Big news! The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex ranks as one of Travel + Leisure’s 8 Best Places to Live in Texas. The ranking considers factors including good-paying jobs, economic stability, top schools, recreational opportunities, and other reasons why so many people love to call the Lone Star State home.

What makes DFW so special?

The area offers both vibrant big-city life and more relaxed living in laid-back locales. Economics plays a big part. The Dallas and Fort Worth metro areas are home to over 20 Fortune 500 companies, including ExxonMobil, AT&T, and Southwest Airlines. Families appreciate that the DFW area has some of the best public school systems in the state. And with 397 parks, the Dallas Park System is one of America’s largest municipal park systems.

Austin gets high marks for its cosmopolitan offerings.

A drive of about three hours from Dallas brings you to Travel + Leisure’s top pick: Austin. The capital city earns its number-one spot with an eclectic dining scene, where Tex-Mex and time-honored barbecue joints share space with sushi, paella, and food trucks galore. And if you’re looking for entertainment, downtown Austin buzzes with live music in bars, coffeehouses, and restaurants.

San Antonio scores with its unique history.

Founded in 1718, San Antonio has over three centuries of history to discover. Running through the historic downtown district, the River Walk is where you’ll find five Spanish colonial missions — including the Alamo!

Houston claims third place for culture.

Take in some of the Lone Star State’s best art and science exhibitions at the Houston Museum District. The area just south of downtown Houston is home to the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, and the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, with pieces from Picasso and Georgia O’Keefe among its around 70,000 works.

Corpus Christi embraces coastal living.

Set on the Gulf of Mexico, Corpus Christi has over 125 miles of shoreline along Corpus Christi Bay. Fishing, boating, and beachcombing are popular here, while steady gulf winds make the waters excellent for windsurfing.

A Dallas-Fort Worth suburb is a top choice for families.

A short drive from the DFW metroplex, Southlake has excellent schools, beautiful public parks, and idyllic Grapevine Lake. Head to Southlake’s Town Square for a host of shopping, dining, and family-friendly entertainment experiences.

Rounding out Travel + Leisure’s list are Tyler at #7 and Lubbock at #8.

Are you ready to live in one of the best towns in Texas? If so, connect online with one of the loan experts at the Decker Group at First United or call us at (972) 591-3097.