G arland, Texas is a peaceful yet thriving suburb, situated on beautiful Lake Ray Hubbard. Garland is one of the ten largest cities in Texas, and is conveniently located just fifteen miles northwest of downtown Dallas. While residents have easy access to a bustling metropolitan city, Garland maintains a comfortable down home atmosphere with friendly citizens and well planned neighborhoods.

Garland encompasses 57 square miles and supports a population of over 216,000 residents. The median age in the area is 32 years old, with an annual household income of approximately $50,000. While there are a variety of housing options within Garland, the area is a relatively affordable place to own a home, with the median at around $100,000. The majority of residents here are employed in the manufacturing industry, while retail trade is the second largest employment sector here. Finance, insurance, and professional services are also significant industries in Garland.

The city maintains some excellent public recreation facilities for its residents. Among them is a nationally recognized municipal golf course, widely regarded as one of the best in the nation. Called the Firewheel at Garland, this site has been a PGA Tour qualifier course and is home to the Nitro Texas State Open. The Dallas Morning News ranked the course the second best in the state of Texas. The site has recently expanded to include the new Bridges at Firewheel, an executive style 27-hole golf facility.

The Garland Parks and Recreation Department offers facilities and programs for every age group. The city maintains over 2,500 acres of open space and award winning parks for public use. Individuals and groups have access to four public swimming pools, over forty playgrounds, nearly a hundred athletic fields, picnic pavilions and the marina on Lake Ray Hubbard at Windsurf Bay Park. The area also offers five recreation centers, where residents can splash around in the Surf and Swim Wave Pool, take exercise classes or participate in a number of sports leagues for all ages.

Garland also takes special note of its senior population. The local senior center sponsors a different special event each month and is a regular destination for ballroom dancing. There is a free daily shuttle service available to transport residents directly from their homes to one of two senior recreation centers seven days a week. And each center provides a free hot meal everyday in a community environment. The Senior Scoop newsletter keeps residents informed of upcoming events and special activities, including information regarding special day trips or weekend getaways.

Arts and culture are two mainstays for entertainment in Garland. The Patty Granville Arts Center has two architecturally significant theaters for local and national touring productions. The Atrium at the Granville Arts Center is the place for functions and fundraisers, and as the name implies, is a beautiful glass-encased building opening to a lushly manicured outdoor courtyard.

Garland is a family friendly, community oriented town. Neighbors here know and look out for each other, while children are able to bike and play freely in a safe environment. There are plenty of activities for people of all ages, and a wealth of events that bring the whole town together.