Texas Data Centers ‘Dug Their Own Grave,’ Gov Says. At 63, a Rancher Can Lease His Land and Give Social Security More Time to Grow.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott claims the state's data center boom has dug its own grave, with fewer than 10% of companies responding to a state electricity demand survey. Claiming Social Security at 63 instead of full retirement age (67) locks in 75% of the full benefit, costing a $2,500 earner about $625 monthly. A long-term ground lease can help bridge the income gap, allowing a rancher to leave work without immediately claiming Social Security.

Passive rental income often avoids the Social Security earnings test. A retiree with $1 million and a 4% withdrawal rate could generate $40,000 annually, while another might run out of money in 12 years. Texas pursued the data-center boom, but now faces backlash as fewer than 10% of developers answered a state request for information on future electricity demand.

Nationally, 61% oppose new data centers. For a 63-year-old West Texas rancher, a ground lease on his land could provide rental income to fund retirement without immediately claiming Social Security. This approach could preserve ownership while generating recurring income. The lease should be analyzed alongside Social Security timing, tax implications, and estate planning considerations.