Moving to North Texas Horse Country: Here's What to Know

Moving to North Texas presents a host of options for those searching for their dream home or hoping to find acreage to develop or expand their ranching business. This flourishing swath of Texas has become a destination for horse enthusiasts, but the region’s amenities also hold broad appeal.

Equine facilities and upscale homes and condominiums dot the gentle hills of North Texas. The towns of Aubrey and Collinsville, in particular, have emerged as vibrant small towns in the area where residents can experience historic charm while still living within an easy commute to big-city amenities. These towns and other North Texas communities sit along Highway 377, which extends north from Denton and Dallas. Cultural and outdoor amenities supplement the equine-focused livelihood that many residents pursue, making North Texas an optimal blend of resources.

Find more information below to understand why so many people choose to call North Texas home.

While North Texas is known for its large acreages conducive to ranching and farming, the housing market has exploded to include a wider range of options. Horse breeders, retirees, and families seeking a quieter lifestyle near the big city all can find the right fit in North Texas towns.

Houses for sale in Aubrey, for instance, range from modern farmhouses, complete with workshops and fenced acreage, to open expanses of land ripe for building projects. Custom-built homes sitting on spacious lots permit horse owners the space to house their animals while enjoying updated home features, such as modern kitchens and master baths. Courtyard homes provide smaller spaces outfitted with granite countertops, hardwood floors, and attractive brick facades.

One of the key benefits of moving to North Texas is the ability to form connections with others in the horse industry. From trainers to breeders and horsemen, you will find a population largely connected to the equine lifestyle. It is hard to miss the daily influx of trailers carrying horses to competitions, training facilities, veterinarian appointments, or new owners.

 

Those who love horses appreciate the region’s sandy loam soil, which can withstand drought, heavy rains, and regular riding. Horses can find their footing easily on this quick-drying soil. And without the harsh winters of northern climates, North Texas affords individuals in the equine industry year-round opportunities for shows and interactions with others in the industry. You will find like-minded individuals who understand the cadence of working in the horse industry. Even better, you are certain to meet people working in other disciplines within the industry who can help you expand your knowledge base and perhaps even your business.

If you work as a horse breeder, trainer, or in another capacity in the equine industry, you will not have trouble finding the resources to succeed in North Texas. After all, Texas is home to more horses than any other state, and the equine industry generates $122 billion yearly for the U.S. economy. These staggering numbers mean that those in the equine industry can find what they need without traveling far in North Texas.

Feed stores, hay suppliers, farriers, trailer sales facilities, and veterinarians are in ample supply. With Dallas just down the road, breeders and trainers can show their chops at nationally-recognized equine industry competitions, like the American Paint Horse World Show, or attend trade shows to discover the latest apparel and products.

North Texas communities like Collinsville and Aubrey appeal to potential buyers due to their intimate size and tranquil environments. With roughly 5,000 residents, Aubrey is the type of place where you can know your neighbors. Collinsville is even smaller at just over 1,600 residents, ensuring a quiet way of life rooted in the land. At the same time, these pastoral towns give residents proximity to major cities.

Denton and Dallas-Fort Worth are within a one-hour drive of these North Texas towns. The DFW airport makes it easy for equine buyers to visit the region, connect with breeders, or survey potential land acquisition opportunities. Those living in North Texas can head to DFW to catch an active line-up of barrel racing, racing, or breed shows any time of the year.

In 2022, North Texas gained over 157,000 residents, and most experts expect those numbers to keep growing. With the DFW metropolitan area anchoring the region, North Texas is among the fastest-growing areas in the country. When you see the open countryside, which includes an ideal mix of prairie, rolling hills, and trees, you can understand why this region has drawn so many new residents in recent years. While the horse industry has a foothold on the economy, there are plenty of places to decompress and leave behind the work of the day.

The closest outdoor space is Ray Roberts Lake State Park Isle du Bois, which sits just west of Highway 377 and north of Aubrey. This Texas state park boasts several beach areas along scenic Roberts Lake, plus marina access for boaters. Visitors can reserve campsites for a quick getaway and spend a day fishing, biking, or horseback riding. Other prime recreation locations are the nearby Denton Mountain Bike Trail and Greenbelt Corridor Park. The latter destination encompasses 20 miles of trails that follow the Trinity River. Bring your horse for a gentle ride that culminates in scenic overlooks showcasing the dense thickets of trees around Denton.

Whether you seek a traditional single-family home or acreage to build your ranching operation, you will be able to find your ideal property in North Texas. However, as with many markets today, the Aubry real estate game can be competitive. With an influx of people, North Texas has become a trickier real estate landscape to navigate. You will need a trusted agent at your side who understands the nuances of negotiating deals for acreage, ranches, and other large properties in North Texas.

Real estate agent Ayla Reed holds the right background to help her clients secure the properties they want. With experience breeding horses, she knows how to speak the local language and finalize the best deals. Contact Ayla Reed to begin your search for the right property in North Texas.