SpaceX Establishes Its Own City: Welcome to Starbase, Texas

Residents near the SpaceX rocket manufacturing facility in Boca Chica, Texas, have voted overwhelmingly to establish their community as an independent city, designated as Starbase. With nearly 98% of the votes in favor, this decision marks a significant milestone for the area, which is closely linked to the ambitions of tech billionaire Elon Musk.

The unofficial election results were released by Cameron County officials, confirming the transition of the settlement into a city. Musk celebrated the news on social media, indicating that Starbase is now officially recognized as a city. Most of the 283 registered voters in the area are employees of SpaceX or have connections to the company, with approximately 500 people residing on properties predominantly owned by SpaceX or its staff.

Although Musk was registered to vote, he did not cast his ballot before the deadline. With the new city status, Starbase gains extensive self-governing powers, allowing it to bypass certain bureaucratic processes, issue building permits, and implement local laws and taxes. Additionally, the city can establish its own local government, with Bobby Peden, a SpaceX executive, already appointed as mayor.

The Boca Chica facility, which opened in 2019, serves as a crucial testing ground for SpaceX's rocket launches. Musk had previously suggested the name Starbase during an online post while visiting the site four years ago. The site has been branded as the "Gateway to Mars," aligning with Musk's vision for future space exploration.

SpaceX's request for city status was submitted by Kathryn Lueders, the company's CEO, in December. Lueders emphasized that SpaceX has already invested in essential infrastructure, including roads, educational institutions, and healthcare services, within the area. She assured that the establishment of the city would not compromise ongoing efforts to mitigate the environmental impact of the site.

However, not all residents are pleased with the developments associated with SpaceX and the new city designation. Environmental advocates have raised concerns regarding the company's impact on local beaches, particularly Boca Chica Beach, which has seen restricted access for years. In 2024, regulatory agencies identified SpaceX as responsible for multiple leaks and the release of pollutants into Texas waterways, leading to a substantial fine of nearly $150,000 for environmental violations.

Long-term residents have reported feeling pressured to leave the area, often receiving offers to sell their homes or relocating due to the disruptive nature of living adjacent to an active rocket testing and launch site.

Elon Musk has faced scrutiny in recent years for his advisory role under former President Donald Trump. Recently, he announced a reduction in his involvement with the government initiative aimed at enhancing state efficiency, known as DOGE, to concentrate more on his electric vehicle company, Tesla, amid noticeable declines in its sales.