Preston Smith, Lubbock
Updated June 22, 2026 · 5,789 residents
Preston Smith is a quiet, family-oriented community in southwest Lubbock characterized by its consistent suburban grid and high walkability. According to iHuus data, the area offers a peaceful residential environment despite experiencing moderate noise levels from local road traffic.
Key Highlights
About Preston Smith
Named in honor of former Texas Governor and Lubbock business leader Preston E. Smith, the Preston Smith neighborhood in southwest Lubbock is a well-established, family-oriented community developed primarily between 1970 and 1999. Situated between the LakeRidge Country Club area to the east and Regal Park to the west, the neighborhood features mature, tree-lined streets and highly walkable sidewalks. At the heart of the community is Phil Hoel Park, a central public green space featuring a large scenic pond used for fishing and birdwatching, alongside walking trails, tennis courts, and a playground. The neighborhood is also anchored by Preston Smith Elementary School, which serves as a local focal point.
The neighborhood functions as a stable residential enclave, defined by its uniform single-family housing and well-maintained streetscapes. While the area lacks a high density of commercial businesses, it provides a quiet atmosphere suitable for those prioritizing a consistent suburban lifestyle. Residents benefit from high levels of safety regarding industrial proximity, as the area is strictly residential and institutional in its land use.
Living here requires balancing the benefits of a highly walkable grid with the reality of moderate road noise, which averages 62 decibels. Prospective residents should note that while the housing density results in smaller side yards and limited privacy, the community remains a strong choice for families seeking proximity to highly-rated local schools like Smith Elementary. According to iHuus, the neighborhood maintains a balanced urban-rural index, making it an accessible option for those who value organized suburban infrastructure over high-energy commercial districts.
Neighborhood Scores Across 15 Qualities
Residential spacing is comparable to the Lubbock average, featuring a mix of closely packed homes and small side yards. Some areas feature a high-density suburban layout where neighbors are separated by shared side fences and minimal buffer zones.
Continuous sidewalks and safe crossings are available along most residential streets and main arterials. This connectivity provides a significantly better pedestrian experience than the average Lubbock neighborhood according to iHuus data.
Standard tract housing features uniform rooflines and tidy, small yards. According to iHuus data, the visual landscape is slightly more structured than the Lubbock average.
Walking paths and a central park with a lake provide decent opportunities for pet owners; this level of access is slightly above the Lubbock average according to iHuus data.
Frequent open land and scattered homes provide a transition between suburban density and open fields. This landscape is slightly less developed than the typical Lubbock urban layout, according to iHuus data.
A steady mix of residential streets and green spaces defines the area, matching the city average for activity levels. While various dining options and local services exist, most amenities require a short drive as few businesses are within immediate walking distance.
Frequent noise from nearby major roadways and rail lines characterizes this area. This level of acoustic disturbance is typical for the local city average according to iHuus data.
Residential and light commercial spaces comprise the entire area, with no detected warehouses or industrial hazards. This makes the neighborhood notably quieter and cleaner than the Lubbock average according to iHuus data.
Health insurance coverage levels in this area are slightly higher than the Lubbock city average. Residents benefit from relatively stable access to medical coverage according to iHuus data.
Voting and census indicators show a significantly more conservative leaning than the Lubbock average, according to iHuus data.
Residents live alongside a varied demographic of young adults, families, and seniors. According to iHuus data, this age distribution is more balanced than the average found across Lubbock.
Flood risk in this area is notably higher than the Lubbock average, though a definitive assessment is currently unavailable because FEMA has not completed a detailed study for this location. Residents should exercise caution as the area carries a higher level of uncertainty compared to the rest of the city.
Block-Level Insights for Preston Smith
iHuus Neighborhood Intelligence Insights
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| Dimension | Preston Smith | Arnett Benson |
|---|---|---|
| 🚶 Walkabilityavg 6.67 | ||
| 🔊 Acoustic Comfortavg 3.09 | ||
| 🤫 Privacy Indexavg 5.75 | ||
| 🎨 Visual Appealavg 5.7 | ||
| 🐕 Dog Friendlinessavg 5.29 | ||
| 🗺️ Urban-Rural Indexavg 6.86 | ||
| ✨ Neighborhood Vibeavg 4.81 | ||
| 🏥 Health Insurance Coverageavg 6.7 | ||
| 🌿 Air Quality | ||
| 🏭 Industrial Proximityavg 8.52 | ||
| 🌊 Flood Safetyavg 1.79 | ||
| 🗳️ Ideological Leanavg 2.17 | ||
| 👥 Population Age Profileavg 4.52 | ||
| 🔥 Fire Safety | ||
| 🏫 School Quality |
Preston Smith Rankings
School Districts Serving Preston Smith
Lubbock Independent School District is currently categorized as a district in transition, balancing elite academic performers and prestigious magnet programs with significant operational and fiscal headwinds. While flagship campuses like Lubbock High and Talkington consistently achieve top-tier ratings, the district is grappling with a multi-million dollar budget deficit, declining enrollment, and the subsequent closure of elementary campuses. The recent retirement of its superintendent adds a layer of leadership uncertainty during a critical period of restructuring. Despite these challenges, the district remains a regional leader in fine arts and specialized education, and it has proactively secured funding for security enhancements, maintaining a 'Mixed/Transition' status as it modernizes its operational footprint.
Schools
School Insights for Preston Smith
Below average outcomes; significant attendance and academic challenges.
School Insights
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