Living in West Texas for an extended period leaves a unique imprint on your life. The wide-open spaces, resilient communities, and distinctive culture shape your experience in ways that outsiders only vaguely understand. Here are 10 signs that if you’ve experienced them, you’ve lived in West Texas for far too long:
You Speak in Hours, Not Miles
In West Texas, distances are vast and towns are few and far between. Saying something is “just down the road” usually means a multi-hour drive. You’ve gotten used to measuring trips by time rather than miles, whether it’s a quick run to the store or a weekend getaway.
The Sky is Your Constant Companion
West Texas skies awe newcomers with their immense volume and spectacular sunsets. Residents, however, have become so accustomed to the expansive blue vault overhead that they barely notice it anymore, even though it defines daily life and mood.
Extreme Weather is Old News
From scorching heat that can exceed 130 degrees by day to near freezing nights and sudden violent storms, the extreme swings are part of your normal routine. You’ve learned to adapt and prepare without complaint because “that’s just how it is” in West Texas.
You Know the Secret Watering Holes
Natural springs, state parks like Balmorhea, or hidden desert pools become cherished locations in your West Texas life. You’ve found relief and joy in places most visitors don’t even know exist, making those springs a vital part of your summer story.
You’ve Seen the Marfa Lights…and Debated Their Origin
The mysterious flickering orbs near Marfa are a local legend. Whether you’re a true believer in supernatural or scientific explanations, their presence is a quintessential West Texas experience that marks long-term residents.
Pickup Trucks, Cowboy Hats, and “Y’all” are Everyday Norms
The rural lifestyle and cowboy culture permeate everything. You automatically greet strangers with a nod, spot gun racks in trucks, and use Southern slang without thinking twice.
You’re Familiar with the Culture of Community
West Texas towns are small and tight-knit. You know your neighbors, local business owners, and participate in rodeos, local fairs, or music nights. This sense of camaraderie is a defining element of life here and can feel like both a comfort and a constraint.
Art and History are Part of Your Landscape
From the Prada Marfa installation to the McDonald Observatory and stories told in local theaters, you’ve absorbed the quirky blend of frontier history and contemporary art that defines places like Marfa and Alpine.
You’ve Learned to Live with Sparse Amenities
In many West Texas towns, you’ve adapted to the lack of big-city conveniences such as specialty groceries or pharmacies. You’ve either learned to do without or found creative ways to manage daily needs.
You Feel Both Free and Exposed Under the Vastness
That same sky and landscape that offer freedom can also feel isolating or empty, especially at first. Over time, though, you learn to embrace this openness as part of your identity—a place both wild and home.
Living in West Texas is a distinctive experience blending natural grandeur, cultural richness, and a pioneering spirit. If you’ve encountered these 10 realities deeply, you’ve likely lived in West Texas long enough to be considered a true local, complete with all its challenges, beauty, resilience, and pride.
Sources
[1] https://episcopalnewsservice.org/2025/07/16/west-texas-prepares-for-long-term-response-almost-two-weeks-after-deadly-floods/
[2] https://texashighways.com/culture/people/an-east-coaster-learns-to-live-in-and-love-the-wide-open-space-of-west-texas/
[3] https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/paid-content-photo-story-marathon-marfa-west-texas
[4] https://www.mmranchlandinvestments.com/articles/news/benefits-of-living-in-west-texas
[5] https://www.mmranchlandinvestments.com/articles/news/life-in-west-texas
