Denton, Texas is located 40 miles northwest of Dallas and has a population of about 120,000. Denton has hot and humid summers with temps reaching into the high 90s. The winters are quite mild with temps averaging in the 50s and with only an average snowfall of two inches. Those moving to Denton will also discover that it is a busy college town that is passionate about music. There are several music festivals every year and many musicians got their start in Denton. Anyone thinking of moving to Denton, Texas will definitely find a vital city with much to do and a great pride in its cowboy heritage.
Economy:
The median household income for Denton is exactly the same as for the state in general. The cost of living in Denton is lower than the national average. Unemployment in Denton is low at 6.3 percent. The top employers in Denton are educational in nature, with the University of North Texas being the biggest employer. The truck manufacturer Peterbilt is also a major employer in the city. With all of these exciting opportunities, it's no wonder why Denton movers are so busy.
History:
The history of Denton as a city is closely tied to the history of Denton County. Settlement of the area began in the mid 1800s when a land grant was obtained by William Peters. This new Texas County was named for John Denton, a preacher and lawyer killed in the Indian wars. After three different towns were named the county seat, finally the town of Denton became the final county seat in 1857. Denton was incorporated in 1866. When the railroad arrived in 1881, the city began to grow and become a strong agricultural area. The North Texas Normal College, now North Texas University, was established in 1890, followed by the Girls Industrial College, now Texas Women's University in 1903. The city has grown ever since and become a major college town.
Tourism:
The Denton courthouse is the center of downtown history and culture. Built in 1895, it is still in use as a courthouse. Denton Courthouse on the Square Museum houses exhibits pertaining to the history of the area. The Bayless-Selby House Museum was built in 1884 and has permanent history exhibits and a rose garden. The Denton County Historical Museum gives tribute to those who gave their lives to brave the prairie and create the area. In April, there is the Denton Arts and Jazz Festival featuring world-class music, food and crafts. The North Texas Fair and Rodeo is held in Denton in August. In March, the Annual Texas Storytelling Festival is the largest storytelling event in the southwest. In September the Denton Black Chamber of Commerce hosts the Denton Blues Fest.