Longview's cultural scene centers around the annual Great Texas Balloon Race at the Longview Convention Complex and regular performances by the Longview Symphony and Ballet Theatre. The Longview Museum of Fine Arts showcases rotating exhibits, while the historic Gregg County Historical Museum preserves local heritage. Families enjoy the Longview World of Wonders Children's Museum and productions at ArtsView Children's Theatre. Outdoor recreation spans from the walking trails at Longview Arboretum and Nature Center to mountain biking at Grace Creek Trail and skating at Dodson Action Sports Complex. The dining landscape includes local favorites like Roma's Italian Kitchen, Dudley's Cajun Cafe, and GZ Asian Bistro & Sushi Bar.
The median single family home price in Longview is $290,000, with townhomes at $219,000. One bedroom condos have a median price of $73,000, while two bedroom condos sit at $71,000. The overall cost of living is 6.3% below the national average. Property taxes in Gregg County stand at 1.22%, comparable to nearby Kilgore but higher than Marshall's 1.02%. Texas has no state income tax, and the combined sales tax rate is 8.20%.
A family with school age children needs approximately $99,000 annually to live comfortably, with monthly housing costs around $2,100 and groceries at $1,500. Renters require about $52,000 yearly, spending $1,700 monthly on housing and $700 on groceries. Gasoline costs $2.836 per gallon, 13% below the national average. The city connects to Dallas through Interstate 20, with East Texas Regional Airport providing commercial flights. LeTourneau University adds an educational presence to the community.
