Growing Texas bedroom community near Tyler
Chandler is a small but growing east Texas city known for its laidback atmosphere and proximity to Tyler. Its population of about 3,800 represents about a 15 percent increase since 2020. New and ongoing construction by regional and national homebuilders illustrates the growth of a bedroom community that offers a rural-suburban feel. Residents enjoy an attractive location on the northern edge of Lake Palestine, as well as above-average community schools.
Agriculture, oil, healthcare are major regional employers
Agriculture is big in this community, but it also benefits from the city’s location on the edge of the East Texas Oilfield. Oil and gas exploration is a significant driver of the regional economy. Health care is also a major regional employer. CHRISTUS Mother Frances and UT Health hospitals anchor the medical industry in Tyler, while the UT Health hospital in Athens is that city’s largest employer. Closer to home, the Brownsboro Independent School District is a major employer, with two of its schools in Chandler and the rest in neighboring Brownsboro.
New homes by D.R. Horton highlight housing options
D.R. Horton, the largest homebuilder in the U.S., is among the companies with a footprint in Chandler. River Oaks at Sawmill is a new home community by D.R. Horton on the southern edge of Chandler. A mix of older traditional homes and midcentury ranch-style homes can be found on quiet, tree-shaded streets in the heart of the community. Prices typically range from about $200,000 to around $600,000. The community doesn’t feature typical waterfront properties, as manufactured homes dot its shores. However, because there are few restrictions for what can be built in the area, Chandler offers affordable options on the lake. Residents can expect hot, humid summers and plenty of rain, especially in the spring. The community’s CAP Index Crime Score of 2-out-of-10 is lower than the national average of 4.
Residents enjoy enviable access to Lake Palestine
The community is cradled by Lake Palestine. The large body of water supports an array of activities, including fishing, boating and water-skiing. The nearby Waterpark at The Villages is a massive facility for family fun. It is adjacent to the lakefront, which offers popular destinations, from marinas to golf courses. Residents also have access to the Neches River and a community park along its shores. Winchester Park features ballfields for organized youth play and a playground. McCain Park is an attractive green space that is home to the Chandler Museum & Visitor Center.
Chandler Elementary, Intermediate schools part of well-rated district
The Brownsboro Independent School District is rated B-plus by Niche. Two community schools also earn the same grade: Chandler Elementary and Chandler Intermediate, which serve students through sixth grade. From there, students can attend Brownsboro Junior High, an A-minus school, and Brownsboro High, a B-plus school that features a Career & Technical Education program and a large Future Farmers of America chapter. Eligible students can transfer within the district or outside of it. Out-of-district transfers must attend the schools closest to home.
Stores, restaurants concentrated around highway leading into Tyler
Brookshire’s grocery store and Wade’s Place, a popular seafood restaurant, stand out among the shopping and dining options conveniently concentrated around the State Highway 31 corridor. A wider variety of options is located in Tyler. Boutiques and breweries are highlights of the city’s historic downtown district.
Easy access to Tyler, Athens
Highway 31 provides a direct route to the heart of Tyler, a little over 10 miles from Chandler. The regional roadway also connects residents to Athens, about 25 miles away. Interstate 20 is about 15 miles north of the community. I-20 provides access to the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Tyler Pounds Regional Airport is only 8 miles away. It provides jet service to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, which is about a 110-mile drive from the community.
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Written By
Matt Pallister
