Is Cleburne Safe, Pros and cons of living in Cleburne

Cleburne, Texas, offers a blend of small-town charm with the conveniences of a growing city, situated on the fringe of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Known for its historical roots and community-focused atmosphere, Cleburne provides a unique living experience for its residents. The city is named in honor of Confederate General Patrick Cleburne and is home to Lake Pat Cleburne, a vital water source for the region.

With a population that has seen steady growth, Cleburne is a dynamic community. The city’s strategic location provides access to major employment centers while maintaining a distinct local identity. This guide delves into various aspects of life in Cleburne, offering insights for those considering a move or looking to understand the community better.

Is it Safe to Live in Cleburne?

Cleburne’s overall crime rate is lower than the national average. The city recorded a violent crime rate of 85.5 per 100k residents, which is 19.5% below the national average (according to the FBI Crime Data Explorer). Property crime averages 74.1 per 100k, which is 54.7% below the national average.

While Cleburne is considered safer than 38% of U.S. cities, the chance of becoming a victim of crime is approximately 1 in 69 (according to AreaVibes). The ratio of police officers to civilians stands at 2.29 per 1,000 residents, which is lower than the national average of 3.25 (according to AreaVibes).

Crime Statistics Overview

Over a recent five-year period, Cleburne recorded 2,095 violent crimes and 2,435 property crimes (according to the FBI Crime Data Explorer). The most common offense was violent crime, while burglary had the lowest rate. In addition, the city reported three hate crime incidents during this period, with motivations including race, religion, and sexual orientation (according to the FBI Crime Data Explorer).

The chance of being a victim of violent crime in Cleburne is about 1 in 363, with a rate of 3 per one thousand inhabitants. The property crime rate is 12 per one thousand population, indicating an above-average chance of becoming a victim of property crime when compared to all other communities in America of all population sizes (according to NeighborhoodScout).

Cost of Living and Housing in Cleburne

Cleburne offers a cost of living that is generally lower than the national average. Housing expenses are a significant factor, with costs being notably lower than in many larger metropolitan areas. This affordability makes Cleburne an attractive option for individuals and families looking to balance their budget.

The median home price in Cleburne was approximately $281,000 as of March 2026 (as reported by Redfin). This figure represents a 3.0% decrease compared to the previous year. Homes in Cleburne typically sell after about 76 days on the market, compared to 109 days in the prior year (as reported by Redfin).

Rental Market

For those considering renting, Cleburne presents a more affordable alternative to many other U.S. cities. The average rent in Cleburne is around $1,124 per month for a one-bedroom apartment (as reported by Apartments.com). This is about 32% lower than the national average rent of $1,641 per month.

A studio apartment in Cleburne averages about $903 per month, while two-bedroom apartments can be expected to cost around $1,338 per month. For those seeking more space, three-bedroom rentals could cost $1,626 or more per month (as reported by Apartments.com).

Job Market and Economy

Cleburne’s economy is supported by a diverse range of major employers, contributing to its job market. The city has a strong presence in education, manufacturing, and healthcare sectors, providing various employment opportunities for its residents.

Key employers in Cleburne include the Cleburne Independent School District, which is a significant contributor to local employment with over 1,000 employees (as reported by the Cleburne Chamber of Commerce). Walmart Distribution Center is another major employer, with approximately 942 employees (as reported by the City of Cleburne Official Website). Johnson County government also plays a substantial role, employing around 895 individuals (as reported by the City of Cleburne Official Website).

Unemployment and Salaries

The unemployment rate in Cleburne was reported at 4.3% in 2026 (as per Data Commons). The average annual salary in Cleburne, TX, is approximately $45,000, or an hourly rate of $21.63 (as reported by Zippia). This figure can vary based on occupation and experience.

However, other sources indicate a slightly different average salary. As of April 2026, the average annual salary in Cleburne was $43,295, which equates to about $20.81 an hour (as reported by ZipRecruiter). The median household income in Cleburne was $70,656 in 2024 (as reported by Point2Homes).

Climate and Weather

Cleburne experiences a climate typical of North Texas, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The city is generally partly cloudy year-round, with temperatures varying significantly throughout the seasons.

Summers in Cleburne are hot and muggy, with the season typically lasting from June to September. The average daily high temperature during these months often exceeds 88°F. August is typically the hottest month, with average high temperatures around 95°F and a low of 73°F (as reported by Weather Spark). Winters are cooler and can be windy, with average daily high temperatures below 65°F from late November to late February.

Temperature and Precipitation

Over the course of the year, temperatures in Cleburne typically range from 37°F to 96°F, rarely falling below 25°F or exceeding 102°F (as reported by Weather Spark). The coldest month is January, with an average low of 37°F and a high of 58°F. The city receives an average annual precipitation of about 37.69 inches (as reported by NOAA Climate Normals 1991-2020).

The hottest period is from June to mid-September, with the best time for hot-weather activities being from early June to mid-September, peaking in late June. The coolest period is from late November to late February, with January being the coldest month.

Education and Schools

Cleburne is served by the Cleburne Independent School District (CISD), which provides educational opportunities for students from pre-kindergarten through high school. The district is a major employer in the city, reflecting its commitment to education.

Cleburne High School has an above-average rating, with a student-teacher ratio of 13 to 1. According to state test scores, 34% of students are proficient in math and 46% in reading (as reported by Niche). The district as a whole receives a “B-” overall Niche grade.

School Performance

Niche.com provides ratings for various schools within the Cleburne Independent School District. Cleburne High School is rated a “B” overall. Other schools, like Adams Elementary and Legacy Elementary, also receive “B-” ratings, indicating a generally solid educational environment.

While the district is considered above average, some reviews mention challenges related to student behavior and academic emphasis. However, the district is noted for its supportive teachers and various programs aimed at student success.

Demographics and Community

Cleburne is a city with a diverse population, reflecting a mix of ethnic and racial backgrounds. The community is characterized by a blend of established residents and newcomers drawn by the city’s growth and affordability.

As of the 2020 census, Cleburne had a population of 31,352 people. The largest racial/ethnic groups are White (55.1%), followed by Hispanic (32.2%) and Black (6%) (as reported by Census Reporter). The median age in Cleburne is 35 years (as reported by Data Commons).

Population Trends and Diversity

The population of Cleburne has been on an upward trend, with projections indicating continued growth. The city is home to approximately 34,344 people, making it one of the more populated cities in Texas (as reported by Point2Homes). The projected population for Cleburne in 2026 is 36,183, assuming an annual growth rate of 2.7% (as reported by Point2Homes).

In terms of citizenship, 95.6% of Cleburne residents are U.S. citizens, which is higher than the national average (as reported by Data USA). The foreign-born population in Cleburne is approximately 7.17%, which is similar to the national average (as reported by Data USA).