One of our clients came to us to renovate their home. So we asked what they wanted: ‘Texas Contemporary vs Traditional?’ they looked so confused and didn’t know what the difference between them was.
That’s when we told them their difference which are,
The Texas Contemporary style beautifully combines modern materials with expansive open spaces, creating a vibrant and inviting atmosphere. And, the Traditional style highlights rustic charm and the timeless essence of Southern elegance elements.
They looked so interested that we decided to talk this through more.
Texas Contemporary Homes
Contemporary homes in Texas are like that effortlessly stylish friend who always seems to have it together. They're bold, minimalist, and built for modern living—definitely not your grandma’s house.
These homes tend to feature:
1. Wide-open layouts that keep everything light and breezy
2. Huge windows
3. Sleek, flat or low-pitched roofs with sharp architectural lines
4. Mixed materials like wood, concrete, and metal for a layered, upscale look
5. Smart home features like solar panels, EV chargers, and app-controlled everything.
6. Minimalist landscaping that looks effortless—but we know wasn’t cheap.
You’ll mostly spot these homes in urban hotspots like Austin, Dallas, and Houston. places where young professionals, creatives, and tech folks are looking for something that feels fresh and future-ready the price also starts at around $400K
Traditional Texas Homes
If contemporary homes are all about sleek style, traditional Texas homes are the warm hug at the end of a long day. They’re charming, timeless, and feel like they were built for front porch chats and Sunday roasts.
What gives them that cozy, classic vibe?
1. Gabled roofs with beautiful brick or wood exteriors
2. Shutters, columns, and wide porches
3. Defined rooms
4. Touches of character like arched doorways, wainscoting, and classic fireplaces
5. Hardwood floors and crown molding that bring a polished, elegant feel
You’ll usually find these homes in established neighborhoods or just outside the big cities—places with tree-lined streets, local diners, and a slower pace of life. Traditional homes typically cost between $250,000 and $600,000, influenced by their size and location.
What Impacts the Price Tag?
Alright, so we know Contemporary and Traditional homes look different—but what about why they’re priced so differently? Let’s peel back the layers and see what really drives the cost of a home in Texas.
Location, Location, Location
This one’s huge. Living in the heart of Austin, Dallas, or Fort Worth is going to cost you more—plain and simple.
Why? Because you’re paying for access.
- Trendy restaurants and nightlife just minutes away
- Top-rated schools in your district
- Green parks and trails right around the corner
- A shorter commute to work or the city center
If you’re looking at the same home style in a smaller town like Temple or Waco? You’ll likely shave tens of thousands off the price. But you might trade off walkability or proximity to big-city perks.
Age of the Home
Newer homes (especially Contemporary builds) often have higher price tags. But they’re also packed with the latest features and materials. That means less maintenance, better insulation, energy savings, and up-to-date everything.
Older homes, often Traditional,
Have that storybook charm original wood floors, crown molding, and character for days. But keep in mind: older homes might come with aging roofs, outdated wiring, or HVAC systems that need replacing sooner than later.
So, while an older home might seem like a deal upfront, budget for some future TLC.
Design and Features
This is where personal style meets practicality.
Homes with:
Open layouts
High-end finishes
Modern appliances
Energy-efficient upgrades
Pools or spacious yards
...are going to come at a premium, especially in sleek Contemporary builds that incorporate the "wow factor."
Traditional homes may not always come with the latest gadgets, but they often offer larger lots, mature landscaping, and timeless details that still make buyers swoon.
Price Comparison: Contemporary vs. Traditional
You must be wondering about the price range of both homes. We know that, so we have listed a few price ranges for both.
|
Size |
Contemporary Homes |
Traditional Homes |
|
Small (1,200–1,800 sq ft) |
$300K–$500K (urban) $250K–$400K (suburbs/smaller towns) |
$200K–$350K (urban) $180K–$300K (rural/suburban) |
|
Medium (1,800–2,500 sq ft) |
$450K–$750K (city) $350K–$600K (suburbs) |
$300K–$500K (city) $250K–$400K (suburbs) |
|
Large (2,500+ sq ft) |
$700K–$1.5M+ (luxury zones) $500K–$900K (city outskirts) |
$400K–$800K (high-demand areas) $350K–$600K (rural towns) |
Outro
It’s not just about price. It’s about lifestyle, investment goals, and personal taste. No matter what you choose you. Either way, Texas has no shortage of beautiful options—and both styles can offer solid returns if you buy smart. It’s your home, your move. Go with what feels like you.
