A quiet East Texas city built on salt and neighborly spirit
Grand Saline might be the epitome of “salt of the earth.” This tiny city in north Van Zandt County is home to one of the largest salt deposits in the country, which sits 400 feet below ground. The mine which processes the salt is owned by Morton’s and employes many of the community’s roughly 3,200 residents. But Grand Saline also has quintessential East Texas small-town charm, with friendly neighbors and room to roam. “It is a very small community,” says Tricia Green, a broker with Ready Real Estate who sells throughout the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex. She says its size and location far from major cities are part of its appeal. “If you want a very rural area completely away from the city, Grand Saline is an excellent choice.”
Ranch-style and manufactured homes, land available
Residential streets are lined with single-family homes in a mix of styles including ranch-style, manufactured and bungalows. Most were built between 1960 and 1980, though it’s possible to find some newer builds from the early 2000s. Yards often feature grass, shrubs and mature trees, with taller trees lining backyards. Prices range from around $100,000 to just over $300,000. The median price is about $260,000. Land is also available, ranging from around 3 acres to over 50, priced between $60,000 and about $500,000.
Public schools range from B-minus to A-minus across all grades
Children start school at Grand Saline Elementary, which serves prekindergarten through second grade and has a B-plus rating on Niche. For third, fourth and fifth grades, they attend B-rated Grand Saline Intermediate. B-minus-rated Grand Saline Middle serves sixth through eighth grade, and kids finish school at Grand Saline High, which rates an A-minus. Indian Memorial Stadium is on the city’s north side and is where The Indians, the high school football team, plays its home games.
Community pool and roller rink offer family-friendly fun
A community pool is located on the city’s southeast side. Roundup Roller Rink is nearby, a popular spot for indoor recreation and birthday parties.
Groceries, restaurants and hospital services close to downtown
Residents pick up groceries at Brookshire’s off Main Street and head downtown to Garland Street for its local businesses, services and mix of restaurants. One of the more popular restaurants is family-owned Molina’s, which has served authentic Mexican dishes to the city since 2002. Richie’s Bar and Grill also offers Mexican cuisine along with classic American options, a full bar, pool and a game room. More shopping and dining options are about 15 miles away in Canton and 40 miles away in Tyler. Van Zandt Regional Hospital, located on North Waldrip Street, is open 24 hours a day and has an emergency room.
Annual Salt Festival celebrates with music and more
The city’s main event is the annual Salt Festival, which takes place in June. The three-day celebration features a luncheon, a classic car show, live music, a baking contest and a beauty pageant where the Salt Queen is crowned. Residents also head to First Monday Trade Days in Canton, the world’s largest flea market with over 5,000 vendors. “People from out of state come to attend that, especially around Memorial Day when the weather is cooler,” Green says.
Main roads connect Grand Saline to Tyler and Dallas
Garland Street, also known as U.S. Highway 80, is the city’s main thoroughfare and connects to Interstate 20. From there, Dallas is about 70 miles away. Main Street, or State Route 110, connects to Tyler. There is limited public transportation in the city, though GoBus, an on-demand bus service, is available.
Grand Saline's environmental considerations
Grand Saline experiences hot, humid summers, with temperatures often in the ‘90s, and mild winters with temperatures ranging from the high 50s to high 60s. The city is part of Tornado Alley, so tornadoes are possible.
