Texas, renowned for its strong family values and vibrant communities, is increasingly recognized as an ideal place to raise children. It’s no wonder that several Texas cities have consistently ranked among the nation’s most family-friendly locations. According to Apartment List’s 2017 Best-for-Families Index, not just one, but four Texas cities stood out for their commitment to safety, affordability, education, and child-centered environments, making them some of the Best Places To Live In Texas For Families.
Flower Mound and Frisco, both located in the thriving North Texas region, secured the top two positions in the ranking, claiming the first and second spots respectively. Further highlighting Texas’s family appeal, Cedar Park in Central Texas and Pearland in Southeast Texas also earned impressive rankings, placing sixth and tenth. These accolades underscore what Texans already know – Texas offers exceptional environments for families to flourish.
Flower Mound, Texas, showcases its iconic namesake mound at sunset, adorned with Texas bluebonnets, symbolizing the town’s natural beauty and family-friendly atmosphere.
These rankings are not just numbers; they reflect the lived experiences of families who call these cities home. Lori Walker, president of the Flower Mound Chamber of Commerce, aptly describes her city as “a special place,” emphasizing the role of engaged leadership in fostering a family-centric community. Similarly, Tony Felker, president of the Frisco chamber, attributes Frisco’s consistent high ranking to the collaborative efforts of the chamber, city hall, and the educational and business sectors, all working towards shared goals that prioritize family well-being.
Jennie Huerta, City Media and Communications Manager for Cedar Park, points to the city’s comprehensive approach to family appeal, while Carol Artz-Bucek, president and CEO of Pearland’s chamber, jokingly yet proudly acknowledges Pearland’s tenth position, reinforcing the city’s commitment to family values despite being part of a large metropolitan area.
Apartment List’s comprehensive index evaluates cities based on key factors crucial for families: safety (35%), affordability (30%), education (25%), and child friendliness (10%). These metrics are measured through crime rates, rent affordability in relation to income, high school graduation rates, and the proportion of the population under 18. The success of Flower Mound, Frisco, Cedar Park, and Pearland highlights a common thread: proximity to major metropolitan areas combined with a focus on maintaining a community feel, strong economies, excellent schools, and amenities specifically designed for families. These characteristics make them exceptional contenders when considering the best places to live in Texas for families.
Flower Mound: #1 for Family-Friendly Living in Texas
Flower Mound, topping the list as the most family-friendly city in Texas, excels in blending small-town charm with suburban conveniences within a major urban area. The city particularly shines in affordability and safety, two paramount concerns for families selecting the best places to live in Texas for families.
Despite a median home value exceeding $300,000 in 2016, Flower Mound’s high income levels ensure housing remains affordable for its residents. Lori Walker notes the prevalence of upscale townhomes catering to young families and seniors, although she also acknowledges the ongoing need for more affordable housing options to maintain diverse family demographics.
Flower Mound’s commitment to safety is evident in its low crime rates, potentially attributed to its unique town planning that avoids major freeways cutting through the city. This design choice minimizes through-traffic, contributing to a safer, more community-focused environment. Increasingly, residents find employment within Flower Mound or nearby, reducing lengthy commutes and fostering a stronger local community.
For families, Flower Mound offers a wealth of amenities. Youth sports leagues are highly active, and the city boasts numerous parks and recreational facilities. The rejuvenated Parker Square shopping area serves as a community hub, hosting weekend farmers’ markets, outdoor concerts, and movie nights. Small, independent businesses and eateries add to the town’s unique character. Flower Mound also hosts a major national youth baseball tournament annually and is developing an amphitheater in a new mixed-use development reminiscent of a river walk, further enhancing its appeal as one of the best places to live in Texas for families.
Frisco: #2 Family-Friendly City in Texas, Focused on Youth and Growth
Frisco, a rapidly growing and youthful city, claims the second spot, particularly excelling in education and child friendliness. Children constitute a significant third of Frisco’s population, and the city saw the construction of 2,200 new homes in 2016, reflecting its popularity among families seeking the best places to live in Texas for families.
Frisco’s commitment to education is demonstrated by its approach to school infrastructure. Instead of large “mega-schools,” the city prioritizes building smaller, more numerous campuses to maintain a better student-to-teacher ratio and a more personalized learning environment. The city’s tenth high school is slated to open soon, reflecting its ongoing investment in education.
Sports culture is deeply ingrained in Frisco’s identity. The Ford Center at the Star, the Dallas Cowboys’ world headquarters, offers public access to educational and athletic facilities, enriching the community. Ryan Callison from the Frisco Convention & Visitors Bureau highlights Frisco’s unique distinction as the only U.S. city with minor league or development teams in all five major professional sports. This vibrant sports scene earned Frisco recognition from Men’s Journal in 2011 as the best place to raise an athlete.
Beyond traditional sports, Frisco embraces modern forms of recreation. The city is home to the National Video Game Museum and a major video game software company, even featuring an e-sports coffee bar and restaurant. Frisco also hosts a gamers convention and a large pinball festival, catering to diverse interests and solidifying its reputation as one of the best places to live in Texas for families with varied passions.
Cedar Park: A Top Choice for Outdoor-Loving Families in Texas
Cedar Park, ranking sixth and tying with Frisco for child friendliness, is celebrated for its exceptional outdoor amenities. Named after a historic park-like area, Cedar Park today boasts 47 parks spanning 860 acres and 22 miles of hike-and-bike trails, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and making it a prime location among the best places to live in Texas for families who value nature and recreation.
Jennie Huerta emphasizes the immense popularity of Cedar Park’s parks, which host a variety of events, including concerts and movies. Key attractions include Veterans Memorial Park, the Cedar Bark Park for dogs, and the annual Fourth of July celebration at Milburn Park, drawing families from across the region.
Once a destination for Austinites seeking a “country” escape, Cedar Park has transformed into a sought-after residential city in the past 15 years. Its outdoor lifestyle, family-oriented amenities, and a multi-purpose entertainment arena attract young families relocating from Austin and beyond.
Another significant draw for families is Cedar Park’s public library. Its “fantastic programming,” including specialized story times for different age groups and innovative programs like “‘Bots and Books,” which combines robotics and literacy, attracts patrons from neighboring communities and solidifies Cedar Park as one of the best places to live in Texas for families who value education and community engagement.
Pearland: Affordable and Education-Focused Family Living Near Houston
Pearland, rounding out the top ten, stands out for its affordability and strong educational environment. Among the top-ranked cities, Pearland is second only to Flower Mound in affordability and closely follows Frisco in education metrics, making it an attractive option for families considering the best places to live in Texas for families on a budget without compromising quality of life.
Affordability in Pearland is reflected in its housing market and high household incomes, among the highest in the Houston area, with average home sale prices below $275,000. The city’s strong education ranking is underpinned by several factors.
Pearland boasts a highly educated population, with nearly half of adults holding at least a bachelor’s degree. Many residents are employed in the medical field at the Texas Medical Center in Houston, contributing to the high regard for Pearland’s four public school districts.
Carol Artz-Bucek highlights Pearland’s “education-friendly environment,” emphasizing the engaging and exciting learning opportunities for students, particularly in the community’s outstanding career and technology schools.
Despite having a slightly older median population compared to the other Texas cities on the list, Pearland’s cultural and recreational offerings are distinctly family-focused. A year-round children’s theatre program stages performances of literary and historical classics, and the expansive 107,000-square-foot recreation center, a collaborative effort between the city, its economic development corporation, and the Pearland Independent School District, provides facilities for sports and fitness, further enhancing Pearland’s appeal as one of the best places to live in Texas for families.
While Pearland’s safety rating is slightly lower compared to the other Texas cities in the top ten, this is partly attributed to its location within the larger Houston metropolitan area and its more diverse population. This diversity, in fact, is cited by the Pearland Economic Development Corporation as a strength, reflecting a vibrant and inclusive community.
Vital Statistics of Family-Friendly Texas Cities
| City | Year Incorporated | Population (approx.) | Location | Land Area (square miles) | Income | Median Age |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| City Limits | ETJ* | Median | ||||
| Flower Mound | 1961 | 68,000 | south of Denton | 46 | none | $126,465 |
| Frisco | 1902 | 161,000 | north of Dallas | 68 | 70 | $123,055 |
| Cedar Park | 1973 | 72,000 | northwest of Austin | 26 | 33 | $82,311 |
| Pearland | 1959 | 120,000 | south of Houston | 46 | 73 | $97,200 |
*extra-territorial jurisdiction
Conclusion: Texas – A Premier Destination for Family Living
These four Texas cities – Flower Mound, Frisco, Cedar Park, and Pearland – exemplify why Texas is considered one of the best places to live in Texas for families. Their high rankings in national surveys reflect a commitment to creating safe, affordable, and enriching environments for children and parents alike. From top-rated schools and abundant recreational opportunities to strong community values and thriving economies, these cities offer compelling reasons for families seeking an exceptional place to call home in the Lone Star State. Whether you prioritize outdoor activities, educational excellence, or a close-knit community, these Texas cities provide diverse options to meet the needs of any family looking for the perfect place to settle down and flourish.
