Yes, in general, living in an RV in Texas is allowed. However, there are some considerations and restrictions you should consider. Before you decide whether RV living is right for you, learn more about what state laws say about whether you can live in an RV in Texas.
Is It Legal To Live in an RV in Texas?
Yes, it is legal to live in an RV in Texas in most areas of the state. Texas does not have statewide laws that prohibit living in an RV. Instead, state code leaves this decision up to local zoning offices. Therefore, RVers find a patchwork of laws, regulations, and requirements throughout the Lone Star State.
Many places accept RV living as part of Texas life. No matter where you go throughout the state, you will find people who are living their best lives, either full or part-time, in their RVs.
Can You Live in an RV Year-Round in Texas?
You can live in an RV in Texas all year long if the local city, town, or neighborhood allows it. For the most part, the cities and towns that allow you to live in an RV do not have time restrictions. However, some Texas municipalities do not allow RVs to serve as primary residences. Keep in mind that this is very different from using a camper as a guest house for occasional visitors.
Some RVers rent sites in RV parks to avoid this type of restriction. Long-term RV stays are an attractive option for people who want safe, affordable housing in some of Texas’ hottest markets. Wherever you plan to put your RV, it’s a good idea to check with your local zoning and code office to see if RVs can serve as residences where you live.
While you can usually live in an RV year-round in Texas, another particularly popular option is seasonal RV living. These Winter Texans start arriving in the fall when the weather in northern parts of the country turns colder. They typically stay for four to six months, often in Texas’s coastal and southern areas.
Is Texas an RV-friendly state?
Texas is one of the most RV-friendly states in the U.S. The lack of income tax, warm weather, and amazingly diverse landscape make it a haven for full-time RVers. Many choose to establish domicile in the state and use it as a home base.
In addition to favorable climate and tax laws, Texas also has some of the best campgrounds around. Choose from private campgrounds, state parks, and dispersed camping on public lands, depending on your plans. Whether you choose to stay in Austin, the Gulf Coast, or the far western portions of the state, you are sure to find a suitable place to set up camp.
Some of the camping options are good for short-term stays, but you probably wouldn’t want to call them home. Others, such as public lands and state parks, generally have restrictions about how long you can stay. It’s a good idea to research time limits before choosing a site if you are planning to live in an RV in Texas.
Where in Texas Can I Live in an RV?
Texas has a wide range of places where you can live in an RV, including beaches, deserts, mountains, and rolling hills. The back roads throughout the state will take you to small towns with unique attractions, such as a “Prada” store on the side of the road in Marfa.
Some of the best places to live in an RV in Texas are its cities. Staying in an RV park within city limits is generally much more affordable than renting an apartment or buying a home. Some top cities for RV living in Texas include:
- Austin
- Corpus Christi
- Galveston
- Houston
- San Antonio
Many of these large metro areas have campgrounds and RV parks downtown and in the surrounding towns, so you can choose the pace of life that fits you best. Another thing to consider is whether you want to stay in a park or on private land.
Renting a site in an RV park is the simplest way to live in an RV in Texas. For your monthly rent, you get utility hookups, a safe place to park, and access to the park’s amenities. Many places charge separately for electricity and sometimes water, so be sure to ask about that for long-term stays.
You can also purchase or rent a private lot for your RV. Check with local zoning before choosing a spot to make sure using an RV as a residence is allowed.
How Can You Live in an RV in Texas?
Full-time RVers have several options for how to live in an RV in Texas. With a little trial and error and a lot of planning, you can find the right mix of location, price, and amenities for your family.
Some people choose to move around throughout the state. This is a great way to experience some of the differences you’ll find across the various regions. Remember that Texas is 268,597 square miles, so you have plenty of roads to cover in your travels and lots of interesting places to stay in an RV.
For others, the idea of staying in one place is more appealing. It can also be a lot more practical. Permanent sites make it easier to find work, enroll kids in school, and get involved in the local community.
Texas also hosts another group of RVers: those who come for temporary work assignments. The state’s RV parks are great for short-term housing for construction workers or traveling nurses.
What Do You Need To Live in an RV in Texas?
You can live in an RV in Texas with just a few basics. These include:
- An RV: An RV, fifth-wheel, or motorhome —whether purchased or rented—is essential for full-time RV living.
- A parking site: Find a suitable site that has utilities.
- Permits: If your town requires a permit or specific registration to live in an RV legally, you’ll want to get those first.
Once you have those items in order, you can safely and legally live in your RV in most places in Texas.
Yes, You Can Live in an RV in Texas
You can live in an RV in Texas at Austin RV Park. We are an excellent choice for both long-term and short-term stays in Austin. Our well-maintained park has large sites, full hookups, and great amenities in a convenient location. Book your site today.