Longview, TX Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Longview, TX: What You Need to Know

Longview is the seat of Gregg County in East Texas. It’s a charming little city with special ties to Oscar-winning actor Matthew McConaughey.

Longview’s History

The town’s name came from the impressive long view from the home of Ossamus Hitch Methvin Sr., who founded it. He persuaded the Southern Pacific Railroad to build a line in the area to spur development. In June 1871, Longview was incorporated as the first town in Gregg County. Longview’s history is punctured by a race riot in July 1919. A white mob torched the house of Samuel L. Jones, an African American reporter for The Chicago Defender, because the crowd was upset over Jones’s article about the killing of a black man romantically involved with a white woman. It was the beginning of rioting and violence that lasted for four days. On July 13, 1919, the National Guard and Texas Rangers arrived in Longview to restore order, and the city was put under martial law. 

The Local Culture

The city is proud of its ties to actor Matthew McConaughey and country-music singer Miranda Lambert. McConaughey, who grew up in Longview, spoke at the graduation ceremony of his alma mater, Longview High School, in May 2019. He won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in “Dallas Buyers Club” in 2014. Lambert was born in Longview and grew up in nearby Lindale.

The Cost of Living in Longview

When it comes to affordability, Longview is a small city (population: 81,631) that packs a punch. Its cost of living rate, food, and housing costs are 9.4%, 2.5%, and 34.2% lower than the national average, respectively. The median gross rent in the city is $819. Texas is one of seven states without an income tax. It collects 6.25% to 8.25% in sales tax.

Know Your Neighborhoods

Longview residents love their friendly neighbors, clean parks, and walkable downtown, 

which makes it convenient to visit shops like Heartisans Marketplace for handcrafted goods. For those who prefer the suburbs, Easton and Kilgore are both within commuting distance of Longview. Easton gets kudos for its great schools and rural charm. Kilgore, home to Kilgore College, has a vibrant community with lots of activities.

Things to Do in Longview

The Longview Museum of Fine Arts showcases a collection of over 400 intaglio, lithographs, sculptures, and paintings. Exhibitions in the past have featured works by Andy Warhol, Victor Thall, and George Rodrigue. For a family adventure, visit Air U, which features 15,000 square feet of trampolines and foam pits where you can have a friendly competition or just bounce for fun.