Why Families Are Moving to Rockwall, Texas

The secret is out: Rockwall, Texas is one of the country’s top destinations for families looking to settle down in the South.

Located 25 miles east of downtown Dallas, Rockwall is in the middle of a historic boom. Over the past decade, housing units in Rockwall increased by 37 percent, and the population has increased by 20 percent, according to Tulsa World. In 2020, Rockwall’s rapid growth earned it a fourth-place spot on Money Magazine’s Best Places to Live.

Families who want to enjoy both the hustle and bustle of a big city and the cozy atmosphere of an up-and-coming suburb are finding Rockwall to be the perfect compromise. Here are six other local assets that are drawing people to the area:

Lake Ray Hubbard

Rockwall sits on the scenic shores of Lake Ray Hubbard, a 22,000-acre reservoir known across Texas for its recreational opportunities. Fishing fanatics flock to the lake for its abundant bass and catfish populations, making it one of the best fishing spots in the Dallas region. If fishing isn’t your thing, the lake is an ideal backdrop for sailing, kayaking and windsurfing. Residents without boats can get on the water by booking time with a local vendor.

Beyond Lake Ray Hubbard, locals can also get outside and get active in any of Rockwall’s sprawling parks and green spaces. Ride through the Squabble Crew Mountain Biking trails, practice your serve at the Oasis Pickleball & Tennis Club, or play a round of disc golf at the course in Harry Myers Park. No matter the hobby, there’s something for everyone.

“Free Live Music Capital of North Texas”

In 2017, Gov. Greg Abbott officially recognized Rockwall as the “Free Live Music Capital of North Texas.” And for good reason — the city organizes nearly 130 free concerts and five months of live-music events every year. Among the most popular events are Rockwall’s two summer-music series, the San Jacinto Plaza Music Series and Concert by the Lake series.

In May, Rockwall puts on an annual Founders Day Festival to celebrate the city’s birthday and rich history. It typically includes a large kids’ zone, retail and food vendors, and all-day music performances by headliners like country star Pat Green.

The Harbor Rockwall

Rockwall may have a small-town vibe, but its amenities rival even the most popular cities. The Harbor Rockwall is one of Dallas’ best shopping centers, featuring 130,000 square feet of lakefront property and 24 different places to play, dine and shop. The center receives more than 80,000 total visitors every year, at least 15 percent from outside the metroplex. With spas, burger joints, chocolatiers and even a Cinemark, the Harbor Rockwall is an all-day affair for the whole family.

Family-Friendly Activities

Rockwall Parks & Recreation keeps busy year-round to offer events and classes for all ages, such as family campouts, dances, fishing derbies and more. Kids can join baseball and softball leagues, and adults can train in regular fitness classes.

Rockwall also has some of the most highly-rated schools in the state, giving students access to additional artistic, athletic and academic extracurriculars.

Walkable Downtown District

Rockwall’s downtown earned it the designation of a “Texas Main Street City” by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Only 1,200 main street cities nationwide have received the honor, which helps recognize and revitalize historic downtowns. Residents can easily walk through Rockwall’s downtown district to local landmarks, shops and restaurants.

The downtown food scene continues to make a name for itself thanks to its craft brewery, top-class winery, wood-fired pizza, fresh seafood, upscale brunch and other dining locations. Rockwall also holds a popular farmers’ market on Saturday mornings from May until September.

Growing Purchasing Power

SmartAsset recently rated Rockwall as one of the Texas cities that gives people the most purchasing power. The majority of residents own their homes, and the median household income is around $101,000, compared to the state median income of $67,000. Money reported that Rockwall saw a 19-percent increase in job growth over the last five years, and it projects that it will grow by another 17 percent in the next five.

From its stable economy to fun-filled downtown, Rockwall presents the ultimate relocation destination for families and young professionals.