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.”
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Katie specializes in all fields of Real Estate for the North Texas area. As a military relocation certified specialist, she has also assisted numerous clients moving to be stationed at Sheppard Air Force Base. As a member of the CENTURY 21 team, Katie is here to help you buy or sell. Whether you are a first-time buyer, or looking for your forever home, Katie is ready to serve you and your Real Estate needs.
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.
