Get to know Longview, TX

The East Texas city of Longview is known as the Balloon Capital of Texas.  The city was initially founded in the 1870s by Ossamus Hitch Methvin, Sr., who sold some of this land to the Southern Pacific Railroad for $1 in the hopes the company would build its line in the direction of his property, increasing its value.  The name came from Methvin who was quoted as saying “What a long view!” as he looked out over the town.  The town was incorporated in June 1871.  In 1942, Longview saw the construction of the Big Inch pipeline, the longest petroleum pipeline in the world at the time.  Big Inch, and its smaller twin Little Inch, were integral in the war effort during the 1940s.  The city hosts a healthy economy, with growing home prices, despite a downturn in the housing market.  Oil, service, technology, and manufacturing are all integral parts of the city economy.  Longview is also shaping into a regional hub for shopping.  Famous residents have included Miranda Lambert, Matthew McConaughey, Forest Whitaker, and Neal McCoy.

Quick Facts

Population: 82,030

Median Household Income: $43,767

Median Property Value: $129,300