If you're looking for a great place to raise a family in Texas, you're in luck. The Lone Star State has plenty of cities and towns that are perfect for families. From excellent schools to low crime rates, these places have everything you need to give your family a happy and healthy life.
When it comes to finding the best places to live in Texas for families, there are a few factors to consider. First and foremost, you'll want to look for cities and towns with excellent schools. Texas is known for having some of the best schools in the country, so you should have no trouble finding a great school district for your kids.
You'll also want to look for places with low crime rates and a strong sense of community. After all, you want to feel safe and welcome in your new home.
So, without further ado, here are the 10 best places to live in Texas for families. These cities and towns offer a great quality of life, excellent schools, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a bustling city or a quiet suburb, you're sure to find the perfect place for your family in Texas.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Texas has many cities and towns that are great for families.
- Factors to consider when looking for family-friendly cities include schools, crime rates, and community.
- Some of the best places to live in Texas for families offer a high quality of life, great schools, and family-friendly activities.
Understanding Texas
If you're considering moving to Texas with your family, it's important to understand what the state has to offer. Texas is the second-largest state in the United States, with a population of over 29 million people. It's known for its warm weather, friendly people, and diverse culture.
One of the biggest draws of Texas is its economy. The state has a thriving job market, with major industries including energy, technology, and healthcare. This means that there are plenty of opportunities for families to find good jobs and build a stable life.
Another benefit of living in Texas is the low cost of living. Compared to other states, Texas has relatively affordable housing, healthcare, and transportation costs. This can make it easier for families to save money and invest in their future.
Texas is also home to a variety of excellent schools and universities. From top-ranked public universities like the University of Texas at Austin to highly-regarded private colleges like Rice University, there are plenty of options for students of all ages. Additionally, many Texas school districts have received high marks for their quality of education.
Of course, Texas is also known for its unique culture and attractions. From the bustling cities of Houston and Dallas to the natural beauty of Big Bend National Park, there's no shortage of things to see and do in Texas. Whether you're interested in music, food, sports, or history, you're sure to find something that appeals to you in the Lone Star State.
Overall, Texas is a great place to live for families who are looking for a combination of economic opportunity, affordability, and cultural richness. With its friendly people, warm weather, and diverse attractions, it's no wonder that so many people are proud to call Texas home.
10 Best Places to Live in Texas for Families: Top Family-Friendly Cities in the Lone Star State
Austin: The State Capital
If you are looking for a bustling city with plenty of opportunities, Austin might be the perfect place for you and your family. As the state capital, Austin offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities.
One of the biggest draws of Austin is its thriving music scene. With live music venues scattered throughout the city, you are sure to find something that suits your taste. Additionally, Austin is home to a number of festivals, including South by Southwest (SXSW) and the Austin City Limits Music Festival.
But Austin is more than just a music city. It also boasts a vibrant food scene, with everything from food trucks to high-end restaurants. And if you are a fan of the outdoors, Austin has plenty to offer, with parks, lakes, and hiking trails all within easy reach.
When it comes to education, Austin is home to a number of highly regarded schools, both public and private. And for higher education, the University of Texas at Austin is one of the top universities in the country.
Of course, living in a city like Austin comes with its challenges. Traffic can be a headache, and housing costs can be high. But if you are looking for a city that offers plenty of opportunities and a unique blend of culture and history, Austin might be the perfect place for you and your family.
Plano: A City of Excellence
If you are looking for a city that offers excellent schools, affordable homes, and safe neighborhoods, Plano, Texas, is the place for you. According to Livability, Plano is one of the best cities to live in the United States, ranking #29 in 2022 and #17 in 2021.
Plano is a shopping destination all on its own, with two huge upscale shopping centers, The Shops at Legacy and Legacy West, along with a downtown full of local boutiques. The city also offers a wonderful mix of peaceful suburban living with dynamic, urban amenities, making it an ideal place for families to settle down.
Plano's excellent public schools are one of its biggest draws, with Niche ranking it #8 out of 228 cities with the best public schools in America. Housing is available to suit the needs of all residents, from young professionals to new families to senior citizens and everyone in between. According to Sperling's BestPlaces, the median home price in Plano is $492,900, and the median income is $99,729.
In addition to its excellent schools and affordable housing, Plano offers a variety of recreational activities for families, including parks, hiking and biking trails, and community events. The city is also home to several major corporations, providing ample job opportunities for residents.
Overall, Plano is a city of excellence that offers everything a family could need in one place. With its top-notch schools, safe neighborhoods, and dynamic urban amenities, it's no wonder why Plano consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in the United States.
Frisco: The Rapidly Growing City
If you're looking for a family-friendly city with a rapidly growing economy, Frisco, Texas should be on your radar. With a population of over 200,000, Frisco has been consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the United States.
Frisco's economy is booming, with many major corporations headquartered in the city, including Toyota, Jamba Juice, and the Dallas Cowboys. The city has a low unemployment rate and a high median household income, making it an attractive destination for families looking to settle down.
In addition to its strong economy, Frisco offers plenty of amenities for families. The city is home to numerous parks and green spaces, as well as top-rated schools and a thriving arts and culture scene. Frisco is also known for its sports facilities, including the Ford Center at The Star, a state-of-the-art training facility for the Dallas Cowboys.
Despite its rapid growth, Frisco has managed to maintain its small-town feel, with a tight-knit community and a commitment to preserving its history and heritage. Whether you're looking for a new job, a great school district, or simply a great place to raise a family, Frisco is definitely worth considering.
Sugar Land: The Sweetest City
If you're looking for a family-friendly city in Texas, Sugar Land is definitely worth considering. This city is known for its strong economy, excellent schools, and master-planned communities that offer a high quality of life for families.
Sugar Land has a population of around 118,000 people and is located just southwest of Houston. It was once home to a major sugar refinery, which is where the city gets its name. Today, Sugar Land is a thriving city that offers a great mix of suburban living and urban amenities.
One of the things that makes Sugar Land so attractive to families is its excellent schools. The city is served by the Fort Bend Independent School District, which is one of the top-rated school districts in Texas. There are also several private schools in the area, including the prestigious Fort Bend Christian Academy.
In addition to great schools, Sugar Land also offers plenty of recreational opportunities for families. The city has over 560 acres of parkland, including the beautiful Oyster Creek Park. There are also several community centers, sports fields, and golf courses in the area.
If you're looking for a great place to live in Texas, Sugar Land is definitely worth considering. With its strong economy, excellent schools, and family-friendly amenities, it's no wonder that this city has been named one of the best places to live for families by several publications.
The Woodlands: A Master-Planned Community
If you are looking for a family-friendly community in Texas, The Woodlands should be at the top of your list. This 28,500-acre master-planned community, located just 27 miles north of downtown Houston, has been recognized as one of the top master-planned communities in the nation.
The Woodlands offers an impressive array of amenities, including 148 parks, 220 miles of hike and bike trails, and an unprecedented 28% of green space, making it a great place for families who love the outdoors. The community also boasts excellent schools, places of worship, shopping, dining, hospitality, and healthcare facilities, making it a convenient and comfortable place to live.
One of the most notable features of The Woodlands is its commitment to environmental preservation. The community has been designed to preserve the natural beauty of the area, with a focus on sustainability and green living. This dedication to the environment is reflected in the community's many parks, nature preserves, and green spaces.
If you are looking for a walkable community, The Woodlands is an excellent choice. With its extensive trail system and pedestrian-friendly design, it is easy to get around on foot or by bike. The community also offers a variety of cultural and entertainment options, including world-class theaters, museums, and live music venues.
Overall, The Woodlands is a great choice for families who want to live in a community that offers a high quality of life, excellent amenities, and a commitment to environmental sustainability. If you are looking for a place to call home in Texas, The Woodlands should definitely be on your list.
Pearland: A Gem of a City
If you're looking for a great place to raise your family in Texas, Pearland is definitely worth considering. This city, located just south of Houston, has a lot to offer, from excellent schools to a thriving economy and plenty of recreational opportunities.
One of the biggest draws of Pearland is its family-friendly atmosphere. The city has a low crime rate and is known for its safe neighborhoods. Plus, with a population of around 120,000, Pearland is large enough to offer plenty of amenities, but small enough to feel like a tight-knit community.
Pearland is also home to some of the best schools in the Houston area. The Pearland Independent School District has consistently been recognized for its academic excellence, and there are plenty of private school options as well. Whether you're looking for a top-notch elementary school or a high school with a strong athletics program, you'll find it in Pearland.
In terms of recreation, Pearland has something for everyone. The city has a number of parks and trails, including the popular Shadow Creek Ranch Park, which features a playground, picnic areas, and a fishing lake. Pearland is also home to a number of sports facilities, including a soccer complex and a baseball and softball complex.
Overall, Pearland is a great place to live for families. With its excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and ample recreational opportunities, it's no wonder that more and more people are choosing to call this city home.
Criteria for Family-Friendly Cities
When looking for the best places to live in Texas for families, there are certain criteria that you should consider. Here are some of the factors that make a city family-friendly:
- Affordability: The cost of living in a city is an important factor to consider. You want to make sure that you can afford to live comfortably in the city without breaking the bank.
- Good schools: If you have children, you want to make sure that the city has good schools. Look for cities with high-quality public schools or access to good private schools.
- Safe neighborhoods: Safety is a top priority for families. Look for cities with low crime rates and safe neighborhoods.
- Access to healthcare: Access to quality healthcare is important for families. Look for cities with good hospitals and healthcare facilities.
- Family-friendly activities: Look for cities with plenty of family-friendly activities such as parks, museums, and community events.
- Job opportunities: You want to make sure that there are job opportunities in the city. Look for cities with a strong job market and a diverse range of industries.
- Good transportation: Access to good transportation is important for families. Look for cities with good public transportation, bike lanes, and walkable neighborhoods.
When considering all of these factors, you can find the best places to live in Texas for families that meet your needs and preferences.
Education in Texas
When it comes to education, Texas has a lot to offer families. The state has a diverse range of public and private schools, as well as several prestigious universities.
Public Schools
Texas has over 1,000 school districts, each with its own unique strengths and challenges. The state is known for its strong emphasis on standardized testing, which can be a double-edged sword for students and educators alike. On the one hand, it ensures that students are held to a high academic standard. On the other hand, it can create a stressful and competitive learning environment.
Despite these challenges, many Texas public schools are highly regarded for their academic programs, extracurricular activities, and supportive communities. Some of the best public school districts in Texas include:
- Southlake Carroll Independent School District
- Highland Park Independent School District
- Eanes Independent School District
- Coppell Independent School District
- Frisco Independent School District
Private Schools
Texas is home to a wide range of private schools, including religious, secular, and boarding schools. Private schools can offer smaller class sizes, more individualized attention, and a more specialized curriculum than public schools. However, they can also be more expensive and may not be accessible to all families.
Some of the best private schools in Texas include:
- St. Mark's School of Texas
- Greenhill School
- The Hockaday School
- St. John's School
- St. Stephen's Episcopal School
Higher Education
Texas is also home to several highly regarded universities, including the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, and Rice University. These universities offer a wide range of academic programs, from engineering and business to liberal arts and sciences. In addition to these large universities, Texas also has several smaller liberal arts colleges, such as Trinity University and Southwestern University.
Overall, Texas offers a diverse range of educational opportunities for families. Whether you're looking for a top-ranked public school district or a prestigious private school, Texas has something to offer.
Healthcare in Texas
When it comes to healthcare, Texas has a lot to offer. In fact, Texas is home to some of the best hospitals and medical facilities in the country. Here are some key things to know about healthcare in Texas:
Hospitals
Texas has a wide variety of hospitals, ranging from small community hospitals to large academic medical centers. Some of the best hospitals in Texas include:
- Houston Methodist Hospital
- Baylor University Medical Center
- MD Anderson Cancer Center
- Texas Children's Hospital
- University Health System
Health Insurance
If you're moving to Texas, it's important to know that the state does not have its own health insurance exchange. Instead, Texans use the federal exchange at Healthcare.gov to purchase health insurance. However, Texas does have a number of private health insurance providers, including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, Aetna, and Cigna.
Medicaid
Texas is one of the few states that has not expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. As a result, many low-income Texans do not have access to affordable health insurance. However, Texas does have a number of programs to help low-income residents access healthcare, including the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and the Medicaid Buy-In program.
Telemedicine
Telemedicine is becoming increasingly popular in Texas, especially in rural areas where access to healthcare can be limited. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with doctors and other healthcare providers remotely, using video conferencing and other technologies. Many healthcare providers in Texas offer telemedicine services, including MDLive, Teladoc, and Doctor On Demand.
Overall, Texas is a great place to live if you're looking for quality healthcare. With top-notch hospitals, a variety of health insurance options, and innovative telemedicine services, Texans have access to some of the best healthcare in the country.
