country.
Recent Business and Land Sales
According to the Texas Real Estate Research Center:
- Over $3.2 billion in rural land sales in 2023.
- Over 7,500 land transactions in Texas alone.
- The average size of a land sale decreased slightly, indicating more interest in smaller tracts for personal use like homesteads, hobby farms or retreats.
What is it used for?
Texas land buyers are using the land for:
- Agriculture: Cattle ranching, hay production and crop farming.
- Recreation: Hunting, fishing and weekend retreats.
- Homesteading: Off-grid or minimalist rural living.
- Investment: Long term land banking or future resale.
- Eco-Projects: Solar farms, regenerative agriculture or conservation.
This trend is not just about economic optimism but a deeper desire for independence, sustainability and connection to nature.
Why Texas Land for Sale is in High Demand
Texas has become one of the most sought-after states for land buyers in recent years. With a booming population, pro-business environment, no state income tax, and vast geographic diversity, Texas offers unique opportunities for residential, agricultural, and investment purposes.
Key Stats:
- Texas has over 171 million acres of land.
- The state leads the U.S. in total farms and ranches—approximately 248,000 in 2023.
- According to the Texas Real Estate Research Center, the average price per acre rose over 9% in 2022, reaching $4,286 per acre statewide.
Whether you’re seeking open pastureland, wooded retreat acreage, or farmland with water rights, there’s something for everyone in Texas. For example, if you’re looking at Texas land for sale, consider properties with natural water sources, healthy soil, and plenty of trees. Buyers today aren’t just looking for space—they want land that supports eco-friendly living. Green homes, organic farming, and solar energy are just a few things that make land more valuable.
What Makes Land Sustainable in Texas?
Sustainable land isn’t just about having trees and dirt. It’s about supporting long-term ecological health while maintaining economic viability. In Texas, sustainable land often includes:
- Healthy Soil
- East Texas offers loamy soil ideal for farming.
- Central Texas has rich blackland prairie soils great for both grazing and crops.
- Water Access
- Look for land with ponds, creeks, or access to aquifers like the Edwards or Ogallala.
- Water rights are critical—check Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) records.
- Vegetative Cover
- Trees like oak, pecan, and cedar support biodiversity.
- Native grasslands help reduce erosion and regenerate naturally.
- Eco-Friendly Features
- Solar exposure, wind potential, and proximity to conservation corridors increase sustainability.
Investing in sustainable land not only helps the environment but may also increase long-term property value.
Top Places in Texas to Buy Eco-Friendly Land
Some regions in Texas are especially popular for sustainable land purchases:
- Texas Hill Country
- Known for rolling terrain and springs.
- Popular areas: Fredericksburg, Kerrville, and Dripping Springs.
- East Texas Piney Woods
- Rich in timber, water, and fertile soil.
- Ideal for homesteading and permaculture.
- West Texas Desert & Mountain Regions
- Great solar exposure, low humidity.
- Popular for off-grid living.
- Central Texas Blackland Prairie
- Excellent for regenerative farming and grazing.
Bonus Tip: Use Texas A&M AgriLife Extension maps to identify ecoregions and soil types.
How Much Does Texas Land Cost?
Prices vary significantly depending on location, size, and access. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Region | Average Price per Acre (2024) | Common Land Type |
| East Texas | $6,500 | Timberland, Farmland |
| Central Texas | $7,800 | Ranches, Residential |
| Texas Hill Country | $9,200 | Recreational, Scenic Views |
| West Texas | $1,500 | Raw, Off-grid Desert |
| South Texas Plains | $3,200 | Hunting, Agriculture |
Note: Prices are estimates and can vary based on amenities like road access, water rights, fencing, and improvements.
Buying Tips: What to Look for in Green Texas Land
When shopping for eco-friendly land in Texas, use this checklist:
✅ Water Availability
- Check for existing wells or rainwater harvesting potential.
- Verify water rights and conservation district rules.
✅ Soil Quality
- Request a soil test to verify fertility, drainage, and contaminants.
✅ Wildlife Habitat
- Look for natural vegetation and wildlife movement corridors.
✅ Renewable Energy Potential
- Southern-facing slopes for solar.
- Open fields for wind turbines.
✅ Zoning and Restrictions
- Rural land is often less restricted, but always check county regulations.
Bonus: Partner with a land planner or permaculture consultant to unlock your land’s full ecological and economic value.
Selling Sustainably: How to Market Your Texas Land
If you’re selling land, position it for today’s eco-conscious buyers.
- Highlight Sustainable Features
- Mention water sources, solar viability, and tree cover in your listing.
- Provide Documentation
- Soil reports, conservation easements, and energy assessments boost buyer confidence.
- Use Green Real Estate Agents
- Work with REALTORS who understand sustainable development and niche markets.
- Target the Right Buyers
- Market to organic farmers, homesteaders, or investors seeking land for conservation.
Government Incentives for Green Landowners in Texas
The state and federal governments offer programs that reward sustainable land stewardship:
Conservation Programs:
- Texas Parks and Wildlife: Wildlife Management Tax Valuation.
- USDA NRCS: Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).
Tax Incentives:
- Agricultural and wildlife exemptions can lower property taxes by up to 90%.
Grants & Cost Sharing:
- Solar, fencing, erosion control, and reforestation may qualify for financial support.
Visit the Texas Landowner Incentive Program (LIP) to see eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions about Texas Land for Sale
- Is it legal to live off-grid in Texas?
Yes. Texas has very few restrictions, especially in rural counties, making it ideal for off-grid living.
- Can I build a tiny home or container home?
Depends on county zoning, but many unincorporated areas allow it. Always check local codes.
- What’s the minimum acreage for a homestead exemption?
Texas doesn’t require a specific size—it’s based on use and residence. File with your county appraisal district.
- Are there financing options for raw land?
Yes! Look into Farm Credit, local banks, or owner-financing options.
- Can I get water and power in remote areas?
Yes, through wells, solar panels, wind power, and off-grid septic systems.
Final Thoughts: Investing in Texas Land is Investing in the Future
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, farmer, or investor, Texas land offers long-term value, natural beauty, and sustainable potential. Prioritize land that supports your goals—whether that’s eco-living, farming, or conservation. With thoughtful planning, your investment can grow in value and make a positive impact.
Explore your options, ask the right questions, and think long-term. Texas is more than land—it’s a lifestyle and a legacy.
