West Texas’ Permian Basin is known for its oil and mineral reserves, and Andrews is one of the many cities in the region that have grown from its natural resources. The area’s initial growth came from ranching and buffalo hunting. A century later, private-sector oil and natural gas jobs came to town. Today, the ranching, agriculture and oil industries still have a stronghold in the community and employ many locals. Now home to around 13,500 people, Andrews maintains its small, Texas town identity, from the rodeo arena that celebrates the community’s ranch roots to the locally owned shops and restaurants that stand in for chain stores and major shopping centers. “When you ask people why they have chosen to live here, it may be because they want to raise and educate their children here, or have a low cost of living, or just enjoy our beautiful sunsets,” says Stephanie Cortez, president of the Andrews Chamber of Commerce who has lived in the area for five years. “It’s just a great blend of Western, small-town America living.”
An aerial view of Andrews showcases its charming homes and wide-open spaces.
Farming and agriculture are key to Andrews' rural economy.
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Acreage homes in Andrews with room to expand
The city has a mix of renovated midcentury homes and new construction. Many homes have a few acres of land and may have attached workshops or barns. Open land for building new homes or expanding acreage for existing properties is also frequently on the market. The median home price in Andrews is $256,000, lower than the median in Odessa and Midland.
The median home price in Andrews is $265k, offering affordable options for families and newcomers.
Ranch-style homes in Andrews offer spacious lots with a touch of country living.
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Future farmers attend Andrews High School
The Andrews Independent School District earns a B grade on Niche and is in Niche’s Top 5 school districts in the Midland-Odessa area. B-rated Andrews High School is in Niche’s Top 5 STEM high schools in the area, partly thanks to its Future Farmers of America program. The FFA curriculum covers studies in entomology, floriculture and veterinary technology. There is a local campus for Odessa College, where Andrews High students can take dual credit courses.
Andrews College offers educational opportunities in the heart of the city.
Inquisitive minds blossom at Andrews High School.
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Buddy’s Drive-In, home of the “steakfinger”
While Main Street has some gas stations and convenience stores, there are few national chain stores in Andrews. Instead, small, family-owned hardware stores, clothing shops and gift stores are the main businesses on Main Street. Most of the city's dining options are locally owned Mexican restaurants, cafes and diners. Buddy’s Drive-In is one of the most popular local spots known as “The Original Steakfinger Headquarters” for its battered and fried steak strips. “We’ve been known for our steak fingers since 1969,” says Janie Robinson, head manager at Buddy’s. “If you like fried food, it’s your dream come true.”
Find everything you need in one place at the shopping plaza in Andrews.
Enjoy a vibrant meal at La Carreta, serving up delicious Mexican cuisine in Andrews.
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Rodeo days at Ace Arena
Andrews’s ranch town identity is on display at the Ace Arena on the east side of town. The rodeo venue hosts weekly and monthly events like barrel racing, cattle roping and dog agility competitions. Ace Arena also serves as the venue for annual events like the city’s Fourth of July celebration.
Skating and golfing at Lakeside Park
Andrews has a few city-maintained parks, including Lakeside Park, which has a skate park, duck pond, baseball fields and the public Andrews County Golf Course. The city is also near some unique outdoor sights. The Odessa Meteor Crater, about 50 miles away, is the second-largest meteor crater in the country, while the Monahans Sandhills State Park, 65 miles from Andrews, has nearly 4,000 acres of white sand dunes.
Lakeside Park is the perfect getaway for family fun in Andrews.
Andrews County Golf Course is a perfect spot for golfers of all level to test their skills.
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Less than 50 miles to Odessa and Midland
U.S. Highway 385 runs north and south, leading to Odessa, 35 miles away, and Midland, 42 miles away. Texas Highways 115 and 176 travel east and west and connect to the rest of the region. Andrews does not have a public transportation system, so most locals drive. The Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport is one of the closest full-service commercial airports, and some local commercial flights go through the Midland International Air & Space Port.
Wind and cold fronts in the Permian Basin
The Permian Basin region has hot, dry summers and mild winters. High winds can occur in spring, and cold fronts move in from November to February.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, Andrews had a 5% decrease in crime between 2022 and 2023. The city accounted for nearly 82% of crimes in the county in 2023. Most of these instances were property crimes, such as theft and burglary.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
