Explore the elevation of Lubbock, Texas—rising at 3,202 feet above sea level on the southern end of the High Plains. Known as the “Hub City,” Lubbock’s high elevation, rich cultural history, and role in agriculture and education make it a distinctive center of life in West Texas.

Table of Contents

Where is Lubbock?

  • Location: Lubbock is located in northern Texas and is the county seat of Lubbock County.

City Profile

  • Nickname: Known as the “Hub City” due to its central role in commerce, education, and healthcare for the South Plains region.
  • Population: Approximately 250,000 residents in the city and over 310,000 in the surrounding metro area.
  • Size: Covers around 123.6 square miles.
  • Historical namesake: Named after Thomas Saltus Lubbock, a Texas Ranger and brother of Civil War-era Governor Francis Lubbock.

Elevation Basics

  • City elevation: Lubbock stands at an elevation of 3,202 feet (976 m) above sea level.
  • Founding year: Lubbock was officially founded in 1890 following a merger with the nearby town of Monterey.
  • Growth timeline: The railroad arrival and the creation of Texas Tech University in the 1920s spurred economic and population growth.
  • Economic driver: The cotton industry—Lubbock lies in the world’s largest contiguous cotton-growing region, supported by the Ogallala Aquifer.
  • Cultural heritage: Home to Buddy Holly and the West Texas Walk of Fame.

Must-Know Elevation Facts

  • National comparison: Lubbock’s elevation is higher than the U.S. average of 2,500 feet (760 m).
  • Texas comparison: Texas has an average elevation of 1,700 feet (520 m), making Lubbock significantly higher.
  • Elevation variation: Coastal areas of Texas like Houston (80 ft) sit much lower than inland cities such as Lubbock.
  • Texas extremes:
    • Highest point: Guadalupe Peak – 8,751 feet (2,667 m).
    • Lowest point: Gulf of Mexico – sea level.
    • Highest city: Fort Davis – 4,900 feet (1,494 m).
  • Major Texas city comparison:
    • Lubbock: 3,202 ft (976 m)
    • Austin: 489 ft (149 m)
    • Dallas: 430 ft (131 m)
    • San Antonio: 650 ft (198 m)
    • Houston: 80 ft (32 m)

Climate and Tourism

  • Climate type: Lubbock has a semi-arid (steppe) climate.
  • Summers: Hot and dry, with July highs averaging 93°F (34°C).
  • Winters: Cold with potential freezes; January lows average 26°F (-3°C).
  • Weather impact: Elevation contributes to wide temperature swings and clear skies.
  • Top attractions:
    • Memorial Civic Center
    • Joyland Amusement Park
    • National Ranching Heritage Center
    • Silent Wings Museum
    • Southwest Collection
    • West Texas Walk of Fame
  • Cultural presence: Lubbock features art museums, live music venues, and Texas Tech University’s strong academic influence.

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