\u003cbr/>Beyond economic opportunities, Texas boasts a rich cultural tapestry rooted in its history as an independent republic and its blend of Southern, Western, and Mexican influences. This diversity is reflected in its vibrant arts scene, diverse cuisine, and numerous festivals celebrating everything from music to food to cultural heritage.\u003cbr/>\u003cbr/>Geographically, Texas offers a range of landscapes from rolling hills and forests to desert plains and coastal beaches, providing ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The state's warm climate also contributes to an active outdoor lifestyle year-round.\u003cbr/>\u003cbr/>Additionally, Texas is known for its relatively affordable cost of living compared to many other states, with affordable housing options and generally lower taxes.\u003cbr/>\u003cbr/>Overall, Texas combines economic opportunity, cultural richness, diverse landscapes, and a favorable cost of living, making it an attractive place to call home for individuals and families alike.\u003cbr/>\u003c/p>","meta_data":[[]],"logo":{"contentUrl":"https://s3.amazonaws.com/buildercloud/6ebf8dcd0d6fb4b1928933f19f281147.jpeg","@type":"ImageObject"},"_id":"i2c9sh","isMetro":true,"name":"South Texas","subMetros":["San Antonio, TX","Cleveland, TX","Beaumont TX","Seguin TX","Corpus Christi","Kenedy, TX","Lufkin, TX","La Grange TX"]}}],"AreaSubMetro":[{"label":"Lufkin, TX","value":{"description":"\u003cp>Living in Lufkin, Texas, offers the perfect mix of small-town living with access to larger cities. Located in the heart of East Texas, Lufkin has a population of about 35,000 and is a key regional center for business, healthcare, and industry. The city is home to a variety of businesses, including local shops, restaurants, and larger retailers like Walmart, H-E-B, and Lowe’s. Lufkin’s economy is primarily driven by the timber industry, manufacturing, and transportation, as well as a growing healthcare sector led by Memorial Health System of East Texas. These businesses provide plenty of job opportunities for residents and contribute to a relatively low unemployment rate.\u003cbr/>\u003cbr/></p> <p>While Lufkin offers all the conveniences of a small city, its location makes it an attractive option for those who want to stay connected to Texas' larger metropolitan areas. Houston, one of the largest cities in the U.S., is just a two-hour drive to the south, offering residents easy access to major employers, cultural attractions, and entertainment. Additionally, Lufkin is close to other East Texas cities like Tyler and Beaumont, providing further business opportunities and resources. With its affordable cost of living, strong local economy, and proximity to bigger cities, Lufkin is an ideal place to settle for those seeking a peaceful yet connected lifestyle.\u003cbr/>\u003c/p>","parentMetro":"South Texas","meta_data":[[]],"logo":{"contentUrl":"https://s3.amazonaws.com/buildercloud/f57d5d648d10369e02a736f7a51a2d8e.jpeg","@type":"ImageObject"},"_id":"49z5xc","name":"Lufkin, TX"}}]},"router":{"location":{"pathname":"/homes/south-texas/lufkin-tx/shirey-forest-branches/117-pine-branch-ct","search":"","hash":"","key":"jhgeoe"}},"map":{"activePinId":""},"scroll":{},"serverside":{"pageStatus":200},"utmCodes":{},"cloudData":{}}