No matter how successful an economy is, however, there are always going to be those who struggle. Because of the investment required, that struggle is often first apparent in the housing market, where costs regularly consume upward of 30 percent of a household’s income. Texas has some of the most inexpensive real estate in the country, but, even here, the cost of adequate housing can threaten to overwhelm residents trying to get ahead, especially in cities that deviate from the Texas Model. The periodic difficulty that Texans face with respect to securing an affordable home begs the question of whether the cost of housing in Texas—particularly in urban centers—can be reduced on a widespread basis.
Property Rights
Watch out for that tree!
Are you familiar with your local tree ordinances? If not, you might want to do some research before breaking out the chainsaw. Cities and townships across the country have some version of tree-related rules that property owners must follow, or face consequences. The Center for the American Future, TPPF’s public interest litigation team, has now challenged...
August 6, 2026