Garland is a diverse city that’s also one of the biggest manufacturing centers in the state. It’s a family-friendly community with several parks and recreation centers. The downtown area retains its charm with fine dining and shopping options, and the art scene is flourishing.
So, what’re the pros and cons of living in Garland?
The advantages of living in Garland, include suburban area with a great economy, remarkable educational system, outdoor activities and historic sites , affordable cost of living and diverse employment opportunities. On the other hand, living in Garland has its downsides: muggy and hot summer, high crime rate, property taxes are high, vulnerable to severe storms and sprawl due to unplanned growth.
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Living in Garland PROS
1. Suburban area with a great economy
If you’re looking for a great place to live with a strong economy, you should definitely check out Garland, Texas. This suburban area is full of opportunity, and you’re sure to find something to love here.
The city of Garland has a population of over 230,000, and the median household income is over $60,000. The cost of living is also quite affordable, making it a great place to call home.
There are plenty of things to do in Garland, from shopping and dining to recreation and entertainment. And with Dallas just a short drive away, you can always find something new to explore.
If you’re looking for a place to raise a family or start a business, Garland is definitely worth considering. With its strong economy and suburban charm, it’s a great place to call home.
2. Remarkable educational system
The Garland Independent School District is one of the top school districts in Texas. It is known for its rigorous academic programs and high-performing students. The district has been recognized by the Texas Education Agency for its exemplary performance and is consistently ranked among the top school districts in the state.
The district’s commitment to excellence extends beyond the classroom. Garland ISD offers a wide variety of extracurricular activities and programs to enrich the lives of its students. From sports and clubs to arts and music, there is something for everyone in Garland ISD.
The district’s strong community partnerships are another key to its success. Garland ISD works closely with businesses, civic organizations, and families to provide the best possible education for its students. These partnerships provide valuable resources and support that help the district thrive.
Garland ISD is a model of excellence for school districts across Texas. Its rigorous academic programs, high-performing students, and commitment to extracurricular enrichment make it a top choice for families looking for a great education.
3. Outdoor activities and historic sites
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy some outdoor activities and experience some history, Garland, Texas is the place for you! The city has a variety of parks and trails for you to explore, as well as several historic sites.
If you’re a fan of hiking, you’ll be happy to know that Garland has over 20 miles of trails for you to enjoy. For those who prefer to spend their time on the water, Lake Ray Hubbard is the perfect spot for fishing, swimming, and boating. And if you’re looking to explore some of the area’s history, be sure to check out the Garland Landmark Museum and the Historic Downtown Garland District.
So whether you’re looking to get active or learn more about the area’s past, Garland has something for everyone!
4. Affordable cost of living
If you’re looking for an affordable place to live in Texas, Garland is a great option. The cost of living here is lower than the state average, and you can find plenty of affordable housing options. There are also plenty of things to do in Garland, so you won’t get bored. From hiking and biking trails to museums and art galleries, there’s something for everyone in Garland.
5. Diverse employment opportunities
Garland, Texas is a city with many diverse employment opportunities. The city’s economy is strong and growing, and there are a variety of industries represented in the area. Garland is home to a number of large businesses and corporations, as well as small businesses and startups. There are plenty of opportunities for those seeking employment in the area.
The city of Garland offers a variety of job options for residents. The economy is strong, with many different industries present in the area. Businesses of all sizes are located here, providing plenty of opportunities for those seeking employment. There is something for everyone in Garland, Texas.
Living in Garland CONS
1. Muggy and hot summer
days
If you’re looking for a place to escape the muggy and hot summer days, look no further than Garland, Texas. This charming city is located just north of Dallas and is home to a variety of activities and attractions that are sure to keep you cool all summer long.
One of the best ways to beat the heat in Garland is to take a dip in one of the city’s many pools. There are pools for all ages and abilities, so you can find the perfect spot to cool off. If you’re looking for a little more excitement, head to Hawaiian Falls Waterpark. This massive waterpark features slides, a lazy river, and more.
If you’d rather stay dry, there are plenty of other options for beating the heat in Garland. The city’s parks offer a great escape from the heat with plenty of shady trees and green space to enjoy. You can also head indoors to one of Garland’s many museums or shopping centers.
No matter how you choose to beat the heat, Garland has something for everyone. So don’t let the muggy summer days keep you from enjoying all this city has to offer.
2. High crime rate
Garland, Texas has a high crime rate. The city’s violent crime rate is 1,231 per 100,000 people, which is more than double the national average. The property crime rate in Garland is also high, at 4,846 per 100,000 people. This means that residents of Garland are at a higher risk of being victims of crime than residents of other cities.
There are a number of factors that contribute to the high crime rate in Garland. The city has a large population of people who are living in poverty. More than one in four residents of Garland live below the poverty line. Poverty can lead to crime because people may turn to criminal activity to get money or resources that they need.
Garland also has a high unemployment rate. The city’s unemployment rate was 7.1% in 2016, which is higher than the national average. When people are unemployed, they may be more likely to commit crimes because they may feel that they have nothing to lose.
The high crime rate in Garland is a serious problem that needs to be addressed. The city’s leaders need to find ways to reduce poverty and unemployment and make Garland a safer place to live.
3. Property taxes are high
If you’re looking for a place to call home in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, you may want to consider Garland, Texas. The city has a lot to offer, including great schools, a variety of housing options and a vibrant community.
However, one downside of living in Garland is that property taxes are relatively high. The average effective tax rate in Garland is 2.47%, which is higher than the average rate in the Dallas-Fort Worth area of 2.21%.
Still, Garland is a great place to live, work and raise a family. If you’re considering making the move to Garland, be sure to factor in the higher property taxes when budgeting for your new home.
4. Vulnerable to severe storms
As the most populous city in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, Garland, Texas is no stranger to severe weather. The city experiences an average of 16 days of thunderstorms per year, and is vulnerable to tornadoes, hailstorms, and flash flooding.
While Garland’s location makes it susceptible to severe weather, the city has taken steps to prepare for storms. The city has a comprehensive emergency management plan that includes measures for evacuation, sheltering, and debris removal. Garland also has a network of storm shelters and safe rooms that can accommodate up to 8,000 people.
Despite these preparations, severe weather can still be dangerous. Residents are advised to stay informed about the latest forecast and be prepared to take action if a storm is headed their way.
5. Sprawl due to unplanned growth
The city of Garland, Texas is facing a problem with sprawl due to unplanned growth. This is causing a number of issues for the city, including traffic congestion, a lack of green space, and an increase in crime. The city is working on a plan to address this problem, but it will take time and effort to fix the issue. In the meantime, residents can help by being mindful of their own impact on the problem and doing their part to help the city become more sustainable.
Is Garland, Texas a great place to live?
It depends on what you are looking for.
If you are looking for a suburban area with a great economy, remarkable educational system, outdoor activities and historic sites, then Garland is a great place for you. The cost of living is affordable and there are diverse employment opportunities. However, if you are looking for a place to live that has mild weather, low crime rates and low property taxes, then Garland may not be the best place for you.