If you’re dreaming of moving to Southlake, TX and are researching neighborhoods, chances are you’ve come across Cross Timber Hills. Tucked away in the lush, rolling countryside just west of Carroll Avenue, Cross Timber Hills is one of those rare neighborhoods that combine peaceful living with easy access to everything Southlake has to offer. As a local, I’m here to share what it’s truly like living in Cross Timber Hills — not just the facts, but the feel of the place that so many residents have come to love.
A Warm and Welcoming Community Vibe
Cross Timber Hills has an overwhelmingly friendly atmosphere. Residents wave to each other while walking dogs or gardening, and it’s easy to feel like you belong here even if you’re new in town. Most homeowners have lived here for years, and there’s a real sense of pride in the community. Neighbors organize block parties, holiday decorations along Cross Timbers Trail, and casual backyard gatherings that foster genuine connections. Whether you’re a young family or about to retire, you’ll fit right in.
Types of Housing: Spacious and Serene
Housing in Cross Timber Hills is known for traditional Texas elegance, often situated on roomy one- to two-acre lots. Most homes were custom-built between the mid-1990s and early 2000s, displaying varying architecture — from stately brick facades on Shadow Creek Lane to picturesque stone and stucco homes on Cross Timber Drive. Mature oak trees and established landscaping add privacy and character, making each home feel unique while still blending harmoniously with the environment.
- Homes range from around 3,000 to over 5,000 square feet
- Many have large outdoor living spaces, including pools, patios, and fire pits
- Garages are almost always two- or three-car, with circular driveways on some properties
With only about 60 homes, Cross Timber Hills is a close-knit and intimate community — perfect if you value peace and a bit more space between neighbors.
Walkability and Getting Around
While Southlake isn’t the most walkable city overall, Cross Timber Hills shines for those who love morning jogs or evening strolls. Wide, tree-lined streets like High Point Circle and Cross Timber Court have minimal traffic, making them safe for walking, biking, or pushing a stroller. There aren’t sidewalks or urban walking paths within the neighborhood, but the slow pace and respectful drivers make it friendly to pedestrians. And for runners or cyclists, easy access to White Chapel Boulevard connects you to miles of country roads.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
One of the biggest draws for families is the neighborhood’s zoning to top-tier Southlake schools. Cross Timber Hills feeds into the highly acclaimed Carroll Independent School District, including:
- Old Union Elementary (less than five minutes away by car)
- Carroll Middle School
- Carroll High School and Carroll Senior High
Parents are actively involved in school events, and it’s not uncommon to see neighborhood kids walking home together when school lets out. The area is known for being quiet, safe, and ideal for raising children of all ages.
Parks and Green Spaces
Though the neighborhood itself doesn’t have a central park, you’re never far from nature. Residents cherish their sprawling yards and enjoy the mature woodlands that weave through the area — it’s not unusual to spot deer or rabbits during the early morning hours.
Just a short drive away, you’ll find Bob Jones Nature Center & Preserve, a local gem offering over 700 acres of trails, native grasslands, and birdwatching stations. North Park and Bicentennial Park are also nearby, providing everything from playgrounds to athletic fields and fishing ponds. For those with four-legged family members, the Boo Boo's Buddies Dog Park at North Park is a beloved weekend destination.
Safety and Peace of Mind
If safety is your top priority, Cross Timber Hills offers tremendous peace of mind. Southlake consistently ranks among the safest cities in Texas, and the neighborhood itself is well-lit and known for its low crime rate. Residents often look out for each other, making it common for folks to check in on vacationing neighbors’ properties or keep an eye out for delivery packages. Street names like Shadow Creek Lane and Cross Timber Court may sound idyllic — and, in reality, the safety here is just as reassuring as the names suggest.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
Location is another huge plus. Though Cross Timber Hills feels tucked away, it’s only about five minutes by car to Southlake Town Square, featuring shopping, dining, and grocery options. You’re also a quick hop to Highway 114, making commuting to major local employers (like Sabre, TD Ameritrade, or Fidelity in Westlake) a straightforward affair.
- DFW Airport is 15-20 minutes away, perfect for frequent travelers
- Downtown Dallas and Downtown Fort Worth are each about 30 minutes’ drive
- Everyday errands are easy, with Central Market and Trader Joe’s just up Southlake Boulevard
What Residents Love Most
If you ask residents what they love most about Cross Timber Hills, you’ll get a variety of answers, but several themes stand out:
- The quiet: It’s remarkably peaceful, even on weekends.
- The beauty: Mature landscaping and pristine homes make every drive feel special.
- The neighborliness: Friendly faces and a spirit of community support.
- The convenience: Easy access to schools, restaurants, and the airport without sacrificing tranquility.
One long-time resident on Cross Timber Lane put it best: “It feels like you’ve escaped the bustle of the city, but everything you need is just minutes away. The best of both worlds.”
Final Thoughts: Is Cross Timber Hills Right for You?
Moving to Cross Timber Hills means embracing a quieter pace, bigger lots, and close relationships with neighbors who care. If you want a welcoming, safe, and beautiful place to call home — without sacrificing proximity to shopping, schools, and work — you’ll find it here. Take a drive down the tree-canopied Cross Timber Trail during golden hour; you just might find yourself picturing a future in this little slice of Southlake.