Living in Tyler, TX

Tyler is the county seat of Smith County and the largest city in East Texas. Known as the "Rose Capital of America," it has tree-lined historic districts, a busy medical and university scene, and lakes and state parks a short drive away. Here's my take on living here.

Getting around

I-20 runs along the north edge of Tyler, US 69 runs north and south through the center, and SH 64 crosses east to west. Loop 323 circles the inner city, and Loop 49 (Toll 49) wraps around the west and south sides. Dallas is about 100 miles west, Longview is about 38 miles east, and Shreveport is about 98 miles east. Tyler Pounds Regional Airport has flights to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport.

Things to do

Tyler Rose Garden, a 14-acre municipal garden with more than 38,000 rose bushes and a Rose Museum
The Texas Rose Festival each October, with a parade and the coronation of the Rose Queen
The Azalea Trail in spring, two designated routes past azalea-lined homes and gardens
Caldwell Zoo, one of the city's best-known attractions
Tyler State Park, a few miles north of town, for camping, canoeing and boating

Work and schools

Healthcare is the biggest employer here, led by CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances and UT Health East Texas, along with The University of Texas at Tyler, Tyler Junior College, Texas College and Brookshire Grocery Company. Most of the city is served by Tyler ISD, with parts of the southeast in Whitehouse ISD and some eastern areas in Chapel Hill ISD. I always confirm the school assignment for a specific address.

Homes and neighborhoods

Tyler has a wide range. The Brick Streets and Azalea areas have early 1900s homes on brick-paved streets with mature trees. Established neighborhoods fill in around Loop 323, newer subdivisions and golf course communities are spread across south Tyler, and you'll find lake homes and acreage on the outskirts and around nearby lakes.

A little history

The Texas Legislature created Tyler in 1846, and it was incorporated in 1850. It's named for President John Tyler, who supported the annexation of Texas.