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How the Railroad Built Burleson and Shaped Real Estate Today
By Jennifer Greenfield| Updated July 2025 · 10:08 min read
Burleson, Texas, is more than just a thriving suburb of Fort Worth — it’s a community built on history, connection, and opportunity. The strong Burleson real estate market , vibrant neighborhoods, and family-friendly lifestyle all trace their roots back to its beginnings as a railroad town. One surprising fact often overlooked is that Burleson was not named for a local resident but for a Texas educator who never lived here.
When Henry C. Renfro sold land to the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad in the late 1800s, he requested that the town be named in honor of Dr. Rufus C. Burleson, a respected Baptist educator and then-president of Baylor University. This unique origin story, paired with the growth that the railroad brought, shaped the thriving area we know today.
In this article, we’ll explore how the railroad transformed Burleson’s real estate market, how it inspired nearby communities like Joshua and Crowley , and why 2025 could be the perfect year to buy a home in the area. For more insights, review our latest Burleson real estate market report and residential satisfaction survey.
The Railroad That Shaped Burleson's Real Estate Foundation
The arrival of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas (MKT) Railroad in 1881 marked the official birth of Burleson and laid the foundation for today’s thriving Burleson real estate market. This line connected farmers, ranchers, and merchants to larger markets, transforming what was once prairie land into a bustling hub of trade.
Businesses began to spring up around the depot — blacksmith shops, general stores, and hotels — all serving the new wave of commerce. By October 1880, town lots were being sold, and the foundation for Old Town Burleson was laid, creating the historic district that remains highly desirable today.
Old Town Burleson still holds a unique charm, with restored buildings now hosting restaurants, boutiques, and event spaces. Homebuyers often seek properties within walking distance of this area due to its mix of historic character and community vibe. The combination of heritage and modern lifestyle options continues to drive property demand in this part of Burleson.
The Electric Interurban: Connecting Burleson to Fort Worth
In 1912, Burleson became a stop on the Northern Texas Traction Company’s electric interurban line, linking residents directly to Fort Worth and other nearby cities. This connection not only modernized the community but also allowed families to enjoy small-town living while having easy access to urban jobs and amenities.
The interurban introduced electricity to Burleson, sparking a wave of development. Farmers and business owners benefited from this connectivity, which reduced travel time, improved trade opportunities, and increased the attractiveness of Burleson as a place to settle. Families could now commute to Fort Worth for work or leisure while maintaining a quieter lifestyle at home.
Though the interurban ceased operation in 1931 due to the rise of automobiles, its legacy remains visible. Railcar #330, an original interurban car, is preserved at the Burleson Visitor Center and Heritage Museum. This piece of history not only highlights Burleson’s strong ties to regional transportation but also adds cultural value to the community, which is a major draw for today’s homebuyers.
From Small Town to Thriving Suburb
After its incorporation in 1912, Burleson remained a small, close-knit town for decades — with only 241 residents recorded in 1920 and 573 by 1940. The post-World War II era brought dramatic changes as highways and automobiles made commuting to Fort Worth easier, setting the stage for explosive growth in the Burleson housing market.
From the 1960s onward, Burleson evolved into a thriving suburb, growing from 2,345 residents in 1960 to over 15,000 by 1980. Today, more than 57,000 people call Burleson home, and the city continues to attract families, professionals, and retirees looking for quality living near the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
This transformation is visible in the variety of Burleson neighborhoods, which range from historic properties near Old Town to modern master-planned communities like Chisholm Summit. These neighborhoods offer walking trails, community parks, and top-rated schools, making them ideal for families who value both convenience and lifestyle.
How Burleson’s Success Shaped Joshua and Crowley
Burleson’s railroad success and proximity to Fort Worth influenced the development of nearby communities like Joshua and Crowley. Both towns share a similar transportation heritage and offer attractive alternatives for homebuyers looking for value within the DFW metroplex.
Joshua developed along the Gulf, Colorado, and Santa Fe Railway in 1881, which bypassed the older settlement of Caddo Grove. As a result, many residents and businesses relocated to Joshua, creating a vibrant agricultural hub. Today, Joshua real estate appeals to buyers seeking small-town living close to Burleson while enjoying quick access to Fort Worth.
Crowley, just north of Burleson, also benefited from rail corridors and transportation expansion. Its growth accelerated in the late 20th century as the Burleson-Fort Worth corridor expanded. Our Crowley real estate page offers insights into why this community remains a strong option for buyers.
Railroad Heritage and Burleson Property Values Today
What does the railroad have to do with Burleson property values in 2025? A lot. Homes near historic downtown and key transportation routes often hold their value and appreciate faster due to their desirability and established infrastructure.
Old Town Burleson remains a popular choice for buyers seeking walkable neighborhoods, character-filled homes, and proximity to restaurants and boutiques. Meanwhile, new construction developments continue to meet the demand for family-friendly living and modern amenities. These dynamics make Burleson a balanced market with both historic charm and contemporary appeal.
Neighborhoods with direct ties to the city’s railroad heritage often see higher demand. Buyers are drawn to the unique character of these homes, as well as their proximity to modern conveniences like Chisenhall Fields Sports Complex, Hidden Creek Golf Course, and Bailey Lake Park.
Why 2025 Could Be the Best Year to Buy a Home
The Burleson housing market in 2025 presents unique opportunities for buyers. While inventory is still supporting a seller’s market, the number of available homes is slowly rising, giving buyers more options than in recent years.
Recent market analysis shows that home prices in Burleson remain competitive compared to nearby cities like Mansfield and Fort Worth. While interest rates continue to fluctuate, buyers are closely watching for opportunities to lock in competitive mortgage rates. Acting sooner may help buyers secure better terms and avoid potential price increases if demand strengthens again.
For first-time buyers, avoiding common mistakes is key. Our article on 5 mistakes first-time homebuyers make can help you navigate the process with confidence and secure the right property.
Exploring Burleson and Nearby Communities
Buyers exploring the broader South DFW area will find that Burleson offers an excellent balance of value, location, and lifestyle. In addition to Burleson homes , nearby markets like Aledo , Benbrook , and Weatherford offer a range of housing styles and price points, giving buyers multiple options.
Emerging areas like Venus and Waxahachie are also gaining popularity among buyers seeking more space, newer construction, and long-term appreciation potential. These nearby communities, combined with Burleson’s strong foundation, create a robust network of options within the South DFW housing market.
For those planning to sell their homes, even small updates can significantly improve property value. Our guide on 10 easy landscaping ideas for curb appeal provides practical tips to attract buyers and enhance your home’s market appeal.
The Future of Burleson Real Estate
Burleson continues to grow, with new projects and amenities enhancing its appeal to families and investors alike. The upcoming 55-acre community park , set to open in spring 2026, is expected to boost property values while adding recreational space and walking trails that appeal to homebuyers.
New developments like Chisholm Summit continue to attract buyers looking for modern homes with community-focused amenities. These projects blend small-town charm with contemporary living, keeping Burleson highly competitive in the DFW housing market.
With a strong economic foundation, excellent schools, and proximity to Fort Worth, Burleson’s future as a top suburban market looks bright. Whether you are investing for the long term or searching for a family-friendly community, Burleson’s growth trajectory is promising for 2025 and beyond.
Conclusion
Burleson’s transformation from a modest railroad stop to one of North Texas’s most desirable suburbs highlights the lasting impact of its transportation roots. The same qualities that made it appealing in the 1800s — community, connectivity, and opportunity — continue to drive its real estate market in 2025.
Whether you’re considering working with the best Realtor in Burleson , exploring local home prices, or planning your next move, this is the perfect time to take action. For additional insights, review our 2024 residential survey to see what residents love about living here.
Have questions about Burleson real estate? I’d love to be your REALTOR®.
