Reasons to Move to Dallas, Texas

Dallas, Texas, isn’t just another sprawling metropolis—it’s a city where opportunity meets vibrant culture at every corner. With a booming job market anchored by Fortune 500 companies such as AT&T and ExxonMobil, Dallas offers professionals a chance to thrive in industries like technology, finance, and healthcare. Yet, it’s not all work and no play; the city boasts a dynamic arts scene, from the iconic Dallas Museum of Art to the historic Deep Ellum district, known for its live music venues and eclectic eateries. For families, Dallas stands out with top-tier schools, sprawling parks like Klyde Warren Park, and a myriad of kid-friendly attractions such as the Dallas World Aquarium and Perot Museum of Nature and Science.

The city’s diverse neighborhoods make it easy to find a place that feels like home, whether you’re drawn to the modern high-rises of Uptown or the tree-lined streets of Lakewood. Plus, Dallas offers a cost of living that’s remarkably reasonable for a city of its size, especially when compared to other major urban centers. Add to this a calendar packed with events like the State Fair of Texas and a climate that ensures year-round outdoor activities, and it’s easy to see why so many are drawn to life in Dallas. Ready to discover if this dynamic city is right for you? Let’s dive deeper into what makes Dallas such a magnetic destination.

Cost to Move to Dallas, Texas

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Cost of living in Dallas, Texas

Housing Costs in Dallas, Texas

Housing in Dallas is one of the largest expenses for residents. As of 2024, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Dallas is approximately $1,451 per month, while a two-bedroom averages $1,805 per month. These figures reflect a modest decrease from the record highs seen during the pandemic but remain significantly higher than pre-2020 levels. Renting a home typically accounts for 31% of a resident’s income, aligning with national cost-burden trends where housing consumes a significant portion of household earnings.

For prospective homeowners, the median home price in Dallas is around $401,400, marking an 8.4% increase over the past year. While mortgage rates and property taxes in Texas (averaging 1.9% of the home’s value annually) further impact affordability, the city offers a wide range of neighborhoods with varying price points. Entry-level homes can cost as low as $200,000, but properties in more desirable locations often exceed $1 million.

Additionally, approximately 45% of renters in Dallas are considered cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of their income on rent and utilities. These statistics highlight the growing challenges of affordability in the region.

For more detailed insights, visit USAFacts and Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies.

Is Dallas, Texas a safe place to live – Crime Rates?

Crime Rate

In Dallas, Texas, the overall crime rate has shown fluctuations, with some improvements in specific categories in recent years. As of 2023, the city recorded 6,449 property crimes per 100,000 residents, which is significantly higher than the national average of 2,245 per 100,000. However, violent crimes, including aggravated assaults and homicides, have seen a slight decline, with a violent crime rate of 870 per 100,000 compared to the national average of 395 per 100,000. This places Dallas above the national average for violent crime, though it’s important to note that specific neighborhoods may experience different safety levels. You can review detailed FBI crime statistics here.

Violent Crime Rate

The violent crime rate in Dallas saw a notable decline in 2023, with murders and aggravated assaults decreasing by approximately 6% compared to 2022. This trend aligns with broader national declines in violent crime reported for the same period. The city continues to address violent crime through community policing and targeted interventions in high-risk areas. Additional information on this trend can be found in the 2023 FBI Uniform Crime Reporting data, available here.

Property Crime Rate

Property crime, including burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft, remains a significant issue in Dallas. The rate of property crime in 2023 was approximately three times the national average. Despite these challenges, Dallas has implemented crime prevention programs, including increased surveillance and public awareness campaigns, to mitigate property crime rates. Detailed statistics are accessible through the City of Dallas.

Police Presence

Dallas has invested in expanding its police force, with a focus on community-oriented policing. The Dallas Police Department has approximately 3,200 officers as of 2024, serving a population of over 1.3 million residents. The department is prioritizing visibility in high-crime areas and engagement with local communities to foster trust and collaboration. Learn more about the Dallas Police Department’s efforts here.

Neighborhood Watch Programs

Many neighborhoods in Dallas have established watch programs to enhance safety and community involvement. These initiatives aim to reduce crime by encouraging residents to report suspicious activity and work collaboratively with law enforcement. You can explore these programs on the Dallas City Hall website.

Safety Rankings

Dallas is often ranked in the middle tier of safety metrics among major U.S. cities. While its violent crime rate is higher than average, ongoing efforts to address these issues have led to gradual improvements in specific categories. Comprehensive safety rankings and analyses are available through the U.S. News & World Report.

Trend Data

Crime in Dallas has shown a gradual decline in violent offenses since 2020, following national trends. However, property crime rates remain relatively stagnant, requiring continued focus and intervention. Mid-year data for 2024 suggests ongoing reductions in violent crime, bolstered by community and police initiatives. For an in-depth review of trends, consult the Brennan Center’s report here.

School Safety

School safety is a key priority in Dallas, with local schools implementing measures such as security cameras, resource officers, and controlled access points. The Dallas Independent School District reported a decline in on-campus incidents in 2023, reflecting the effectiveness of these strategies. More details are available from the Dallas ISD.

What are the demographics of Dallas, Texas?

White

The White population in Dallas, Texas, accounts for 53.79% of the total population. This figure includes both Hispanic and non-Hispanic individuals of European descent.

Black or African American

Black or African American residents make up 24.05% of the total population in Dallas. This demographic represents individuals with African or Afro-Caribbean heritage.

Hispanic or Latino

Hispanic or Latino individuals constitute 42.3% of Dallas’s population. This group includes people of Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, and other Latin American origins.

Two or More Races

Residents identifying as multiracial, or of two or more races, represent 9.30% of the total population. This category includes individuals who identify with more than one racial group.

Asian

The Asian population in Dallas makes up 3.51% of the total population. This group includes individuals of Chinese, Indian, Filipino, Vietnamese, Korean, and other Asian origins.

Native American

Native American or Alaska Native individuals comprise 0.50% of Dallas’s total population.

Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander

Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander residents account for a very small portion of the population, representing just 0.04%.

Sources

Dallas, Texas Population by Age and Gender

Total Population by Gender

The total population of Dallas, Texas, as of 2023, is approximately 1,374,000. Of this population, 49.5% are male and 50.5% are female.

Age Distribution

The age distribution of Dallas shows the following breakdown:

  • Under 18 years: 23.5%
  • 18 to 64 years: 63.1%
  • 65 years and older: 13.4%

Gender Distribution within Age Groups

Among the key age groups, gender distribution is as follows:

  • Under 18 years: Male: 12.1%, Female: 11.4%
  • 18 to 64 years: Male: 31.5%, Female: 31.6%
  • 65 years and older: Male: 5.9%, Female: 7.5%

Median Age

The median age in Dallas is 34.3 years, slightly younger than the national median of 38.2 years.

Dependency Ratios

The dependency ratio in Dallas is 54. This includes a youth dependency ratio (population under 18 to working-age population) of 37 and an elderly dependency ratio (population over 65 to working-age population) of 17.

Population Pyramid

Dallas’ population pyramid reflects a broad base indicating a significant proportion of younger individuals, gradually narrowing toward older age groups.

Sources

Dallas, Texas Zip Codes

Dallas, Texas, primarily has the following ZIP codes:

  • 75201
  • 75202
  • 75203
  • 75204
  • 75205
  • 75206
  • 75207
  • 75208
  • 75209
  • 75210
  • 75211
  • 75212
  • 75214
  • 75215
  • 75216
  • 75217
  • 75218
  • 75219
  • 75220
  • 75223
  • 75224
  • 75225
  • 75226
  • 75227
  • 75228
  • 75229
  • 75230
  • 75231
  • 75232
  • 75233
  • 75234
  • 75235
  • 75236
  • 75237
  • 75238
  • 75240
  • 75241
  • 75242
  • 75243
  • 75244
  • 75245
  • 75246
  • 75247
  • 75248
  • 75249
  • 75250
  • 75251
  • 75252
  • 75253
  • 75254
  • 75258
  • 75260
  • 75261
  • 75262
  • 75263
  • 75264
  • 75265
  • 75266
  • 75267
  • 75270
  • 75275
  • 75277
  • 75283
  • 75284
  • 75285
  • 75286
  • 75287
  • 75301
  • 75303
  • 75310
  • 75312
  • 75313
  • 75315
  • 75320
  • 75323
  • 75326
  • 75334
  • 75336
  • 75339
  • 75340
  • 75342
  • 75343
  • 75344
  • 75353
  • 75354
  • 75355
  • 75356
  • 75357
  • 75358
  • 75359
  • 75360
  • 75363
  • 75364
  • 75367
  • 75368
  • 75370
  • 75371
  • 75372
  • 75373
  • 75374
  • 75376
  • 75378
  • 75379
  • 75380
  • 75381

This ZIP code covers the majority of the Dallas area.

What is the history of Dallas, Texas?

The Founding of Dallas

Dallas, Texas, was founded in 1841 by John Neely Bryan, a lawyer and trader from Tennessee. He established the first settlement along the banks of the Trinity River. Initially conceived as a trading post, Bryan chose the location due to its proximity to existing Native American trails and its access to natural resources. In 1844, the area was formally laid out as a townsite. While the origin of the city’s name remains uncertain, it is believed to honor either Joseph Dallas, an early settler, or George Mifflin Dallas, the U.S. Vice President at the time.

Early Growth and Immigrant Influence

Throughout the 19th century, Dallas attracted a diverse array of settlers. Swiss, German, and French immigrants, including artisans from the utopian La Réunion colony, significantly shaped the cultural and economic landscape. Following the Civil War, a large influx of African Americans contributed to the city’s labor force and community dynamics. The arrival of railroads in the 1870s spurred significant commercial growth, turning Dallas into a thriving hub for cotton and grain trading.

Economic Expansion in the 20th Century

Dallas solidified its status as a major economic center during the early 20th century. The establishment of the Dallas Cotton Exchange in 1907 positioned the city as one of the world’s leading cotton markets. By mid-century, Dallas diversified into insurance, oil, manufacturing, and food processing industries. Mexican immigrants during this period further enriched the city’s workforce and culture.

Modern Development

The latter half of the 20th century marked Dallas’s transformation into a metropolitan powerhouse. Key developments included the annexation of neighboring communities such as East Dallas and Oak Cliff, greatly expanding the city’s size. Landmark institutions like the Federal Reserve Bank branch and the State Fair of Texas further enhanced Dallas’s regional prominence. The 1970s saw the creation of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, solidifying Dallas as a major urban center in the southern United States.

Cultural and Political Milestones

Dallas has been a stage for significant events in American history, including the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963. The city has also been a pioneer in cultural contributions, with institutions like the Dallas Museum of Art and the AT&T Performing Arts Center. Politically, figures such as Lupe Valdez, elected in 2004 as Dallas County Sheriff, have broken barriers and set milestones for diversity in leadership roles.

Dallas Today

Today, Dallas is a bustling metropolitan area known for its vibrant economy, cultural richness, and dynamic population. It serves as a hub for technology, finance, and healthcare, while continuing to embrace its historical roots. With a population exceeding 1.3 million, Dallas remains a cornerstone of Texas’s economy and culture.

Sources

Dallas, Texas Weather

Average Temperature in Dallas, Texas

Dallas experiences hot summers and mild winters. Below are the average high and low temperatures for each month:

  • January: High 58°F (14°C), Low 38°F (3°C)
  • February: High 62°F (17°C), Low 42°F (6°C)
  • March: High 70°F (21°C), Low 49°F (10°C)
  • April: High 77°F (25°C), Low 57°F (14°C)
  • May: High 85°F (29°C), Low 66°F (19°C)
  • June: High 93°F (34°C), Low 74°F (23°C)
  • July: High 97°F (36°C), Low 78°F (25°C)
  • August: High 97°F (36°C), Low 77°F (25°C)
  • September: High 90°F (32°C), Low 70°F (21°C)
  • October: High 80°F (26°C), Low 59°F (15°C)
  • November: High 68°F (20°C), Low 48°F (9°C)
  • December: High 59°F (15°C), Low 40°F (4°C)

Annually, Dallas has an average high of 78°F (26°C) and low of 58°F (15°C).

Precipitation Patterns

Dallas receives an average of 37.1 inches of rainfall annually. May is typically the wettest month, with approximately 5.3 inches of rain. Winter months like January and February are relatively drier.

Humidity Levels

Dallas experiences moderate humidity, averaging around 66% annually. Humidity is highest in winter mornings and lower in the summer afternoons, particularly during August.

Wind Patterns

The city is relatively windy, with an average wind speed of about 10.4 mph. The windiest months are typically March and April.

Comparisons with State and National Averages

  • Texas Average Temperature: The state averages a yearly temperature of 64.8°F (18.2°C), making Dallas slightly warmer with its annual 78°F (26°C).
  • U.S. Average Temperature: Nationally, the average temperature is approximately 54.5°F (12.5°C), significantly cooler than Dallas.

Sources

Average Income in Dallas, Texas

Here is a detailed overview of the average income statistics for Dallas, Texas:

Average Annual Salary

The average annual salary in Dallas, Texas, is approximately $65,000 based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and other recent surveys​

gure can vary significantly depending on the industry, with higher salaries in tech, finance, and legal sectors.

Average Hourly Wage

The average hourly wage in Dallas is about $31.25. This is based on the city’s job market, where professional roles, as well as service and technical jobs, are common【82†sourc​

erage Earnings Per Week For individuals working full-time, the average weekly earnings are around $1,250, based on the average hourly wage and a 40-hour workweek【83†sourc​

erage Earnings Per Month Monthly earnings for an average worker in Dallas are approximately $5,416. This is derived from the weekly earnings multiplied by the average number of weeks in a month【83†sourc​

dian Salary Range The median household income in Dallas is about $91,523 as of 2021【83†sourc​

ans that half of the households in Dallas earn more than this amount, and half earn less.

Popular Jobs/Careers

Some of the most popular and well-paying jobs in Dallas include roles in healthcare, information technology, finance, and engineering. Professionals in these fields tend to earn higher-than-average salaries compared to other sectors【82†sourc​

ghest Paid Jobs in Dallas The highest-paid jobs in Dallas include senior roles such as surgeons, dentists, lawyers, and high-level IT managers. These positions often have salaries upwards of $150,000 annually .

Cwith State and National Averages

  • Texas: The median household income in Texas was $80,304 in 2021, making Dallas above the state average【83†source】.
  • U​

    s: The national median household income was $70,784 in 2021【83†source】, which​

    las above the national average as well.

These statistics provide a comprehensive snapshot of the income levels in Dallas, illustrating the city’s position as an economic hub within Texas and the U.S.

Sources:

Taxes in Dallas, Texas

Here is a breakdown of taxes in Dallas, Texas, with the most recent information available:

Property Taxes

Dallas property taxes are among the highest in Texas, with an average rate of 1.68% of the assessed value of a home. However, the exact rate can vary depending on the specific taxing authorities in Dallas. This means for every $100,000 in property value, approximately $1,680 would be owed annually in property taxes.

Source: Tax Foundation【92】, AARP【93】

Sales Taxes

Texas has a state sales tax rate of 6.25%. In Dallas, the combined state and local sales tax rate is 8.25%. This includes the state’s base rate and an additional 2% local tax imposed by the city of Dallas. This sales tax applies to most goods and some services purchased in Dallas.

Source: AARP【93】

Income Taxes

One of the advantages of living in Texas, including Dallas, is that there is no state income tax. Texas does not tax individual income, including wages, retirement distributions, or investment income.

Source: AARP【93】

Hotel Occupancy Tax

Dallas imposes a hotel occupancy tax of 7%, which is applied to the price of renting a room. This tax is typically paid by guests who stay at hotels within the city limits.

Source: Dallas Government

Utility Taxes

Utility taxes in Dallas are applied to various services, including electricity, water, and waste disposal. While the city does not impose a separate tax on utilities, customers may pay fees for water, sewer services, and stormwater management as part of their utility bills.

Source: Dallas Water Utilities

Comparison to State and National Averages

  • Texas has one of the highest average property tax rates in the U.S. at 1.68%【92】, significantly above the national average of around 1.1%. However, Texas residents benefit from no state income tax, which contrasts with the national average of 4.6% for state income tax rates.
  • The sales tax rate of 8.25% in Dallas is relatively high compared to the national average, which is about 7.12%【93】.

Penalties for Late Payment and Payment Schedule

  • Property taxes are due on January 31st each year, and unpaid taxes accrue interest and penalties starting at 7% in February, increasing in subsequent months.
  • Sales tax is collected by businesses at the point of sale.

Contact Information

For property tax inquiries, Dallas residents can contact the Dallas County Appraisal District. For sales tax, the Texas Comptroller’s office manages collection and information.

Where to Pay

  • Property Taxes: Payments can be made online through the Dallas County Appraisal District’s website, by mail, or in person.
  • Sales Tax: Sales tax is automatically included in transactions by businesses within Dallas.

For further details, you can refer to the provided links above for the most up-to-date tax information.

Is Dallas, Texas a Good Place to Live for Singles?

Dallas, Texas is considered a great place for singles, offering a vibrant social scene, a large percentage of single residents, and a wide variety of activities to meet new people. Here’s a breakdown of key factors:

Events and Activities

Dallas boasts numerous social events, festivals, and community activities that cater to singles looking to meet new people. From cultural festivals to wine tours in Texas Hill Country, the city offers many opportunities for socializing and building connections. Venues like the AT&T Performing Arts Center and local parks such as Klyde Warren Park host events that can be ideal for meeting singles​

Ambiance Matchmaking

You can check out more events on community websites like Eventbrite or Meetup.

Gyms

Fitness enthusiasts will find plenty of options to meet other singles at local gyms. For instance, you can find various gyms in Dallas via a search on Yahoo.

Housing

The Dallas housing market is diverse, with many apartment complexes and rental options that suit singles. From modern downtown lofts to cozy suburban rentals, there are affordable and trendy housing options. You can explore rental listings through platforms like Zillow.

Percentage of Single Residents

Approximately 50% of Dallas’ adult population is single, making it a relatively balanced city for singles in terms of dating opportunities​

This proportion is higher than the Texas state average, which stands at around 47%, and also higher than the national average of about 45%. This makes Dallas one of the best cities for singles in Texas.

Comparing Single Statistics

  • Dallas: ~50% single
  • Texas Average: ~47% single
  • U.S. Average: ~45% single

Dallas’ slightly higher percentage of single adults provides a fertile ground for singles to connect. The city also benefits from a near 50/50 male-to-female ratio, which is favorable for those looking for balanced dating opportunities​

Overall, Dallas offers a dynamic and welcoming environment for singles, with plenty of events, activities, and housing options, along with a strong community of other single residents.

Is Dallas, Texas Good for Families?

Dallas, Texas can be a great place for families, offering a mix of amenities, activities, and educational opportunities. However, it’s important to consider a few key factors before making the move. Here’s an overview of the factors that matter to many families:

Crime

Dallas has a higher crime rate than the national average, with certain areas being riskier than others. While the city overall has a livability score of 69 out of 100, which is lower than some other U.S. cities, neighborhoods like North Dallas are considered safer. However, it’s crucial to research specific areas to ensure the best environment for your family​

Strategistico

Weather

Dallas enjoys mild winters and hot summers, with temperatures averaging around 95.7°F in the summer months. The city doesn’t experience much snow, but rain is frequent. If you’re okay with the heat and humidity, Dallas’ climate can be a positive, especially during the spring and fall when temperatures are more moderate​

Housing Costs

While Dallas is less expensive than some other major U.S. cities, its housing costs are rising. The average home value is around $295,000, which is higher than the Texas average by about $12,000. Families looking to purchase homes should expect to face competitive prices in certain areas​

Employment Opportunities

Dallas is a major commercial hub, offering numerous job opportunities across industries like technology, healthcare, and finance. Families moving here will find a strong job market, especially with major employers like American Airlines, AT&T, and Texas Instruments headquartered in the area​

Parks and Family Activities

Dallas offers plenty of parks and family-friendly activities. You can explore places like the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, or spend time at White Rock Lake for outdoor adventures. Many local community websites, such as Dallas Parks, list ongoing events and family activities​

Restaurants

Dallas is home to a variety of dining options:

Housing and Family Residents

In terms of family life, many Dallas neighborhoods are family-oriented. The proportion of married residents in Dallas is significant, making it a good place for families to grow. However, the cost of buying a home can be high, especially in desirable areas​

For families considering moving to Dallas, it offers a good mix of activities, a solid job market, and varied educational options, though families should weigh the cost of living and safety concerns carefully when deciding where to settle.

How are the schools in Dallas, Texas?

Dallas, Texas offers a variety of educational options for families, from highly ranked public schools to a number of prestigious private institutions. The public school system includes several districts that consistently perform well in academic achievement and extracurricular activities, including Plano ISD and Highland Park ISD, both known for their rigorous academic standards and college preparatory programs. Funding for Dallas schools is adequate, with ongoing investments aimed at improving facilities and access to educational resources. Test scores in these districts generally reflect strong performance, although the city’s diverse socioeconomic makeup means there is some variance between schools.

Pre-K Schools

Dallas is home to a range of early childhood education options, with many districts offering Pre-K programs. The city’s public school systems, including the Dallas Independent School District (DISD), provide Pre-K programs to support early learning, particularly for low-income families. Many private institutions also offer high-quality early education programs. To find more details on specific Pre-K options, you can refer to DISD’s Pre-K program page for eligibility and enrollment information.

Kindergarten Schools

Dallas has a strong focus on early education, with both public and private options for Kindergarten. Schools within the Dallas ISD offer full-day Kindergarten, and private schools in the area provide smaller class sizes and personalized attention. The city’s various educational institutions focus on foundational literacy and numeracy skills, preparing students for academic success in later grades.

Elementary Schools

The elementary schools in Dallas are diverse, with many offering specialized programs such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and language immersion. Dallas ISD has several schools that receive high marks for academic achievement, including Lakewood Elementary and Rosemont Elementary. For more information on specific schools, you can explore school ratings and reviews through SchoolDigger and GreatSchools.

Middle Schools

Middle schools in Dallas provide a transition from elementary to high school, with a focus on more rigorous coursework and extracurricular activities. Notable middle schools in Dallas include Hill Middle School and T.H. Rogers Middle School. The district also offers various magnet schools with advanced academic tracks. For details on performance and offerings, visit the Dallas ISD middle school page.

High Schools

High schools in Dallas are known for their college-preparatory programs, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses and International Baccalaureate (IB) options. Schools like Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts are highly ranked, along with other top institutions such as Highland Park High School, which is frequently listed as one of the best in the state. These schools are well-equipped to help students prepare for both college and careers. To learn more about high school options in Dallas, visit Texas Success Schools or the Dallas ISD high school page.

Colleges & Universities

Dallas is home to several higher education institutions, including the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD), Southern Methodist University (SMU), and Texas Woman’s University. UTD is particularly well-regarded for its research programs and tech-oriented degrees, while SMU offers a broad range of liberal arts, business, and law programs. The city also has numerous community colleges and vocational schools that provide diverse paths for post-secondary education. For more on Dallas’s colleges and universities, visit UT Dallas or SMU.

These educational options, combined with Dallas’s commitment to education, make it a suitable place for families seeking both strong academic opportunities and extracurricular activities for their children.

Conclusion: Why you should consider moving to Dallas, Texas

Dallas, Texas, offers an exceptional living experience with its vibrant economy, rich cultural diversity, and endless opportunities for both career and personal growth. The city is home to top-notch schools, a variety of affordable housing options, and a thriving job market, especially in sectors like technology, healthcare, and finance. Families will appreciate the city’s safe neighborhoods, excellent parks, and strong community spirit, while singles can enjoy a dynamic nightlife, diverse dining options, and a wealth of social events. Dallas also stands out with its low taxes and business-friendly environment, making it an attractive destination for newcomers. Whether you’re seeking a lively urban experience, a place to build your career, or a welcoming community to raise a family, Dallas offers everything you need to thrive. It’s a city with limitless potential and an exciting future waiting for you.