North Texas Weekly
Everything is Opportunity
Moving to Denton County: 2026 Relocation Guide
Judy K.
6/5/26
Your complete guide to relocating to Denton County Texas — neighborhoods, cost of living, school districts, and a moving checklist.
Denton County, located in the northern Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, has become one of the fastest-growing counties in the United States.
With a population now exceeding 1 million residents and adding roughly 86 new residents every single day, the county attracts families, professionals, and remote workers from across the country.
The combination of strong schools, high incomes, new master-planned communities, and proximity to major job centers makes Denton County a top relocation destination in Texas.
Why People Are Moving to Denton County
No state income tax in Texas
Median household income of $111,000 to $117,000
Top-ranked public school districts
New master-planned communities with modern amenities
Close proximity to Dallas and Fort Worth job markets
High broadband adoption rate of 95.7 percent
Strong community safety record across most cities
Key Cities and Communities
Denton
The county seat and home to the University of North Texas and Texas Woman's University, giving it a lively, creative energy.
Features a vibrant downtown square, independent restaurants, live music, and a strong arts community. Well-suited for young professionals, students, and families who value cultural amenities alongside suburban convenience.
Flower Mound
One of the most sought-after communities in North Texas, known for its top-rated schools and high quality of life. The town sits along Lake Grapevine and offers excellent parks, trails, and recreational facilities.
Draws high-income professionals and families who want space, safety, and great schools.
Lewisville
One of the most affordable and accessible cities in the county, situated along Interstate 35E. Lewisville Lake is a major draw for outdoor enthusiasts. Diverse population and a wide range of housing options for first-time buyers and renters.
Little Elm
Transformed from a small lake town into one of the fastest-growing communities in Texas. Offers lakefront living on Lewisville Lake, new home developments, and competitive pricing for families entering the market.
Highland Village
A smaller, affluent community between Flower Mound and Lewisville along Lake Lewisville. Known for quiet streets, excellent schools, and tight-knit neighborhood feel.
The Colony
Centrally located between Dallas and Denton, making it practical for commuters in either direction. The Grandscape mixed-use development is one of the largest in the region. Housing remains more affordable than neighboring Frisco and Plano.
Cost of Living
Housing Costs
Median home value: approximately $437,000
Homeownership rate: 65.5 percent
Rental options from apartments in Lewisville and Denton to townhomes across the county
New construction prevalent in northern cities like Aubrey, Little Elm, and Celina
Move-in ready homes in master-planned communities often start in the high $300,000s
Taxes
No Texas state income tax
Property taxes typically range from 2.0 to 2.5 percent depending on city and school district
Sales tax: 8.25 percent (combined state and local)
Healthcare and Medical Services
Multiple urgent care clinics throughout Flower Mound, Lewisville, and The Colony
Primary care, pediatrics, cardiology, women's health, mental health, and rehabilitation services available countywide
Schools and Education
Education is one of the most frequently cited reasons families choose Denton County. Several school districts receive top ratings from the Texas Education Agency and perform well above state averages.
Transportation and Getting Around
Denton County is primarily a car-dependent region. The county is well-served by Interstate 35E and Interstate 35W, the Dallas North Tollway, and Texas State Highway 121.
DCTA A-train: Commuter rail connecting Denton to Carrollton DART station. dcta.net
DFW International Airport: dfwairport.com
Electricity provider comparison: powertochoose.org (Texas has a deregulated electricity market)
Denton County Moving Checklist
60 Days Before Moving
Research cities and neighborhoods based on school district and commute needs
Contact real estate agents familiar with Denton County
Compare home prices and rental rates across target cities
Get quotes from at least three licensed moving companies
30 Days Before Moving
Schedule electricity service through PowerToChoose.org
Contact your new city for water and trash service setup
Contact Atmos Energy for gas service: atmosenergy.com
Forward your mail through USPS
Enroll children in their new school district
After Arrival
Transfer Texas vehicle registration: txdmv.gov
Obtain a Texas driver's license within 90 days: dps.texas.gov
Register to vote in Denton County: votedenton.gov
Join neighborhood Facebook groups and Nextdoor to get connected
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Denton County a good place to raise a family?
Yes. Denton County consistently ranks among the top family destinations in Texas due to its highly rated public school districts, safe communities, and abundance of youth sports and recreation programs. Flower Mound, Argyle, and Little Elm are particularly popular among families with school-age children.
Does Denton County get tornadoes or severe weather?
Yes. Denton County is located in a region prone to severe spring thunderstorms and has experienced tornadoes. Residents should have a weather alert plan, know where to shelter in their home, and download the National Weather Service app.
What internet service is available in Denton County?
AT&T Fiber and Spectrum are the two most widely available providers across the county. Frontier Fiber is available in some areas. The county's broadband adoption rate of 95.7 percent reflects broad availability of high-speed internet service.