Longview is a city located in northeast Texas, situated between Dallas, Shreveport, and Tyler. As of the 2020 census, Longview had a population of 82,344 people, making it the forty-fifth most populous city in Texas. The city has a rich history and plenty to see and do for both residents and visitors.
Population and Demographics
According to the Wikipedia page for Longview, the city’s population as of 2020 was 82,344. This is an increase from 1980 when the population was around 66,000 people. Longview is considered part of the Longview Metropolitan Statistical Area which consists of Gregg, Rusk, and Upshur counties. The metro area has an estimated population of over 210,000 as of 2018.
The racial makeup of Longview is approximately 51.1% White, 22.4% African American, 1.2% Native American, 1.5% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 20.5% from other races, and 3.3% from two or more races. 24.4% of the population is Hispanic or Latino of any race.
In terms of age demographics, around 23.5% of Longview residents are under the age of 18 while 13.1% are over the age of 65. The median age is 36.2 years old. There are slightly more females (52.1%) than males (47.9%).
Over 82% of households in Longview are considered family households. The city has a higher than average concentration of married couple families compared to national statistics. Around 87% of residents over 25 have a high school degree or higher while 21% have a bachelor’s or higher.
Economy and Major Employers
Longview has a diverse economy built on several major industries. Some of the top employers in Longview include:
- Good Shepherd Health System
- Longview Regional Medical Center
- Longview Independent School District
- Walmart
- LeTourneau University
Other major economic drivers in Longview include the oil and gas industry, manufacturing, education, and retail. The city is considered a commercial and medical hub for the East Texas region. For more information on the Longview economy, check out the Economic Development page on the city’s website.
Attractions and Things to Do
Despite its small size, Longview offers plenty of great attractions and activities for visitors and residents:
- Longview Arboretum and Nature Center – This beautiful park features over 150 acres of protected gardens and nature trails. Visitors can see native plants, birds, butterflies, and more. There is also a children’s garden and educational programs.
- Longview Museum of Fine Arts – With over 400 works in its permanent collection, this art museum hosts great exhibitions by regional and national artists. There are also art classes and programs offered.
- East Texas Oil Museum – Learn about the history of the Texas oil industry at this museum located in Longview. See equipment and artifacts from the oil boom era.
- Great Texas Balloon Race – This popular annual event held in July sees dozens of hot air balloons launching into the Longview sky for a spectacular sight.
- Movies at Heritage Plaza – From spring through fall, Heritage Plaza hosts free outdoor movie screenings in a beautiful downtown park setting.
Outdoor enthusiasts will also enjoy the many parks and trails in Longview, such as Lake Cherokee, Grace Creek Mountain Bike Trail, and Broughton Recreational Park. The city also has a lively arts and culture scene. Be sure to check the calendar for the Longview Symphony, Longview Ballet Theatre, and productions at the Belcher Center.
Sports
Longview is home to some great local sports teams to root for. The Longview Lobos play football, basketball, soccer, volleyball, golf, tennis, track and field, cross country, swimming, baseball, softball, and more. Fans can catch games at Lobo Stadium or the Longview High School gym.
The city also has a minor league baseball team, the Longview Longhorns, who play at Guthrie Field. The Longhorns are part of the summer collegiate Texas Collegiate League.
Other popular sports and recreation activities in Longview include fishing, bowling, skating, cycling, and more. Local parks such as Guthrie Park, Spring Hill Park, and Lear Park offer excellent facilities for outdoor sports and recreation.
Longview has an active Facebook page to keep residents and visitors updated on local events, news, programs, and more. With over 23,000 followers, it’s a great way to stay connected to everything going on in Longview.
Visiting Longview
Longview has plenty to offer visitors of all ages and interests. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the hiking and biking trails, while history buffs can explore the East Texas Oil Museum. Families will enjoy attractions like the Longview Arboretum and downtown events. Sports fans can catch a Longview Lobos game for some local excitement.
When it’s time to refuel, Longview has many excellent dining options, from downhome Southern cooking to contemporary American cuisine using local ingredients. At the end of the day, comfortable hotels like the Holiday Inn Longview – South or Hampton Inn & Suites Longview provide convenient places to rest and recharge.
Located right off I-20, Longview is easily accessible by car. Longview Regional Airport offers direct flights to Dallas/Fort Worth for those coming from further afield. Once in town, it’s easy to get around and see the major attractions.
With its community charm, natural beauty, and variety of things to do, Longview is the perfect East Texas getaway or place to call home.