Within 10 miles of the Oklahoma border in North Texas, Vernon bills itself as the place “Where the Real West Begins.” The former pioneer town has grown a lot since cattle, coyotes and cowboys ruled, but ranching and hunting continue to play huge roles in the lives of its 11,000 residents. With 50 miles of rural land separating it from Wichita Falls, Vernon is a hub for much of Wilbarger County. “It’s a lot of farmland out there on either side, so it’s a good middle point,” says Bill Crouch, broker and owner of River’s Edge Realty. “I’ve got friends who have hunting leases out that way, and they drive to Vernon when they need to get to a town. They have everything you would need shopping-wise.”
Vernon welcomes you to Texas a few miles south of Oklahoma.
Ranching is a big part of Vernon history and present day alike.
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Hibiscus Capital of Texas
Agriculture, ranching and food processing contribute heavily to the local economy. In 2021, Vernon was named “Hibiscus Capital of Texas” due to the efforts of Texas A&M AgriLife, which has research stations nearby. With North Texas State Hospital and Wilbarger General Hospital located within the city limits, jobs in healthcare are readily available.
The nearest big city is Wichita Falls, about 50 miles away via State Highway 80. Commuter flights to Dallas-Fort Worth are available from Wichita Falls Regional Airport.
Vernon is known as the "Hibiscus Capital" of Texas.
The Wilbarger General Hospital is one of the main employers of the city.
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Fixer-uppers and historical homes
Lower-than-average housing costs are a top draw for Vernon homebuyers. The median home price is about $110,000, which is exceptionally low by Texas standards and nearly one-third the current national median. Fixer-uppers start at $50,000 to $100,000, while well-maintained older builds might sell for $150,000 to $250,000. “They have some historical homes that have been well taken care of,” Crouch says. Larger homes with thoughtful touches like wood-burning fireplaces and storm cellars fetch prices from $375,000 to $450,000.
Lower than average priced homes are a big draw for Vernon residents.
Vernon residents enjoy spacious yards.
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Sizzling good times in Bacon City, USA
Vernon’s cultural scene highlights the city’s key features. Exhibits at the Red River Valley Museum chronicle the history of Wilbarger County from the prehistoric era to the present day. May’s Santa Rosa Roundup Rodeo runs four days and draws thousands of spectators. A parade of classic cars rides through town during Summer’s Last Blast every August. The Bacon City, USA festival began as a centennial celebration for Wright Brand bacon, which has been produced in Vernon since 1922. Held in October, the event features live music, vendors and a food truck challenge.
Red River Valley Museum highlights the history of Vernon.
The Santa Rosa Roundup Rodeo is a big deal for many Vernon locals.
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Playing ball at Vernon ISD
The Vernon Independent School District gets a B-minus from Niche and is anchored by its robust sports programs, especially football, basketball and tennis. Vernon College offers two-year programs in cosmetology, nursing and other vocational fields.
The Vernon ISD is close to many residents.
The Vernon ISD is anchored by its top tier sports programs.
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Commerce on Wilbarger Street
Much of Vernon’s commercial activity takes place along Wilbarger Street, with grocery stores, auto parts suppliers and casual restaurants lining both sides of the thoroughfare. Walmart and Tractor Supply are located near Highway 287, near Vernon College. The downtown area features several handsome old brick buildings, some emblazoned with brightly colored artwork. One mural pays tribute to the late singer Roy Orbison, who was born in Vernon. The Vernon Main Street Program is working with merchants and property owners to boost economic growth and turn the downtown into a vibrant community gathering place.
Walmart is a short drive from most residents of Vernon.
You can spot many murals highlighting Vernon downtown.
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Places to hunt, golf and gather
The land surrounding Vernon is ripe for hunting whitetail deer, turkeys and hogs. Clubhouses and pavilions throughout the park system — including the poolside clubhouse at the aquatic center — make good venues for parties and reunions. Hillcrest Country Club members can tee off at the private 9-hole golf course.
Hillcrest Country Club is a great place to play golf.
Hillcrest Country Club offers many amenities for Vernon residents.
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Mosquito control and crime risk
Summers in Vernon are hot and sticky. The humid climate fosters an aggressive mosquito population, enough so that the city website includes advice on spraying and other control methods. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, incidents of violent and property-related crime rose slightly from 2022 to 2023.
Written By
Adrienne Ryan
Photography Contributed By
Debbie Giesbrecht
Video By
David Strayer
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Katie Hein,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Vernon, TX sell after 97 days on the market compared to the national average of 49 days. The median sale price for homes in Vernon, TX over the last 12 months is $78,700, down 39% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Calling all investors!! Here's your chance to own this 5 unit (can be easily made into a 6 unit) in the heart of Vernon TX! Needs full renovations on all units. Property features new siding, 14 new windows and some basic pex conversions already completed! Schedule your showing today!!
Investors, this one is for you! Duplex available in the heart of Vernon TX! Completed improvements include:sinks connected, electrical box split, new windows, new metal roof, new flooring, new kitchens, appliances included, new paint and new siding! Schedule your showing today!
Calling all Fixer-Uppers! Let's go! Great location on this historical street! I love the vibe of this home with so many old stories of the many gatherings from years gone by. Oh, if these walls could talk. Take a look and see the possibilities. The seller has never occupied the home and has very little knowledge of the property. There is a new roof so that's a good start! Make an offer, who
Senior living at its best! Just minutes away from the heart of Vernon and Vernon College Senior Center. Pioneer Crossing of Vernon strives to offer excellent services from social events with our fitness center, movie days in the clubhouse, and our community garden to exceptional maintenance care in the comfort of your home.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
