Why Should Young Professionals Move to Amarillo?
Amarillo offers the perfect blend of career opportunities, affordable living, and vibrant community life, making it an increasingly popular choice for young professionals across Texas and beyond.
A Growing City with Big Opportunity
Amarillo is quickly becoming one of the fastest-growing cities in Texas, and young professionals are taking notice. Ranked the #1 midsize city for projected growth in 2025 by USA Today, Amarillo is actively investing in the people who will shape its future.
Whether you’re launching a career, starting a business, or looking for a place to plant roots, Amarillo offers a strong foundation of lifestyle perks, economic development, and professional growth.
Affordable Living Without Compromise
One of the top reasons young professionals are relocating to Amarillo is the cost of living. Compared to major metros like Dallas or Austin, Amarillo offers far more value. In fact, the cost of living in Amarillo is 17% lower than the national average (Payscale, Cost of Living in Amarillo, Texas). That means lower rent, lower utility bills, and more room in your budget to save, travel, or invest.
Combine that with accessible Amarillo real estate, short commute times, and a welcoming housing market, and you’ve got a city where young professionals can truly thrive.
Career Opportunities in Growing Industries
Amarillo is home to a diverse and growing economy. Key Amarillo industries such as manufacturing, energy, healthcare, logistics, and food processing offer promising career paths for professionals in every field. The Amarillo Economic Development Corporation continues to attract new businesses and support startups, ensuring a healthy pipeline of career opportunities in Amarillo.
Additionally, Amarillo’s central location, strong transportation infrastructure, and access to affordable commercial space make it an ideal place for young entrepreneurs to launch and scale their own ventures.
Education and Upskilling
For those looking to continue their education or gain new skills, Amarillo is home to excellent institutions like West Texas A&M University, Amarillo College, and technical trade schools offering programs in nursing, machining, engineering, and more.
With a strong focus on workforce development, including career and technical education (CTE) initiatives supported by AEDC, Amarillo is actively preparing its young residents for success in the modern economy.
A Vibrant Lifestyle, Indoors and Out
Beyond the practical reasons to move to Amarillo, it’s also just an enjoyable place to live. From local breweries and art galleries to live music venues and breathtaking sunsets, the city has a thriving culture that welcomes creativity and connection.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park, just a short drive south of downtown Amarillo, offers hiking, biking, and camping for outdoor enthusiasts. Meanwhile, downtown Amarillo is full of events, food trucks, and nightlife that make it easy to build community and unwind after work.
Arts in the Sunset, Amarillo’s premier fine arts complex, hosts galleries, studios, and workshops, contributing to the city’s creative energy. For young professionals seeking both cultural enrichment and community engagement, Amarillo delivers.
A Community That Supports You
Perhaps the most compelling reason to relocate to Amarillo is the community itself. Amarillo combines the best of small-town friendliness with the resources of a mid-sized city. It’s a place where newcomers are welcomed, local businesses are supported, and your neighbors quickly become your friends.
From young professional networking groups to volunteer opportunities and community events, there are countless ways to get involved and feel connected.
Ready to Build Your Future in Amarillo?
The Amarillo Economic Development Corporation is committed to fostering a dynamic, inclusive environment where professionals can grow careers, build businesses, and enjoy a high quality of life.
If you’re considering a move, launching a new business, or just want to learn more about living in Amarillo, contact the AEDC today to see how we can help you make Amarillo home.
