A neighbor to Desoto to the North and Waxahachie to the South, you can't miss the gem of Ellis County that is Red Oak. The history of this town begins in 1844 when James Patton and his family settled along Red Oak Creek. The railroads would eventually connect Red Oak to Dallas and Waco, and the city's incorporation would soon follow in 1949. With a population that has steadily grown since its foundation, it's no wonder that the North Central Texas Council of Governments called Red Oak one of the fastest growing communities in the area.
With so many cities to choose from, you might ask yourself, why live here? Red Oak has a charm all its own despite its metropolitan surroundings. Residents can enjoy a homey atmosphere that may be hard to come by in other suburban settings. Red Oak isn't far from anything if you consider that Highway 35 runs right along the city's boundaries. This means a shorter commute for those who work in the business districts of Dallas and Fort Worth. On average, most people have less than an hour commute to work every day. That's more money not spent on gas and more time doing the things you enjoy.
A relaxed atmosphere is exactly what the working man and woman need after a long day. The serenity of Red Oak is what people enjoy most. David Byrne of Talking Heads even made this city his backdrop to his 1986 movie, "True Stories," because it fit his idea of a small, yet friendly community. The city invites its residents to partake in annual events like their founder's day celebration and planned recreational activities. The city also has its own independent school district with 5 elementary, 1 junior, 1 charter, and 1 high school. The Red Oak ISD has also been recognized by the Texas Education Agency for excellence in accountability.
Currently, 22 properties are available for rent in Red Oak. Rental prices range anywhere from less than $250 to $2,000. However, the median rent is $892 which is a great deal for the average Red Oak residents. Red Oak is a great small town escape for families and singles alike. Be sure to stop by and visit, you'll see why so many people call Red Oak home.