Dallas continues to gain more notoriety as suburb Flower Mound ranks No.29 in a new study ranking the most livable small cities.
The Most Livable Small Cities – 2024 Study conducted by SmartAsset compared several metrics such as annual housing costs, income, poverty level rates, recreational activity access, and average commute time.
“Small cities may offer cost benefits for residents looking to stretch their income while enjoying a comfortable – and more spacious – lifestyle. While livability is a subjective concept that may take on different definitions for different people, some elements of a community can come close to being universally beneficial,” reads the study.
A total of 15 Texas cities made the list, which included 281 small cities. Six Texas cities finished in the top 100: Flower Mound (29), Leander (60), Mansfield (69), Missouri City (77), Pflugerville (78), and Cedar Park (85).
Troy, Michigan, finished in first place, with an annual housing cost as a percentage of income of 15%, while 6.8% of the population live below the poverty level, 1.5% of businesses are in arts, entertainment, and recreation, and residents have a commute time of 23.3 minutes.
Flower Mound had an annual housing cost as a percentage of income of 18.2%, while 3.9% of residents live below the poverty level, 1.7% of businesses are in arts, entertainment, and recreation, and residents have an average commute time of 26.3 minutes.
Although Flower Mound has a population of around 81,000, the average household income is $189,356. While home prices in the area are not low, with a median sale price of $645,000, residents are still happily affording housing and other recreational activities.
Flower Mound residents enjoy a prime location close to the metroplex and roughly 10 minutes from DFW International Airport. The Flower Mound community is sprawling with acres of park land and trails to ride bikes, hike, and explore the outdoors.
According to Flower Mound’s website, the city prides itself on fun family activities and traditions.
“Community events are a tradition in Flower Mound, with a fun-filled calendar that includes our Independence Day celebration, summer concert series, art festival, Veterans Day Relay, Dorothy’s Dash 5K race, Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony, and much more,” reads the website.
Besides an optimal location for young families, Flower Mound fosters a safe and eventful space for the senior community.
“The Flower Mound Senior Center dignifies seniors with a safe and caring environment, creative and inclusive programs, and thoughtful resources to promote health, well-being, fellowship, and involvement.”
Regardless, the town is optimal for all ages, families, and lifestyles, “With more than 40% of residents between the ages of 25 and 54 and more than 64% of residents 25 and older earning a bachelor’s degree or higher, this community is young and highly educated, making it an ideal workforce.”