Top 10 Most Read Observer News Stories of 2025

The biggest national news stories in 2025 were certainly hot topics here in North Texas as well. President Donald Trump’s inauguration and subsequent deluge of executive orders, ICE raids, the effects of tariffs, the Charlie Kirk murder and more found their ways to local headlines as the year progressed.

The longest government shutdown in history, the Texas measles outbreak, and the deadly July Fourth flooding, three of the biggest stories of 2025, had major North Texas connections, of course. 

But the stories that Observer readers read the most were of the hyperlocal flavor. Sure, the stories we published on the aforementioned topics gained their fair share of eyeballs, but when it comes to what our readers want the most, the Big D and the very immediate surroundings are where it’s at. 

We’re not saying these were our most important or hard-hitting stories, necessarily, although some of them certainly fit on that list too. What we are definitely saying is that Observer readers love learning about the suburbs, apparently. 

Here are the Observer’s 10 Most Read News Stories of 2025.

10. They Who Have Been Exiled: The Strict Religious Group Behind I-35’s Cheese Cave

For years, an extreme group that former members call a cult has exercised tight control over its congregation near Waco. 

9. Puppies Died After Dallas Dog Yoga Class. Studio, Breeder Cast Blame

Puppy yoga promises a wholesome, Instagrammable workout experience, but a recent Dallas class has resulted in anything but happiness. 

8. These Dallas Suburbs Ranked Among the Worst Small Towns in the US

North Texas has many wonderful destinations, but a new ranking suggests that a few small towns around here might not be among them. 

7. Family Faces Eviction After Son Allegedly Steals Deed to Lifelong Home

After nearly 30 years, the Mendozas have had to fight to keep from being forced out of their home through no fault of their own.  

6. 3 North Texas Suburbs Ranked Among the Wealthiest in United States

We love driving around these well-to-do communities to point out which houses we like most. Even if we’ll never be able to afford one.

5. New Dallas Snowfall, Winter Forecast: Here’s What To Expect

Who was ready for a white Thanksgiving after reading this?

4. 5 Worst Dallas Suburbs Ranked, According to Readers

There are many North Texas suburbs, but these received the most hate, even if we don’t think they necessarily deserve it. 

3. Dallas Suburb Named One of the Best Places To Live in U.S.

One study lauded the city’s schools, jobs and diversity, placing Plano high on its list of best cities to live in. 

2. A Vibrator, Huh? Let’s See Your ID.

Sen. Angela Paxton, Ken Paxton’s wife, continued the Republican war against masturbation.

1. An Open Letter to the Traitors Who Ruined Southwest Airlines

Dallas’ favorite airline ditched the best perk it had going. Herb Kelleher would have never stood for this.