Living in Longview, TX

Longview is the county seat of Gregg County, with part of the city reaching into Harrison County. It sits right on I-20 between Dallas and Shreveport, and it's known as the "Balloon Race Capital of Texas." It's a good fit if you want a full-size city with pine trees, trails and East Texas lakes nearby.

Getting around

I-20 runs along the south side of town, with US 80 through the center, US 259 running north and south, and Loop 281 circling much of the city. Shreveport is about 60 miles east, Tyler is about 38 miles west, and Dallas is about 125 miles west. East Texas Regional Airport is just south of town, and Amtrak's Texas Eagle stops at the downtown station.

Things to do

The Great Texas Balloon Race, held each June at the Longview Convention Complex
Paul G. Boorman Trail, a 2.9-mile paved trail with a dog park, playground and outdoor workout equipment
Longview Arboretum and Nature Center, 26 acres along Grace Creek a short drive from downtown
Lear Park, with sports fields, a walking trail, a fishing pier and the Jack Mann Splash Pad
Downtown Longview, with Heritage Plaza and the J.T. Smith Sculpture Garden at Pelaia Plaza

Work and schools

Eastman Chemical is one of the city's largest employers, and Longview is home to LeTourneau University, a Kilgore College campus and a UT Tyler university center. The city is served by Longview ISD, Pine Tree ISD and Spring Hill ISD, with Hallsville ISD covering the Harrison County side. Because district lines cross the city, I always confirm the school assignment for a specific address.

Homes and neighborhoods

Longview has established neighborhoods with mature pines and oaks, newer subdivisions, and homes on larger lots and acreage just outside the city in Gregg and Harrison counties. Price points tend to cover a wide range, so there's a lot to compare.

A little history

Longview was founded in 1870 when O.H. Methvin Sr. sold land to the railroad for one dollar to bring a rail line through his property. It was incorporated the next year.