Moving To Dallas? Read This Relocation Guide

From stunning skylines to endearing southern hospitality, the city of Dallas is a great place to call home! Living in a metropolitan area that prides itself on its amenities, attractions and charm is a dream come true! The Big D is home to museums, entertainment, friendly folks and a plethora of fun. Located in north Texas, this modern metroplex supports a strong economy and great employment opportunities.

A wide variety of neighborhoods with distinctive flair and feel allow you to find your perfect fit in Dallas. From affluent to revitalized urbanized neighborhoods, the constant is the friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Homes in Dallas run the gamut giving you a wide option to create your own Dallas experience.

From the State Fair to amusement parks to world-famous sports teams, Dallas will keep you busy with great entertainment and fun activities. This city has a rich tapestry in the arts with amazing venues, museums and art galleries. Dallas has great metropolitan perks with a strong sense of community and charm! Join other happy Texas residents as you enjoy fabulous weather and a variety of diverse opportunities that make Dallas unique and special!

Popular Neighborhoods in Dallas

From historic districts to modern urban hubs, Dallas has a wide variety of neighborhoods that offer a unique blend of culture and charm. If you’re moving to Dallas, here are a few neighborhoods that you should consider calling home.

Northwest Dallas

Outshoots of Dallas, cities like Arlington and Irving are thriving suburbs sure to impress with a variety of home options including gated communities and hospitable neighborhoods with a family-friendly vibe that escape the hustle and bustle of the big city.

West End

Bound by Market Street, Pacific Avenue and Woodall Rogers Freeway, this area southwest of downtown is charming with its renovated brick warehouses full of retailers and restaurants.

Highland Park

Between University Park and downtown is an upscale residential area known as Highland Park. This coveted neighborhood has beautiful green spaces including Fairfax Park, Jester Park and Lakeside Park.

Preston Hollow

Live in one of the more affluent areas of Dallas when you choose Preston Hollow. Your neighbors might just be former presidents, politicians and successful entrepreneurs. Close to downtown, Preston Hollow offers sprawling estates and a great sampling of dynamic restaurants and shops.

Lower Greenville

This recently renovated area is now a hip and happening locale for the largest St. Patrick’s Day parade and block party. Laid-back eateries and relaxed bars make this a great place to call home in East Dallas.

Bishop Arts District

This charming area is eclectic and fun! Filled with boutiques showcasing talents of local artisans, the vibe of this area is playful and friendly for those wanting a vibrant, urban lifestyle just 10 minutes south of downtown.

Fort Worth

This welcoming sister city is full of neighborhoods ranging from starter homes to sprawling estates. Located 30 miles west of Dallas, Fort Worth is another booming area to find the ideal home for your family.

Oak Lawn

Located just northwest of downtown, this Dallas area is a progressive neighborhood where community is preserved with events and activities.

Knox-Henderson

This central Dallas neighborhood is a trendy area filled with pedestrian-friendly shops and eateries. The cozy feel of this neighborhood makes it popular with young professionals and families.

School Districts in the Dallas Area

Dallas has great schools, where your children can thrive!

Finding the right school district for your children has a major impact on their quality of life and path to success. These are the top rated school districts in the Dallas Area; if you want to delve deeper into school records and standards for the State of Texas, NewHomeSource has a guide to help you find the best school for your child.

Carroll ISD

Students Served: 8,068
School Breakdown: 5 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, and 2 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 15
Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics
Communities Served: Carroll

Highland Park ISD

Students Served: 7,044
School Breakdown: 1 elementary schools, 1 middle schools, and 1 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 15
Test Proficiency: Below state averages
Communities Served: University Park, part of the city of Dallas

Coppell ISD

Students Served: 11,881
School Breakdown: 12 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, and 3 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 17
Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics
Communities Served: Coppell, part of Valley Ranch

Frisco ISD

Students Served: 53,300
School Breakdown: 41 elementary schools, 16 middle schools, and 10 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 15
Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics
Communities Served: Frisco, Emerson Estates, Frisco Ranch

Lovejoy ISD

Students Served: 3,946
School Breakdown: 4 elementary schools, 3 middle schools, and 2 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 14
Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics
Communities Served: Part of Lovejoy

Allen ISD

Students Served: 20,822
School Breakdown: 19 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, and 3 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 16
Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics
Communities Served: Allen. Parts of McKinney, Plano, and Parker.

Argyle ISD

Students Served: 2,243
School Breakdown: 2 elementary schools, 1 middle schools, and 1 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 15
Test Proficiency: Above state averages in most demographics
Communities Served: Argyle, Flower Mound, Bartonville, Northlake

Plano ISD

Students Served: 54,570
School Breakdown: 48 elementary schools, 16 middle schools, and 16 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 14
Test Proficiency: Above state averages in most demographics
Communities Served: Part of the town of Plano

Grapevine-Colleyville ISD

Students Served: 13,818
School Breakdown: 12 elementary schools, 5 middle schools, and 59 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 15
Test Proficiency: Above state averages in most demographics
Communities Served: Colleyville, Grapevine

Prosper ISD

Students Served: 8,296
School Breakdown: 8 elementary schools, 3 middle schools, and 2 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 15
Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics
Communities Served: Prosper, Parvin, part of Collin, Anthem, part of The Landing, Crestview at Prosper

Top Employers in Dallas

Bank of America is just one of many major employers in the Dallas Area. A modern economy awaits you in Dallas, with major employers in the financial, areospace, and health industries.

American Airlines

American Airlines, the largest airline in terms of fleet size and revenue, has its global headquarters in the DFW metroplex, providing jobs in the airports and in its corporate office.

Bank of America

The finance industry is a major player in the Dallas economy. Bank of America has its headquarters in Downtown Dallas.

Dallas ISD

People working in the education sector can easily find jobs in Dallas because Dallas ISD is one of the largest employers, employing 20,000 people.

Baylor Health Care System

The Baylor Health Care System is the largest non profit healthcare system in Texas, and one of the largest in the country, employing numerous people working in Dallas’ healthcare industry.

AT&T

The telecommunication giant AT&T has its coperate office in Dallas. It’s large campus employs almost 6,000 DFW residents.

Dallas Area Museums

Whether you’re looking for new knowledge, a unique date night, or a family outing, Dallas has a fantastic selection of museums for you to explore. If you’re moving to Dallas, here are a few of our favorite, must-visit museums in the city.

Dallas Museum of Art

A vast array of art, events and activities make the Dallas Museum of Art a great Dallas gem worthy of several visits to take it all in!

Mary Kay Museum

While it is true things are bigger in Texas, this museum celebrates the entrepreneurial endeavors of cosmetic industry leader, Mary Kay. Located at the Mary Kay Headquarters, this is an inspirational story for Texas.

Frontiers of Flight Museum

With over 30 aircraft and space vehicles along with extensive exhibits, the Frontiers of Flight Museum will have you entranced by aviation breakthroughs and advances.

George W Bush Presidential Library & Museum

Take a self-guided tour of the museum to learn more about the legacy of President George W. Bush, the 43^rd U.S. President. The Native Texas Park features 15 acres of paths that lead you through native Texas environments.

Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

Dallas pays homage to fallen President John F. Kennedy in this thought-provoking museum located on the sixth floor of the former Texas School Book Depository. The tragic events that changed our nation are preserved with the artifacts, investigations and stories of that time.

National Cowgirl Museum & Hall of Fame

See some artifacts from the impressive cowgirls that shaped the American West. Nine of the 42 are proud Texans. Take a ride on a saddle bronc and leave with a download of your adventure. This Fort Worth museum is full of holographic stories and interactive exhibits.

The Eight Track Museum

Yes, there’s a museum devoted to the former recording format known as eight track. Bet you didn’t know that a version of the eight track was foldable to fit in a pocket. Granted today’s MP3’s and streaming formats are much more convenient, but the old eight track has its place in the music industry. Check it out some music history!

Parks in the Dallas Area

Thinking of moving to Dallas and want to connect with nature? The city has you covered. Dallas has hundreds of parks for you to get some fresh air and enjoy the lush green spaces. Here are a few of our favorite parks.

Arbor Hills Nature Preserve

See stunning sunsets atop the observation tower or watch the kids play on the fun, interactive play structures. Residents spend time on the paved and unpaved trails as well as the off-road bike trail.

Lakeside Park

Spend an afternoon in the manicured 14 acres of green space net to Turtle Creek with beautiful display of azaleas. Be sure to cross over the bridge to see the fun Teddy Bear sculptures.

White Rock Lake Park

Fall in love with this urban oasis with a 1,000-acre lake. Paddleboard, sail, fish, bike, canoe and kayak. This fun area is home to boat races, marathons and festivals.

Dragon Park

Looking for a Zen-like experience? This park is filled with quirky stone creatures in a lush landscape filled with water features and statues.

Trinity River Audubon Center

Known as the gateway to the Great Trinity Forest, this park is for bird lovers, and anyone enchanted by the butterfly garden. Seasonal festivals and kayaking are two ways to enjoy this beautiful area.

Klyde Warren Park

This park is all about community spirit. There’s something for everyone even Fido. Activities including filming screenings, music, food trucks, fitness classes and yoga are always in fashion here.

Dallas Sports Teams

Dallas is Cowboy country!

Living in a city the size of Dallas means there are several professional sports for fun entertainment. The Dallas Cowboys have a loyal fan following seen wearing blue and silver fan gear.

Just because you’re in the warm state of Texas doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy hockey. The Dallas Stars are a great team on the ice. The Texas Rangers make their home in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Catch a major league baseball game at Globe Life Park in Arlington.

See the Dallas Mavericks playing a fabulous game of basketball at the American Airlines Center. Lacrosse, soccer and arena football also compete calling Dallas home.

College sports including the great athletes of Southern Methodist University and the University of Texas at Dallas are an easy way to spend time with friends. Whether at the game or watching at one of the many sports bars, sports fans always have a great time in Big D.

Living in Dallas

Live a life you love in Dallas!

Why not become the next Texan in Dallas? The Dallas cost of living is relatively low for a metropolitan city of its size. Home prices have risen in recent years but not nearly as quickly as other cities in the state. This is especially true for the cities and suburbs near Dallas.

Dallas home prices are well worth it when you realize your home cost is offset with its convenient location, employment opportunities and abundant activities and amenities.

Dallas enjoys a revered health care system with state of the art facilities. Living in Dallas comes with a high purchasing power index making daily needs like groceries and gas affordable. The use of personal automobiles is the norm for most transportation. Your grocery bill is quite pleasant, utility bills are easy on the pocket and recreational opportunities abound. This safe city offers an abundance of amenities and no state income tax. With many competitive home markets to choose from, life in Dallas will be sweet!

Dallas Housing Trends

With many distinctive areas in Dallas, finding the perfect home and locale is easy. Some areas are more expensive and prestigious while others are more urban and trendy.

Median Home Price: $400,000

Dallas is a popular area and therefore easily has several suburbs and revitalized areas with fabulous new home options. Commuting from outlying suburbs allows many young professionals and families the opportunity to buy more for their money at lower price points.

Growing Communities in Central Dallas

You can invest in a quality new construction home within Dallas’ main loop, giving you the best of all possible worlds. Live an exciting urban lifestyle in the quality home you always dreamed about in fantastic neighborhoods like Kessler Heights and Parkside at Trinity Green.

Growing Communities in the Mid-Cities

The Mid-Cities offer residents of the DFW Area a chance to have easy access to Dallas and Fort Worth without having to pick one. Cities like Grand Prairie, and Grapevine are fantastic DFW Mid-Cities for growing families and young professionals that still want easy access to both major areas’ bustling downtowns.

If living in the Mid-Cities sounds like the right option for you, communities like Heritage Crossing, Viridian, and Colleyville can help you invest in your new construction home and your future.

Growing Communities in North Dallas

Frisco and McKinney are just two of the fantastic satellite cities in North Dallas that give residents a serene and peaceful retreat from the bustling city. North Dallas has some of the best rated schools in the DFW Area, making it a wonderful area for growing families, and it has some of the best cities to retire in Texas.

People looking to invest in their new home and their kids’ future should explore neighborhoods, like Glen Park and Auburn Hills, and find the perfect community and house for the perfect lifestyle in North Dallas

Growing Communities in South Dallas

Waxahachie and Midlothian are two wonderful South Dallas commuter cities. If you want to buy a new home in the DFW Area, South Dallas is a great place to start your house hunting. New home communities like North Grove and Lawson Farms are just a few of the fantastic neighborhoods in South Dallas waiting for you to call them home.

Amazing Dallas Restaurants

They say everything is bigger in Texas and that rings true for the outstanding dining experiences in the Big D. From food trucks to barbecue to upscale dining,

The margarita machine was invented in Dallas, so let your hair down and enjoy some of the best Tex-Mex around!

Montlake Cut

A former Seattle restauranteur brings his twist on fresh fish, raw-bar specialties and prime meat dishes to Preston Center. Select an exquisite wine pairing with your meal in this quaint setting.

Street’s Fine Chicken

Looking for down to earth food with excellent service? Marinated chicken, full bar and tasty appetizers make this a popular spot for lunch or dinner.

The Henry

Enjoy outdoor dining, refreshing cocktails and superb service in this Uptown Dallas eatery. Try the grain bowl with salmon or the braised short ribs.

Sixty Vines

In the mood for a modern twist? This wine bar serves up tasty bites and wines on tap. The friendly staff and delectable morsels will have you relaxed in no time.

Cosmic Cafe

Vegetarians delight in the funky atmosphere and delicious menu offerings. With menu items like Socrates Plato and Buddha’s Delight, you’ll leave satisfied with flavor and outstanding service.

Egg Stand

There are plenty of great food trucks in Dallas but one stands out with “eggcellent” options. It’s not just for breakfast with options including an egg topped brisket sandwich made from locally sourced farm fresh ingredients.

Pecan Lodge

Nothing says Texas more than mouthwatering barbecue. Pecan Lodge has mastered the pit and puts out amazing fully stacked sandwiches and smoked meats with their signature sauces, sweet or vinegar based.

Fuel City

Street tacos and corn in a cup are some of the delicious options in this Tex Mex fast food restaurant sure to hit the spot after some late night drinks.This popular place doesn’t disappoint with its outstanding flavors at an easy price point.

Trompo

While definitely bare bones in décor, this taco spot more than makes up for it with flavorful tacos and two great salsas. The new location has expanded to include seating. Try the vegetarian options too.

Hillside Tavern

Rapscallion

Savor some Southern fare with Nashville-style hot chicken, sweet potato chips and fried green tomatoes. Finish your comfort food with an order of bread pudding.

Imoto

Sushi lovers unite! The pan-Asian cuisine and sake will have you very satisfied in this chic setting.

Norma’s

This long-standing Dallas restaurant features enormous portions of comfort food. The chicken fried steak is worthy of a Texas eatery. This diner will fill your belly and be easy on your pockets!

Twilite Lounge

A touch of New Orleans shows up in this Dallas spot. Live music and chic cocktails add to the experience. It’s a fun spot to hang with friends for happy hour.

Mai’s

Enjoy the diverse offerings in this authentic Vietnamese restaurant It’s hard to choose. The spicy fried shrimp and the lemon grass beef with rice are two favorites worth a mention.

Mesa

A husband and wife chef team create a fabulous menu of Mexican fare sure to impress in this intimate eatery. Known for their outstanding mole and savory sauces, you will fully enjoy a meal at Mesa!

Pappas Bros Steakhouse

Pair the perfect wine with an excellent cut of meat in this highly rated Dallas steakhouse. Everything is superb from meal to atmosphere to service.

Uncle Uber’s Sammich Shop

Come with an appetite! From the tender beef in the steak sandwich to the mouthwatering original burger, Uncle Uber is the spot in Dallas to find delicious flavorful food. Top it off with their homemade banana pudding ice cream!

Attractions & Things To Do in Dallas

As one of the largest metroplexes is the nation, there’s no shortage of things to do. If you’re moving to Dallas, here are a few of our favorite attractions to help you get to know the city.

The Dallas Zoo

With giraffe feedings and cheetah encounters the Dallas Zoo gets you up close and personal with animals in their natural habitats. With over 2,000 animals no trip to the zoo is the same.

Texas State Fair

Texas knows how to do a state fair and Dallas has been the host for over a century. From livestock to midway rides to entertainment and amazing food options, this is a fun-filled spot for the whole family.

The Four Seasons Resort

Play some golf, enjoy a signature treatment at the spa, lounge at the pool, dine at world-class restaurants or just overall pamper and indulge yourself at this amazing Dallas resort.

Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden

With 66 acres and 19 gardens you will be mesmerized with the beauty of flowers, plants and landscape. Stunning azaleas, tulips and daffodils will delight the senses. This is a must-see while in Dallas.

Fort Worth Stockyard & Billy Bob’s

For a truly Texas experience head over to sister city, Fort Worth. With a daily cattle drive complete with beautiful longhorns, this historic district lets you get your boot scootin on at the famous Billy Bob’s. Dine on authentic barbecue, two-step and see bull riding all in the world’s largest honky tonk.

AT&T Stadium

Take a tour of this state-of-the-art stadium. Home to the Dallas Cowboys, you can see the locker rooms, owner’s box and even enjoy field access to this phenomenal building.

Deep Ellum

This downtown entertainment district is the place to get a fix for craft breweries, clubs and live venues. Be sure to visit the “Double Wide,” this trailer themed bar is a true dive bar known for their décor and drinks.

Downtown Sights

The Magnolia Hotel is a glorious reminder of architecture with its rotating neon Pegasus was originally the Magnolia Petroleum Company. This now luxury hotel is 29 stories of rooms, dining and lounges. Nearby is a gigantic eyeball. Owned by the Joule Hotel this enclosed eyeball rests on astro-turf and makes for a great novelty and photo op.

Six Flags Over Texas

From Bugs Bunny Boomtown to the steel Texas Giant rollercoaster there is a ride designed for family for all ages in this fun amusement park. Spend the day getting an adrenaline rush!

Shopping in Dallas

Have fun shopping in the Dallas’ great shopping designations! Dallas has its share of malls and shopping centers as well as fun and unique spots to find some retail therapy. From high-end designer stores to eclectic urban shops there are great finds to be had in Dallas.

The Galleria Dallas

North Dallas hits it big with a grand selection of shops at the Galleria. From valet parking to ice skating this one-stop mall is known for its excellent variety of retailers from luxury shopping to popular anchor stores. This premium shopping mall is a go-to for all your retail therapy needs from upscale to specialty shops, you’re bound to find it all!

West Village

Uptown Dallas is the location of this vibrant walkable area sure to impress. This in-town shopping region is full of diverse shops and boutiques with exquisite finds. Close to the DART Rail you can also hit a bevy of great restaurants after your shopping is done. West Village has a great vibe and is out of the ordinary for those wanting a different retail experience.

Grand Prairie and Allen Premium Outlets

With not one but two outlets near Dallas there are several retailers and shops ready to serve you. From designer labels to great buys for everyone, there’s something that will bring a smile to any family member’s face.These outdoor malls feature retailers like Brooks Brothers, Kate Spade and Nike Factory Store.The ease and great deals offered by these premium outlets makes it easy to buy for everyone on your shopping list!

Dallas Farmers Market

Honesty, Responsibility and Transparency are the principles behind this Dallas institution. Spend some time buying artisanal foods, baked goods, flowers, housewares and more. Visit the Shed, an open-air pavilion, to buy seasonal fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses and more. Be a part of a long-standing tradition and buy local!

Places of Worship in Dallas

Find the right place of worship for you and your family in Dallas. As a diverse city, there are numerous places of worship that represent a wide range of faiths and religions.

Fellowship Church

Fellowship Church is a warm and welcoming community of people, striving together. Fellowship Church seeks to bring people together into a diverse and loving body of believers, and had numerous campuses across the DFW Area.

Valley Ranch Islamic Center

The Valley Ranch Islamic Center is a community focused group of believers, located in Irving. It offers all five daily prayers, Friday prayer, study groups, religious schools, a medical clinic, and Ramadan programs.

Congregation Shearith Israel

Congregation Shearith Israel is a Conservative synagogue that seeks to create an inclusive, warm, and welcoming environment for members of the congregation and guests.

Buddhist Center of Dallas

The Buddhist Center of Dallas has a beautiful Temple and grounds. It serves as the main center for Buddhism in Dallas, and serves as a fantastic spot to learn more about Buddhism and meditation.

Sri Guruvayurappan Temple of Dallas

The Sri Guruvayurappan Temple of Dallas has a vibrant community of believers, dedicated to imparting Hindu spiritual and cultural values to the next generation, holding to the Kerala Hindu beliefs.

Congregation Toras Chaim

Congregation Toras Chaim seeks to suport growth in individuals, families, and in the community by providing them with access to meaningful prayer and Torah learning.

Plano Masjid

The Plano Masjid seeks to build a truly inclusive community by meeting the spiritual and physical needs of its congregation with educational and charitable services.

DFW Hindu Temple

The DFW Hindu Temple is a conviniently located temple that offers a full range of religious services in addition to a warm and welcoming community and a religious school.

Gateway Church

The Gateway Church is a non denominational church that seeks to serve. It strives to help everyone that walks through its doors, and has numerous locations in Dallas, so you can find the perfect place of worship.

More Relocation Guides for Texas

Interested in moving to other areas in Texas? Check out these other relocation guides for other popular cities in the state

Julie Gordey

A lifelong educator, Julie Gordey, is a retired school administrator. After years of focusing on education, this University of Texas graduate now travels and enjoys freelance writing for BDX and NewHomeSource.com.