Taylor is a historic small town in eastern Williamson County that offers retirees the most affordable housing in the area, a genuine downtown square with character, and a community that is experiencing new energy and investment. With a population of approximately 18,000, Taylor has deep agricultural roots and a slower pace of life that many retirees find appealing after years in larger cities.
Affordability is Taylor's defining advantage. The median home price is approximately $280K, the lowest in Williamson County. For retirees on fixed incomes, this means the possibility of purchasing a home outright or having a very manageable mortgage payment. Homes range from charming older bungalows near downtown to newer construction in growing subdivisions on the edges of town. Property tax rates are around 2.1%, and senior homestead exemptions provide additional relief.
Taylor Regional Hospital serves the city with emergency care, inpatient services, and basic outpatient specialties. While it is a smaller facility than the major hospitals in Round Rock or Georgetown, it provides essential services and a local option for routine and urgent care. For more specialized treatment, Baylor Scott & White in Round Rock is approximately 20 to 25 minutes west. The growth of medical offices and clinics in Taylor has been modest compared to the western part of the county, so retirees with complex medical needs should factor in the drive to Round Rock or Austin.
Taylor's historic downtown square is a point of pride. The square features local restaurants, shops, a restored movie theater, and murals that celebrate the city's heritage. The International Barbecue Championship, held annually, draws visitors from across the state. Louie Mueller Barbecue, located on Taylor's main street, is one of the most acclaimed barbecue restaurants in Texas.
The Samsung semiconductor campus currently under construction just southeast of Taylor is bringing significant investment and attention to the area. While the campus itself is industrial, the surrounding economic activity is expected to bring new restaurants, retail, and services to Taylor in the coming years, gradually expanding the amenities available to residents.
Recreation in Taylor includes Murphy Park, Bull Branch Park, and the Taylor Regional Park and Sports Complex. The city's Heritage Square and public library host community events and programming. For retirees who enjoy a small-town lifestyle with a strong sense of community history, Taylor offers an authentic experience at a price point that is increasingly rare in the Austin metro area.
