Texas: the iconic state that in many ways personifies America. It's cowboy culture and Tex Mex. It’s wide-open land and relatively mild winters, especially in the south. It’s (also relatively) low cost of living and opportunities. It’s no wonder so many Americans move to and stay in Texas or never leave. Many reasons motivate a permanent or temporary move: affordability, access to nature, healthcare, education, and safety are all generally considered main priorities. Texas is a huge state with varying types of cities and smaller towns to suit those individual or family needs and wants.
Just 40 miles away from Dallas, Denton competes with the big cities on everything from live music venues to higher education. Denton’s population as of 2023 was around 160,000; it’s a mid-size city with a lot to offer a young graduate, growing family, and musicians craving a smaller city.
Denton’s housing market is higher than the national and state average at $500,000. Average rent is around $1,500 monthly. Major employers include Peterbilt Motors, Sally Beauty, and Acme Brick. Other large industries in Denton are higher education at Texas Women’s University and healthcare. The median household income of Denton averages around $73,000 per year.
Denton Independent School District scores high in teachers, diversity, and college preparation. Graduation rates are at 97% with higher-than-average proficiency rates. The city also offers 91 private schools, according to Niche.com, for parents looking for an alternative option to public education. Denton is home to two state universities: University of North Texas and Texas Woman’s University.
Denton is a musical town; multiple genres can be heard live throughout the city. Check out Steve’s Wine Bar for jazz performances. Dan’s Silverleaf venue hosts many Texas based performers and offers a songwriter’s open mic every Monday. There are 37 trails for running or biking along with 41 parks for families. Golfers have access to 32 courses within a 20-mile radius of Denton, 4 being within the city. Denton has a great food scene with BBQ and Tex-Mex being the main cuisines. Popular restaurants include Juicy Pig Barbecue and Mi Ranchito.
You can read more online at WorldAtlas.com.
Sarah Simpson March 22, 2025