10 Best Places To Live In Texas

Apart from its vast size, Texas has a reputation for barbecue, wide-open spaces and thriving cities. The largest state in the U.S. not only dwarfs others in land mass but also ranks number two in the nation when it comes to population and population growth. Here are the ten best places to live in Texas. 

1. Highland Park

Despite being landlocked by the city of Dallas, Highland Park is proud of its small-town atmosphere. Some of the homes for sale in the area were built as far back as the 1940’s, though many have been torn down to build larger, more expensive homes. Highland Park home prices and real estate is the highest per square foot in the Metroplex and land alone can cost over $1million. With a perfect rating school district, small-town atmosphere, average listing prices of over $3million, and one of the most prestigious country clubs in America - The Dallas Country Club - Highland Park is the best suburb in Dallas to buy a palatial home. 

2. Frisco

Frisco is located roughly 30 miles away from Dallas and is one of the fastest growing small cities in Texas. Frisco ranks first for highest median income and last for the median home price. This means you’ll earn a lot living here, but pay on the higher side to buy into the housing market. The city-suburb has a population of approximately 277,600 and is described as a ‘shopper’s paradise’ due to its nine million square feet of retail and dining that maintains the ‘big factor’ of the Lone Star State. With highly rated public schools, affordable housing and an array of recreational activities, the Dallas suburb of Frisco has over the years been one of the most desirable areas in Texas.

3. McKinney

A safe, family-friendly, and small-town atmosphere are some of the ways residents describe living in McKinney, Texas. McKinney is proud of its motto “unique by nature,” which refers to its historic downtown, charming neighborhoods, landscape, and streams. McKinney also scores well for its low unemployment rate of 3% ,and a crime-risk score of “most safe” in an area that has been one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S. for the past decade. McKinney residents have access to both the acclaimed McKinney school district and the Frisco school district. Despite the suburban-like growth, McKinney has a historic downtown area with unique shops, restaurants, and family-centered recreational facilities.

4. Austin

Austin is synonymous with being a desirable place for families to live. Over the last two decades, more people have become accustomed to Austin as a quirky, liberal city in the middle of a predominantly conservative state. But being home to almost one million residents comes with the drawbacks of a high population. The majority of Austin residents are young people, with millennials in particular drawn to the city. As a result, the nightlife is vibrant and exciting which is what most millennials love to experience.

5. Irving

Proximity to Dallas and Fort Worth has numerous benefits. But the main reason many people move to Irving is for the quiet tree-lined streets and close-knit community ambiance. Diverse and family friendly, the Irving geographic area feels action-packed with a variety of cultural experiences. Quality schools also attract residents to the area. But if you are single and would love to experience the nightlife, you may want to consider moving elsewhere as the nightlife in Irving is non-existent. But if you’re moving there to work, you won’t mind the 20-30 minute commute to downtown Dallas for a weekend outing.

6. Denton

Denton is a small city in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex that gives residents an escape from the hustle and bustle of Dallas. With a population of over 120,000, Denton is home to the University of Texas and Texas Woman’s University, making this a university town. Its vast array of food options and a prolific nightlife, has seen many budding musicians and artists find their break in Denton, making it popular for its growing music scene. Besides, Denton is the most diverse culturally vibrant and progressive-thinking community in Texas. A good number of residents are either entrepreneurs, work in tech, or the creative industry. This city has positive ratings in housing and is exceptionally livable.

7. Plano

Of the many suburbs in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, Plano is one of the more established ones. The area is synonymous with manicured yards with mature trees and large homes giving the city a picturesque neighborhood atmosphere. With a population of over 270,000, Plano has one of the lowest crime rates in Texas, as well as some of the lowest taxes in the region. An array of office buildings pierce its Texan skyline, and it seems every big company such as JP Morgan Chase, Dean & Delucca, Barnes & Noble, Shake Shack and others are relocating here. Giants such as PepsiCo, Bank of America, Cigna and Intel also have their regional headquarters in Plano. The incredible and diverse Plano school district has a whopping 80 languages spoken in its top-rated schools.

8. San Antonio

Many tourists from around the globe are attracted to San Antonio for is historical significance and idyllic River Walk. For a first time visitor, San Antonio will feel like an escape from hectic city life because of its overall slower pace, and vacation-like atmosphere. But its nightlife is the complete opposite, as San Antonio has a bounty of restaurants, festivals, and cultural experiences to keep you engaged.

9. Coppell

As one of the older suburbs in Dallas, Coppell is known as one of the “better suburbs” in the Metroplex. Home prices average around $615,000 and proximity to DFW Airport makes it a popular suburb for business travelers who desire easy access to the airport, Interstate 635 and 35. Coppell’s school district has excellent ratings of 9/10 by Great Schools. Coppell’s real estate boomed in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s, which means the area has few new construction homes. Coppell homes still maintain their value which also increases as much as other suburbs.

10. Fort Worth

If you are looking for an area in Texas that still maintains its old country charm, Fort Worth is the best city for you. From stockyards to worn brick roads and an overall country aesthetic, there’s much to appreciate in Fort Worth. The city is sometimes combined with Dallas as part of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, but the two couldn’t be more distinct. Living in Fort Worth will set you right in the heart of cowboy culture while maintaining your modern conveniences.