3rd Fastest-Growing County in the U.S.
Living in Kaufman, TX
Everything you need to know about moving to Kaufman: neighborhoods, schools, cost of living, and why families are choosing this fast-growing Dallas suburb.
Your Complete Relocation Guide · Updated May 2026
~$325KMedian Home Value
0%State Income Tax
228Sunny Days / Year
16.5%
population growth from 2019 to 2024. Kaufman County is ranked the 3rd fastest-growing county in the United States among counties with a population over 100,000, with a projected city population of 9,101 by 2026.
01 — Cost of Living
Affordable Texas living with Dallas access
Kaufman real estate offers some of the most accessible price points in the Dallas-Fort Worth area without sacrificing proximity to the city. Texas has no state income tax, and Kaufman's median home prices sit well below the regional average, making it an attractive option for first-time buyers and those relocating from higher-cost markets.
| Category |
Kaufman |
National Avg |
| Median Home Value (County) |
~$325K |
~$310K |
| Median Household Income |
$62,931 |
~$80K |
| State Income Tax |
0% |
varies |
| Poverty Rate |
7.4% |
~11.5% |
| Avg Days on Market |
~148 days |
varies |
For buyers relocating from California, the Pacific Northwest, or even suburban Dallas, real estate in Kaufman offers significantly more square footage per dollar. New construction communities have expanded rapidly, giving buyers the rare combination of affordability and modern finishes.
02 — Neighborhoods
Where to live in Kaufman
Kaufman's neighborhoods range from historic downtown streets to new master-planned communities with modern amenities. With 180+ communities across Kaufman County and active new construction from builders like Bloomfield Homes, buyers have more options here than almost anywhere in the DFW area at this price point.
Buyer's note. Many Kaufman-area buyers prioritize proximity to US-175 or SH-34 for Dallas commute access. New construction communities tend to cluster along these corridors. Always confirm school zoning per address, as boundaries vary across the city and county.
Windmill Farms
$280K – $400K
An established master-planned community near Forney on the Kaufman County border. Features single-family homes with community pool, playground, and walking trails. Popular with DFW commuters for its I-20 access and affordable pricing.
Established Pool & Trails Commuter-Friendly
Georgetown at Kings Fort
$290K – $420K
A newer suburban subdivision within Kaufman city limits offering modern single-family homes with contemporary finishes. Convenient to downtown Kaufman amenities, schools, and US-175. One of the most actively developed communities in the area.
New Construction Modern Finishes In-City
Prairie Creek Estates
$350K – $600K+
Larger acreage lots on the outskirts of Kaufman city proper, appealing to buyers who want land without sacrificing access to town. Custom and semi-custom homes on half-acre to multi-acre lots. Popular with buyers transitioning from urban areas seeking space.
Acreage Lots Custom Homes Rural Feel
Downtown / Historic Kaufman
$150K – $280K
Older established homes near the historic courthouse square. Ideal for buyers seeking character, walkability to local shops and dining, and Kaufman's most affordable price points. Many homes in this area are undergoing renovation, making it an emerging opportunity for investors.
Most Affordable Historic Character Walkable
03 — Weather
Hot summers, mild winters, 228 sunny days
Kaufman shares North Texas's humid subtropical climate. Summers are hot with frequent thunderstorms. Winters are mild with rare snow — ice storms are the bigger seasonal concern. Spring and fall are the standout seasons for outdoor activities.
☀️
228
Sunny Days Per Year
04 — Jobs & Economy
Growing local economy, Dallas in your backyard
Kaufman's local economy is driven by manufacturing, retail, construction, and healthcare. Most residents commute to the broader DFW job market — a 35-minute average drive gives access to one of the fastest-growing metro economies in the country. Manufacturing has seen the strongest local job growth, adding over 800 jobs in recent years.
Trinity Valley Electric Co-opUtilities
TABLE HoldingsManufacturing
AquaNovusTechnology / Water
Kaufman County GovernmentPublic Sector
Retail / Healthcare / ConstructionTop Local Sectors
The Dallas-Fort Worth metro — just 35 miles west — offers access to Fortune 500 headquarters, healthcare systems, tech firms, and logistics hubs. Kaufman's affordability makes it a practical base for DFW commuters looking to stretch their housing dollar.
05 — Schools & Education
Kaufman ISD: serving a growing community
Kaufman Independent School District serves approximately 4,332 students across grades PK-12. With a 99% graduation rate at Kaufman High School and growing investment in facilities as the community expands, the district is an improving system. Families prioritizing top-ranked academics may want to compare with nearby Rockwall ISD or explore private school options.
4,332Students Enrolled
99%Graduation Rate
38%Math Proficiency
16:1Student-Teacher Ratio
Kaufman ISD
Serving Kaufman city and surrounding area
Kaufman High School (99% graduation rate; #454 in TX)
Kaufman Middle School
Kaufman Elementary School
Lucille Nash Intermediate
Private & Alternative Options
Additional options in Kaufman and surrounding area
Trinity Christian Academy (Forney area)
Home school network options available
Families prioritizing academics may consider nearby Rockwall ISD districts. Always verify enrollment eligibility per address.
06 — Getting Around
US-175 corridor connects Kaufman to Dallas
Kaufman is primarily a car-dependent community. US-175 is the main artery connecting Kaufman to Dallas. SH-34 and SH-243 connect to surrounding communities. The city is also accessible via I-20 through Forney to the northwest. Traffic is lighter than most DFW suburbs.
Downtown Dallas
~45 min
via US-175
Terrell
~15 min
via SH-34
DFW Airport
~60 min
via US-175 / 635
07 — Safety
Crime rates below the national average
Kaufman's overall crime rate is approximately 48% below the national average. The northwest areas of the city consistently rank as the safest. Most reported incidents are property-related. No murders were reported in the most recent reporting year.
| Category |
Kaufman |
National Avg |
| Overall Crime Rate vs. Avg |
~48% below |
baseline |
| Violent Crime Rate (per 1,000) |
~4.4 |
~4.0 |
| Reported Murders (last year) |
0 |
varies |
| Safest Area |
Northwest Kaufman |
— |
Overall reputation: Kaufman is a small-town community with a generally safe environment. Most reported incidents are property-related. The northwest side of the city is statistically the safest area for families.
08 — Things to Do
Small-town charm with big-city access nearby
Kaufman centers its local life around parks, historic downtown, outdoor recreation, and community events. Dallas is 45 minutes west. Lake Tawakoni and Cedar Creek Lake are within 30-40 minutes for fishing, boating, and weekend escapes.
🌿 Parks & Outdoors
- Texas Zoofari Park — 800+ animals including rhinos, zebras, bison, and camels; drive-through safari experience
- Kaufman County Veterans Memorial Park — memorial park and outdoor gathering space
- Witherspoon Ranch Arena — equestrian events and rodeo activities
- Lake Tawakoni State Park — 30 min east; fishing, camping, hiking, birdwatching
- Cedar Creek Lake — 35 min south; boating, bass fishing, waterfront dining
🏛 History & Culture
- Historic Courthouse Square — Kaufman's 1885 county courthouse and surrounding shops
- Downtown Washington Street Corridor — local boutiques, antique shops, and dining
- Kaufman County Historical Commission Museum
- Terrell Heritage Museum — 15 min west in neighboring Terrell
🍽 Local Dining
- Local BBQ, Tex-Mex, and American diners centered around the downtown square
- Growing retail and dining corridors along US-175
- Full dining options in Forney (~20 min) and Terrell (~15 min)
- Waxahachie and Canton offer additional dining and shopping within 30-40 min
📍 Nearby (30–60 min)
- Downtown Dallas — arts district, sports venues, nightlife
- Canton First Monday Trade Days — world's largest flea market; 30 min east
- American Airlines Center / Globe Life Field — NBA, NHL, MLB
- Waxahachie — historic town, dining, and antique shopping; 35 min south
- DFW International Airport — ~60 miles west
09 — Real Estate Market
A buyer's market with strong new construction
Kaufman real estate is currently a buyer's market. Home values have softened slightly over the past year, giving buyers negotiating leverage and more time to decide. With 180+ active communities across Kaufman County and new construction from Bloomfield Homes and other builders, inventory is strong.
County Median Price
~$325K
Price by Neighborhood
Prairie Creek Estates$350K – $600K+
Georgetown at Kings Fort$290K – $420K
Windmill Farms$280K – $400K
Downtown / Historic$150K – $280K
Market Conditions
Market TypeBuyer's Market
Buyer PowerStrong — negotiate confidently
Top Value DriverDallas commute access
Active BuilderBloomfield Homes
Properties for sale in Kaufman offer the lowest price-per-square-foot entry point in the greater DFW area while still providing reasonable commute access to Dallas employment centers. Buyers who act now in this market can negotiate favorable terms on both resale and new construction homes.
10 — Buying & Selling in Kaufman
What buyers and sellers need to know
Whether you're searching for homes for sale in Kaufman or preparing to list, knowing how this market differs from the broader DFW area is essential. Experienced Kaufman real estate agents understand the local dynamics that general agents miss.
For Buyers
- It's a buyer's market — use it. Homes in Kaufman are sitting longer, giving you time to negotiate on price, closing costs, and repairs.
- Compare new vs. resale carefully. With 180+ active communities, new construction may offer better warranties and incentives than comparable resale homes.
- Verify your commute route. US-175 is the primary Dallas corridor — test it during peak hours before committing to a neighborhood.
- Texas has no state income tax. This increases effective purchasing power for buyers relocating from higher-tax states.
- Research school options in advance. Kaufman ISD serves the area; families prioritizing academic rankings should compare with Rockwall ISD options to the north.
For Sellers
- Price aggressively — inventory is high. With 180+ active communities competing for buyers, overpriced listings will sit. Accurate pricing from day one is essential.
- Highlight unique advantages. Acreage, mature trees, proximity to US-175, or updated finishes are differentiators against new construction inventory.
- Presentation matters more than ever. In a buyer's market, professional photography and staging are non-negotiable to stand out.
- Be prepared to offer concessions. Buyers have leverage — offering closing cost assistance or rate buydowns can close deals faster.
- Work with a local Kaufman realtor. Local expertise in pricing, neighborhood nuances, and buyer incentives makes a measurable difference in results.
The Cole Home Team has a proven track record helping buyers and sellers across Kaufman and surrounding communities. Whether you're exploring Kaufman real estate for the first time or ready to list, connect with our team for local expertise backed by results.
Explore More Neighborhoods
Sources & References
All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be independently reviewed and verified.
3rd Fastest-Growing County in the U.S.
Living in Kaufman, TX
Everything you need to know about moving to Kaufman: neighborhoods, schools, cost of living, and why families are choosing this fast-growing Dallas suburb.
Your Complete Relocation Guide · Updated May 2026
~$325KMedian Home Value
0%State Income Tax
228Sunny Days / Year
16.5%
population growth from 2019 to 2024. Kaufman County is ranked the 3rd fastest-growing county in the United States among counties with a population over 100,000, with a projected city population of 9,101 by 2026.
01Cost of Living
02Neighborhoods
03Weather
04Jobs & Economy
05Schools
06Getting Around
07Safety
08Things to Do
09Real Estate Market
10Buying & Selling
01 — Cost of Living
Affordable Texas living with Dallas access
Kaufman real estate offers some of the most accessible price points in the Dallas-Fort Worth area without sacrificing proximity to the city. Texas has no state income tax, and Kaufman's median home prices sit well below the regional average, making it an attractive option for first-time buyers and those relocating from higher-cost markets.
Category
Kaufman
National Avg
Median Home Value (County)
~$325K
~$310K
Median Household Income
$62,931
~$80K
State Income Tax
0%
varies
Poverty Rate
7.4%
~11.5%
Avg Days on Market
~148 days
varies
For buyers relocating from California, the Pacific Northwest, or even suburban Dallas, real estate in Kaufman offers significantly more square footage per dollar. New construction communities have expanded rapidly, giving buyers the rare combination of affordability and modern finishes.
02 — Neighborhoods
Where to live in Kaufman
Kaufman's neighborhoods range from historic downtown streets to new master-planned communities with modern amenities. With 180+ communities across Kaufman County and active new construction from builders like Bloomfield Homes, buyers have more options here than almost anywhere in the DFW area at this price point.
Buyer's note. Many Kaufman-area buyers prioritize proximity to US-175 or SH-34 for Dallas commute access. New construction communities tend to cluster along these corridors. Always confirm school zoning per address, as boundaries vary across the city and county.
Windmill Farms
$280K – $400K
An established master-planned community near Forney on the Kaufman County border. Features single-family homes with community pool, playground, and walking trails. Popular with DFW commuters for its I-20 access and affordable pricing.
Established Pool & Trails Commuter-Friendly
Georgetown at Kings Fort
$290K – $420K
A newer suburban subdivision within Kaufman city limits offering modern single-family homes with contemporary finishes. Convenient to downtown Kaufman amenities, schools, and US-175. One of the most actively developed communities in the area.
New Construction Modern Finishes In-City
Prairie Creek Estates
$350K – $600K+
Larger acreage lots on the outskirts of Kaufman city proper, appealing to buyers who want land without sacrificing access to town. Custom and semi-custom homes on half-acre to multi-acre lots. Popular with buyers transitioning from urban areas seeking space.
Acreage Lots Custom Homes Rural Feel
Downtown / Historic Kaufman
$150K – $280K
Older established homes near the historic courthouse square. Ideal for buyers seeking character, walkability to local shops and dining, and Kaufman's most affordable price points. Many homes in this area are undergoing renovation, making it an emerging opportunity for investors.
Most Affordable Historic Character Walkable
03 — Weather
Hot summers, mild winters, 228 sunny days
Kaufman shares North Texas's humid subtropical climate. Summers are hot with frequent thunderstorms. Winters are mild with rare snow — ice storms are the bigger seasonal concern. Spring and fall are the standout seasons for outdoor activities.
55°
39°
Jan
59°
43°
Feb
67°
50°
Mar
76°
58°
Apr
83°
66°
May
91°
74°
Jun
95°
77°
Jul
95°
75°
Aug
88°
68°
Sep
78°
57°
Oct
66°
47°
Nov
57°
40°
Dec
☀️
228
Sunny Days Per Year
🌧️
40"
Annual Rainfall
❄️
~1"
Annual Snowfall
04 — Jobs & Economy
Growing local economy, Dallas in your backyard
Kaufman's local economy is driven by manufacturing, retail, construction, and healthcare. Most residents commute to the broader DFW job market — a 35-minute average drive gives access to one of the fastest-growing metro economies in the country. Manufacturing has seen the strongest local job growth, adding over 800 jobs in recent years.
Unemployment
3.9%
Avg Commute
~36 min
Mfg Job Growth
+812
Median Income
$63K
Trinity Valley Electric Co-opUtilities
TABLE HoldingsManufacturing
AquaNovusTechnology / Water
Kaufman County GovernmentPublic Sector
Retail / Healthcare / ConstructionTop Local Sectors
The Dallas-Fort Worth metro — just 35 miles west — offers access to Fortune 500 headquarters, healthcare systems, tech firms, and logistics hubs. Kaufman's affordability makes it a practical base for DFW commuters looking to stretch their housing dollar.
05 — Schools & Education
Kaufman ISD: serving a growing community
Kaufman Independent School District serves approximately 4,332 students across grades PK-12. With a 99% graduation rate at Kaufman High School and growing investment in facilities as the community expands, the district is an improving system. Families prioritizing top-ranked academics may want to compare with nearby Rockwall ISD or explore private school options.
4,332Students Enrolled
99%Graduation Rate
38%Math Proficiency
16:1Student-Teacher Ratio
Kaufman ISD
Serving Kaufman city and surrounding area
Kaufman High School (99% graduation rate; #454 in TX)
Kaufman Middle School
Kaufman Elementary School
Lucille Nash Intermediate
Private & Alternative Options
Additional options in Kaufman and surrounding area
Trinity Christian Academy (Forney area)
Home school network options available
Families prioritizing academics may consider nearby Rockwall ISD districts. Always verify enrollment eligibility per address.
06 — Getting Around
US-175 corridor connects Kaufman to Dallas
Kaufman is primarily a car-dependent community. US-175 is the main artery connecting Kaufman to Dallas. SH-34 and SH-243 connect to surrounding communities. The city is also accessible via I-20 through Forney to the northwest. Traffic is lighter than most DFW suburbs.
Downtown Dallas
~45 min
via US-175
Forney
~20 min
via US-80
Terrell
~15 min
via SH-34
DFW Airport
~60 min
via US-175 / 635
07 — Safety
Crime rates below the national average
Kaufman's overall crime rate is approximately 48% below the national average. The northwest areas of the city consistently rank as the safest. Most reported incidents are property-related. No murders were reported in the most recent reporting year.
Category
Kaufman
National Avg
Overall Crime Rate vs. Avg
~48% below
baseline
Violent Crime Rate (per 1,000)
~4.4
~4.0
Reported Murders (last year)
0
varies
Safest Area
Northwest Kaufman
—
Overall reputation: Kaufman is a small-town community with a generally safe environment. Most reported incidents are property-related. The northwest side of the city is statistically the safest area for families.
08 — Things to Do
Small-town charm with big-city access nearby
Kaufman centers its local life around parks, historic downtown, outdoor recreation, and community events. Dallas is 45 minutes west. Lake Tawakoni and Cedar Creek Lake are within 30-40 minutes for fishing, boating, and weekend escapes.
🌿 Parks & Outdoors
Texas Zoofari Park — 800+ animals including rhinos, zebras, bison, and camels; drive-through safari experience
Kaufman County Veterans Memorial Park — memorial park and outdoor gathering space
Witherspoon Ranch Arena — equestrian events and rodeo activities
Lake Tawakoni State Park — 30 min east; fishing, camping, hiking, birdwatching
Cedar Creek Lake — 35 min south; boating, bass fishing, waterfront dining
🏛 History & Culture
Historic Courthouse Square — Kaufman's 1885 county courthouse and surrounding shops
Downtown Washington Street Corridor — local boutiques, antique shops, and dining
Kaufman County Historical Commission Museum
Terrell Heritage Museum — 15 min west in neighboring Terrell
🍽 Local Dining
Local BBQ, Tex-Mex, and American diners centered around the downtown square
Growing retail and dining corridors along US-175
Full dining options in Forney (~20 min) and Terrell (~15 min)
Waxahachie and Canton offer additional dining and shopping within 30-40 min
📍 Nearby (30–60 min)
Downtown Dallas — arts district, sports venues, nightlife
Canton First Monday Trade Days — world's largest flea market; 30 min east
American Airlines Center / Globe Life Field — NBA, NHL, MLB
Waxahachie — historic town, dining, and antique shopping; 35 min south
DFW International Airport — ~60 miles west
09 — Real Estate Market
A buyer's market with strong new construction
Kaufman real estate is currently a buyer's market. Home values have softened slightly over the past year, giving buyers negotiating leverage and more time to decide. With 180+ active communities across Kaufman County and new construction from Bloomfield Homes and other builders, inventory is strong.
County Median Price
~$325K
Avg Days on Market
~148
Market Type
Buyer's
New Communities
180+
Price by Neighborhood
Prairie Creek Estates$350K – $600K+
Georgetown at Kings Fort$290K – $420K
Windmill Farms$280K – $400K
Downtown / Historic$150K – $280K
Market Conditions
Market TypeBuyer's Market
Buyer PowerStrong — negotiate confidently
Top Value DriverDallas commute access
Active BuilderBloomfield Homes
Properties for sale in Kaufman offer the lowest price-per-square-foot entry point in the greater DFW area while still providing reasonable commute access to Dallas employment centers. Buyers who act now in this market can negotiate favorable terms on both resale and new construction homes.
10 — Buying & Selling in Kaufman
What buyers and sellers need to know
Whether you're searching for homes for sale in Kaufman or preparing to list, knowing how this market differs from the broader DFW area is essential. Experienced Kaufman real estate agents understand the local dynamics that general agents miss.
For Buyers
It's a buyer's market — use it. Homes in Kaufman are sitting longer, giving you time to negotiate on price, closing costs, and repairs.
Compare new vs. resale carefully. With 180+ active communities, new construction may offer better warranties and incentives than comparable resale homes.
Verify your commute route. US-175 is the primary Dallas corridor — test it during peak hours before committing to a neighborhood.
Texas has no state income tax. This increases effective purchasing power for buyers relocating from higher-tax states.
Research school options in advance. Kaufman ISD serves the area; families prioritizing academic rankings should compare with Rockwall ISD options to the north.
For Sellers
Price aggressively — inventory is high. With 180+ active communities competing for buyers, overpriced listings will sit. Accurate pricing from day one is essential.
Highlight unique advantages. Acreage, mature trees, proximity to US-175, or updated finishes are differentiators against new construction inventory.
Presentation matters more than ever. In a buyer's market, professional photography and staging are non-negotiable to stand out.
Be prepared to offer concessions. Buyers have leverage — offering closing cost assistance or rate buydowns can close deals faster.
Work with a local Kaufman realtor. Local expertise in pricing, neighborhood nuances, and buyer incentives makes a measurable difference in results.
The Cole Home Team has a proven track record helping buyers and sellers across Kaufman and surrounding communities. Whether you're exploring Kaufman real estate for the first time or ready to list, connect with our team for local expertise backed by results.
Explore More Neighborhoods
Rockwall Terrell Forney Dallas Gun Barrel City Collin County
Sources & References
U.S. Census Bureau — Kaufman QuickFacts Texas Demographics — Kaufman Population Data Texas Tribune — Kaufman ISD Niche — Kaufman ISD Rankings Redfin — Kaufman Housing Market Zillow — Kaufman Home Values Kaufman EDC — Employers & Economy CrimeGrade.org — Kaufman Safety Stats WeatherSpark — Kaufman Climate Data NewHomeSource — Kaufman Communities
All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be independently reviewed and verified.
Ready to explore Kaufman homes for sale?
The Cole Home Team specializes in helping buyers and sellers navigate real estate in Kaufman and throughout Kaufman County. Whether you need a Kaufman realtor who knows every neighborhood or experienced Kaufman real estate agents who can find properties for sale in Kaufman that match your goals, we are here to help.
Contact The Cole Home Team