Living in Dallas, Texas: Things to Know & Places

Living in Dallas means immersing yourself in a city that effortlessly blends modern sophistication with classic Texan charm. The city is a hub of activity, offering an eclectic mix of entertainment, professional opportunities, and diverse neighborhoods. 
Dallas is renowned for its rich arts scene, from the largest urban arts district in the nation to numerous theaters, galleries, and music venues. Food lovers will find a paradise in Dallas, with its extensive array of dining options, including world-famous barbecue, Tex-Mex, and a variety of international cuisines.
The city’s job market is robust and growing, attracting professionals from across the country. Major industries include technology, healthcare, finance, and transportation, providing ample opportunities for career advancement. Additionally, Dallas is home to several Fortune 500 companies, making it a prime destination for ambitious professionals.
Many people love moving to Dallas because it offers a high quality of life with a relatively low cost of living compared to other major U.S. cities. For those considering a move, reliable Dallas movers can make the transition smooth and stress-free. 
Choosing the right neighborhood is crucial, and Dallas offers a wide range of options from bustling urban centers to serene suburban areas, ensuring there’s a perfect spot for everyone to call home.

What to Know About Moving to Dallas

Dallas is a dynamic city that has seen a significant influx of new residents in recent years, thanks to its robust job market, pleasant weather, and a wide array of activities and attractions. 
The revitalized Downtown area is bustling with life, featuring local highlights and events that cater to almost any interest imaginable. From microbreweries and gourmet dining to outdoor adventures and modern art, Dallas truly offers something for everyone.
Before you pack up and make the move, you might have a few questions. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need, including details on the cost of living, job opportunities, and much more.

Dallas Job Market, Business & Employment Opportunities

As part of the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metroplex, Dallas is a central business hub for numerous corporations and local businesses. Between February 2021 and February 2022, the job market in Dallas grew by nearly 276,000 new jobs, with a growth rate of 7.4%, significantly outpacing the national average of 4.9%. This thriving job market makes Dallas an attractive destination for job seekers.
Dallas boasts a diverse economy with rapidly growing sectors such as financial services, information technology, transportation, defense, and telecommunications. Professional and business services, leisure and hospitality, healthcare, and transportation are particularly strong, offering numerous job opportunities. 
Major corporations headquartered in or near Dallas include Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, AT&T, and ExxonMobil. Additionally, Dallas is recognized as one of the “Best Places for Business and Careers” by Forbes Magazine, making it an ideal location for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Cost of Living in Dallas

As the fourth-largest metropolitan area in the United States, Dallas has a relatively high cost of living. However, it remains more affordable compared to other major cities like San Francisco or New York City. With a cost of living index of 101.6 (compared to the national average of 100), Dallas is only slightly more expensive than the national average. 
Housing, healthcare, and groceries are all below the national average, which helps balance out the overall cost. Additionally, the average rent in Dallas is cheaper compared to the broader Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.

Neighborhoods & Places to Live in Dallas

When moving to Dallas, you’ll find a variety of neighborhoods to suit different lifestyles, whether you’re a family with children, a young professional, or planning to retire.

• Central Dallas: This area offers proximity to the best restaurants, shopping, and entertainment, with easy access to public transit via the D-link buses. Central Dallas includes Uptown, Oak Lawn, and various districts like the Reunion District, West End Historic District, and Arts District.
• Park Cities: Known for its luxurious homes, Park Cities has some of the most expensive real estate in Dallas. While living here may be costly, it’s a great area for shopping and dining.
• Oak Cliff: A diverse area with public transportation provided by the Dallas Streetcar, Oak Cliff offers easy access to Downtown and has a vibrant community.
• East Dallas: A trendy area with neighborhoods like Deep Ellum, Lakewood, and historic communities such as Bryan Place. It’s perfect for those who enjoy parks and outdoor activities, with places like White Rock Lake nearby.
• West Dallas: Close to Arlington and Fort Worth, West Dallas is undergoing revitalization, bringing exciting changes to the area.

Pros and Cons of Moving to Dallas

Pros:

• No State Income Tax: Texas does not levy a state income tax, although there are other state and local taxes to consider.
• Vibrant Food Scene: From barbecue and Tex-Mex to international cuisine, Dallas offers a rich culinary experience.
• Outdoor Activities: Despite being a metropolitan area, Dallas has numerous parks and opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and biking.
• Arts and Entertainment: Home to several iconic sports teams, museums, cultural centers, and a variety of shopping and sightseeing opportunities.

Cons:

• Traffic: While not as severe as Los Angeles, Dallas traffic can be congested, especially since the city is spread out.
• Hot Summers: Summers in Dallas can be hot and humid, which might be uncomfortable for some.

Education in Dallas

Dallas offers a wide range of educational options from preschool to college. The Dallas Independent School District serves over 150,000 K-12 students and includes top-rated schools such as the School for the Talented and Gifted and the Science and Engineering Magnet. 
There are also numerous private and charter schools, as well as higher education institutions like Texas Woman’s University, the University of North Texas at Dallas, and Dallas Baptist University.

Health Care System and Facilities

Dallas boasts a comprehensive and advanced healthcare system with several top-rated hospitals and medical facilities. One of the most prominent is the UT Southwestern Medical Center, renowned for its cutting-edge research, teaching, and patient care. This facility is highly regarded for specialties such as cancer treatment, cardiology, and neurology.
In addition to UT Southwestern, Dallas is home to Baylor University Medical Center, a major teaching hospital known for its innovative treatments and advanced surgical procedures. Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital is another key player, offering comprehensive services including emergency care, women’s health, and cardiovascular treatment.

Public Transportation in Dallas

Although Dallas is predominantly a car-dependent city, its public transportation system is continuously improving. Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) is the primary public transportation provider, offering a variety of services to make getting around the city more convenient.

• Light Rail: DART operates one of the longest light rail systems in the U.S., with over 70 miles of track and 55 stations. The light rail system connects downtown Dallas with surrounding neighborhoods and suburbs, making it a vital part of the city’s transit infrastructure.
• Buses: The extensive bus network complements the light rail, covering areas not accessible by train. DART buses operate on numerous routes, providing reliable transportation across the city.
• Commuter Rail: The Trinity Railway Express (TRE) connects downtown Dallas with Fort Worth, offering a convenient option for those commuting between the two cities.

Real Estate in Dallas

The real estate market in Dallas is currently experiencing a boom, characterized by high demand and rising prices. This makes it a competitive market for buyers, but there are still plenty of opportunities for those looking to rent or purchase homes.

• Home Buying: The market is competitive, with increasing prices driven by demand. Popular neighborhoods for buying homes include Highland Park, Lakewood, and Preston Hollow, each offering unique amenities and community vibes.
• Renting: For those not looking to buy, Dallas offers a variety of rental options. From luxury apartments in Uptown to more affordable options in suburban areas, renters have a wide range of choices.
• Build-to-Rent Communities: Suburbs like Forney and Denton have seen a rise in build-to-rent communities, providing modern homes with amenities such as parks, pools, and community centers. These are ideal for families or individuals looking for the benefits of a house without the long-term commitment of buying.

Is Moving to Dallas Worth It?

Absolutely! Becoming a Dallas resident can be your first step toward embracing a Texas-sized lifestyle. With its vibrant culture, amazing food, plentiful opportunities, and welcoming community, Dallas stands out as a unique Southern city with something to offer everyone.
Your experience living in Dallas will significantly depend on where you choose to live. To ensure you find a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle and needs, consider the diverse options available. 
For instance, Wan Bridge offers two distinct communities with homes for rent in the Dallas area, with more planned for the future. You can choose between spacious, single-family homes for rent in Forney, TX, or chic, modern townhomes in Denton. Both options provide easy access to the dynamic and bustling Dallas metropolitan area.
By selecting the right neighborhood, you can maximize your enjoyment of all that Dallas has to offer and truly make the city feel like home.