Housing in Anson consists largely of established, modest single-family homes on conventional in-town lots, along with older homes near the courthouse square and ranch properties and acreage on the outskirts. The stock reflects the town's history as a county seat and agricultural center, with a mix of early- to mid-twentieth-century homes and some newer construction. The market is oriented toward affordability and owner-occupancy rather than large new subdivisions. Buyers are typically drawn by the low cost of living, the small-town pace, and the practical commute to Abilene, with rural acreage available for those wanting more space.

Anson is organized around its courthouse square and the junction of U.S. Highways 180 and 277. The historic downtown and the Jones County Courthouse anchor the center of town, with established residential streets extending outward in a traditional grid. Older neighborhoods near the square hold many of the city's early homes, while newer development and larger rural lots spread toward the city limits and the surrounding ranchland. Pioneer Hall, home of the Cowboys' Christmas Ball, is a local landmark. Rather than distinct planned subdivisions, Anson's character comes from its settled in-town blocks and the gradual transition into open country.

Anson offers a classic small-town West Texas lifestyle with a deep sense of heritage. Community life centers on the courthouse square, schools, churches, and the ranching culture of the surrounding Rolling Plains. The town's signature tradition, the Texas Cowboys' Christmas Ball, has been held since 1885 and remains a point of local pride, drawing visitors each December to Pioneer Hall. Daily life is unhurried and neighborly, with agriculture and oil shaping the local economy. Abilene, about 25 miles south, provides shopping, medical care, and universities, giving Anson residents small-town living with regional conveniences within an easy drive.

Anson is served by the Anson Independent School District, a small public district based in the city that enrolls students from the town and the surrounding Jones County countryside. The district's campuses, home of the Anson Tigers, function as a focal point for community life, hosting athletics and events that draw families from across the area. For higher education and specialized programs, residents can reach Abilene Christian University, Hardin-Simmons University, McMurry University, and other institutions in Abilene, all within about half an hour's drive.

Anson sits at the junction of U.S. Highway 180 and U.S. Highway 277, giving it direct connections across west-central Texas. U.S. 277 runs south about 25 miles to Abilene and Interstate 20, while U.S. 180 connects the city east toward Albany and west toward Snyder. Commuting to Abilene is a straightforward, uncongested drive on U.S. 277, making the city a practical home for those working in the region. Travel is by personal vehicle, and the nearest commercial air service is available at Abilene Regional Airport, roughly half an hour to the south.

Recreation in Anson is anchored by its western heritage and the surrounding countryside. The Texas Cowboys' Christmas Ball, held each December at Pioneer Hall, is the community's signature event, celebrating a tradition that dates to 1885. Hunting, fishing, and outdoor pursuits are common across the Rolling Plains, and the nearby lakes of the Abilene area provide boating and fishing within a short drive. School athletics and community gatherings round out the local calendar. Abilene adds parks, museums, and cultural events, while the region's ranches and open country offer horseback riding and rural recreation for residents.