Things to know about Waxahachie, Texas

Waxahachie, Texas, a charming city with a rich history, offers a variety of housing options, including numerous mobile home parks. These parks provide affordable living arrangements and are often located in convenient areas with access to amenities.

Ellis County:

• Midlothian
• Ennis
• Red Oak
• Palmer
• Italy
• Maypearl
• Ovilla
• Lancaster
• DeSoto

• Ennis: A historic town with a vibrant downtown area, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural events.
• Red Oak: A charming small town with a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle.
• Palmer: A small town with a friendly community and easy access to outdoor recreational activities.
• Italy: A historic town with a picturesque downtown area, offering antique shops, art galleries, and local restaurants.
• Maypearl: A small town with a friendly community and a focus on agriculture and farming.
• Ovilla: A growing suburb with a mix of residential and commercial areas, offering a variety of amenities.
• Lancaster: A larger city with a diverse population and a wide range of amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment options.
• DeSoto: A growing city with a strong sense of community, offering affordable housing options and easy access to Dallas.

Waxahachie, the county seat of Ellis County, Texas, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and welcoming community atmosphere. Located just 30 miles south of Dallas, Waxahachie seamlessly combines small-town charm with convenient access to the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, making it an attractive destination for residents, visitors, and businesses.

Historical Context

Established in 1850, Waxahachie is renowned for its beautifully preserved historic downtown district, featuring the Ellis County Courthouse—a striking example of Romanesque Revival architecture often called one of the most photographed courthouses in Texas. The city’s European-style historic homes, quaint shops, and cultural landmarks reflect its 19th-century roots. Waxahachie’s heritage is celebrated throughout the year at events such as the Scarborough Renaissance Festival, which draws visitors from across the state to enjoy period costumes, artisan crafts, and entertainment. The city’s history as a center for cotton farming and trade further shaped its development into the thriving community it is today.

Local Amenities and Community Features

Waxahachie offers a wealth of amenities enhancing the quality of life for its residents. The city boasts numerous parks like Getzendaner Memorial Park, known for its walking trails, sports facilities, and playgrounds. Downtown Waxahachie features a variety of dining options, boutique shops, art galleries, and community theaters, creating a lively cultural scene. The annual Light the Square holiday event transforms the historic district into a festive gathering spot filled with music, food, and family-friendly activities. Waxahachie also provides modern conveniences such as shopping centers, healthcare facilities including the Baylor Scott & White Waxahachie Medical Center, and community centers supporting recreational and social programs.

Education in Waxahachie

Education is a central pillar in Waxahachie, served primarily by the Waxahachie Independent School District, which includes highly rated elementary, middle, and high schools focused on academic excellence and extracurricular success. The district emphasizes technology integration, college readiness, and community involvement. For higher education and vocational training, Navarro College offers accessible programs nearby, supporting workforce development and lifelong learning.

Economic Insights and Employment Opportunities

Waxahachie’s economy is diverse and growing, driven by sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and education. The city benefits from its proximity to Dallas and major transportation corridors, including Interstate 35E and U.S. Highway 287, facilitating commuter access and trade. Local employers include manufacturing plants specializing in automotive parts and consumer goods, retail businesses, and healthcare providers. The city encourages small business growth and entrepreneurial ventures through supportive local policies and community development initiatives, contributing to a robust, resilient economy.

Nearby cities

Dallas
Fort Worth
Weatherford
Cleburne
Granbury

Summary

Waxahachie, Texas, blends historic Southern charm with modern amenities, strong educational systems, and a vibrant economy. From strolling its picturesque downtown and enjoying community events to accessing quality schools and growing employment options, Waxahachie offers an inviting atmosphere for families, professionals, and visitors. Its strategic location near Dallas, coupled with its rich cultural heritage and forward-looking community, makes Waxahachie an exceptional place to live, work, and explore.