(This is a revised version of our original blog from 2021)

Back in July 2021, we at Preferred Properties of Texas posted a blog comparing city life and suburban living. That piece served as a solid primer. Now, in 2025, things have evolved, especially here in the Texas Cross Timbers region. We’re revisiting that topic with fresh facts, updated trends, and a sharper focus on the unique places we serve (Erath, Hamilton, Somervell, Bosque, Comanche, Eastland, Palo Pinto, Brown Counties, and cities like Stephenville, Granbury, Hico, Dublin, etc.). Let’s dive in.

What We Said in 2021

In the earlier blog, we noted:

• Urbanites tend to thrive on nightlife, walking to coffee shops, art, and culture. Preferred Properties of Texas

• Suburbanites tend to want big yards, quieter nights, backyard barbecues, and more nature. Preferred Properties of Texas

• The main takeaway: understand your priorities, what matters to you: commute, noise, green space, then pick accordingly.

What’s Changed Since Then (2021 → 2025)

1. Population & Growth Trends

Texas continues to grow rapidly. For example, the Texas Demographic Center projects the state’s population could hit ~42.6 million by 2060. UT San Antonio Today
In practical terms, Many people are looking for more space, more yard, and less hustle, so suburbs, exurbs, and the “outer ring” of communities (including within the Cross Timbers) are more attractive than ever.

2. The Suburbs Are Strong

Recent data show that suburbs in Texas are becoming the “new hot” residential zones. One source notes that the era of the major city as the only draw is cooling off; suburbs are quietly taking more limelight. Chron+1
For our market, that means places like Stephenville, Granbury, and surrounding towns are appealing because they combine some of the peace of suburban/rural living with still being within reach of jobs, amenities, and infrastructure.

3. Work & Commuting Realities

Remote and hybrid work options have become more normalized. So proximity to major employers is less paramount than in the past. This tends to benefit suburban/rural markets.
Also, as city centres shift (some becoming quieter during work hours), the pull toward suburbs increases. (See the so-called “donut effect.”) Axios

4. Affordability & Value

In many Texas metro areas, home prices in the urban core are high and climbing. Suburbs still often offer better value per square foot, larger lots, and lower cost‐per-yard. For buyers in our region, that means you can often get more home, more land, and more “breathing room” than closer to a big city.
One must-know figure: According to a recent summary, the average home price in Texas is around $303,321. MovingWaldo

5. Local Area – Cross Timbers Special Considerations

In our part of Texas, we get a blend: Residents can enjoy quieter, lower‐density living while still being within driving distance of major hubs (Fort Worth, Dallas, etc.). For example, if you live in Stephenville or Granbury, you’re not far from employment centres, but you’re not right inside the bustle.
Also, land/ranch properties are more viable here, so if you value open space, hobby-ag, or room for outdoor living, the “suburb/rural” choice becomes especially powerful.

Updated Pros & Cons: City vs Suburb / Outer Ring (with Cross Timbers Lens)

City Life: Pros

• Quick access to major amenities, cultural events, and nightlife.

• Public transit (in bigger metros), smaller lots = less yard maintenance.

• Closer commute (if your job is in the city).

City Life: Cons

• Higher cost of living: home prices, lot size, and property taxes are often higher.

• Less space: smaller yards, more neighbours, more traffic, more noise.

• In our region, living in the core of Fort Worth/Dallas may mean longer drives if you want yard/land, so sometimes you compromise space for location.

Suburb/Outer Ring (Cross Timbers Style): Pros

• Larger lots, more yard, more open space, great for families, outdoor lovers, and hobby ranching.

• Better value: For the same budget, you often get more home + land.

• Less traffic, more peace, community‐oriented feel.

• Our region is still accessible to city jobs/amenities, but you get an “away from it all” feel.

Suburb/Outer Ring: Cons

• Longer commute (unless you’re remote or flexible).

• Fewer “big city” amenities (though this gap is shrinking).

• Infrastructure & services may vary more (especially if you go further out).

• Sometimes you trade some convenience for quiet.

What to Ask Yourself (Before You Pick)

• What matters most: yard size? commute time? school district? proximity to nature?

• How important is being near big‐city amenities vs peace & space?

• What is your job/commute like? Remote? Office? Hybrid?

• What lifestyle do you want five years from now? Ten years?

• In our market: Are you open to outer‐ring town living (Stephenville, Granbury, Hico, etc.) so you can have land + lower cost?

Our Recommendation for the Cross Timbers Buyer

If you’re looking for more than just a house, if you’re looking for a lifestyle, consider leaning toward the suburb/outer ring choice in our region. Given the trends (remote work, value of open space, fast‐growing suburbs), you’re likely to find more long‐term lifestyle satisfaction.
But if you thrive on the buzz of the city, want a very short commute, and love urban amenities, then a city‐centric home may fit. Either way, step in with eyes open.

If you want help navigating specific towns in our service area (Erath, Hamilton, Somervell, Bosque, Comanche, Eastland, Palo Pinto, Brown Counties; or cities like Stephenville, Granbury, Hico, Dublin, De Leon, Tolar, Lipan, Mingus, Cleburne, Glen Rose, Brownwood, Mineral Wells, Benbrook, Fort Worth, Cranfills Gap, Iredell, Meridian, Lingleville, Morgan Mill, Valley Mills, Desdemona, Gorman, Proctor, Walnut Springs, Morgan, Nemo, Rising Star, Santo, Millsap, Caddo) and discuss city vs suburban options, we’re here for it.

This piece built on our original 2021 article, keeping some of its core wisdom (know your priorities; there’s no one “right” answer) but refreshing it for 2025 and zeroing in on the unique advantages of the Cross Timbers and adjacent counties. The world changes, but good choices stem from clarity, purpose, and alignment with your values.

Preferred Properties of Texas  “The Preferred Way to Buy & Sell Property for You.”
Office Phone: (254) 965-7775
Feel free to call or drop us a message. Let’s find your place where life fits.