On the eastern end of Texas, close to the Louisiana border, Henderson offers affordable homes and a strong sense of community. The city was founded in 1843, before the state of Texas was founded, and named after the first governor of Texas. In present day, the city of about 13,000 is the county seat of Rusk County. “We’ve still got the small-town feel. There’s a lot of people helping people. If someone in our area needs help, the community steps up. That’s important to a lot of people,” says Martha McDougal, an associate broker with Century 21 Heritage Realty and Henderson resident. McDougal notes that because of that, the city has a lot of longtime residents. The job market in Henderson is slow but steady, with education, Bradshaw State Jail and law enforcement bringing in most of the employment.
A vibrant oil mural brings color and life to downtown Henderson.
Henderson city's heartbeat shines through from the sky, showcasing its vibrancy.
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Homes priced lower than the national median
The median single-family home price in Henderson is around $255,000, well below the national median. Many homes in the city were built between the 1960s and ’80s, though it’s not uncommon to find a home built around the 1920s. Ranch homes are common, though there are some bungalows and Victorian homes as well. Plenty of land is still available on the outskirts of the city in neighborhoods like the Terra Nova subdivision. “Mostly people here buy a lot and custom build,” McDougal says. “We would love to have someone come in and build new subdivisions, though.”
In Henderson, charming single-family homes in the area priced around $255k.
Victorian-style homes add charm to the neighborhood in Henderson.
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Downtown Henderson has local shops and restaurants
Downtown Henderson is the city’s hub for local shops, businesses and restaurants. The downtown area has everything from government buildings to boutique shops and antique stores. Much of the city’s dining options are along US-79, ranging from fast-food spots to local sit-down restaurants.
Campfire Coffee serves Henderson locals with brews in a cozy setting.
Henderson offers a variety of antique shops for treasure hunters to explore.
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Old fashioned cane syrup at the Heritage Syrup Festival
Henderson’s downtown area is also home to several city events throughout the year, including Main Street Mardi Gras and one of Henderson’s longest-running events, the Heritage Syrup Festival. Known by locals as “the sweetest festival in Texas,” the popular event features live music, local vendors and a petting zoo, plus old-fashioned cane syrup made using mule-powered equipment. Part of the festival takes place at the Depot Museum, home to the Rusk County History Museum and Children’s Discovery Center.
Locals enjoy performances at Henderson Civic Theater inside the historic Opera House.
The Museum Depot in Henderson showcases the town's rich history and local heritage.
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State Highway 64 makes an easy route to Tyler
Many residents in Henderson drive to get around due to a lack of public transportation. However, the city’s proximity to State Highway 64 makes it easy for residents to get to Tyler, the nearest major city, which is about 34 miles away. The closest regional airport is the Tyler Pounds Regional Airport, which is about 41 miles away. The airport flies commercial service to the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport.
Henderson Independent School District
The Henderson Independent School District receives a B-minus from Niche. The district has a student body of about 3,400 spread across its six schools, making it the biggest school district in Rusk County. Henderson is also home to the Full Armor Christian Academy, a faith-based private school teaching students from kindergarten through 12th grade.
The Trammell Schoolhouse preserves a piece of Henderson's educational history.
Henderson High School is a key educational institution in the heart of the community.
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Waterside activities at Lake Martin
Most Henderson residents are a walk or short drive away from one of the city’s five parks. Dog owners can take their pups to the Fair Paws Dog Park, which has two sections, one each for small or large dogs. Parks with pavilions can be rented out by residents for birthday parties or other celebrations. The Henderson Sports Complex, on the outskirts of the city, has several ball fields often used for Little League games. For a day on the water, Henderson is about 17 miles from Lake Martin. For the most part, Henderson has hot and humid summers, while winters are typically short and mild.
Henderson locals enjoy fishing at the lake at Forest Lake Park.
Henderson families gather and enjoy quality time at Fair Park.
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A higher crime rate than the national median
According to the Henderson Police Department, the city saw an overall rise in property and violent crimes from 2022 to 2023. The city reported a crime rate higher than the national figure.
Written By
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Photography Contributed By
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Video By
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Henderson, TX sell after 120 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Henderson, TX over the last 12 months is $305,000, up 70% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Step into timeless elegance with this captivating Tudor-style home, perfectly nestled on 3.92 beautifully manicured acres. From the moment you arrive, the lush front lawn, mature trees, and pristine landscaping set the tone for the warmth and character found throughout this property. Inside, you'll find 3 spacious bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, along with an abundance of living space designed for
Benjamin WootenColdwell Banker Home Place-Henderson
Discover a rare opportunity in the heart of East Texas—15 pristine acres just 7 minutes from downtown Henderson. Whether you're looking to build your dream home, weekend retreat, or investment property, this land has it all: scenic water features, modern utilities, and a peaceful setting with quick access to town. Property Features: ?? Creek with Clear Water from Martin Lake A picturesque,
PRICE IMPROVEMENT. Prime Residential Lot in the Heart of Henderson, TX. Discover an incredible opportunity to build in one of Henderson’s most convenient and desirable locations! This versatile residential lot offers endless possibilities—perfect for single-family homes, duplexes, or multi-unit housing. Centrally located near the hospital, restaurants, shopping, and local amenities, this property
DISCOVER A RARE OPPORTUNITY IN THE HEART OF EAST TEXAS—15 PRISTINE ACRES JUST 7 MINUTES FROM DOWNTOWN HENDERSON. WHETHER YOU'RE LOOKING TO BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME, WEEKEND RETREAT, OR INVESTMENT PROPERTY, THIS LAND HAS IT ALL: SCENIC WATER FEATURES,MODERN UTILITIES, AND A PEACEFUL SETTING WITH QUICK ACCESS TO TOWN. PROPERTY FEATURES: CREEK WITH CLEAR WATER FROM MARTIN LAKE A PICTURESQUE, YEAR-ROUND
Welcome to this exceptional East Texas ranch property offering the perfect blend of country living and in-town convenience. Situated on 50.45ac just 1mi from Hwy 79N in Henderson, this property is ideal for horse enthusiasts, hobby farmers, or anyone seeking space and privacy without sacrificing accessibility. The spacious 4bed, 2bahome features over 2,500sqft with a functional layout, including
JOIN US FOR AN OPEN HOUSE, NEXT SUNDAY 05.03.26 AT 2-4PM! Welcome to 155 Angela Ln! What an amazing property with so many possibilities! Discover the charm of this beautiful home, nestled on a generous nearly 3-acre parcel, just a few minutes from downtown Henderson, TX. The property has so much to offer, boasting 1898 sf, 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths and 2 car garage. Upon entering, you are welcomed
PARTIALLY WOODED AND FRESHLY MULCHED NEW LISTING ON OVER 10 AC LESS THAN 1 MINUTES FROM HENDERSON STAR INTERSECTION. LOTS OF ROAD FRONTAGE ON 43 AND HUBBARD WITH EASY ACCESS. GREAT DEVELOPMENT, COMMERCIAL TRACT OR SEVERAL BUILDING SITES.
PARTIALLY WOODED AND FRESHLY MULCHED NEW LISTING ON OVER 10 AC LESS THAN 1 MINUTES FROM HENDERSON STAR INTERSECTION. LOTS OF ROAD FRONTAGE ON 43 AND HUBBARD WITH EASY ACCESS. GREAT DEVELOPMENT, COMMERCIAL TRACT OR SEVERAL BUILDING SITES.
PARTIALLY WOODED AND FRESHLY MULCHED NEW LISTING ON OVER 10 AC LESS THAN 1 MINUTES FROM HENDERSON STAR INTERSECTION. LOTS OF ROAD FRONTAGE ON 43 AND HUBBARD WITH EASY ACCESS. GREAT DEVELOPMENT, COMMERCIAL TRACT OR SEVERAL BUILDING SITES.
EXCELLENT HUNTING RETREAT / RECREATIONAL TRACT ON 123 ACRES JUST 10 MINUTES SOUTH OF HENDERSON OFF HWY 259. POND, CREEK AND SEVERAL OPEN AREAS AND WOODED AREAS FOR HUNTING.
8 LOTS AVAILABLE WITH SEVERAL NEW HOMES ACROSS STREET. GREAT LOCATION LESS THAN ONE MILE FROM STAR IN HENDERSON OFF HWY 79 EAST. DISCOUNT FOR MULTIPLE LOTS.
Looking for a home with a little extra land? This 3 bedroom 2 bath home sits on approximately 2 acres. There is a nice sized workshop for your hobbies, woodworking or storage for your big toys! Come see this one!
The property is centrally located between Tyler and Longview, Texas, each being about a 30-minute drive. Both Tyler and Longview each have commercial airports, restaurants, shopping and a variety of entertainment options. The home is also about an hour to Shreveport, LA, two hours to Dallas, TX and three hours to Houston, TX. Large 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home with an attached guest
Property Id: 802230Welcome to your cozy 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom single-family home in Henderson, TX! This charming property on 308 S High St offers off-street parking, a lovely lawn, and is conveniently located near parks. Pets like cats and small dogs are welcome*. Don't miss out on this sweet retreat for only $700/month starting 09/01/2025. Call to schedule a
This Traditional style home is located just outside the city limits of Henderson and has been completely remodeled down to the studs. Some of the features include: Box up ceilings with crown moldings, skylights, distressed hardwood floors, tile flooring, custom made cabinets, solid wood interior doors, granite countertops in kitchen with tile backsplash, granite island in kitchen with stainless
Property Id: 1608425Welcome to your charming 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom single-family home in Henderson, TX! This cozy property features hardwood floors, central heating, and a spacious garage. Enjoy the convenience of off-street parking, on-site laundry, and a secure building. Don't miss out on this gem for only $900/month! Call to schedule a viewing
Property Id: 2478492Freshly remodeled mobile home in Henderson, TX! This charming single-family unit boasts 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a spacious lawn. Enjoy modern amenities like a dishwasher and washer/dryer hookups. Available for rent starting May 1, 2026, for $1200/month. Don't miss out on this cozy oasis!If you would like to schedule a viewing or ask more questions, please
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