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lon Musk's next frontier may be Mars, but he's making a significant impact on Texas first. The billionaire entrepreneur has become a prolific landowner in the state, with a collection of properties that reflect his vision for a technocratic utopia. Musk's motivations for migrating to Texas are rooted in his disdain for California's recent legislation aimed at protecting the LGBTQ+ community and its perceived overregulation.
Musk owns approximately 3,900 acres of land in Texas, valued at $3.4 billion for property tax purposes. His portfolio includes a compound for his family, plans to develop two towns, and several business ventures. One of these is Snailbrook, a collection of manufactured homes near Bastrop that serves as a hub for his companies, including SpaceX's Starlink factory and the Boring Company.
In addition to Snailbrook, Musk has been trying to incorporate another town, Starbase, located 350 miles away on the southern tip of Texas. The town is centered around the SpaceX development site in Boca Chica and features modest prefabricated homes, a private bar and restaurant for employees, and plans for a shopping center, sushi restaurant, and rec center.
Musk's influence in Texas extends beyond his properties, with local residents and politicians taking notice of his presence. While some have resisted his attempts to rebrand the area, others see him as a visionary leader who is bringing new opportunities and investment to the region. As Musk continues to expand his operations in Texas, it's clear that he has a significant stake in shaping the state's future.
Musk also owns properties near Austin, including a house for himself and Tesla's Gigafactory Texas. The electric vehicle manufacturer is headquartered in industrial southeast Austin, near the airport, and Musk owns at least 2,500 acres along either side of State Highway 130. He is also building an office and manufacturing space for Neuralink, his company that develops brain implants.
Overall, Elon Musk's Texas portfolio reflects his vision for a technocratic utopia, where innovation and entrepreneurship thrive in a deregulated environment. As he continues to expand his operations in the state, it's clear that he has a significant impact on the region's future.
