Craving more space and a slower pace while staying close to Dallas? If you want a small-town feel with room to spread out, Kaufman might be the right fit. In this guide, you’ll learn what daily life looks like, where people live, how the commute works, and how Kaufman compares to nearby suburbs. You’ll also get practical tips to make your move easier. Let’s dive in.
Where Kaufman fits in DFW
Kaufman is the county seat of Kaufman County, set on the quieter edge of the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex. You get an exurban, small-city vibe with lower density, local shops, and a historic downtown that anchors civic life. Many residents work across the metro, so Kaufman blends small-town living with access to larger job centers.
You’ll find a community built around county services, small businesses, schools, and local construction and trades. The area has grown as the DFW region expands outward, bringing steady new housing and retail while keeping a more relaxed rhythm than inner-ring suburbs.
Homes and neighborhoods
Home types and lot sizes
Housing in Kaufman leans heavily toward single-family homes. Inside town, you’ll see established neighborhoods on traditional lots and a few small historic homes near downtown. Just beyond the city limits, acreage and ranchette-style properties become more common, appealing if you want more land, a workshop, or space for hobbies.
Newer subdivisions offer modern floor plans with community features, while the rural outskirts provide a more private, open setting. Many buyers choose Kaufman to get more yard and elbow room for the price.
New construction and resale
You can choose between new-build communities and a steady flow of resale options. Some neighborhoods have HOAs with design guidelines and amenities. Older areas and rural properties often do not. If you want to build or customize, you’ll find on-site builds and occasional custom homes on acreage.
Property taxes and ownership costs
Texas has no state income tax, so property taxes make up a large part of monthly costs. Rates vary by city, county, school district, and special districts. Always verify current tax rates and exemptions with the Kaufman County Appraisal District and local taxing entities before you set your budget.
City limits vs. ETJ and utilities
If you’re eyeing land or a home just outside town, confirm whether it sits inside the city limits or in the ETJ (extraterritorial jurisdiction). Inside the city, water and sewer are more commonly available. In rural areas, well and septic systems may be the norm. Permitting and building standards also differ between the city and county. Ask for utility maps and permitting requirements early in your search.
Cost and value
Compared with inner-ring suburbs like Plano or Irving, Kaufman is generally more affordable and offers larger lots and lower density. Many buyers notice they can get more land and living space for the price. Keep in mind that total monthly costs include taxes, insurance, utilities, and any HOA dues. The right fit depends on the balance you want between space, location, and ongoing costs.
Commuting to Dallas
Driving routes and timing
Most residents commute by car. Common routes connect toward US 175, I 20, and other regional arterials into Dallas and the eastern suburbs. Depending on your destination and traffic, the drive to downtown Dallas typically ranges from about 30 to 60+ minutes. Check real-time mapping at the times you expect to travel, since construction and peak-hour flow can change drive times.
Transit options
Fixed-route public transit from Kaufman to Dallas is limited or not available, and DART service does not extend to Kaufman. Some commuters use carpool or vanpool programs, park-and-ride options in larger nearby suburbs, or arrange partial telecommuting with employers. Regional agencies update road projects and mobility options over time, so it’s smart to keep an eye on evolving plans.
Commuter tips
- Test your drive at peak times before you buy.
- Consider flexible work hours or remote days if your job allows.
- Keep vehicle maintenance and fuel costs in your monthly plan.
- If you have school drop-offs, add buffer time to your morning routine.
Daily life and amenities
Parks and outdoor recreation
Kaufman offers municipal parks with playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. On weekends, many residents enjoy country roads, nearby green space, and access to larger regional lakes and parks within Kaufman County or adjacent counties. If you value outdoor time, you’ll find a laid-back, open-air rhythm here.
Dining and shopping
Expect a small-town commercial scene with locally owned diners and family restaurants, plus familiar fast-casual spots along major corridors. For broader dining and big-box retail, many residents drive to nearby Forney, Mesquite, Terrell, or head into Dallas. Daily needs are close to home, and specialty options are a short drive away.
Schools and youth programs
Public schools are primarily served by Kaufman ISD, with some county areas assigned to neighboring districts depending on the address. For neutral information on boundaries and performance, review official district materials and state education resources. Youth sports, clubs, and extracurriculars are usually school-centered and community-led.
Healthcare and services
You’ll find local clinics, primary care, and urgent care in town. Full-service hospitals and specialists are located in larger nearby cities such as Forney, Terrell, Mesquite, and Dallas. If you need specialty care, plan your route and travel time based on your provider’s location.
Community events and civic life
Life in Kaufman often revolves around high school sports, seasonal festivals, parades, farmers’ markets, and community fundraisers. Local volunteer groups, churches, and civic clubs provide plenty of ways to get involved. The calendar shifts seasonally, which keeps the social scene active and neighborly.
How Kaufman compares to nearby suburbs
Space and density
Kaufman offers more room and lower density than inner-ring suburbs. If yard size and privacy are priorities, this is a strong match.
Amenities and transit
You trade quick access to major retail, cultural venues, and transit hubs for a quieter, small-town experience. For a wider range of dining, shopping, and entertainment, you’ll likely drive to larger cities nearby.
Price and taxes
Purchase prices often feel more attainable in Kaufman, especially when you value land. Always compare property tax rates across districts and verify current data before you finalize your budget.
Buyer checklist for Kaufman
- Define your commute and test drive it at peak times.
- Decide on lot size, HOA preferences, and neighborhood feel.
- Confirm city limits vs. ETJ, utility availability, and any septic or well needs.
- Verify property tax rates, exemptions, and projected monthly costs.
- Check school district boundaries for your exact address.
- Review broadband options for speed and reliability.
- Plan healthcare access and typical shopping routes.
- Ask about upcoming road projects or nearby development.
Is Kaufman right for you?
If you want more space, a slower pace, and a friendly small-city setting within reach of Dallas job centers, Kaufman delivers. You’ll find a mix of newer neighborhoods, acreage options, and a walkable downtown core, plus a community calendar that keeps things lively. The key is to balance your commute, budget, and land preferences.
Ready to explore homes or compare neighborhoods? Connect with The Cole Home Team for local guidance, tailored searches, and a clear plan from first tour to closing.
FAQs
How long is the commute from Kaufman to downtown Dallas?
- Many drivers report about 30 to 60+ minutes at peak times, depending on route, traffic, construction, and the exact destination.
What kinds of homes are available in Kaufman, TX?
- You’ll see single-family homes on traditional lots, newer subdivision builds, small historic homes near downtown, and acreage or ranchette-style properties.
Does Kaufman have public transit to Dallas?
- Fixed-route options are limited or not available, and DART does not extend to Kaufman, so most residents drive, carpool, or use nearby park-and-ride options.
How does Kaufman compare on price and space vs. closer-in suburbs?
- Kaufman generally offers more land and lower density at a given price point than inner-ring suburbs, but you should verify current pricing and property tax rates.
Are utilities and high-speed internet available throughout Kaufman?
- City water and sewer are more common inside city limits; rural properties may use well and septic, and broadband coverage varies by provider and address.
What amenities can families expect in Kaufman?
- Municipal parks, local sports and extracurriculars, community festivals, and everyday retail in town, with larger dining and shopping a short drive away.
