Andrews, TX
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Sport and Athletic Legends
- Museums and Cultural Attractions
- Universities and Higher Education
- Healthcare and Medical Services
Andrews is a city in and the county seat of Andrews County, Texas, United States. Its population was 13,487 at the 2020 census.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Full Official Name: City of Andrews .
- Administrative Role: Andrews is the county seat of Andrews County, meaning it is the administrative center for the county government .
- Country and Region: The city is located in the state of Texas, within the United States. Specifically, it sits in the Permian Basin of West Texas, a region globally renowned as one of the most prolific oil and gas producing areas in the United States . The city's economy is heavily tied to this industry.
Date of Foundation and Age
- Founding and Incorporation: Andrews was incorporated on February 2, 1937 .
- Age: The city is 89 years old as of 2026.
- Namesake: Both the city and the county are named for Richard Andrews, the first Texan soldier to die in the Texas Revolution .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 32°19′17″N 102°33′6″W / 32.32139°N 102.55167°W .
- Location: Andrews is situated in the plains of the far southwestern Texas Panhandle, approximately 30 miles east of the New Mexico state line .
- Elevation: The center of the city sits at an elevation of 3,176 feet (968 meters) above sea level .
- Geographical Context: This is a city located on the flat, semi-arid plains of the Llano Estacado, a region known for its oil wealth and ranching heritage.
City Type and Economic Specialization
- Economic Hub: Andrews is a classic example of a West Texas oil and gas town. Its primary economic function is as a service and supply center for the surrounding energy industry . While the energy sector dominates, the city also serves as an agricultural hub for ranching and farming in the area.
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 census, the population of Andrews was 13,487 .
- City Classification: Based on its population, Andrews is a small city .
- Demographic Note: The city has a significant and growing Hispanic or Latino population, which made up 57.08% of residents in 2020, reflecting broader demographic trends in Texas .
City's "Business Card" (Briefly)
Andrews is a quintessential West Texas oil town, serving as the heart of a major energy-producing county in the Permian Basin. Its identity is shaped by the rhythms of the oilfield, a strong sense of community, and a location on the sweeping plains near the New Mexico border.
Geography
Water Bodies and Unique Landscapes
While the city itself is not on a major river, the surrounding Andrews County features a notable geological characteristic.
- Playas and Lakes: The county contains many shallow, circular depressions known as playa lakes, which temporarily hold water after rains. The two largest are Baird Lake and Shafter Lake . These are important for local wildlife and groundwater recharge but are not recreational swimming destinations.
National and Natural Parks
Andrews has limited large-scale natural parks within the city limits, but it offers local outdoor spaces.
- Andrews County Veterans Memorial Park: This is a popular local destination for residents seeking outdoor recreation. The park features a lake, walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Andrews has a cold semi-arid climate (Köppen BSk) . It is characterized by long, hot summers and short, cold, and relatively dry winters. The region is known for being sunny and windy .
Average Temperatures by Month
Temperatures in Andrews vary significantly throughout the year .
- Hottest Month: July, with an average daily high of 94°F (34.4°C) and an average low of 70°F (21.1°C) .
- Coldest Month: January, with an average daily high of 58°F (14.4°C) and an average low of 32°F (0°C) .
- Extreme Temperatures:
- Record High: 113°F (45.0°C) on June 27, 1994 .
- Record Low: -1°F (-18.3°C) on February 2, 1985 .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Average Annual Precipitation: Andrews receives about 13.97 inches (354 mm) of rainfall per year . Another source notes an average of 15 inches .
- Wettest Month: June and September are typically the wettest months, each averaging close to 2 inches of rain .
- Driest Months: January and February are the driest .
- Average Humidity: The average humidity is around 58%, but it can be much lower during the hot summer months .
Sunshine and UV Index
The region is very sunny. The sunniest month is June, with skies clear or mostly clear 77% of the time . The long, sunny days mean the UV index can be significant, especially from late spring through summer.
Seasonality and Best Time for a Visit
The best times to visit Andrews for comfortable outdoor activities are spring and fall.
- Spring (March - May): Temperatures warm up quickly, from average highs of 72°F (22°C) in March to 88°F (31°C) in May. This is a great time for hiking and enjoying local parks before the intense summer heat arrives .
- Summer (June - August): This is the hottest period, with average highs above 90°F (32°C) and often exceeding 100°F (38°C). While the low humidity makes the heat more bearable, outdoor activities are best done in the early morning or late evening .
- Fall (September - November): Similar to spring, fall offers pleasant temperatures. September remains warm (highs near 86°F/30°C), cooling to a mild 66°F (19°C) by November. It's a comfortable time to explore the region .
- Winter (December - February): Winters are short but can be cold. Daytime highs are often in the 50s and 60s°F (10-20°C), but nighttime lows frequently drop below freezing. Snow is possible but usually light, with an average of only 1.7 inches per year .
Landmarks
Memorials and Historic Sites
- Original Townsite of Andrews: This is a memorial site that marks the original platting and founding of the city in 1970, located near the Andrews Chamber of Commerce .
- Early Settlers of Andrews County Memorial: A memorial dedicated to the pioneers and early families who settled in the area .
- J. S. Means Ranch House: This historic ranch house and its associated memorial represent the area's strong ranching heritage before the oil boom .
- Andrews County Courthouse: Located in the heart of the city at 100 S. Center Street, the courthouse is a key landmark and the center of county government .
Architectural or Monumental Landmarks
- The "C" Ranch House: Listed as a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark (RTHL), the "C" Ranch House is located north of Andrews on FM 1788. Designated in 1966, it is a significant example of early ranching architecture in the region .
- Irwin Ranch House: Another Recorded Texas Historic Landmark in Andrews County, the Irwin Ranch House is located west of U.S. Highway 385 on FM 1967. It was designated in 1967 and is another testament to the county's ranching history .
Parks and Outdoor Spaces
- Andrews County Veterans Memorial Park: This park is a central point for community recreation, offering a lake, walking trails, and picnic areas. It serves as a peaceful respite and a place to honor veterans .
- Lakeside Park: Situated near the Original Townsite and the Chamber of Commerce, Lakeside Park is another local green space .
Transport
Major Airports
- Andrews County Airport: The city is served locally by the Andrews County Airport, a general aviation airport located about 3 km northeast of the city center. It does not handle commercial airline flights .
- Commercial Air Service: For commercial air travel, residents and visitors use the much larger Midland International Air & Space Port (MAF) , located approximately 70 miles (113 km) southeast of Andrews in Midland, or Lea County Regional Airport (HOB) in Hobbs, New Mexico, about 40 miles (64 km) to the west.
Major Highways
Andrews is connected to the region by several state and U.S. highways :
- U.S. Highway 385 (US 385): This is a major north-south route that runs through the heart of Andrews, connecting it to Odessa to the south and the northern parts of the Texas Panhandle.
- State Highway 115 (SH 115): Travels east-west through the county, connecting Andrews to Kermit to the west.
- State Highway 176 (SH 176): Another key east-west route in the southern part of the county.
- Loop 1910 (Loop 1910): A loop road that circles the city of Andrews, providing easy access to different parts of town .
Other Notable Transport
- Rail: Andrews is not directly served by passenger rail. The nearest Amtrak station is in Alpine, Texas, approximately 170 miles to the south.
- Public Transit: The city does not have a public bus or rail system. Personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation.
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
La Hacienda Cafeteria: A Tex-Mex Landmark
The heart of Andrews' culinary scene is undoubtedly La Hacienda Cafeteria, a beloved family-owned restaurant that has been serving the community since 1979 . What started as a small café founded by the original owner's "Abuela" has blossomed into a full-fledged restaurant, continuing the legacy of authentic, homemade Tex-Mex cooking .
The restaurant is famous for its vibrant all-you-can-eat buffet, featuring a wide selection of traditional Mexican dishes that are praised for their freshness and authenticity . Patrons consistently rave about the signature dishes, especially Abuela's enchiladas and the ranchero beans, which are described as "MAGNIFICO" and evoke the warmth of family gatherings . The atmosphere is noted for its friendly, welcoming staff and colorful, traditional Mexican decor, making it a cherished gem for both locals and travelers passing through .
Located at 421 W Broadway St, it has become a destination in itself, with visitors from nearby Midland making the short drive specifically for the experience . Whether you opt for the extensive buffet or order off the menu, a meal here is considered by many to be the best Tex-Mex they have ever had .
Local Dining Scene
Beyond the flagship Tex-Mex establishment, Andrews offers other dining options for visitors. Texas Burger, located at 1107 N Main St, provides a classic American counter-service experience for those seeking a quick and familiar meal .
Sport and Athletic Legends
High School Sports Excellence: A Dynasty in Golf
The town of Andrews takes immense pride in its high school athletics, with the Andrews Lady Mustangs Golf program standing as a beacon of extraordinary success. The team has established a state-wide dynasty, winning their third-straight UIL State Championship in April 2025 . This victory marked an incredible 20th state title in program history, a testament to the consistent excellence and dedication of the young athletes and their coaches .
The 2025 championship win was a commanding performance, with the Lady Mustangs finishing 32 strokes ahead of the second-place team. Key players like Abby Ballou and Emme Darnold led the charge, showcasing the depth of talent within the program . This level of achievement makes Andrews a notable name in Texas high school sports, particularly in girls' golf.
Andrews Mustangs: Track, Field, and Cross Country
The competitive spirit extends beyond the golf course. The Andrews Mustangs, representing Andrews High School, are active in cross country and track & field, competing in the UIL 4A region . Student-athletes regularly post competitive times, demonstrating the town's strong commitment to fostering young talent across multiple sports.
Museums and Cultural Attractions
Museums in the Permian Basin (Nearby Cities)
While Andrews itself is a smaller city without its own major museum, its location in the heart of the Permian Basin provides easy access to a wealth of cultural and historical attractions in the neighboring cities of Midland and Odessa, both approximately 30-35 miles away . A visit to the area offers a chance to explore a diverse range of museums.
In Odessa, visitors can find the Ellen Noël Art Museum, which houses a wide-ranging collection of American art from 1860 to the present day . For a truly unique experience, the Odessa Meteor Crater allows you to see a real impact crater and visit its accompanying museum . History buffs can explore the Presidential Museum and Leadership Library, dedicated to the history of U.S. presidents, vice presidents, and First Ladies, or step back in time at the Parker House Ranching Museum to see a mid-20th century ranching family home .
Midland also offers excellent options. While detailed exhibits are available, the city is home to cultural institutions and the George W. Bush Childhood Home, among other historic sites. The wider region, including areas like Crane, features gems such as the Museum of the Desert Southwest, which exhibits the history of the desert region .
Universities and Higher Education
Higher Education Options Near Andrews
Andrews itself does not host a university, but it is conveniently located within an hour's drive of several colleges and universities that serve the region. The closest institutions are about 30-35 miles away in the cities of Midland and Odessa .
- The University of Texas of the Permian Basin (UTPB): Located in Odessa, this public university is ranked #11 among Best Public Universities in Texas and enrolls nearly 6,000 students .
- Midland College: A public 4-year college in Midland serving over 5,000 students .
- Odessa College: A public 2-year college in Odessa with more than 8,700 students .
For those willing to drive a bit further (about 95 miles), the prestigious Texas Tech University in Lubbock, ranked #4 among Best Public Universities in Texas, offers a comprehensive range of programs and enrolls over 40,000 students, making it the largest university in the area .
Healthcare and Medical Services
Local and Regional Healthcare Facilities
Andrews is served by local clinics and the Andrews County Health Department (ACHD) , which provides primary health care services to residents who meet specific income requirements and have no medical insurance . These services include diagnosis and treatment, family planning, health education, lab work, and immunizations .
For more specialized hospital care, residents and visitors typically rely on the larger medical centers in the nearby cities of Midland and Odessa. These cities offer a full range of medical services, including emergency care, surgical centers, and specialist consultations.
Mental Health and Behavioral Health Services
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission contracts with local mental health authorities to provide services. Andrews County is served by a larger administrative region. For comprehensive behavioral healthcare, the local authority is the PermiaCare system, which serves a multi-county area including Andrews . They can be contacted for mental health and substance use services. The crisis hotline number for this region is 1-800-791-8867 .