Overview of Blue Ridge, TX
Nestled in Collin County at the crossroads of State Highway 78, FM 981, and FM 545, Blue Ridge, Texas, is a quiet and charming town steeped in rural character yet conveniently connected to the Dallas–Fort Worth metro area. With a population growth from 822 in 2010 to 1,180 by 2020, and projected to be near 1,286 by 2025, it strikes a balance between growth and tranquility.
Real Estate Market Overview
Blue Ridge offers a unique real estate market compared to many other parts of Collin County. While nearby cities see rapid suburban expansion, Blue Ridge maintains a more rural character, attracting buyers who value wide-open spaces, privacy, and the opportunity to own acreage.
Home Prices: Recent data shows median home prices ranging between $287,000 and $380,000, depending on the source. Redfin notes a median sale price of around $287K, while Zillow and Realtor.com highlight average values closer to $380K–$454K. This range reflects the diversity of housing options—from modest single-family homes in town to larger properties with multiple acres.
Market Trends: Homes in Blue Ridge tend to stay on the market slightly longer than those in more densely populated suburbs, averaging 45–55 days before going under contract. This pace reflects the town’s more specialized appeal and the fact that many properties offer rural features such as barns, workshops, or custom builds on larger lots.
Buyer Appeal: The market is especially attractive to those seeking a small-town lifestyle with room to grow—whether that means space for livestock, a large garden, or simply extra elbow room. Many buyers also view Blue Ridge as a chance to build custom homes on multi-acre tracts while still remaining within commuting distance of McKinney, Plano, and the greater DFW metroplex.
In summary: The Blue Ridge housing market is moderately competitive but less fast-paced than larger suburban markets. It’s well-suited for buyers looking for a balance of affordability, land ownership, and accessibility to Collin County’s booming economy.
5 Year Real Estate Trends for Blue Ridge, TX
History and Culture of Blue Ridge, TX
Blue Ridge’s story is one of resilience, setbacks, and renewal. Established in 1876 and named for the blue-tinted grass covering its hills, the community quickly grew into a bustling rural town with a post office, cotton gin, sawmill, and gristmill. By the early 1900s, its population had swelled to nearly 1,000, supported by a local railway, strong farming activity, and a growing business district.
The town faced its share of challenges as well. In 1919, a tornado devastated Blue Ridge, destroying much of the community and causing significant loss of life. Yet residents rebuilt, and by the 1930s the town boasted paved roads, utilities, schools, and more than 20 businesses. Official incorporation followed in 1936, cementing its place as a permanent Collin County community.
Like many small towns, Blue Ridge experienced decline during the mid-20th century as agricultural changes and job opportunities in nearby cities drew residents elsewhere. Population numbers and local businesses fell for several decades, with fewer than 500 people calling it home by the 1980s.
In recent years, however, Blue Ridge has seen an encouraging resurgence. The population has grown steadily—rising more than 60% since 2000—with new families, commuters, and small businesses drawn to its charm and affordability. Between 2022 and 2023 alone, the town grew by over 15%, reflecting its renewed appeal as the Metroplex expands northward. Today, Blue Ridge combines its proud rural heritage with a new wave of opportunity, offering residents both a deep connection to tradition and a promising future.
Schools in Blue Ridge, TX
Blue Ridge Independent School District (BRISD) serves the city and nearby areas, including parts of Anna. As of the 2023–2024 academic year, there were approximately 1,023 students in the district. Impressively, the graduation rate was 100%, with average SAT at 1003 and ACT at 21.1.
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Blue Ridge High School (grades 9–12): about 296 students, a 10:1 student-to-teacher ratio, and a “B” rating from TEA. Students participate actively in UIL sports and competitions.
Transportation and Accessibility
Blue Ridge lacks public transit, so most residents rely on personal vehicles. The average commute is around 35 minutes, reflecting a semi-rural cadence that still offers access to regional job centers.
Healthcare & Medical Facilities
Blue Ridge’s small-town setting typically relies on nearby regional clinics, hospitals, and healthcare centers in larger Collin County neighboring cities like some smaller clinics in Melissa or Medical City in McKinney.
Local Amenities & Attractions
Parkhill Prairie, a 436-acre preserve showcasing the rare Blackland tall‑grass prairie, offers natural serenity, wildflowers, and outdoor activities. Covered pavilions with cook pits and restroom facilities are available. Open for day use only from sunrise to sundown.
Community & Lifestyle
Life in Blue Ridge blends the best of small-town Texas traditions with the conveniences of being part of a fast-growing region. Residents enjoy a slower pace, close connections with neighbors, and a community spirit rooted in generations of family and agricultural heritage. Community gatherings, school events, and local traditions keep the town’s identity strong, offering a welcoming environment where people know and support one another.
At the same time, Blue Ridge is attracting new residents seeking more space, value, and a quieter lifestyle while still staying connected to the opportunities of the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex. With most homes situated on larger lots or acreage, it appeals to those who want room to spread out—whether for raising livestock, planting a garden, or simply enjoying wide-open skies.
The town also offers quick access to nature and recreation, with local parks and the nearby Parkhill Prairie providing hiking, wildflowers, and panoramic views of Collin County’s rare Blackland Prairie. For shopping, dining, and entertainment, residents are only a short drive from larger neighboring communities like McKinney, Anna, and Princeton.
In essence: Blue Ridge provides the comfort of a close-knit, rural town while offering modern-day accessibility, making it an attractive choice for families, professionals, and anyone seeking both community and breathing room.
Local Businesses inf Blue Ridge, TX
Though smaller than many surrounding cities, Blue Ridge supports a growing network of local businesses that play an important role in both daily life and the community’s identity. Historically, the town’s economy centered on agriculture, with cotton gins, mills, and supply shops serving farmers and ranchers. Over the years, that base has diversified into service providers, retail shops, and family-owned restaurants.
Today, Blue Ridge features a mix of businesses that reflect its rural charm and growing population. You’ll find locally owned cafés, small markets, repair shops, and service companies that meet the needs of residents. Agricultural suppliers and trades are still a cornerstone, supporting the area’s farmers, ranchers, and homeowners with acreage. The town’s central location at the crossroads of State Highway 78 and Farm-to-Market roads has also made it a convenient stop for commuters and visitors, encouraging steady small-business activity.
As the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex continues to expand northward, Blue Ridge has begun to see an uptick in new ventures, with entrepreneurs and small business owners attracted by affordable real estate, available land, and a supportive community atmosphere. The city’s leadership has highlighted business development in recent strategic plans, aiming to balance growth with Blue Ridge’s small-town character. One of those entrepreneurs who is doing very well is Desert Creek Honey, one of the largest raw and unfiltered honey producers in Texas.
Family-owned and operated, the company oversees thousands of beehives across the state and brings honey straight from hive to bottle with minimal processing—ensuring natural flavor and quality. Beyond production, Desert Creek is dedicated to sustainable beekeeping and pollinator health, reinforcing its role as both a business leader and agricultural steward.
For visitors, Desert Creek Honey operates a retail storefront in Blue Ridge, offering a variety of honey products, beeswax candles, skincare items, and beekeeping supplies. The shop has become a favorite stop for locals and travelers alike, providing not only fresh honey but also an opportunity to learn more about beekeeping. Through tours and community outreach, Desert Creek connects residents with the importance of pollinators while showcasing a thriving local business rooted in Blue Ridge.
Real Estate Resources
If you are considering buying or selling a home in Blue Ridge, I’m here to help you navigate the market. Feel free to contact me for more information, to schedule a consultation, or to explore available listings that match your needs.
