Have you ever wondered what life would be like in a small Texas town? Tucked into the far north side of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, you’ll find the cozy college town of Denton, Texas. With a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere, a lively arts and culture scene, and plenty of personality, Denton has become one of the most desirable places for people looking to call the Lone Star State home.
Often referred to as “Little Austin” and “Little D” – because of its many similarities with the bustling big cities of Texas – Denton is a fabulous place to live with so much to offer. For those seeking an experience outside of big city life — but still close enough to enjoy many of the benefits — Denton offers a remarkable opportunity for exploration and discovery.
Where is Denton?
Located about 40 minutes north of the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area, Denton is the county seat of Denton County, TX. The city’s neighbors include Frisco and Plano to the east, Decatur to the west, and Bartonville and Flower Mound to the South. Denton is also closely bordered by the LLELA Nature Preserve, home to Lewisville Lake.
Denton Population & Demographics
According to data from the U.S. Census, the population of Denton, TX, is estimated to be approximately 148,000 (as of the most recent figures, July 2021). This translates into significant growth over the past decade and about a 5% increase between 2020 and 2021 alone – in other words, Denton is expanding quickly!
Because Denton is host to multiple institutes of higher education, including the University of North Texas, North Central Texas College, and Texas Woman’s University, a large portion of the city’s population is made up of students.
Even so, Denton is a diverse city in many ways:
- Children 18 years and younger make up nearly 25% of the population.
- Individuals over the age of 65 account for about 11% of the population.
- About 30 to 40% of the population of Denton categorize themselves as Black/African-American, Asian, and/or Hispanic/Latino.
The most notable aspect of the Denton, TX population is that it is steadily increasing and is likely to continue to do so as more people discover the many benefits of living here.
The Cost of Living in Denton, Texas
In Denton, the cost of living is rated at about 3% less than the national average, meaning that it is more affordable to live in Denton than in many other U.S. cities. Denton proves to be even more budget-friendly compared to Dallas as a whole, even though Denton residents have full access to all of the jobs and amenities that Dallas offers.
When you break down the cost of living into more specific expense categories, the city of Denton promises a high quality of life without requiring an oversized budget:
- The median home price in Denton is approximately $385,000, and the market features options across a broad range of price points. It’s not unusual to see homes and undeveloped lots with prices well above the million-dollar mark.
- Average rent in Denton also varies widely, beginning around $950/month for a studio apartment and hovering around $2,500/month for a four-bedroom, single-family home. If you are considering houses for rent in Denton, be sure to assess what is included in your monthly rent and whether there are hidden maintenance costs you should be aware of. (For example, the Wan Bridge townhomes for rent in Denton are professionally managed, so our tenants don’t need to worry about spending money on landscaping, interior/exterior repairs, etc.)
- Denton’s groceries cost is right in line with national averages, so you can easily stick to your preferred food budget.
- Utility costs in Denton are slightly lower than those in comparable U.S. cities, which is on par with many Texas communities.
- Transportation costs are also reasonable whether you plan to use a personal vehicle or utilize public transit, such as the city’s bus/commuter rail service, university shuttles, or Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART).
- The cost of healthcare in Denton varies based on your individual needs. However, you’ll find that you have a multitude of high-quality options because the Dallas area is famous for its exemplary healthcare facilities.
- Goods and services expenses are about 5% cheaper in Denton than in the U.S. average. From your beloved pup’s monthly grooming appointments to your favorite fitness classes, you can save a bit of money here.
- Finally, taxes in Denton are one of the biggest benefits of being a resident. There is no state personal income tax in Texas, so you’ll enjoy a higher rate of take-home pay. Sales tax in Denton is 8.25%, the same as most other TX cities. Additionally, Texas offers three tax-free weekends, providing the perfect opportunity to make large purchases while saving a considerable amount.
Generally, before they make a big move, people want to know: How much money do you need to earn to live in Denton, TX? And while there is so much variance in the “ideal salary” for a comfortable lifestyle in Denton, MIT’s Living Wage Calculator tells us that $17.82/hour or $37,000 annually meets their standards for a living wage in Denton.
Denton Neighborhoods | Where to Live in Denton
So, what are the best neighborhoods in Denton? The good news is that Denton is home to an outstanding variety of suburbs and communities, with options to suit virtually every lifestyle, budget, and preference.
Some of the fastest-growing suburbs of Denton include Corinth, Hickory Creek, and Justin, with the historic homes along Oak Street and Hickory Street (near the UNT campus) also being very popular. Upscale communities in Denton include Rayzor Ranch and Bell Avenue, both of which offer a mix of homes to buy and rent.
Other Denton neighborhoods include:
- Cooper Creek
- Downtown Denton
- Idiot’s Hill (formally known as the Crestwood Heights Addition)
- Forrestridge
- West Oak Historic District
Denton Weather & Climate
Denton has a humid, subtropical climate characterized by mild winters and warm, humid summers. The hottest months are typically July and August (with highs in the 90s), and the coldest is January and February (with lows in the 30s highs in the 60s).
You can expect an average of 37 inches of rainfall annually, with thunderstorms most common during the spring. Snowfall is minimal, totaling only about 2 inches per year. In terms of extreme weather, you can have the peace of mind of knowing that Denton rarely sees tornados, unlike other cities in the U.S. South.
Things to Do in Denton, TX
There are so many reasons to live in Denton, including the many things to do, see, and experience in the area. Denton is best known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, though the city is home to attractions of all types.
Here are just a few of the myriad of things to do in Denton:
Historical and Cultural Sites in Denton
Throughout Denton, you can find a number of historic buildings and places to explore. Many of the highlights are located in Denton Square, which is considered the city’s cultural and political hub. Here, you can see the Denton County Courthouse, constructed in 1896 and restored in 2004.
Old Alton Bridge is another favorite historic site in Denton, as are the Bayless-Selby House Museum and the Denton County African American Museum.
Outdoor Recreation in Denton
With more than 30 playgrounds, dozens of trails, and 41 parks, Denton is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. And with pleasant weather for much of the year, it’s easy to get outside frequently.
Popular recreation spots include Lantana Golf Club, Bowling Green Park and Community Garden, Lone Star Lodge and Marina, Lake Forest, and Wiggly Field Dog Park.
Local Events in Denton
Both locals and tourists can choose from a full calendar of Denton events, with options that cater to just about every interest:
- The North Texas State Fair and Rodeo have been a beloved part of Denton culture for decades, welcoming tens of thousands of people yearly.
- The annual Denton Airshow takes place at the Denton Municipal Airport, with attendees enjoying airplane exhibits and aerial demonstrations.
- The Denton Rosebud Festival has roots that date back to the 1930s and honors the city and Arbor Day with a full day of fun, food, and educational workshops.
- The Denton Arts and Jazz Festival celebrates the best of the city’s music, crafts, food, and fun each year.
- College sports in Denton are also hugely popular, with various games/events throughout the year.
Denton Restaurants
Ask any local where to eat in Denton, and they’ll happily offer a list of top-rated places.
Because you’re in Texas, barbecue is a no-brainer – and options like Big Fatty’s Flaming Foods and Juicy Pig Barbecue won’t disappoint. Mexican food in Denton is another great option, with restaurants serving everything from authentic Mexican cuisine to modern Tex-Mex. Some favorite Mexican restaurants in Denton include Mi Ranchito, Torchy’s Tacos, and El Matador.
Denton also has many unique food trucks, regularly cooking up a delicious assortment of foods at the Austin Street Truck Stop and the Denton Community Market. Finally, Denton is well-known for its breweries, distilleries, and wineries, where a refreshing selection of beverages is crafted.
Whether you’re craving something ultra-casual, fine dining, or a decadent dessert, Denton restaurants will definitely satisfy your appetite.
Jobs in Denton, TX
On the hunt for Denton jobs? Regardless of your background or career path, you can find a solid range of job opportunities in the area. And if you don’t mind making the daily commute to Dallas, there are many major corporations and Fortune 500 companies based in the metro area.
Based on city data, the top employers in Denton are:
- University of North Texas
- Denton Independent School District
- Peterbilt Motors
- Texas Woman’s University
- Denton County
- City of Denton
- Denton State Supported Living Center
- Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital of Denton
- Medical City Denton
- Sally Beauty Holding, Inc.
Education is a thriving sector of the Denton economy, employing thousands of people. Health and social services, retail, and manufacturing jobs are also plentiful in the region.
Denton Schools
An important question for families moving to the area is: Does Denton, TX, have good schools?
The Denton Independent School District (DISD) serves the region and has achieved strong rankings for academics, diversity, and sports. The district has numerous elementary and middle schools, one alternative high school, and four comprehensive high schools.
Denton also has many private schools, including those facilitating faith-based or alternative education. The Texas Academy of Mathematics and Science is a residential program for gifted students based in Denton.
For those seeking higher education, options in Denton are plentiful. Major universities include the University of North Texas (the fifth-largest university in Texas), as well as Texas Woman’s University. North Central Texas College (NCTC) is a public community college with a branch campus in Denton.
Denton Statistics and More Information
- Incorporated: 1866
- County: Denton County
- Area: 97.95 square miles
- Elevation: 642 feet
- Time Zone: UTC-6 (CST)/UTC-5 (CDT)
- Zip Codes: 76201-76210
- Area Codes: 940, 682, 817
- Nearest Airport: The Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport is the closest major airport.
Denton, TX Map
Want to explore more of the city? Use the map below to learn about everything Denton has to offer.
Is Denton, TX, a Good Place to Live?
With everything you’ve learned about the area, is Denton a good place to live? Our answer is an enthusiastic yes.
Denton is considered a safe place to live, with a crime rate that is significantly lower than the U.S. average in terms of violent crimes. Interestingly, even though the Denton population has increased over the last several years, the number of crimes has dropped considerably.
When you consider the quality of life in Denton, it is a place that can offer the best of both worlds: a small-town atmosphere and a close-knit community with easy access to big-city amenities, entertainment, and more. The cost of living is fair, and residents are just a short drive away from the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex – but they still enjoy a quieter, more peaceful way of life.
Find the Perfect Home for Rent in Denton, TX
With everything this charming city has to offer, it’s no wonder that a growing number of people are relocating to Denton. If you’re considering moving to Denton, the Residences at Rayzor Ranch might be the perfect place to call home – especially if you want to make the most of your new life in Denton.
This beautiful Wan Bridge community features stylish, modern townhomes with spacious floor plans and designer touches, boasting a contemporary yet timeless look inside and out. Like all of our built-to-rent communities, the Residences at Rayzor Ranch were crafted explicitly for tenants that want more: more convenience, more space, and more luxury. Unlike other rentals in Denton, our homes are fully maintained by our professional property management team – which means you can be free from everyday tasks such as yard maintenance and even changing light bulbs.
Learn more about what sets Wan Bridge rental communities apart, as well as which properties are currently available when you contact us today.
Image Credit: SevenMaps / Shutterstock
