Wide open spaces and strong schools attract families to Panhandle
In the heart of Texas's red beds, cattle ranches and crop fields is the community of Panhandle. As the name suggests, the town is in North Texas, about 30 miles east of Amarillo. Surrounded by wide open land, Panhandle is a quiet community of 2,300, where small-town local businesses, restaurants and recreation areas bring residents together. Panhandle also has a highly rated independent school district, making it a community that appeals to families seeking excellent schools. With access to Amarillo, residents can enjoy that peaceful, family-oriented feel while within a short drive of larger amenities.
Mix of older homes and land for custom builds or ranching
Panhandle is carved into acres of circular crop fields and vast open prairie. Most of the community consists of residences at a median sale price of $246,000. Farmhouse-style and Craftsman-style homes built in the early to mid-1900s are closer to the town center. Ranch-style and manufactured homes surround this area. Lots are typically modestly sized with backyards, spotted with oak and mesquite trees. On the outskirts of town, land is available for homesteading, ranching, or custom house construction.
Panhandle schools earn high marks across all grade levels
Panhandle Independent School District serves 625 students and scores an A-minus on Niche. The school is also ranked the number two district in the Amarillo area. Panhandle Elementary earns an A-minus, Panhandle Junior High has an A and Panhandle High scores an A. High schoolers can apply to career and technical education programs such as animal science, nursing and graphic design.
Splash pad, pool and athletic fields offer family fun at Paul Park
There are limited recreation options in Panhandle, but Paul Park is the most popular spot for residents to gather. The quiet green space features a playground, a splash pad and a few picnic areas. There are athletic fields along East Broadway Street for pickup and club games. At the high school, the Panthers Stadium brings residents to cheer on the football team on Friday nights. On the corner of Elsie and East Sixth Street is the Panhandle Swimming Pool, a popular place for families on warm days. There are more recreation areas near Amarillo, such as Thompson Memorial Park. The expansive space has a golf course, dog park, zoo, athletic areas, a playground and a disc golf course.
Local museum and comfort food spots anchor Panhandle's center
Along Main Street and Elsie is Panhandle's commercial heart. There are boutiques, supply shops, churches and municipal buildings found here. There are also a few attractions, like the Carson County Square House Museum, which showcases the history and art of the Panhandle and the surrounding communities. Local restaurants are one of Panhandle's offerings, such as Panther Pizza, and Brickstreet 200, which serves decadent comfort food like patty melts and chicken-fried steak. For groceries, there's a Thriftway and a Dollar General. Residents may drive into Amarillo for more dining, big box retail and events like the Tri-State Fair and Rodeo. This event features carnival rides, games, music, food and rodeo competitions.
Highways connect Panhandle to Amarillo and major services
Texas State Highway 207 cuts through Panhandle, running south to Interstate 40, about 9 miles away. U.S. Highway 60 runs along the southeastern section of town, connecting it to Amarillo, 30 miles west. Amarillo has most amenities, including Rick Husband International Airport and Northwest Texas Hospital. There are several other major medical centers in Amarillo, including the Thomas E. Creek VA Hospital. Panhandle has a CAP Index Crime Score of two out of 10, lower than the national number of four.
