Everything’s bigger in Texas, and Dallas is no exception. Living in Dallas is about more than boots and barbecue. It’s a city where big careers, standout schools, and a bold creative scene create a lifestyle that’s as dynamic as it is down-to-earth.
If the thought of moving to Dallas has ever crossed your mind, consider this your starting point. From cost of living and commute to neighborhood vibes, we’re covering what living in Dallas is actually like—so you know what to expect before you get here.
Cost of Living in Dallas
It’s true that Dallas was recently named the most expensive city in Texas, but it remains more affordable than major cities like San Francisco and Boston. Housing costs, in particular, offer more bang for your buck, giving you more space and better amenities for less.
Plus, there’s no state income tax, and if you look beyond the trendiest neighborhoods, your money stretches even further here.
One thing to keep in mind? Utilities. This is one of the top 10 things to ask your landlord about before signing a lease to make sure blasting the AC won’t blow your whole budget. Trust us, you’ll need it.
Best Dallas Neighborhoods to Consider
Dallas is big, and every neighborhood feels a little different. Some are packed with coffee shops and street murals. Others offer sprawling yards with enough space to finally build your backyard chicken coop.
To help you decide where to put down roots, here are some of the best places to live in Dallas:
- Uptown is buzzy, social, and walkable. Think restaurants, bars, and sidewalks full of brunch-goers. If you like having plans every night of the week, start here.
- Lakewood is calmer and more residential, with shady streets and easy access to White Rock Lake. Great for families, joggers, and anyone who values a bit more space.
- Bishop Arts District is artsy, colorful, and packed with personality. You’ll find indie shops, street murals, and some of the best tacos in town.
- Deep Ellum is bold and artsy. You’ll find plenty of live music, local makers, and late-night energy.
- Plano and Frisco sit just outside the city but have their own strong pull. Families love the top-rated schools, the breathing room, and the fact that commuting to Dallas still works.
Job Market and Economy
Dallas got its start in oil and gas, but these days, the economy runs on a lot more than that. Tech, healthcare, finance, education, and logistics keep the job market humming. And it’s not going unnoticed. Major players like American Airlines, AT&T, and dozens of Fortune 500 companies have already set up shop here.
The Dallas startup culture is growing, too. Co-working spots are quietly housing the next big thing, and coffee shops are basically office annexes at this point. That mix makes Dallas a magnet for remote workers, especially those tired of making their own coffee.
As for money? Salaries might not stack up to New York, but they stretch a whole lot further here. Because of that, the job market is competitive and moves fast, so be prepared to bring your A-game.
Transportation and Getting Around
Dallas is definitely a driving city. Everything’s spread out, and unless you’re right by a Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) line, having a car makes life a whole lot easier.
That said, public transportation is improving. DART buses and trains now show up in Google Maps, so you don’t have to stand around wondering if you missed your ride. It’s still a work in progress, but it’s miles ahead of where it used to be.
If you’re living in Uptown, Downtown, or Bishop Arts, you’ve got more flexibility. Rideshares are quick, scooters and bikes are easy to grab, and parking isn’t nearly as painful as it is in most big cities. So yes, Dallas leans car-first. But with the right neighborhood (and a little planning), you’ve got options that don’t involve sitting in traffic.
Climate and Weather
Dallas is hot. Not “Oh, it’s warm,” hot, more like “Is the sidewalk melting?” hot. From late spring through early fall, expect long runs of 90-something days with humidity that doesn’t quit. The bright side? You get months of pool party weather, and frozen desserts count as survival (not indulgence).
Things shift in the winter. It’s short, mostly mild, and doesn’t ask much of your wardrobe. You might get the odd freeze or dusting of snow, but it’s usually gone by lunchtime. Then come spring and fall: brief, breezy, and kind of perfect.
Bottom line? If you’re used to real winters, expect way less layering, more ceiling fans, and, yes, everything iced.
Culture and Lifestyle
Dallas has layers. You could find yourself admiring contemporary art in the Design District one moment and digging into smoky BBQ at a beloved local spot the next.
No matter your thing—music, food, film, or art—Dallas shows up. The live music scene is underrated, with over 300 venues across the city. You can catch live jazz on a Tuesday, indie rock on a Thursday, and stumble into a country set just about any time.
It’s also a film lover’s city, hosting over 10 film festivals every year, ranging from big-deal premieres to intimate indie screenings. At the heart of it all is the Dallas Arts District, the largest urban arts district in the country.
Between the concerts, festivals, galleries, and food trucks, this city doesn’t sit still for long. It’s creative, social, and full of personality—just like the people who live here.
Education and Schools
Dallas takes education seriously. There’s a mix of public and private options, and a few that top national charts. The School for the Talented & Gifted isn’t just great; it was ranked the #1 high school in the country. The School of Science and Engineering isn’t far behind at #4.
Thinking beyond high school? Dallas has that covered, too. SMU brings prestige, UNT Dallas offers flexibility, and UT Southwestern is where Nobel Prize-worthy research happens. Whether you’ve got toddlers or teens or you’re eyeing a career switch, Dallas makes learning part of everyday life.
What Locals Wish They Knew Before Moving to Dallas
Dallas is big. Like, bigger than you think. What appears to be a quick trip on the map can easily turn into a 30-minute drive or longer during rush hour. That’s why locals always say: get to know the neighborhood and the commute before you commit. Otherwise, you’ll spend more time in your car than actually enjoying your place.
And the weather? It’s a little unpredictable. One minute, you’re melting; the next, you’re running from a surprise thunderstorm like it’s chasing you. It keeps things interesting, if nothing else.
So, is Dallas a good place to live? Most locals would say yes, absolutely. But it’s not always instant. It takes a little time to find your version of Dallas. With so many neighborhoods and ways of living, you’ve got to poke around a bit before it clicks. Give it time. Try new places. Say yes to the random invite. Eventually, it starts to feel like home.
Ready to Make Your Move?
Whether you’re moving to Dallas for work, top-tier schools, or warmer weather, CubeSmart makes the transition easier. From affordable moving storage to smart packing tips and rental checklists, we’ve got your back every step of the way.
