Texans are struggling with high inflation, stagnating real wages, and a housing affordability crisis. Moreover, Texas ranks 6th in the nation on the highest property tax paid. Yet, thanks to a record general revenue-related surplus of $32.7 billion, the 88th Legislature has a historic opportunity to provide all Texans with real and lasting relief. To achieve this goal, the Foundation proposes the following roadmap to help alleviate the tax burden and set Texas up for success into the future. This framework is based on 3 essentials—restraining the burden of government, returning a maximum amount of surplus revenue back to taxpayers, and recognizing the need for permanent change.
Economy
Bringing Down the House (Price)
A decade ago, the typical Texas home value was about $181,000. Today, it’s ballooned to around $302,000. As home prices increase so too does the barrier to entry get higher. A recent study estimates it would take 7 years for a median-income Texas household to save up for a 20% down payment. But you don’t...
July 16, 2026