'Cowboy Capital of the World' 70 miles from Fort Worth
As one of the self-described “Cowboy Capitals of the World,” Stephenville embraces its agricultural and rural heritage. “A lot of cowboys live in this area and we have a big dairy history,” says Joyce Holland, a resident of Stephenville and the owner/broker of Holland Home & Land Realty.” About 70 miles from Fort Worth, this town of almost 21,000 has been growing, with more retail options, improvements made to the park system and Tarleton State University, a branch of Texas A&M university. “The biggest draw is Tarleton. It’s really grown. It brings a lot of students from the (Dallas-Fort Worth) metroplex and other states,” Holland says. “It went D1 a few years ago, and they’re currently working on an event center and a humanities building.” The city’s biggest employers are the university; TechnipFMC, an oil-related company; the Stephenville Independent School District; Saint-Gobain Abrasives and Schreiber Foods, a cheese packaging plant. There are also plans for an Amazon distribution center. “Agriculture is huge, but the city is pretty versatile,” Holland says.
Hay barrels fill the land in Stephenville, showcasing the area's agricultural roots.
Agriculture thrives in Stephenville, where farms paint the landscape.
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Ranch-style homes and new construction in Stephenville
Stephenville is filled with ranch-style homes, most set in a grid-layout throughout the city. The median price for homes is $347,000, with more expensive homes on the edge of the community. These properties may include more acreage and sit on a ranch or a farm, while others may just be new construction. “There’s plenty of new construction being built. They’ve run out of space in city limits, so they are building in the country,” says Holland. “Most of the new buildings in city limits are apartments or duplexes.” Holland goes on to mention that the city is aiming to bring in more young professionals and singles.
Tarleton State University requires first-year students to live on campus, but afterward are allowed to choose to live on campus or in Stephenville.
In Stephenville, ranch-style homes provide the perfect blend of style and space.
Explore the latest new construction homes on the edge of Stephenville.
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Home to Tarleton State University
Stephenville Independent School District receives an overall grade of A-minus by Niche. Stephenville High School first opened in 1875 and is rated the best public high school in Erath County by Niche. The district has an intermediate school for fifth and sixth grades and a junior high for seventh and eighth grade. “The high school is state champs in different areas and are actually in the process of building a new football stadium,” Holland says.
Stephenville is home to Tarleton State University’s main campus. The college first opened in 1899, becoming part of the Texas A&M University System in 1917. Today, Tarleton has about 18,000 students. The city also has a campus of Ranger College, a two-year institution that offers general education classes, in addition to courses like cosmetology, welding and EMT.
Fuel ambition at Stephenville High School, where dreams take flight.
Tarleton University is at the heart of Stephenville, shaping the future for many locals.
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City boasts a seasonal water park and pickleball courts
Stephenville City Park is the largest in town, with 112 acres that include a disc-golf course and a seasonal water park. “They’ve made upgrades to the parks and have room for more baseball and softball competitions,” says Holland. “The tennis courts are striped for pickleball. There are nice city parks that are utilized, including a walking trail.” Optimist Jaycee and Bill Johnson parks are additional green spaces. The Bosque River Trail is almost three miles long. Tarleton State University also has several tennis and pickleball courts. Legends Country Club has an 18-hole golf course, open to the public. Tejas Golf Course is another public facility with 9-holes. Hunting is also a popular activity. Nearby is Wendy Lou Classic Game Reserve, where groups or individuals can hunt animals that are typically native to Africa.
Stephenville locals hit the greens at Legends Golf Course.
Stephenville Park is a peaceful retreat for outdoor lovers, offering space for relaxation.
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Local businesses downtown with new retailers coming in
Downtown Stephenville has local businesses and boutiques surrounding the courthouse. It is also the location of a seasonal farmer’s market. “We have three grocery stores: H-E-B, Aldi and Walmart,” says Holland. “There’s new shopping. A Chick-fil-A came in – I think we were the first in a country area to get one – and (residents) were just blown away. We’re finally getting some retail that you don’t typically see in the rural areas.” Along U.S. Route 377 are national retailers and regional chains like Atwoods, a hardware store, on U.S. Route 281.
Stock up on essentials and more at Stephenville's Walmart.
Unless your artistic side at Hobby Lobby in Stephenville.
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Moo-La, cowboys and a rodeo
“There are lots of celebrations and events that take place,” says Holland. “Like Moo-La.” Moo-La is the name of the unofficial mascot of Stephenville – a fiberglass Holstein who watches over the center of town. Moo-La Fest is a celebration of the city’s heritage as a dairy community. Held the first weekend in June, the festival features a carnival, hot air balloons, food, live music and dairy-centered activities. The Cowboy Capital of the World Pro Rodeo is a three-day event in late September that includes rodeo competitions like roping and mutton bustin’. The weekend ends with performances by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association.
U.S. Route 377 into Fort Worth
There are no major interstates in Stephenville, but U.S. routes 377, 281 and 67 run through the city, with Route 377 reaching into Fort Worth. Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport is about 90 miles northeast of Stephenville. Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Stephenville is located just up the street from Downtown Stephenville.
Written By
Samantha Hacker
Photography Contributed By
Aylin Reyna
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Reach out to
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Welcome to this charming property nestled in the heart of Stephenville, just minutes from Tarleton State University, local shopping, and dining. This home offers a fantastic opportunity for both homeowners and investors alike with its prime location and flexible potential. Step inside to find a spacious layout with abundant natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The kitchen is
Hunters, Outdoors men and women, nature lovers, come see this undeveloped, unspoiled 78 acres in Erath County. Currently with a wildlife exemption and filled with wildlife, the seller has spotted deer, wild hogs, and wild turkeys. This is where you go to get away from it all. There is a small camp house on the property with power (no water) a great place to stow your gear and spend the night if
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Great small acreage tract located in Linglevillle ISD. Come take a look at these beautiful home sites , just waiting for that Dream home to be built upon! These are located on a paved county road, with great access to Lingleville and Stephenville. Small acreage in the Lingleville area is far and few between, so don't wait long or you just might miss this opportunity!! New Mobile homes and Tiny
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PRIME COMMERCIAL PROPERTY FOR SALE IN ERATH COUNTY!!! With this multi-purpose arena & event center, that offers roughly 150,000 sq ft under roof, and another 57,000 +- sq ft covered area, and 2 entrances, the POSSIBILITIES ARE ENDLESS! Also known as Lone Star Arena, this commercial property is located in Stephenville, TX. Known for a City of Champions, Tarleton State University and is the home to
Fantastic turn key horse property! Check this one out! Located in one of the very best areas, and just South of Stephenville off of FM 914! This is 2023 built 3 bedroom 2 bath barndo! The home has an attached oversized two car carport! The property is just over 6 acres and is ag exempt! The home has beautiful vaulted ceilings in the living room and kitchen! The home is amazing and features three
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Now signing leases for Spring/Fall 2025-2026! Secure your spot with a holding fee while searching for roommates, or rent without needing to fill all bedrooms. We provide roommate information before signing to ensure a comfortable living experience. Each unit is rented by the room, with individual leases offering flexibility—you can live alone or with friends. These 3-story townhomes, located
Charming 2 Bedroom Home with Hardwood Floors, Bay Window, High Ceilings + Fenced Yard! Explore the charm and character of this delightful 2 bedroom home offering 1,147 sq ft of comfortable living space in a prime Stephenville location. With hardwood flooring throughout, this home delivers a warm, inviting feel the moment you step inside. The open living room is a standout feature, showcasing high
A place for EVERYONE in Stephenville! The Summit offers luxury apartment homes with features such as granite counter tops, custom cabinetry, on-site storage, and thoughtful closet space. Our on-site management team is here for you & ready to help you find a place you love to call home! Walking distance from Tarleton, and a park for your back yard. We also offer properties at Graham Street,
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Experience unlimited comfort at The Patrick and lead an ideal life. We invite you to a beautiful community that fits every style and budget.When you lease at The Patrick, you also get access to all the amenities at The Parker 1 and 2! Come home, put your feet up, and settle down into a community you deserve.
SPECIAL OFFER!! Open House 7-19-20-2025 10-5. Special fill a unit for a discount of $750. call for details. Individual leases and flexible options make this the perfect fit for your needs! Just 0.2 miles from Tarleton University – a short walk to campus. Design: Spacious 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom, 2-story townhomes. Room A (Downstairs): 10x11 with a walk-in closet, private bathroom, stained concrete
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