One of Dallas, Texas' Wealthiest Cities Is Southlake, Texas, BUT Is It a Good Place to Live?
Southlake, Texas, is often hailed as one of the most affluent cities in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. With its high-end real estate, excellent schools, and close-knit community, Southlake offers a lifestyle that many aspire to. However, the question remains: is Southlake truly a good place to live? In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into everything you need to know about living in Southlake, from its housing market and neighborhoods to schools, community amenities, and more.
The City of Southlake: An Overview
Population and Size
Southlake is home to approximately 32,000 residents, making it a relatively small city by population. Covering an area of around 22 square miles, Southlake offers a blend of suburban charm and luxurious living. The city is strategically located with Lake Grapevine to the north and is bisected by Highway 114, which provides easy access to major destinations like Dallas and Fort Worth.
Location and Accessibility
One of Southlake’s major advantages is its location. It’s just about 10 minutes from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), making it highly convenient for frequent travelers. Additionally, Southlake is approximately 25 miles from Fort Worth, 26 miles from Dallas, and about 20 minutes from Arlington, home to attractions like AT&T Stadium and Globe Life Field. Frisco, another booming area, is about 30 miles away.
Real Estate in Southlake: A Market Snapshot
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Home Prices and Property Types
The real estate market in Southlake is known for its high price points. The median price of a home in Southlake hovers around $1.3 million. However, prices can range significantly, from around $480,000 for smaller homes (often less than 900 square feet) to upwards of $12 million for sprawling estates with 24,000 square feet on five acres.
New Construction
Southlake is a mature community, meaning there’s limited availability of new construction homes. Currently, there are only about 10 active new construction homes on the market, either completed or under construction. This scarcity adds to the exclusivity of living in Southlake.
Diverse Neighborhoods
Southlake offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm. From high-end luxury estates to family-friendly communities, there’s something to suit every lifestyle. The neighborhoods are well-maintained, with tree-lined streets that add to the area’s appeal. Many homes sit on larger lots, with properties ranging from a quarter-acre to several acres.
No Apartments, Few Condos and Townhomes
Unlike many other cities, Southlake does not have apartment complexes. There are a few condos and townhomes, but these are not your typical properties. Many of them are as large as 3,000 square feet and come with price tags in the millions, reflecting the city’s upscale nature.
Rental Market
The rental market in Southlake is small but expensive. There are currently only 35 active rental homes, with prices starting at $2,600 for a 2,100-square-foot mobile home. High-end rentals can reach up to $22,000 per month for a 6,000-square-foot home. On average, rental prices in Southlake range from $5,000 to $6,000 per month.
Land Availability
For those interested in building a custom home, Southlake does offer land for sale. Currently, there are 33 lots available, ranging from 0.1 acres to nearly two acres. Prices for these lots range from $700,000 to $2 million, reflecting the premium nature of Southlake real estate.
Southlake’s Top Neighborhoods: Where to Live
Timarron: A Master-Planned Community
Timarron is one of Southlake’s largest and most popular communities, covering 1,200 acres with over 1,500 homes spread across 14 different neighborhoods. Homes in Timarron were built between 1992 and 2003 and sit on lots ranging from a quarter-acre to an acre. Prices range from $850,000 to $3.5 million. The community offers a wealth of amenities, including multiple pools, tennis and pickleball courts, a fitness center, basketball and volleyball courts, playgrounds, ponds for fishing, and miles of walking trails.
Carillon: Luxury and Community
Carillon is located on the north side of Highway 114 and is divided into two distinct districts: the Village District and the Chateau District. The Village District is designed to foster a close-knit community, with homes built on smaller lots along walking trails and near the park. The Chateau District offers larger estate lots, some with views of Lake Carillon. Homes in Carillon range from $1 million to over $3 million, and the community is part of a larger mixed-use development that is still under construction.
Saddleback Ridge Estates: For the Discerning Buyer
Saddleback Ridge Estates is a gated community located near Lake Grapevine, offering 32 custom homesites on lots of one acre or more. Prices start at $4 million and can go as high as $5 million, reflecting the exclusive nature of this neighborhood. The community is nestled within wooded areas, offering a serene and private setting for its residents.
Clariden Ranch: Spacious and Secluded
Clariden Ranch offers 115 custom home sites, each sitting on more than an acre of land. Homes in this community range from $1.5 million to $2.5 million, with some larger properties exceeding $3 million. Built starting in 2001, these homes offer privacy and space, with many set back from the road on larger lots.
Foxborough: Central and Convenient
Foxborough is a smaller, upscale community located in the heart of Southlake, near Bicentennial Park and Southlake Town Square. The neighborhood features 65 homes built between 1996 and 2000, with sizes ranging from 3,600 to 6,000 square feet. Home prices range from $1.5 million to $1.9 million, and the community offers easy access to everything Southlake has to offer.
Crescent Heights: New Construction with a Premium
Crescent Heights is a newer gated community located off Southlake Boulevard, featuring 53 custom home sites ranging from two-thirds to three-quarters of an acre. Homes in Crescent Heights start at around $3.5 million and can go up to nearly $10 million. The community is designed around 11 acres of preserved native trees and includes walking trails, ponds, and a central green space.
Monticello: Gated and Guarded Luxury
Monticello is a well-established gated and guarded community with over 300 homes built between 1992 and 2000. Homes here range from $1.4 million to $2.4 million and sit on lots ranging from a third of an acre to three-quarters of an acre. The community features 64 acres of private parks, six ponds, miles of shaded trails, tennis courts, a playground, and more.
Community Amenities: Living the Southlake Lifestyle
Southlake Town Square: The Heart of the City
Southlake Town Square is the city’s premier shopping, dining, and entertainment destination. It serves as the social and commercial hub of Southlake, where residents can find everything from high-end retailers to popular restaurants. The Town Square hosts numerous events throughout the year, making it a vibrant part of the Southlake community.
**The Marq: Southlake’s Recreation Center**
The Marq is an 82,000-square-foot recreation center that offers state-of-the-art amenities, including indoor and outdoor turf fields, cardio and weight machines, fitness classes, saunas, an indoor pool with water slides, and a splash pad. The facility also includes playgrounds, an indoor track, locker rooms, and party rooms that can be rented out for special events.
Bicentennial Park: Outdoor Activities Galore
Bicentennial Park is the largest park in Southlake, home to the city’s baseball fields, a new playground, historic log cabins, public art installations, tennis courts, and the Southlake Pickleball Complex with nine courts. The park also hosts various community events throughout the year, making it a central gathering place for residents.
Timarron Country Club: Exclusive Membership
Located within the Timarron community, Timarron Country Club is an exclusive, family-oriented private club featuring a championship golf course designed by Byron Nelson. Membership is by invitation only, and the club offers a range of facilities, including a clubhouse, tennis courts, and dining options.
Bob Jones Nature Center and Preserve
For nature enthusiasts, the Bob Jones Nature Center and Preserve offers miles of walking trails along Lake Grapevine. The center hosts various programs and events throughout the year, providing a perfect escape into nature without leaving the Southlake area.
Education in Southlake: Carroll Independent School District
Top-Ranked Schools
Southlake is part of the Carroll Independent School District (CISD), which is consistently ranked among the top school districts in Texas. CISD is known for providing a top-tier educational foundation, with a strong emphasis on academics, athletics, and extracurricular activities.
School Breakdown
CISD consists of 11 schools: five elementary schools, two middle schools, two intermediate schools, and two high schools. The high schools are divided into a 9th-10th grade campus and an 11th-12th grade campus. This structure helps keep school sizes smaller and more manageable, contributing to the district’s high performance.
Student Performance
CISD boasts impressive statistics, including a zero percent dropout rate, a 97 percent attendance rate, and scores that consistently exceed state and national averages on standardized tests. Approximately 98 percent of CISD seniors go on to attend college, highlighting the district’s commitment to preparing students for higher education.
Sports and Extracurriculars
Carroll ISD is also known for its highly competitive sports programs, which include football, golf, tennis, swimming, and even marching band. The district recently won its ninth Lone Star Cup, awarded by the University Interscholastic League for overall athletic and academic performance. Whether your child is interested in sports, robotics, or theater, CISD offers something for everyone.
Community and Lifestyle in Southlake
A Close-Knit Community
One of the defining characteristics of Southlake is its close-knit community. Residents take pride in their homes and neighborhoods, and there are numerous opportunities to get involved in community activities. From neighborhood events to sports leagues and social clubs, Southlake offers a strong sense of belonging.
Family-Friendly Environment
Southlake is an ideal place for families, with numerous family-friendly neighborhoods, parks, and activities. The community’s emphasis on education, safety, and quality of life makes it a great place to raise children. Whether you’re attending a neighborhood event, participating in a local sports league, or simply enjoying a day at one of the city’s parks, Southlake offers a welcoming environment for families.
Privacy and Security
For those who prefer a more secluded lifestyle, Southlake also offers neighborhoods with gated entrances and larger, more private lots. These communities provide an extra layer of security and privacy, while still being part of the larger Southlake community.
Things to Do in Southlake
Events and Festivals
Southlake hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, many of which take place in Southlake Town Square. Some of the most popular events include Southlake’s Stars and Stripes celebration on July 3rd, the annual Christmas tree lighting, Oktoberfest, and Art in the Square. These events not only bring the community together but also attract visitors from across the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
Shopping and Dining
Southlake is home to an array of shopping and dining options, from high-end boutiques and national retailers to local restaurants and cafes. Southlake Town Square is the city’s premier shopping destination, but there are also other shopping centers and grocery stores, including Central Market and Trader Joe’s, that cater to residents’ needs.
Outdoor Recreation
In addition to its parks and nature preserves, Southlake offers numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation. The city’s proximity to Lake Grapevine provides access to boating, fishing, hiking, and other outdoor activities. The city’s parks and trails are also popular destinations for walking, jogging, and cycling.
Is Southlake, Texas, a Good Place to Live?
Pros of Living in Southlake
Affluent and Prestigious: Southlake is one of the wealthiest cities in Texas, offering a high standard of living and a prestigious address.
Excellent Schools: Carroll ISD is one of the top-ranked school districts in the state, providing a high-quality education for children.
Close-Knit Community: Residents of Southlake enjoy a strong sense of community, with numerous opportunities to get involved in local activities and events.
Luxury Real Estate: Southlake offers a variety of high-end homes, from luxury estates to custom-built properties, in well-maintained neighborhoods.
Convenient Location: Southlake’s proximity to major highways, DFW Airport, and nearby cities like Dallas and Fort Worth makes it a convenient place to live for commuters and frequent travelers.
Cons of Living in Southlake
High Cost of Living: The cost of living in Southlake is significantly higher than in other parts of the Dallas-Fort Worth area, particularly when it comes to real estate.
Limited Housing Options: With a limited number of new construction homes and a small rental market, housing options in Southlake can be scarce and expensive.
Traffic Congestion: Like many parts of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, Southlake can experience traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours.
Lack of Diversity: Southlake is less diverse compared to other cities in the metroplex, which may be a consideration for some prospective residents.
Conclusion: Is Southlake Right for You?
Southlake is undoubtedly one of the most desirable places to live in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, offering a combination of luxury living, top-rated schools, and a strong sense of community. However, the high cost of living and limited housing options may not make it the right fit for everyone. If you’re considering a move to Southlake, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons and determine whether this prestigious community aligns with your lifestyle and financial goals.
If you have any questions or need assistance with your move to Southlake or anywhere else in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, don’t hesitate to reach out. As a licensed realtor with extensive experience in the region, I’m here to help you find the perfect home and navigate the complexities of the local real estate market.
What are your thoughts on living in Southlake, Texas? Have you visited or considered moving there? Leave your comments below, and don’t forget to like and subscribe for more insights into life in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. If you’re ready to take the next step in your home-buying journey, contact me today!
