Introduction: Why Southlake Stands Out
Southlake, Texas, with its population of just over 31,000, consistently ranks high on the list of best places to live in Texas. As a Fort Worth realtor, I, Keela McGraw, understand the importance of providing a balanced perspective on what life in Southlake really entails. In this video, we will explore the pros and cons of living in Southlake, highlighting its schools, location, safety, amenities, and housing market.
Southlake’s Education System: A Major Draw
Carroll Independent School District
Southlake is served by the Carroll Independent School District, renowned for its high performance. With an overall rating of an A from the Texas Education Agency and approximately 8,300 students across 11 schools, Carroll ISD is a significant factor in Southlake’s appeal.
Unique School Structure
Carroll ISD features a distinctive setup with separate campuses for 9th and 10th grades and another for 11th and 12th grades. This structure is designed to cater to students’ developmental stages effectively.
Sports and Extracurricular Activities
Carroll ISD boasts a highly competitive athletic department, excelling in various sports. Families with children actively involved in sports will find the district’s commitment to athletic excellence appealing.
Location: Southlake’s Geographical Advantage
Proximity to Major Cities
Strategically positioned north of Dallas and Fort Worth, Southlake offers easy access to both cities. It’s about 30 minutes from downtown Dallas and Fort Worth, making it an ideal location for those who commute or enjoy urban amenities.
Accessibility to Airports
Located near the airport, Southlake is a mere 10-15 minute drive away, offering convenience for frequent travelers.
Natural Scenery
Southlake is characterized by its hilly landscape, offering picturesque views and abundant natural beauty, which is quite distinct from the typically flat terrain of the DFW area.
Safety and Community in Southlake
Crime and Safety Rating
Southlake is recognized as one of Texas’s safest cities, with a crime and safety rating of B from Niche.com. The city’s police department is transparent with its crime statistics, ensuring residents are well-informed.
Community Events
Southlake Town Square and Park Village are hubs for shopping and community events, including the popular Art in the Square festival, enhancing the city’s communal vibe.
The Housing Market in Southlake
Luxury at a Price
Southlake is a luxury city, and this is reflected in its housing market. The median household income is around $223,000, and most homes are custom-built, offering uniqueness but also posing challenges for resale due to specific customizations.
Current Housing Costs
The median home price in Southlake is $1.2 million, which has risen by 26% from the previous year. Home prices range from $800,000 to $12-15 million, offering options for various luxury levels.
Conclusion: Weighing Your Options
Living in Southlake means enjoying top-notch education, safety, community events, and luxury housing, albeit at a higher cost. The city’s strategic location provides easy access to both Dallas and Fort Worth, along with convenient airport proximity. However, potential residents should be prepared for the competitive school environment, the unique housing market, and occasional air noise due to the proximity to the airport.
For more information on relocating to Southlake or surrounding areas, feel free to reach out to me. I’m here to help you navigate the choices and find the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Stay tuned for more insights on living in the DFW area.