In West Texas, Howard County is anchored by Big Spring, its county seat. Established in 1876, it was a frontier outpost that developed with ranching, railroads, and later oil. Today, the county is urban-rural mix, with Big Spring as a mid-sized city offering schools, healthcare, and commerce, surrounded by open ranchlands. Housing ranges from historic homes near downtown to brick ranchers, newer suburban-style builds, and rural properties. Midland lies about 45 minutes southwest. Prices for existing homes typically range $150,000–$260,000, while ranchland averages $2,500–$5,000 per acre. Buyers include oil workers, commuters, and those wanting affordable West Texas property.