Thinking about making Texas your family’s new home? Millions of people have already made the move, and for good reason. Between affordable housing, plenty of jobs, solid schools, and endless things to do, the Lone Star State has a lot going for it. But with so many cities to choose from, figuring out the best fit for your family can feel like a big decision. Here’s a guide to the family-friendly Texas cities to move to so you can find the perfect fit for your household.

What Makes Texas Great for Families?

It’s no secret that Texas has become a top spot for families. Between 2010 and 2020, around 4 million people moved here. There are several factors why families choose to relocate to the Lone Star State:

  • Affordability: The median home price in Texas sits around $350,000 in 2025, which is much lower than the U.S. national average of about $420,000. This makes it easier for families to find homes within their budgets.

  • Employment Opportunities: Texas is home to 55 Fortune 500 companies and booming job markets in technology, healthcare, and energy. Cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston regularly pop up among the top U.S. places to work.

  • Education Options: Texas has more than 1,200 school districts, plus charter and private options. Whether you’re looking for a strong public program or something more specialized, you’ll surely find a good fit.

  • Quality of Life: With more than 80 state parks, a strong sports culture, and plenty of cultural events, there’s always something to do for both children and parents.

A family of four holding hands.
Texas offers endless opportunities for families to live, play, and grow together.

When you take these factors into mind, it’s clear why so many families are planting roots here.

The Best Family-Friendly Texas Cities to Move to

Thinking of moving your family to Texas? You’ve got plenty of great options. Here are four cities that families often love, each backed by statistics and local attributes.

1. Frisco – Rapid Growth, Built for Families

Between 2010 and 2020, Frisco, which is part of the Dallas–Fort Worth metro, has grown by nearly 90% in population! That kind of expansion tells a lot about how appealing it is for families.

  • Schools: Frisco Independent School District earns high ratings. Its students score about 10–15% higher than the state average on exams.

  • Safety: Its crime rate is about 60% lower than the national average. Neighborhoods such as Starwood, Phillips Creek Ranch, and Newman Village are particularly popular with families.

  • Amenities: From family spots like the National Soccer Hall of Fame and KidZania to more than 60 parks covering 3,000 acres, there’s always something to do in Frisco.

  • Affordability: The median household income hovers around $140,000, while the median home price is about $550,000. This is high compared to Texas, but parents see it as reasonable considering the quality of life.

2. Round Rock – Affordable Living Close to Austin

Just north of Austin, Round Rock has been steadily growing, now sitting around 125,000 residents. Families like it because it gives a suburban feel while still being close to Austin’s job market and culture.

  • Education: Round Rock ISD consistently beats state averages, with many elementary schools showing 80%+ passing rates.

  • Cost of Living: Round Rock’s housing is much more affordable than that of many Central Texas cities. The median home price is around $380,000, and the household income is $95,000.

  • Commute: It’s only a 20–25 minute drive to downtown Austin on I-35, which is convenient for parents working in the city. Many new families relocate here from other states, often with the help of long distance moving services that know the Austin area well.

  • Family Perks: Round Rock Premium Outlets, Play for All Park (a playground designed for all abilities), and the 600-acre Old Settlers Park are just a few of the amenities that stand out.

An overhead shot of of one of the family-friendly Texas cities to move to.
Looking for the perfect place to settle down? Discover the top family-friendly Texas cities to move to for safety, schools, and community life.

3. New Braunfels – Small-Town Feel with Big Benefits

Situated between Austin and San Antonio, New Braunfels has more than 100,000 residents, which is a 30% growth since 2010.

School Quality: New Braunfels schools do well, with 80–90% of students meeting state standards.

Home Affordability: The median home price is around $360,000, while household income averages around $85,000, making it more affordable than the big metros nearby.

Lifestyle: The city blends outdoor fun with cultural events. Families love the Comal River, Schlitterbahn Waterpark, and traditions like Wurstfest.

Safety and Community: Crime rates are well below Texas averages. Violent crime runs nearly 50% lower, and property crime around 40% lower.

4. Sugar Land – Suburban Excellence Outside Houston

Sugar Land, in Fort Bend County,is one of Texas’s best-known family suburbs. Its population is now sitting at roughly 120,000.

  • Education: Local schools consistently rank among the state’s best, with many elementary and middle schools scoring in the top 10–15% statewide.

  • Income & Homes: The median household income is around $130,000. Homes average about $450,000, but the nice part is there’s variety—neighborhoods like Telfair and Riverstone have a range of options, from more modest houses to upscale family homes.

  • Diversity & Services: The city demonstrates strong cultural diversity, supported by community programs, libraries, pools, and sports complexes. Imperial Park and Sugar Land Memorial Park provide more than 2,500 acres of green space.

  • Safety: Crime rates are an impressive 70% below the national average, giving parents peace of mind.

Recommendations for Families Considering a Move

Moving your family to a new city is exciting, but it helps to have a few practical steps in mind before making the leap. Here’s what to keep in mind:

  1. Define priorities: Think about what matters most to you and your family. Your top priorities can help narrow down the best areas to examine. Once you’ve settled on a city, connecting with reliable moving companies Texas makes the actual move much easier.
  2. Visit in person: There’s no substitute for seeing a neighborhood yourself. Check schools, visit a playground, local shops, or meet residents at community events.
  3. Compare commuting times or work access: Even within the same metro area, travel times can vary by 15–30 minutes depending on traffic and route. Try out the route to work or school during peak hours to see what your daily life might look like.
  4. Review home price trends: Don’t rely on current listings, as prices can change over time. Some areas may grow slowly and stay affordable, while others might be booming and see faster increases.
  5. Factor in logistics: Don’t forget to think about the move itself. Experienced cross country moving companies make handling long-distance relocation easier without unnecessary stress.

A back shoto of a family holding hands.
Start by defining what matters most for your family—once you’ve picked the right city, getting help with the move can make settling in a breeze.

Your Next Big Move

Moving with your family isn’t just about stats and housing prices—it’s about finding a place that actually feels right. Texas offers a mix of affordability, opportunity, and family-friendly living that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re looking for top schools, shorter commutes, or a safe spot where your kids can ride bikes in the neighborhood, there are plenty of family-friendly Texas cities to move to that fit the bill. And when the big day comes, working with experienced movers like Safe Ship Moving Services can take the stress off your shoulders, so you can focus on getting settled and making your new house feel like home.