Denton is a city located in the state of Texas within Denton County. As of the 2020 census, Denton had a population of 136,268 making it the 27th most populous city in Texas.
Population
The population of Denton has grown rapidly in recent years. Since the 2000 census, the population has increased by over 50,000 residents or nearly 60%. This rapid growth can be attributed to Denton’s proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area as well as the presence of two major universities – the University of North Texas and Texas Woman’s University.
Denton has a relatively young population, with a median age of 28.4 years old. Over a quarter of Denton’s population is between the ages of 18 and 24, largely due to college students. Denton also has a fairly even gender split, with 52.1% females and 47.9% males according to the 2020 census.
The racial makeup of Denton is predominantly white, at nearly 58% of the population. Hispanics and Latinos are the largest minority group at about 29%. Asian, Black or African American, and other racial minorities each comprise less than 10% of Denton’s population.
Economy and Major Employers
Denton has a diverse economy focused on education, manufacturing, technology and distribution. The largest employers in Denton are the University of North Texas, Denton Independent School District, and Texas Woman’s University. Other major private sector employers include truck maker Peterbilt Motors Company, food producer Safran Group, and technology company RealPage.
The education and healthcare sectors make up over 25% of Denton’s workforce. Major healthcare employers include the Denton Regional Medical Center and Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital. Manufacturing and retail jobs each comprise about 12% of employment in Denton.
Denton has a growing tech industry focused on software, biotech and advanced manufacturing. Major technology companies with operations in Denton include Viziv Technologies, Neos Therapeutics and CAP Wireless. The city has business incubators and accelerators to support local tech startups as well.
Denton also has a sizeable creative economy built around music and the arts. Due to Denton’s vibrant music scene, the city is referred to as the “Live Music Capital of North Texas.” Jobs in the creative industries make up over 7% of the local workforce.
In 2022, the unemployment rate in Denton was just 3.1% indicating a strong local economy with demand for workers. The median household income in Denton is over $57,000 annually which is above the national median.
Attractions and Landmarks
Denton has many attractions and landmarks for visitors and residents to enjoy. The most famous landmark is the Denton County Courthouse-on-the-Square located right in the heart of downtown Denton. This historic courthouse with its prominent clock tower dates back to 1896 and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city.
Music lovers will enjoy Denton’s vibrant live music scene. Venues like Dan’s Silverleaf, Rubber Gloves Rehearsal Studios, and Andy’s Bar showcase local bands and artists especially those playing blues, folk, country and indie rock genres.
Nature lovers will want to visit Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center which has over seven miles of hiking and biking trails through scenic areas along Clear Creek. The 40-acre Denton Nature Area is another great spot for hiking.
For family fun, Fun 4 All Community Park has mini golf, batting cages, playgrounds and picnic areas. North Lakes Recreation Center offers swimming, fitness classes, sports leagues and more.
History buffs will appreciate the Mulkey-Peeler-Boston Farmstead Museum which preserves an 1800s settler farmstead. The Denton County Courthouse-on-the-Square Historic Walking Tour is also a great way to explore Denton’s historic downtown area.
Sports
Denton is home to the University of North Texas Mean Green sports teams. The football team plays at Apogee Stadium and has had recent success in Conference USA. Men’s and women’s basketball, soccer, volleyball and other varsity sports compete in UNT’s athletic programs.
Denton is also home to the Texas Basketball League’s Denton Rockers minor league basketball team. The Rockers play at the Denton High School and Entertainment Arena.
For spectators, Denton has one of the area’s top rodeos with the Annual Denton County Rodeo each June at the North Texas Fairgrounds. Auto racing fans can catch events at North Texas Speedway which hosts races from April through October.
Local Government
Denton has a Council-Manager form of government. The city council consists of a mayor and six council members who pass legislation and appoint city officials. The city manager oversees the daily operations of the municipal government. Residents can learn more about Denton’s government on the City of Denton website.