Best Neighborhoods in the Dallas-Fort Worth Area

The Dallas-Fort Worth area is where big-city energy meets southern hospitality.

The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex is a vibrant mix of neighborhoods, each with its own unique personality, charm, and local attractions. Whether you’re looking for suburban comfort, lively nightlife, or outdoor adventure, DFW has it all. From professional sports teams to community parks, and high-end shops to event venues, here’s the scoop on where the locals are calling home.

Best Neighborhoods in Dallas

Uptown Dallas: Trendy, Walkable, and Full of Energy

If you want to be in the downtown district, Uptown is a don’t-miss destination for professionals and couples alike. Packed with high-end retail shops, luxurious estate properties, and an ever-increasing number of dining opportunities, this neighborhood is a go-to for professionals and socialites alike. Enjoy nearby bike trails like Ridgewood Trail or check out the nearby River Crest Country Club and Royal Oaks Country Club. Catch a game at American Airlines Center, home to Dallas’ basketball and hockey teams. And for a little adventure, explore nearby community parks like Garrett Park, Rosenthal Park, Preston Hollow Park, and North Park.

Live here: Cortland on McKinney puts you right in the mix with modern amenities and a prime location. You’ll be steps from noteworthy restaurants like The Rustic, and Sixty Vines, shopping at NorthPark Center, and even a short drive to Dallas Love Field.

Deep Ellum: Artsy, Vibrant, and Known for Live Music

Deep Ellum is Dallas’ self-described playground for grownups, featuring iconic attractions like neon murals, a bustling concert venue and music venue scene, and unparalleled food trucks. This urban charm is also home to exciting events and features like the Urban Air Trampoline, Adventure Park, and Bonz Dog Park, a perfect place for fun or a unique family day out. And for foodies, there’s no shortage of dining options, including the best in Tex-Mex menus. Cultural cravings like Creole Kitchen are must-try in this neighborhood. The Urban Arts District adds to its vibrant charm, offering a mix of artistic creativity, live performances, and antique shops.

Bishop Arts District: Quirky, Charming, and Local-Focused

Home to boutique shopping, a thriving culinary scene, and a mix of property styles ranging from century-modern homes to contemporary condos, Bishop Arts is one of the city’s most charming areas. Enjoy a family-friendly vibe with top-tier private schools nearby, including Arlington Heights High School and Southwest Christian School. Plus, it’s just minutes from downtown, giving you easy access to the city proper.

Lower Greenville: Nightlife and Brunch Hotspot

Lower Greenville offers a blend of historic charm and modern energy. It’s one of the best places in Dallas for brunch, with spots like HG Sply Co. and Company Café, and it comes alive at night with bars, live music, and a lively crowd. A mix of housing options, including traditional single-family homes and upscale remodels, makes it a favorite for families, young professionals, and real estate investors. Its prime location is near J.L. Long Middle School and Woodrow Wilson High.

Knox-Henderson: Upscale and Lively

This bustling area is perfect for those who love boutique and luxurious shopping and top-tier restaurants. Knox-Henderson is centrally located, near prestigious colleges like Southern Methodist University (SMU), making it a sought-after spot for young professionals. Nearby, Mockingbird Commons Shopping Mall and Lovers Pizza offer fun local favorites. The area also provides access to biking trails and neighborhood parks, making it great for outdoor activities. Nearby, you’ll find Mockingbird Lane and access to outdoor attractions, bike trails, and public parks.

Oak Lawn: LGBTQ+ Friendly and Full of Energy

Oak Lawn is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in Dallas, known for its welcoming atmosphere and vibrant nightlife. It’s home to some of the best clubs, bars, and drag performances in the city. It also offers easy access to green spaces like Glencoe Park and Tietze Park, perfect for hiking trails and evening runs. For those with school-age residents, Oak Lawn offers proximity to excellent schools like Mockingbird Elementary and Caruth Terrace.

Lakewood: Laid-Back and Surrounded by Greenery

Nestled around White Rock Lake, Lakewood is perfect for outdoor lovers who still want to be close to the city. With tree-lined streets, historic homes, and plenty of parks like Lake Highlands Community Garden, Flag Pole Hill Park, and Ridgewood Park, it offers a peaceful escape from the urban hustle while maintaining proximity to major cities. The neighborhood offers access to nearby attractions, including Morris E. Berney Park and Pecan Valley Park. Families will appreciate the great school districts and proximity to Benbrook Lake for weekends of relaxation.

Preston Hollow: Affluent and Exclusive

A hotspot for Texas real estate executives, Preston Hollow is known for its sprawling estate properties and proximity to prestigious schools like Ursuline Academy. With green belts, award-winning museums, and high-end shopping destinations like Knox Street, it’s a neighborhood that blends suburban serenity with cosmopolitan offerings. Unwind at Netherland Park, just a quick jaunt away, perfect for an afternoon picnic or a peaceful walk under the shade.

The Cedars: Creative and Up-and-Coming

Just south of downtown, The Cedars is an emerging hotspot with loft-style apartments, art studios, and breweries. It’s a great option for those looking for more affordable, creative community minutes from downtown and city events, the Dallas Mavericks, and the Dallas Cowboys games. Plus, it’s near the Ridglea Country Club for golf enthusiasts and offers proximity to cultural amenities like the National Cowgirl Museum. A mix of architectural styles adds to the area’s growing appeal.

Oak Cliff: Dallas’ Coolest Cultural Hub

Oak Cliff is where history, art, and great food collide. Stroll through Bishop Arts District for indie shops, vibrant murals, and top-tier tacos. Catch a film at the historic Texas Theatre, or explore the Five Mile Creek Greenbelt and Woody Branch Park for scenic trails. With its tight-knit community, buzzing nightlife, and creative energy, Oak Cliff is where Dallas keeps it real.

Best Neighborhoods in Fort Worth

Downtown Fort Worth: Modern Meets Cowboy Charm

Downtown Fort Worth offers a mix of modern skyscrapers and historic attractions. Whether you’re catching a baseball game at Globe Life Field, exploring the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, or dining at hidden gems in the Harwood District, there’s no shortage of entertainment in the heart of downtown. Sundance Square is the heart of it all, packed with restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues like the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History and the Fort Worth Stock Show. The area also offers a straightforward commute to major employers and Fort Worth ISD schools. The neighborhood offers access to both indoor and outdoor attractions, such as the Ridglea Hills Park and Moss Farm, which are perfect for enjoying the mild climate. Plus, the downtown rental rates and beautiful arts scenes make it an attractive spot for young professionals.

West 7th: Young, Lively, and Full of Entertainment

This pedestrian-friendly neighborhood is a dream for those who love nightlife, concert venues, and sports action. Just a short drive from Pecan Valley Golf Course and Roaring Park, it’s perfect for both urban energy seekers and outdoor lovers. It’s also home to major sports teams like the Texas Rangers and championship-caliber golf courses like Hawks Creek Golf Club. Nearby, you’ll find Arlington Heights High School and Westover Hills, providing easy access to educational opportunities and outdoor attractions.

Magnolia Avenue (Near Southside): Hip and Historic

Magnolia Avenue is where Fort Worth’s funky, artsy side comes to life. This walkable stretch is the perfect mix of dining and cultural attractions, packed with indie coffee shops, craft cocktail bars, and top-tier dining facilities that foodies rave about. Whether you’re sipping a lavender latte at Avoca Coffee or grabbing late-night tacos at Salsa Limón, there’s always something delicious around the corner. It’s also a hotspot for live music, pop-up markets, and public art, making it a go-to for creatives and anyone who loves a laid-back yet lively vibe. With historic buildings housing everything from bookstores to craft breweries.

Cultural District: Museums and Upscale Living

The Cultural District is where Fort Worth’s rich history meets modern sophistication. Home to world-class museums like the Kimbell Art Museum and the Modern Art Museum, this area is a dream for art lovers and those who love historic attractions. Stroll through the stunning Fort Worth Botanic Garden, catch a performance at Casa Mañana, or grab a bite at one of the district’s upscale restaurants. With elegant townhomes, luxury real estate options, and tree-lined streets, the neighborhood offers a refined lifestyle with plenty of cultural flair. Whether you’re exploring art exhibits, sipping wine at a chic bistro, or enjoying a night at the symphony, the Cultural District is all about sophistication with a Texas twist.

Dallas-Fort Worth Suburban Towns

Ridglea Hills: A Hidden Gem with Small-Town Charm

Ridglea Hills is a sprawling neighborhood that boasts a rural flavor with high-end interior design showrooms and small-town charm. It’s home to some of the best social events, including backyard parties and exclusive gatherings at Shady Oaks Country Club. With its charming architecture and rolling hills, Ridglea Hills is an ideal place for those who appreciate a quiet, family-oriented community. It’s a great neighborhood for families, with access to J.T. Stevens Elementary and Mary Louise Phillips Elementary. Plus, you’re near local favorites like Camp Bowie Boulevard’s indie shops and bakeries, and green spaces like Boaz Park and Patricia LeBlanc Park.

Live here: Cortland Ridglea in Ridglea Hills is located near major employers like Baylor Scott & White Medical Center, our Ridglea apartments in Fort Worth offer a world of opportunity – just outside the heart of the city.

Chisholm Trail: The Best of City and Nature

Love the outdoors but still want quick access to the Fort Worth Downtown? Chisholm Trail has it all. With direct access to the Chisholm Trail Parkway, you can zip into downtown Fort Worth in minutes while still enjoying public parks, walking trails, and plenty of open space. This area is perfect for families seeking a balance between suburban landscapes and urban conveniences.

Live here: Cortland at Chisholm Trail gives you resort-style living, convenience to Downtown Fort Worth, and nature right outside your door.

Plano: Highly Rated Schools and Corporate Hubs

Plano offers a perfect mix of suburban living, excellent schools like Arlington Heights High School, and bustling corporate hubs, like Toyota and JPMorgan Chase. It’s known for its excellent public schools, like Plano West Senior High, access to public parks, and abundant shopping at places like Hillside Village Shopping Center.

Frisco: Fast-Growing and Sports-Focused

Frisco isn’t just growing—it’s booming. Home to The Star, the Dallas Cowboys’ world-class training facility, and buzzing with sports energy from FC Dallas at Toyota Stadium, it’s a paradise for fans. Beyond the game-day excitement, Frisco boasts an award-winning school system, sprawling parks, and a range of dining options, from classic Texas barbecue to trendy international bites. Whether you’re catching a RoughRiders baseball game at Riders Field or exploring the massive 19-city block entertainment district, Frisco is a favorite for families and prospective residents.

Southlake: Affluent and Luxurious

Southlake is one of the most affluent suburbs in Dallas-Fort Worth, known for Carroll ISD top-tier schools, luxury living, beautiful homes, and an unbeatable shopping and dining scene at Southlake Town Square. It offers a quaint setting with upscale community amenities and a strong real estate market. Whether you’re grabbing brunch at a chic café, catching a Dragons football game (a local obsession), or enjoying the picturesque trails around Bicentennial Park, Southlake perfectly blends small-town warmth with upscale sophistication.

Grapevine: Historic and Wine-Centric

Grapevine is where history meets a good glass of wine—literally. It blends small-town charm with upscale art galleries and a strong culinary scene. Stroll down Main Street, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings, boutique shops, and some of the best wineries in Texas. From beautiful arts events to its vibrant beer garden, it’s an entertainment destination packed with history and flavor. But it’s not just about the vino—Grapevine is also home to top-notch dining, a lively arts scene, and family-friendly attractions like the Great Wolf Lodge’s massive indoor water park. Whether you’re savoring a local vintage, exploring Nash Farm, or catching a vintage train ride on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad, this town is a can’t-miss destination for locals and visitors alike.

Irving’s Las Colinas: Business Hub with Lakeside Living

Irving’s Las Colinas isn’t just a business hub—it’s a place where sleek high-rises meet scenic lakefront trails, perfect for professionals who need quick commute times to downtown. Known for its upscale communities near private institutions, world-class golf courses, and easy access to DFW Airport, DART from stations, and major thoroughfares like Interstate 30. The Toyota Music Factory keeps the nightlife buzzing with live concerts, while the Mandalay Canal Walk offers a charming European-style escape with gondola rides and waterfront dining.

Why Live with Landing?

DFW offers something for everyone—from kid-friendly activities and top-tier public parks to luxurious shopping and dining destinations. Whether you love biking trails, catching a game with the Dallas Mavericks, or exploring the Robust scene of bars, the DFW area makes an attractive city to live in. Luckily, you don’t need a real estate agent to help you find your next home in the area. Landing offers fully furnished apartments that make moving to the area a breeze. Start living your best Texas life today!