Oil jobs the main attraction in Denver City
The small community of Denver City, near the New Mexico border, is an oil town that has grown to offer above-average schools, a regional hospital and an eclectic mix of shopping and dining. “Why is anyone attracted to Denver City? Well, there wouldn’t be a Denver City without the oilfields,” says Todd Paxton, broker/owner of Paxton Real Estate, who sells homes throughout the region. “The people are great. They’re hardworking, and this area is a good place to make connections and friends.”
A collection of Minimal Traditional, ranch-style, contemporary homes
Housing options in this community of 4,400 are primarily Minimal Traditional and midcentury designs that can be found on truncated streets throughout. Ranch-style homes on spacious lots stand out among the offerings. The highest-priced homes are concentrated on the community’s south side. Contemporary homes built in recent years can also be found. These homes come standard with driveways and attached garages. Prices typically range from about $100,000 to about $400,000. Many homes are built with brick, which helps keep utility bills down in the summer. A lack of rain in the semi-arid climate has its benefits. “For the most part, the weather is comfortable. You don’t have high humidity,” Paxton says.
Local district's four school are rated above average
The community is served by four schools that make up the Denver City Independent School District, which earns a B from Niche. Dodson Primary and Kelley Elementary, both rated B-minus, are close together on the east side of town. William G. Gravitt Junior High and Denver City High, rated B-minus and B, respectively, are on the other side of town along Mustang Avenue. Mustang Stadium is a popular gathering place, especially on football Friday nights when the home team is in town.
Mexican eateries are prevalent
From taco trucks to restaurants, Mexican eateries dominate the dining options. There’s also a community steakhouse. Many of the options are concentrated along the Texas State Highway 83 commercial corridor, which also includes fast-food stops and a supermarket. A variety of small businesses offers products ranging from clothing to hardware to auto parts.
Community park features a pool, hosts annual events
Stuffy Moorehead Park is the largest of the community’s recreational spaces. It is home to a popular seasonal pool, which can be rented for parties. Swim lessons are also offered. The park hosts the community’s premier events, including its annual Fourth of July celebration and a tamale festival. Yoakum County Park is about 6 miles north of the community. It features a public 18-hole golf course and has a duck pond.
Easy access to Yoakum County Hospital
Yoakum County Hospital is conveniently located within the community. The 24-bed facility has an emergency room and offers services for labor and delivery and outpatient care. Highway 83, known locally as Broadway Street, runs through the community and connects to U.S. Route 62 and U.S. Route 82 for regional travel. Denver City has a municipal airport, but the closest commercial facility is Lea County Regional Airport in Hobbs, New Mexico. The closest metropolitan Texas city is Lubbock, about 80 miles away. “People say, ‘You’re isolated,’ but we’re used to it,” Paxton says.
Written By
Matt Pallister
