Gingerbread houses, crape myrtles and a Main Street City
Tucked away about 30 miles south of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex is Waxahachie, a city with a population of around 47,000 people and several titles. It is called "The Gingerbread City" for the area's many "gingerbread" homes, as well as "The Crape Myrtle Capital of Texas," due to the vibrant flower that blooms in the excessive heat of a southern summer. Waxahachie also embraces the name "The Best Little Hollywood in Texas," since the hit movie "Bonnie and Clyde" was filmed there in 1967. The city was founded in 1850 and drew its initial success from the cotton industry, establishing one of the state's first textile mills. Today, the Texas Historical Commission recognizes Waxahachie as a Main Street City balancing historic preservation with economic growth. "You get a quieter, small-town lifestyle with all the amenities of the bigger cities," says Ty Stayton, the Assistant Regional Sales Manager at Century 21 Judge Fite and a city resident. Baylor Scott and White Health and the Waxahachie Independent School District are two of the primary employers in the city.
Waxahachie was founded in 1850 and is home to over 45,000 residents.
Waxahachie boasts charming small-town shops in its downtown area.
Waxahachie provides a quieter, small-town lifestyle with all the amenities of a larger city.
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center offers expertise and treatment options for Waxahachie.
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Historic districts and Victorian homes
While Waxahachie is known as "The Gingerbread City" for its gingerbread-like homes, there are other designs, including Craftsman and contemporary styles. Residents also will find classic Victorian-style homes as pink as the crape myrtles that bloom throughout the city. The housing market has increased, with the median home price in 2024 at $405,000, slightly lower than the national median price of $417,000. The city includes five National Register Historic Districts: West End, Ellis County Courthouse, North Rogers Street, Oldham Avenue and Wyatt Street. Each neighborhood tells a unique story and contributes to the larger cultural tapestry of the city. "The city has done a great job with all the new developments as people move in while still embracing the history of the community," Stayton says.
An early 20th-century cottage, beautifully renovated in Waxahachie.
Welcome to this beautifully updated Craftsman-style home, built in the early 20th century.
A vibrant, colorful Victorian-style home built in the early 20th century in Waxahachie.
Small, colorful cottages are scattered throughout Waxahachie.
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Crape Myrtle Festival, Fireworks and Parade
Waxahachie holds events year round that bring the community and surrounding areas together for fun festivities. Among the notable events is the Crape Myrtle Festival, Fireworks & Parade, a July 3rd and 4th celebration with food trucks, fireworks, a kids zone and a parade. Other notable events include the Crossroads of Film and Music Festival and the Texas Country Reporter Festival. Downtown Waxahachie holds a Christmas Tour of Homes during the holiday season, including five historical homes covered in holiday decorations. "When they do stuff downtown, there are lots of people there, and they are very nice," Stayton says. "You can bump into someone, shake their hand, and become friends with them."
Waxahachie hosts the annual Christmas Tour of Homes each holiday season.
Historical homes are covered in holiday decorations during the Christmas Tour of Homes.
The Waxahachie Farmers Market features dozens of vendors offering a wide variety of goods.
The Waxahachie Farmers Market opens every spring, offering the freshest produce and goods.
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Largemouth bass fishing at Lake Waxahachie
Waxahachie has 22 parks throughout the city that are open to the public. Getzendaner Park is a 33-acre park that serves as an entrance to the trail system. It also includes the Historic Chautauqua Auditorium, a performance hall built in 1902 that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Athletes appreciate Lee Penn Park for its covered basketball courts, lighted athletic fields and public pool. Professional sports teams are also accessible to Waxahachie residents, with the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers stadiums about 35 miles away in Arlington. Richards Park is a baseball field that opened in 1914. Named for former MLB player and manager Paul Richards, the park is where three major league teams held spring training in the early 20th century. The facility is now owned by the local school district and is home to the high school baseball team. "Richards Park has been here forever, and people still embrace the history of it," Stayton says. Lake Waxahachie is a hot spot for boating and fishing, with an abundance of largemouth bass.
Getzendaner Park, one of the largest parks in Waxahachie, is a local favorite.
Located in Waxahachie, Richards Park is a historic baseball field that first opened in 1914.
The Historic Chautauqua Auditorium, a performance hall built in 1902.
Lee Penn Park is a charming green space in Waxahachie, offering a peaceful retreat.
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Several local shops in Historic Downtown
Waxahachie is home to an array of restaurants and cuisines, from fast-food chains like Sonic Drive-In to local diners like Pop's Burger Stand. Historic Downtown includes over 120 local businesses, including cafes, boutiques and entertainment venues. Most of the buildings remain the same as they were in the 1880s when the railroad sparked the growth of the city. The Waxahachie Town Center offers various retail options, while the Waxahachie Marketplace and Red Barn Flea Markets have groceries and other unique goods.
That Gibson eclectic shop in Waxahachie sells men's wear and ladies' apparel.
The Waxahachie Town Center offers various retail options for its residents.
Savor your favorite latte at the charming Bloom & Pour in downtown Waxahachie.
Historic downtown Waxahachie includes over 120 local businesses, including boutiques.
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High marks for the Waxachachie Independent School District
Waxahachie students are part of the Waxahachie Independent School District, which earns an A-minus and is ranked the No.1 School District in Ellis County by Niche. The school district has 10 elementary schools, three middle schools and three high schools. Those looking to continue their education can attend Navarro College's Waxahachie campus, a community college with over 20 different programs, including cosmetology and paralegal studies. Stayton notes that sports are prominent in the schools, with baseball and football being huge in Waxahachie and throughout Texas.
Margaret L. Felty Elementary School is where education meets inspiration in Waxahachie.
Waxahachie High School boasts a large campus where students can learn and explore.
Global High School in Waxahachie is your top choice for a comprehensive learning experience.
Waxahachie students have the option to attend Wilemon STEAM Academy.
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Highway 287 leads to Arlington and Fort Worth
Highway 287 serves as a main roadway connecting Waxahachie with Fort Worth and Arlington. Residents take Interstate 35 to Dallas, which runs from Laredo, Texas, by the U.S.-Mexico border to Duluth, Minnesota. The Mid-Way Regional Airport is less than 7 miles away, while the DFW International Airport is about 44 miles north along Highway 287. Complete Health Medical Center and Baylor Scott & White Family Medical Center are the main hospitals in the city.
Crime and environmental factors
According to FBI crime statistics, the property crime rate in Waxahachie is about 153 incidents per 100,000 people, compared to the Texas average of 180. The violent crime rate is about half that of the state rate.
Like much of North Texas, excessive heat and potential tornadoes are a concern. August is the hottest month of the year, with an average high of 95 degrees, while the coldest month is January, with an average low of 37 degrees.
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On average, homes in Waxahachie, TX sell after 71 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Waxahachie, TX over the last 12 months is $399,900, up 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
OPEN HOUSE, SUNDAY 05.03 AT 2-4PM. Stop taking vacations – start living in one! Don’t miss this opportunity to own this fully furnished, turnkey home with an incredible backyard oasis in Waxahachie, TX. Perfect for investors, short-term rental potential (Airbnb), or families looking for a move-in ready property, this spacious home offers 4,474 SF with 6 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and a 2-car garage.
MLS# 21119455 - Built by HistoryMaker Homes - Ready Now! ~ The Olive, a well-designed single-story home ideal for modern living. This spacious home includes 4 bedrooms 3 baths and in closed study, providing ample space for family and guest. The open concept living area integrates the kitchen, dining and living spaces, perfect for entertaining. The primary suite serves as a serene retreat with a
MLS# 21238864 - Built by HistoryMaker Homes - May 2026 completion! ~ The Olive, a well-designed single-story home ideal for modern living. This spacious home includes 4 bedrooms 3 baths and in closed study, providing ample space for family and guest. The open concept living area integrates the kitchen, dining and living spaces, perfect for entertaining. The primary suite serves as a serene
This well-maintained two-story home located in Phase I of Settlers Glen features 5 spacious bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Situated on a large corner lot with a full privacy fence, this home offers plenty of space both inside and out, perfect for comfortable living and entertaining. Enjoy the included amenities of pickleball courts, batting practice nets, basketball courts and two parks.
Welcome to 168 Denali, tucked away in the highly sought-after Summit Estates of Waxahachie. This beautiful JHH home offers the perfect mix of style, comfort, and peaceful surroundings. Step inside to warm hand-scraped hardwood floors, soaring ceilings, and eye-catching rustic wood beams that give the main living area both character and charm. The open living and dining spaces are filled with
OPEN HOUSE, SUNDAY 05.03 AT 2-4PM. Stop taking vacations – start living in one! Don’t miss this opportunity to own this fully furnished, turnkey home with an incredible backyard oasis in Waxahachie, TX. Perfect for investors, short-term rental potential (Airbnb), or families looking for a move-in ready property, this spacious home offers 4,474 SF with 6 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and a 2-car garage.
Seller offering concessions. Spacious two-story home situated in the county, offering room to live, entertain, and unwind. This 4-bedroom, 2.5 bath property features a functional and flexible layout with a dedicated office, large living room, eat-in kitchen, butler's pantry, and media room ideal for everyday living or hosting guests. Upstairs bedrooms provide privacy and comfort. Step outside to
Come see the sunsets and fall in love with this rare Waxahachie property opportunity offering nearly 1.3 acres and approximately 4,250 SF of flexible living space. Originally built in 1890 with substantial additions in the 1970s and 1990s, this Grand Avenue estate offers the scale and functionality of a much newer home while being priced to reflect the need for future updates. NEW ROOF AND
Walk into 247 Dakota Drive in Waxahachie, located in the highly sought-after Settlers Glen subdivision! This beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers a sensible, well-designed layout with split bedrooms for added privacy. The inviting living area welcomes you in, while tile flooring enhances the main living spaces and carpet provides comfort in the bedrooms. Step outside to enjoy the covered
++++Stunning 3 Bed, 3 Bath home with game room in Buffalo Ridge, Waxahachie!!++++Built in 2020 by John Houston Homes, this spacious 2,500 sq. ft. residence offers modern design and luxurious finishes throughout. Located in the desirable Buffalo Ridge addition, this home combines comfort and elegance. The heart of the home is the spacious, open-concept kitchen that flows seamlessly into the
OPEN HOUSE, SUNDAY AT 2-4PM! Don’t miss this opportunity to own this fully furnished, turnkey home with an incredible backyard oasis in Waxahachie, TX! Perfect for investors, short-term rental potential, or families looking for a move-in ready property, this spacious home offers 3,209 sq ft with 5 bedrooms, 3 full baths, 2 half baths, and a 2-car garage. Step inside to a bright and inviting
This charming THREE-BEDROOM, TWO-BATH CRAFTSMAN HOME offers character and functionality throughout. A SPACIOUS DECK wraps around the back of the property, creating an ideal setting for OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING or relaxing evenings. ORIGINAL HARDWOOD FLOORS run through most of the home, adding TIMELESS APPEAL, while a STYLISH, UPDATED BARN DOOR connects the BEDROOMS to the DINING ROOM. The KITCHEN AND
Style, Affordability & A Fresh New Chapter — All Wrapped Into One Charming Home!Looking for a place that won’t break the budget and still feels modern and polished? This one delivers. With a clean, neutral style that plays well with any décor and upgrades throughout, this home is the kind of find that makes you think, “Yep... this is the one.” Inside, the updates shine right away. Luxury
Great location and huge future development potential! Located just off of Hwy 35E in southern Waxahachie and just north of Forreston. 17+ acres fully fenced with cross-fencing for horses. Utilities already setup to 2020 built cabin - perfect as a small office for any type of business - ie trucking, trailer parking, storage, warehousing, shipping, industrial, etc. Located in the county with no
Rare Opportunity on Farley Street – Prime 1.293 Acres in the Heart of Waxahachie!If you know Waxahachie, then you understand the significance of owning property on Farley Street—an area known for its charm and ongoing development. This expansive 1.293-acre lot offers incredible potential, located right in town and adjacent to a multi-family property on the east side.A few years ago, the
The Mark on Conquest II offers luxury apartment homes in a new upscale apartment community. Where luxe meets comfort, these spacious floorplans incorporate sleek design, modern fixtures, and an abundance of light. Quaintly located just south of Dallas, in Waxahachie, TX, The Mark on Conquest II will have you asking, "Are we there yet?" every time you're headed home
Welcome to this stunning single-family home built in 2023, offering 2,533 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. This spacious 3-bedroom, 3-bath residence combines modern style with everyday functionality. Step inside to an open-concept layout that seamlessly connects the living, kitchen, and dining areas—ideal for entertaining or relaxing at home. The kitchen features ample storage,
Experience elevated apartment living in the heart of Waxahachie, Texas. Located just 30 miles south of Dallas in scenic Ellis County, The Village at Waxahachie offers modern studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments for rent near top local attractions, dining, and shopping destinations. Our luxury apartment community combines the comfort of high-end finishes with the warmth of small-town
Modern luxury in the heart of downtown Waxahachie! Discover the perfect blend of sleek, contemporary design and small-town charm. Located just moments from the vibrant Waxahachie courthouse square, this stunning 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment offers an elevated urban lifestyle with all the comforts of home. Luxury vinyl plank throughout open floor plan, ground floor unit. The chef-inspired
Welcome to The Ashton on 287, located in the vibrant city of Waxahachie, TX. Our community offers a range of amenities designed to enhance your lifestyle. Enjoy the convenience of covered parking, ensuring your vehicle is protected from the elements. And for the little ones, our playground offers a enjoyable area to let their imaginations soar. At The Ashton on 287, we prioritize your comfort and
Life at Gala at Waxahachie doesn’t just include your well-appointed apartment home! As a resident of our community, you will gain access to a wide variety of unique and purposeful amenities. Whether practicing low impact water aerobics in our resort-style pool, perfecting your short game on our putting green, or enjoying a beverage with new friends in our Club House. There is more to experience
Charming 2-story town home nestled in a quiet, tree-lined community offering a peaceful, serene setting. Ideally located just minutes from historic downtown Waxahachie. Enjoy convenient access to local shops, dining, and community events while still embracing a relaxed, small-town atmosphere. The bright and open downstairs layout is designed to maximize space and natural light, creating an
Welcome to Oxford at Crossroads Centre, where luxury and convenience blend seamlessly to create an exceptional living experience. Nestled in a vibrant, gated community, our pet-friendly apartments offer a maintenance-free lifestyle that lets you focus on what truly matters. At Oxford at Crossroads Centre, we believe that home should be a sanctuary. Our spacious floorplans are thoughtfully
Welcome to Marvin Place Apartments, Unit 211, a cozy upstairs home nestled in Waxahachie, TX. This inviting space boasts two spacious bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms, perfect for those seeking a comfortable living environment. The apartment is equipped with solar screens. The home features both carpet and wood-inspired flooring, adding a touch of warmth to the space. Ceiling fans, central heat and
Like-new, beautifully designed single-story home by Lillian Homes featuring a stunning stone elevation. Comes complete with front and back covered patios! Gorgeous wood-like tile floors in the entryway, family room, kitchen, dining and breakfast. This brand new home is FULL of upgrades. Gourmet kitchen with electric cooktop. Quartz kitchen countertop with SS appliance. Large master bedroom with
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