Want to Know More About Coppell, Texas?

Known for its highly-rated public schools, family-friendly atmosphere, and mix of residential and commercial development, it has transformed from a quiet farming community into a modern, upper-middle-class city.

History of Coppell

Coppell’s history is a classic example of a small agricultural town that blossomed into a suburban hub.

Early Settlement: The area was first settled in the 1840s by German and French immigrants who were part of the Peters Colony land grant. One of the earliest settlements, “Grapevine Springs,” was established in the 1830s and was reportedly the site where Sam Houston signed a treaty with local Native American tribes.

A Railroad Town: In the late 1800s, the community was known as “Gibbs,” named after former Texas Lieutenant Governor Barnett Gibbs. The arrival of the St. Louis, Arkansas and Texas Railway (later the Cotton Belt Railroad) in 1888 was a turning point. The train stop was named Coppell in 1890, likely in honor of George Coppell, a prominent New York financier with connections to the railroad. This name stuck, and in 1892, the town officially changed its name to Coppell.

Farming Community: For decades, Coppell remained a small, rural farming community, relying on the railroad to transport its main crops of cotton, corn, and wheat. The population remained small, hovering around 200 people for much of the early to mid-20th century.

The DFW Airport Effect: The most significant event in Coppell’s modern history was the opening of Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) in 1974. The airport’s location, just south of Coppell, triggered a radical transformation. The town, which had only incorporated in 1955, began to experience explosive growth as it became a desirable residential community for airport employees and a prime location for corporate headquarters, warehouses, and distribution centers.

Rapid Growth and Development: Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Coppell’s population skyrocketed as new housing developments were built to meet the demand. By the year 2000, most of the city’s residential land was fully developed, and its population had grown from a few hundred to over 35,000.

Modern-Day Coppell

Today, Coppell is known for:

High Quality of Life: It is consistently ranked among the best places to live in Texas, with a low poverty rate and a high median household income. The city has a dense suburban feel, and a strong sense of community is fostered through local events and a focus on parks and recreation.

Education: The Coppell Independent School District (CISD) is highly regarded and is a major draw for families. The district has received national recognition for its strong academic and extracurricular programs.

Location and Economy: Coppell’s strategic location next to DFW Airport makes it a major center for logistics and distribution. Numerous national and international companies have distribution facilities in the city, contributing to a strong commercial tax base.

Old Town Coppell: The city has preserved its small-town charm by revitalizing the historic Old Town district. This area, with its walkable streets, local shops, and the Coppell Farmers Market, serves as a community gathering place and a reminder of the city’s origins.