Rural town near Lake Sam Rayburn sees growth
Huntington is a quiet, yet growing community among the pine forests in East Texas. "We are a quaint, rural small town with lots of ranches and farms. We are very close to Lake Sam Rayburn. The city of Huntington is actually called the Gateway to Lake Sam Rayburn," says Amy Mitchell, a resident as well as the broker and owner of Down Home Property. According to U.S. Census estimates, the area's population has nearly doubled between 2010 and 2023. Many relocate here for comparatively affordable homes and access to waterfront recreation. There is also ongoing commercial development, with new national storefronts joining the established local business scene. However, this region continues to be driven by farming and lumber industries. A sawmill stands off Highway 69, between Huntington and Lufkin.
Brick ranch homes and new builds priced below the national median
Many properties have front lawns and backyards with towering trees. Most residences stand on narrow asphalt streets without road markings or sidewalks. Housing options lean toward 20th-century brick ranch styles, but more recent dwellings are available. Independent builders construct many of these new homes. "There's a lot of new construction all of a sudden. My husband is a builder who owns J. Mitchell Ventures, so I'm locked into that," Mitchell says. Some of Huntington's newest properties are in Countrywood to the north and Salem Ridge to the south. The community offers a median single-family sale price well below the national figure. Houses from the 2020s can range in price between $250,000 and $400,000. Depending on the structure's size and acreage, older residences can cost between $160,000 and $350,000.
Neighborhood parks and lake recreation offer an outdoor lifestyle
Huntington City Park offers tennis courts, a playground and a covered picnic area. Many events take place at the larger Centennial Park. A few city blocks separate these community green spaces. The nearby Sam Rayburn Lake is one of the largest reservoirs in the United States. Mitchell says the waterfront location is a regional boating and bass fishing destination. Locals access the water using public boat ramps about 10 miles away at Etoile Park or Marion Ferry Park.
Huntington festivals and church events bring locals together
"People do go to Lufkin for events. But we have our own festival called the Catfish Festival. It's the first Saturday in October," Mitchell says. "We have a new Homestead Festival with exhibits [done by the Huntington Business Owners Association] in the spring." The Homestead Festival features live music and workshops for canning, blacksmithing and livestock. Local houses of worship provide a space for community gatherings and charitable services. Huntington United Methodist Church has previously hosted backpack and prom dress giveaways as well as 4-H Club meetings for children.
Businesses along Highway 69 and Main Street
Most commercial spaces are along Highway 69 and Main Street. A Brookshire Brothers grocery store and an O'Reilly's Auto Parts recently opened in the area. Little Boots is a local business that includes a gas station, convenience shop and attached hardware store; this family-owned establishment has been a part of the community for over 70 years. Huntington has a few restaurants, including The Free Sisters' Diner and Dojo Coffee House. Mitchell recommends the local barbecue spot, Papas Pit & More.
Schools close to home and games at Red Devil Field
Children stay inside the city to attend local public schools. Huntington Elementary has a B rating from Niche. Huntington Intermediate receives a B-minus. Huntington Middle and High have B ratings. During football season, alumni and students gather at Red Devil Field for high school games. Angelina College is about 10 miles away in Lufkin.
Severe weather risks in Huntington
Huntington has a history of flooding and wind damage during severe storms. There is also a risk of hurricanes and wildfires. The Angelina County Office of Emergency Management recently updated its comprehensive plan to improve response and recovery efforts during major incidents.
Taking the highway to Lufkin
Highway 69 reaches across Huntington, leading to nearby cities like Lufkin and Zavalla. St. Luke's Health Memorial Hospital, in Lufkin, is about 10 miles away.
The area's CAP Index Crime Score is 2 out of 10, significantly lower than the national average of 4.
Written By
Ashley Kennedy
