If the name “J.R. Ewing” is the first thing that pops into your head when you hear “Dallas,” it might be time for a refresh. Yes, the city still has its cowboy roots, soap opera fame, and world-class BBQ, but there’s way more to it than that.
Located in the heart of North Texas, Dallas is the commercial, financial, and cultural hub of the region. With its rich history, thriving arts scene, and diverse communities, Dallas offers a vibrant Southern experience with something for everyone.
Whether you’re thinking about a move, planning a temporary stay, or already packing your bags, our Dallas relocation guide has everything you need to get started.
Dallas at a Glance
Thinking about calling Dallas home? Here’s a quick snapshot of what to expect in this fast-growing, sun-soaked city.
- Dallas is the third-largest city in Texas and a major economic hub with strong job growth and big-name employers like Bank of America and Texas Health Resources. It’s a hotspot for career starters and seasoned professionals alike.
- Love the heat? Dallas delivers. Expect hot, sunny summers and mild winters. Snow is rare, so winter sports fans may need to look elsewhere.
- Cars rule the road here, but you’ve got options. DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) offers solid rail and bus service, and rideshares are widely available.
- Dallas offers big-city perks without the sky-high price tag of places like New York or San Francisco. From housing to groceries, many find the cost of living refreshingly reasonable.
- From championship sports teams to the largest arts district in the U.S., Dallas knows how to keep things exciting. Whether you’re into fine dining, live music, galleries, or game day energy, this city has you covered.
Is Dallas a Good Place to Live?
If you’re looking to grow your career or enjoy an active urban lifestyle, Dallas is your city. It offers a strong job market, no state income tax, and a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other major metro areas. Its diverse neighborhoods each bring their own flavor, whether you’re after sleek high-rises, historic charm, or quiet suburban pockets.
There’s also no shortage of things to do in Dallas: arts and culture, live music, pro sports, outdoor trails, and a food scene that blends Southern comfort with international flair.
But like any big city, Dallas has its challenges, including heavy traffic, scorching summers, and rising housing costs in some areas. Public transportation is limited, so having a car is almost essential. Property taxes can also be steep.
You may also like:
- The Guide to Moving to San Antonio
- The Guide to Moving to Houston
- The Guide to Moving to Fort Worth
- Where to Stay in Houston for a Week or Longer
What’s The Cost of Living in Dallas?
Dallas is one of the most dynamic big cities in Texas, and while it’s a little pricier than San Antonio or Houston, the overall cost of living is still close to the national average.
- Housing: Rent averages around $1,465 per month. Popular neighborhoods like Deep Ellum and Uptown tend to run higher, especially if you’re looking at modern buildings with premium amenities.
- Food: Groceries are reasonably priced, thanks to budget-friendly options like H-E-B and Tom Thumb. When it comes to dining out, this taco-and-barbecue-loving city makes it easy to eat well for under $12.
- Utilities + Transit: Electric bills can climb during the summer, with A/C-heavy months often topping $230. While most residents rely on cars to get around, DART provides bus and light rail service, though long distances across the city can mean longer commute times.
- Entertainment: Free events, food truck nights, open-air concerts, and attractions like Klyde Warren Park, free museum days, and the Katy Trail offer plenty of budget-friendly ways to enjoy the city.
- Taxes: With no state income tax, you’ll take home more of your paycheck. But keep in mind the 8.25% sales tax and high taxes if you own property.
- Healthcare: Healthcare isn’t cheap. A routine doctor’s visit without insurance may cost around $150, so insurance is key.
Looking for an Apartment in Dallas? Here’s How to Start
The Dallas rental scene is active and relatively affordable, but the good places, especially in popular neighborhoods, tend to get snapped up fast. Before you dive in:
- Think about how long you’ll be staying: Are you moving long-term, testing the city for a few months, or need something flexible?
- Start your search online: Filter by budget, location, and move-in date. Compare prices and watch out for additional fees.
- Explore different neighborhoods: Uptown, Deep Ellum, and Bishop Arts are a great blend of style, culture, and convenience.
- Found the right spot? Jump on it! Next steps: You fill out an application, show proof of income, and pay the necessary application fee. Once approved, it’s on to lease signing.
But let’s be honest, leases can be a bit of a hassle. All the paperwork, deposits, and long-term commitments can be overwhelming, especially if you’re just relocating to Dallas or still trying to figure out where to stay.
That’s why fully-furnished apartments with flexible and extended stay options in Dallas are on the rise. They let you skip the hassle, come with premium amenities, and offer you the freedom to stay your way.
What Are the Most Popular Neighborhoods in Dallas?
If you’re trying to figure out where to stay in Dallas, here are some of the city’s most popular neighborhoods to consider:
Old East Dallas
Old East Dallas is a mix of character and charm, with tree-lined streets, historic homes, and a growing community feel. If you’re after a more local, family-friendly vibe while still staying close to the action, then Old East Dallas is your neighborhood.
Casa View
This is the neighborhood that offers true Southern hospitality. It’s well-known for being a tight-knit community with excellent schools, local churches, and some of the greatest restaurants in Dallas. It’s also close to a variety of fun activities in the city, such as the Arboretum and White Rock Lake.
Downtown Dallas
Living in the city’s downtown is perfect if you want to be in the center of it all, with live music, bars, restaurants, and the whole city experience. If you’re into walkability and want to be close to work, nightlife, and Dallas’s growing arts and culture scene, this is the spot for you!
The Design District
Just a couple of miles northwest of downtown Dallas, bordered by Interstate 35E to the east and the Trinity River to the west, lies the Design District. This is a highly creative and evolving area full of famous restaurants offering a wide range of exotic cocktails and known for its artsy, industrial-chic vibe.
Uptown Dallas
Uptown Dallas is one of the city’s most sought-after neighborhoods. Walkable, with trendy dining, shopping, and nightlife just steps away. It’s also home to green spaces like the Katy Trail, perfect for staying active or unwinding outdoors.
Deep Ellum
The entertainment hub of Dallas, Deep Ellum, is the perfect spot for the socialite, featuring a wide array of nightlife options such as exciting concert venues, hip and trendy pubs, cocktail bars, and restaurants.
Highland Park & University Park
Also known as the Park Cities, these neighborhoods are more suburban and upscale. They’re home to top-rated schools, large green spaces, and big single-family homes. Even though it’s technically not Dallas proper, it’s close enough to the city that you’d never even notice you’re outside of city limits.
Featured Landing Stays in Dallas
Whether you are testing out a neighborhood or looking for a long-term place to stay, Landing’s fully-furnished apartments in Dallas are move-in ready with everything you need to feel right at home. Enjoy full kitchens, stylish furnishings, fast WiFi, premium amenities, and 24/7 support, without the hassle of a lease.
- Want easy access to downtown nightlife and cultural hotspots? Macallan on Ross puts you right in the heart of it all, with full kitchens, fast WiFi, and in-unit laundry to make your stay effortless.
- Looking for something low-key with unbeatable location perks? Lofts at Sylvan Thirty features premium amenities, including a pool, fitness center, and pet spa, all just minutes from Bishop Arts and downtown.
- Prefer a little more room to roam? Cedar Lakes and Clark Ridge Canyon give you outdoor space and proximity to nature near Joe Pool Lake, plus resort-style pools and dog parks.
- If high-rise living is more your style, Cortland on McKinney delivers. Enjoy fully-furnished apartments with skyline views, a pool, a 24-hour fitness center, and local favorites just a short walk away.
- For the perfect blend of luxury and neighborhood charm, Magnolia at West Lemmon and The Mark at Midtown offer city views, spacious layouts, and easy access to some of Dallas’s best dining, shopping, and entertainment.
Ready to Make Dallas Home?
Regardless of whether you’re making a permanent move or just trying to get a feel for things, Dallas really does have something for everyone. And if you’re looking for a hassle-free way to settle in, Landing makes it easy with fully-furnished apartments perfect for stays of a week, a month, or longer. So take your time, explore the city, and find your perfect place in Dallas, on your terms.
