Best Cities to Raise a Family in Texas: Ready for This?
| Moving Tips
Best Cities to Raise a Family in Texas: Ready for This?
Thinking about moving to Texas? Well, pack up that sweet family and saddle up, because we've rounded up some of the best darn places to live in the Lone Star State. It’s no easy task to pick from so many great cities, but we’ve whittled down a few family-friendly spots that are full of friendly folks, job opportunities, solid schools, and that ole Southern charm.
Tyler – Rose Capital of America
Tyler isn’t just another Texas town – USA Today crowned it one of the best places to live in Texas, and they’re not wrong. Known as the “Rose Capital of America,” this East Texas charmer is perfect for families, with low unemployment, top-notch healthcare (UT Health East Texas), and an easy hour’s drive to the Louisiana border. Tyler’s population sits right around 109,000, so it’s small enough to keep that friendly feel while giving you plenty of elbow room. Plus, you’re less likely to get walloped by severe weather here.
Harker Heights – Little Town, Big Heart
If you’re looking for small-town Texas life without sacrificing fun for the kids, Harker Heights is your spot. Livability.com calls it the quintessential Texas town, and with a population of just under 30,000, it’s affordable and loaded with things for families to do. Got a future Olympic skater? They’ll love the skating rink here. And if you’re a military family, Fort Hood’s nearby, so you’ll find plenty of families just like yours. Oh, and that lake life on Stillhouse Hollow Lake? Yes, please.
Cedar Park – Near the Austin Action
Cedar Park is just a hop, skip, and a jump from Austin (about 20 miles). With a population around 78,000, this place has it all: low crime, good income levels, a booming manufacturing sector, and a short commute to Austin’s high-paying job market. And there's more – Cedar Park has two minor league teams, so you’ve got family-friendly sports entertainment all year. If you’re looking to raise a sports fanatic or future engineer, this is where you might want to set down roots.
Pearland – Houston’s Cozy Neighbor
Want the big-city amenities without the hustle? Pearland's got you covered, just south of Houston. Low crime, affordable living, and a high quality of life mean this suburb’s grown to around 126,000 folks. You’ll find the award-winning Texas Pediatrics, great parks, and a solid 8/10 school rating. And, hey, if you want to pop into Houston for some excitement, it’s just a quick drive away.
New Braunfels – Where Hill Country Meets Fun
This one’s a Texas favorite! New Braunfels is booming (about 104,000 and counting) and a stone’s throw from San Antonio. Think tubing down the Guadalupe River and splashing around at Schlitterbahn Waterpark. Schools here score an impressive 9/10, and with low crime and plenty of family activities, it’s no wonder folks are flocking here faster than a tumbleweed in a twister.
Temple – Texas’ Medical Marvel
Halfway between Waco and Austin, Temple is perfect for healthcare and family life. It’s got the highest number of primary care docs per capita in Texas, so you know you’re covered on the healthcare front. With just under 90,000 residents, Temple also has affordable real estate, top-rated schools, and Baylor Scott & White Medical Center, which puts this spot high on the must-move list.
Y’all Come On Down, Ya Hear?
So, grab your family, pick a spot, and come on down to Texas, where there’s a place just right for you to put down roots. And when you do, be sure to give us a call – here at Energy Texas, we’ve got the right energy plans for your comfort and your budget. Visit EnergyTexas.com to find out what’s available in your zip code.
FAQ
What are the safest neighborhoods in Texas for families?
Texas may be big, but the safest neighborhoods feel as cozy as your grandma’s front porch. Cities like Melissa, San Elizario, and Fulshear have lower crime rates than most – keeping your peace of mind nice and easy.
Where can I find top schools for my lil’ learners?
The best schools are sprinkled across the state like seasoning on a brisket – Austin, Dallas, and Houston have high schools ranking in the top 10. Head to the Austin Statesman or U.S. News to get the full scoop.
What does childcare cost in these Texas towns?
Costs vary depending on where you live, but here’s a snapshot: Houston daycare averages $770/month, Dallas $900, Austin $890, and San Antonio a cool $760.
How does healthcare look for families in Texas?
From Tyler’s UT Health to Pearland’s Texas Pediatrics, healthcare in Texas is top-tier. And don’t forget, Houston and Dallas boast some of the best hospitals in the whole country – we’re looking at you, Houston Methodist and UT Southwestern.
What about taxes?
Y’all can kiss that income tax goodbye – there isn’t one in the Lone Star State. And the child tax credit can put up to $3,600 per kid back in your pocket.
Looking for some family fun? Texas has so much to offer.
Natural Bridge Caverns in San Antonio – Take the family spelunking in these limestone beauties
Route 66 Historic District in Amarillo – It’s vintage Texas in a nutshell: retro diners, art, and shops for days
NASA Space Center in Houston – Ready to launch your kids’ imaginations? This is where it’s at.
Dude Ranching in Dallas-Fort Worth – Horseback riding, jeep tours, and Texas barbecue. Yee-haw!
Moody Gardens in Galveston – Rainforest, ropes course, aquarium – there’s something for everyone here.