Are the mild winters and booming economy of Dallas calling your name? You’re not alone. People are flocking to Dallas from across the country, drawn by its abundant job opportunities, vibrant culture, and surprisingly affordable housing market—and current Dallas residents will tell you they made the right choice.
Before you pack your bags and head to the Big D, it’s worth getting the inside scoop on what life is really like in this dynamic Texas metropolis. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Here’s everything you need to know before making your move to Dallas.
Planning a move to Dallas? Start by getting a quote from STI Movers Dallas.
A Quick Look at Life in Dallas
- Dallas is in the northeastern part of Texas and is the third-largest city in the state. It’s also the ninth-largest city in the U.S., with a population of around 1.3 million people.
- Dallas is often grouped with Fort Worth, its neighboring city. Together, they form the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex (DFW), which is the largest metropolitan area in the Southern United States.
- The Dallas-Fort Worth area is home to 21 Fortune 500 companies, including major names like AT&T and American Airlines.
- DFW is growing fast! According to the Census, the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington area had the highest population growth of any U.S. metro area in 2023.
Pros & Cons of Living in Dallas, Texas
Pros
- Affordable Living: Dallas offers a much lower cost of living compared to major cities like New York or San Francisco, even though it’s one of the 10 largest cities in the U.S.
- Mild Winters: Don’t like freezing weather? Dallas has mild winters that are perfect for those who enjoy warmer climates.
Cons
- Car-Dependent: If you’re not a fan of driving, Dallas might not be ideal. The Dallas-Fort Worth area is massive, and having a car is the easiest way to get around.
- Crime Rates: Crime levels in Dallas are higher than in many other cities, with a safety rating indicating it’s safer than only 3% of U.S. cities.
While the overall cost of living in Dallas is about the same as the national average, some everyday expenses like groceries, housing, and healthcare are actually cheaper compared to most places in the U.S.
Living in Dallas is Affordable
You don’t need a huge budget to enjoy life in Dallas. The city’s median household income is around $64,000, based on Census data. While the overall cost of living matches the national average, things like groceries, housing and healthcare are more affordable here compared to many other places.
Housing Costs in Dallas
According to RentCafe, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Dallas is about $1,550 per month. Zillow estimates the average home value in Dallas to be around $319,000. Compared to cities like Miami ($579,100), Denver ($576,400) or San Francisco ($1.3 million), it’s clear why many people are choosing to move to Texas.
How much money do you need to live comfortably in Dallas?
According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, a single adult needs an annual income of just under $46,000 before taxes to live comfortably in Dallas. For a family with two working adults and two children, the required income rises to about $104,000 per year.
Although newer housing developments tend to cost more, it’s still possible to find lovely homes in Dallas for under $300,000.
Owning a Home in Dallas is Within Reach
If you’re coming to Dallas from another big city, you might be surprised by the affordable housing options. You can find charming, historic three-bedroom homes for under $300,000. However, newer developments usually come with higher price tags.
For those renting, the average monthly rent in Dallas is about $1,550. The actual cost can vary depending on the neighborhood and the amenities you choose.
Renting in Dallas – Affordable Options for Everyone
The average rent in Dallas is around $1,550 per month, but the price can vary based on the neighborhood and type of apartment you choose.
If you’re looking for luxury living, the rent could go above $2,500 a month. Many people feel the beautiful views, on-site facilities and extras like swimming pools make it worth the higher price.
Is Dallas a Good Place to Live?
Yes, Dallas is a great place to live! It offers mild winters and a cost of living that’s lower than many other large cities, all while providing the perks of a big city lifestyle.
If you’re planning to move to the Dallas area, consider exploring neighborhoods like Downtown Dallas, North Dallas and Bluffview, TX.
The Best Dallas Neighborhoods & Suburbs Include Downtown Dallas, North Dallas, and Bluffview.
Dallas has plenty of amazing communities to call home, but these three stand out
Downtown Dallas
The lively heart of the city, Downtown Dallas offers a mix of modern skyscrapers, cultural attractions and entertainment options. It’s ideal for professionals who want to be close to work, nightlife and public transportation.
North Dallas
Known for its quiet, family-friendly atmosphere, North Dallas is perfect for those seeking spacious homes, excellent schools and plenty of parks and green spaces.
Bluffview
A charming and upscale neighborhood, Bluffview is famous for its tree-lined streets, unique architecture and serene surroundings. It’s a great choice for those looking for a peaceful yet luxurious lifestyle.
If you’re open to options, consider Fort Worth as well. Locals often call it “FunkyTown,” and it’s a unique city with its own charm.
Fort Worth – A City of Its Own
Fort Worth isn’t a suburb of Dallas, it’s a unique city with its own identity. If you’re deciding where to live in the area, Fort Worth is worth considering. While commuting between the two cities isn’t ideal, Fort Worth offers a lot of value. Homes here are generally more affordable, with average prices a bit lower than in Dallas. Locals even call it “FunkyTown” for its vibrant character.
Dallas Is Surprisingly Green
Dallas is greener than many people expect, with nearly 21,000 acres of green space. The city is home to hundreds of parks, trails and outdoor spaces. Here’s one standout spot:
Great Trinity Forest
This is the largest urban forest in the U.S., located along the north shore of the Trinity River in southern Dallas. It features scenic trails, picnic areas, wetlands and the Trinity Forest Adventure Park for outdoor fun.
White Rock Lake Park
Just a few miles northeast of Downtown Dallas, White Rock Lake Park is a 1,015-acre outdoor retreat perfect for all ages. The park features nine miles of hiking and biking trails, a museum, a dog park, picnic spots and opportunities to enjoy boating on the scenic lake.
Dallas Zoo
The Dallas Zoo is a favorite attraction in the city. It’s home to over 2,000 animals from 406 species, including many endangered ones. This massive zoo offers an exciting experience for visitors of all ages.
Klyde Warren Park
Though smaller at 5.2 acres, Klyde Warren Park offers plenty of activities and attractions. It features a butterfly garden, a dog park, yoga sessions, movie nights and various community events, making it a lively spot in the city.
Eight of the top 20 schools in Texas are located in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Dallas Has Excellent Schools
The Dallas-Fort Worth area is home to eight of Texas’ top 20 schools, according to Niche, including schools ranked No. 2 and No. 3 in the state. Some of the best schools in Dallas include:
- School for the Talented & Gifted: Ranked as the best public high school in Texas.
- School of Science & Engineering: The second-best public high school in Texas.
- Mark’s School of Texas: The top-ranked all-boys high school in the U.S.
- The Hockaday School: The best all-girls high school in Texas.
- Alcuin School: Ranked third among high schools for the arts in Texas.
About 24% of Dallas residents were born outside the U.S., giving the city a diverse and international vibe.
Dallas Is a Truly Diverse City
Dallas is a great example of a real American “melting pot.” While it was once known as a predominantly White cowboy town, it has become much more diverse over the years. Today, around 42% of the population is Hispanic, and 24% is Black or African-American. It’s an excellent place for families who value living in a culturally diverse environment.
Nearly 24% of Dallas residents are foreign-born, giving the city a vibrant international atmosphere. This diversity is reflected in its food scene, with local restaurants offering dishes from all over the world. Whether you’re craving Mexican, Mediterranean, Colombian, Taiwanese or Ethiopian cuisine, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds.
In Dallas, summer temperatures average around 90°F. On the bright side, winters are very mild, making it a pleasant place to live during colder months.
Hot Summers & Mild Winters in Dallas
Dallas summers can be intense, with average highs above 90°F in June, July and August, and temperatures often climbing past 100°F. But don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to beat the heat, like relaxing by a pool or finding shade under a big tree.
The tradeoff is worth it, though. Winters in Dallas are mild, with temperatures usually staying in the high 50s to low 60s. Snow is rare and winter days feel as pleasant as summer in places like Maine or Montana.
Some of the safest suburbs near Dallas are Coppell, University Park and Frisco.
Crime Rates in Dallas – What to Know
Dallas has a safety rating of 3 out of 100 from Neighborhood Scout, meaning it’s safer than only 3% of U.S. cities. However, this doesn’t mean living in Dallas is unsafe. With basic precautions, you can feel secure, especially in neighborhoods and suburbs known for safety.
Safest Neighborhoods in Dallas
- Wilshire Heights
- Old Lake Highlands
- Greenway Parks
- Midway Hollow
- Caruth Hills
Safest Suburbs Near Dallas
- Coppell, TX
- University Park, TX
- Frisco, TX
- Flower Mound, TX
Dallas Culture is more than Cowboys
Dallas is a vibrant cultural hub, offering much more than just great food. After enjoying a meal, you can explore the city’s many museums, art galleries or live performances.
Whether you’re into music, opera or comedy, Dallas has something for everyone. Most major bands touring the Southern U.S. make a stop here.
If you’re planning to move to Dallas, check out local performance venues to experience the best of the city’s cultural scene.
Winspear Opera House
Located in the AT&T Performing Arts Center, this venue hosts The Dallas Opera and a variety of touring shows.
Moody Performance Hall
Also part of the AT&T Performing Arts Center, this venue features incredible ballets, symphonies and other performances.
Sammons Center for the Arts
A smaller venue that supports local artists, small troupes and new projects serving as an “arts incubator” for the community.
Annette Strauss Square
An outdoor performance space covering 128,000 square feet, perfect for large concerts and events.
Map of Dallas
If you’re planning to move to Dallas, it’s a good idea to check out the map and familiarize yourself with the main highways that run through and around the city.
You’ll Probably Need a Car in Dallas
While it’s possible to live in Dallas without a car, having one will make your life much easier. The city is large and when you factor in the Fort Worth area, it becomes massive. Driving from one end to the other can take hours.
If you’re moving to Dallas, it’s a good idea to study the map and get familiar with key highways like I-820, I-30, and I-635. These major roads will be essential for getting around and making your commute smoother.
If you don’t have a car or want to go green, Dallas offers public transit options. The Dallas Area Rapid Transit System (DART) is a large network of trains and buses that can take you almost anywhere in the city. Downtown also has a trolley system, and there are plenty of airport shuttles available for easy travel.
The Dallas-Fort Worth metro area is home to over 35 universities and colleges, offering plenty of options for higher education.
Dallas is a Great for Higher Education
If you or your kids want to pursue higher education, Dallas is an excellent choice. The city is home to schools like the University of Texas at Dallas and the University of North Texas, with Texas A&M just a short drive away. In total, there are over 35 universities and colleges in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, offering plenty of opportunities for learning.
Top 10 Things to Do in Dallas
Whether you’re planning a family outing or a fun date, Dallas has plenty to offer.
Here are 10 great activities to try (in no particular order):
- Explore marine life at the Dallas World Aquarium.
- Visit the African American Museum to learn about history and culture.
- Enjoy art collections at the Dallas Museum of Art.
- Meet the animals at the popular Dallas Zoo.
- Learn about history at The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, focused on JFK.
- Relax in nature at the Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden.
- Cheer for the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium.
- Wander through the beautiful Nasher Sculpture Park.
- Grab a drink and enjoy live music in Deep Ellum.
- Take a Bonnie and Clyde Tour to explore their fascinating story.
Move to Dallas with STI Movers Dallas
Feeling ready to make Dallas your new home? It’s time to start planning! Use a detailed moving checklist to stay organized and reduce stress.
When you’re ready to hire movers, visit STI Movers Dallas online for a personalized quote for local moves. For long-distance moving quotes, give them a call at 214-674-9018.
For simplicity, monthly rent amounts have been rounded to the nearest $25 and home values to the nearest $100.