Elon Musk now ‘owns’ a city in Texas, names it Starbase: Know how this was possible

Elon Musk’s SpaceX has turned a remote Texas launch site into a new city called ‘Starbase’ after residents, mostly SpaceX employees, voted overwhelmingly to incorporate the area. 

According to Bloomberg report, Starbase was approved by a 212-6 margin after a May 2024 election. Notably, the 1.6-square-mile city near Boca Chica will be governed by a SpaceX-affiliated mayor and two commissioners, granting them control over local planning, taxes, and infrastructure.

Why Starbase?

SpaceX began acquiring land in this once-sleepy coastal region in 2012, transforming it into a hub for its Starship programme, which aims to send humans to the Moon and Mars.

Today, about 500 people live in Starbase, including 260 SpaceX employees and their families while over 3,000 workers commute daily from nearby Brownsville.

The area now features rocket factories, company housing, and even a vandalised bronze bust of Musk, giving it a ‘sci-fi movie' vibe.

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Who Runs It?

The city’s first government includes Mayor Bobby Peden, a SpaceX vice-president, and two commissioners—all elected unopposed.

As a Type C municipality (for populations under 5,000), Starbase can levy property taxes up to 1.5% and manage services like road closures during launches. 

A pending Texas bill could let Starbase restrict access to Boca Chica Beach and a state park for rocket tests, though Cameron County officials oppose this, fearing power struggles.

Controversies & Challenges

Environmental groups criticise SpaceX for debris, light pollution, and harming wildlife. In 2024, the company paid USD 150,000 in fines for wastewater violations, which it called ‘paperwork disputes.’

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Musk’s Texas Expansion

Starbase reflects Musk’s broader shift from California to Texas, where he’s relocated ventures like X and Boring Company, citing business-friendly policies. 

While Starbase grows, its future hinges on balancing SpaceX’s ambitions with community and environmental concerns, and proving a company town can thrive under corporate leadership.