Best place to raise a family in Texas and why?

My husband and I have long been considering a move to Texas from California. We don't agree with the politics and lack of values that have made living a conservative lifestyle in California such a challenge. We have two young children just entering elementary school and would like to find a small community to put down roots. We would love to be on the outskirts of Austin or another major city, just for the sake of employment and cultural arts. Please give me some ideas of places to look at, thanks so much for any feedback.