Denton, TX
The North Central region of Texas includes the ever-expanding Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, and at the north end of this sprawl is the city of Denton. It forms the top end of the "Golden Triangle", with Dallas to the southeast and Fort Worth to the southwest. Denton is a medium-sized city with a population now in excess of 125,000 people, and although it's close to the big cities, it has a rather small-town, semi-rural feel. When you arrive here, the first thing you'll notice is the absence of traffic jams, high-rise buildings, and strip malls.
Even though it's part of a major metropolitan area, you'll quickly note what makes this community special. Denton has one of the highest number of horse ranches in the state, and there are also plenty of greenbelts and open pasture between the suburban developments. Major arterials connect the entire city, and Interstate 35 runs north-to-south through the downtown area. Just south of town, this interstate highway splits in two, the eastern branch providing easy access to Dallas, and the western branch connecting Denton to Fort Worth.
The median home price is just about the national average, but it's slightly less than what's reported in Dallas. Also, a typical one- or two-bedroom apartment costs just a bit less than one in Dallas and its immediate ring of suburbs. The vacancy rate is high enough for newcomers to shop confidently, with plenty of available apartment openings.
The city boasts a cultural mix all its own. Jazz festivals, flower and garden shows, street festivals and parades, and an incredible mix of fine cuisine from all over the world makes Denton a true melting pot. Annual events include the North Texas Fair & Rodeo, the Arts & Autos celebration, the Thin Line Fest, and the Denton Black Film Festival. The city is also home to some outstanding museums, the most famous being the Denton County Courthouse Museum that stands in the very center of town.
If you love shopping, Denton has you covered. Head to the Denton Crossing, the Denton Triangle Mall, or the Rayzor Ranch Marketplace. The city's shopping centers are noted for their multitude of craft and souvenir shops.
The weather in this part of Texas varies widely from one season to the next. In spring, rainfall is common, and there's always the threat of a tornado. In summer, the humidity drops a bit, but the temperatures can soar well above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. In winter, cold blasts coming down from Canada can drop temps as much as 40 degrees in a matter of hours. Freezing nights in winter are uncommon, and the city averages less than two inches of accumulated snow during the winter months.
Because it's part of the expanding DFW metroplex, Denton itself continues to grow and prosper. Whatever the reason for a move to this culture-rich community, you'll find yourself surrounded by friendly folks who'll go out of their way to make you feel at home.