Moving to the DFW Metroplex, Texas: A Comprehensive Relocation Guide

Considering moving to the DFW Metroplex, Texas? The Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metropolitan area represents the fourth-largest metro region in America, combining economic powerhouses, diverse communities, and unlimited growth opportunities. Here’s your 2025 guide to relocating to North Texas’s premier metro region.

Demographic Profile to Consider If Moving to the DFW Metroplex:

The DFW Metroplex spans 11 counties including Dallas, Tarrant, Denton, Collin, and Rockwall, encompassing approximately 8.4 million residents as of 2025. The region added nearly 180,000 new residents in 2024 alone, making it one of America’s fastest-growing metros. Dallas and Fort Worth both exceed one million residents—the only U.S. metro with two cities of this size. The metropolitan area’s median age is 35, reflecting strong appeal to young professionals and families. The population is remarkably diverse: approximately 30% Asian, 56% Latin American origin, 8% African, and 4% European among foreign-born residents, with international migration accounting for 58% of recent growth.

Cost of Living to Consider If Moving to the DFW Metroplex:

The DFW Metroplex offers competitive cost of living compared to other major U.S. metros, though prices vary significantly by city and neighborhood. The median household income across the metro exceeds $72,000. Texas has no state income tax, providing financial advantages for residents. Housing markets range from affordable suburban communities in Ellis and Kaufman Counties to upscale areas in Collin County. Home prices saw slight decreases in Dallas and stabilization in Fort Worth during 2025, creating opportunities for buyers. The region balances affordability with access to major corporate employers and urban amenities, making it attractive for relocating professionals and families.

Economy and Job Market:

The DFW Metroplex anchors one of America’s most dynamic economies. The region hosts 24 Fortune 500 company headquarters including AT&T, ExxonMobil, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Texas Instruments, and McKesson. Major industries span financial services, telecommunications, aviation, healthcare, logistics, and technology. The metro added 46,800 jobs in 2025, with strong growth in tech sectors including AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and semiconductor manufacturing. SMU’s designation as a federal semiconductor tech hub is attracting additional investment. The data center market is projected to double by 2026. Major employment centers exist throughout the region, from Dallas’s downtown corporate towers to Fort Worth’s west side, Plano’s corporate corridor, and Frisco’s rapidly expanding business districts.

Education:

The Metroplex encompasses dozens of independent school districts, several achieving national recognition for academic excellence. Highland Park ISD, Plano ISD, Carroll ISD, and others consistently rank among Texas’s top districts. Higher education options include Southern Methodist University, Texas Christian University, the University of Texas at Dallas, University of Texas at Arlington, University of North Texas, Texas A&M Commerce, Dallas Baptist University, and numerous community colleges. The region’s educational infrastructure supports workforce development in technology, business, healthcare, and engineering.

Recreation and Lifestyle:

The DFW Metroplex offers unlimited recreation and entertainment. Professional sports include the Cowboys, Mavericks, Stars, Rangers, FC Dallas, and Wings across multiple leagues. The region features world-class museums, performing arts venues, and the Dallas Arts District. Six Flags Over Texas, Hurricane Harbor, and the Fort Worth Stockyards provide family attractions. Outdoor recreation spans White Rock Lake, Eagle Mountain Lake, Lake Lewisville, and hundreds of parks and trails. The region hosts major events including the State Fair of Texas, Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo, and numerous festivals. Neighborhoods offer distinct characters from urban lofts to master-planned communities. The mild climate supports year-round outdoor activities.

Healthcare and Services:

The Metroplex features comprehensive healthcare networks including UT Southwestern Medical Center, Baylor Scott & White Health, Texas Health Resources, Medical City Healthcare, and Cook Children’s. Major medical districts in Dallas and Fort Worth concentrate specialized facilities. Hospitals, clinics, and urgent care centers throughout the region provide accessible healthcare. The concentration of medical research and teaching facilities ensures residents access cutting-edge treatments and specialists.

Transportation:

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport ranks among the world’s busiest, with Dallas Love Field providing additional service. The Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) operates extensive light rail and bus service in Dallas and suburbs. Fort Worth’s Trinity Metro and Denton’s DCTA provide local transit. The Trinity Railway Express connects Dallas and Fort Worth. Major highways include I-35E, I-35W, I-30, I-20, I-45, and the Dallas North Tollway. While public transit serves urban corridors, most residents rely on personal vehicles. Regional transportation planning continues addressing growth-related congestion.

Conclusion:

Moving to the DFW Metroplex in 2025 means joining America’s fourth-largest metro area, where Fortune 500 headquarters, diverse communities, and no state income tax create exceptional opportunities. The region’s continued growth, expanding job market, and quality of life make North Texas a premier destination for families, professionals, and businesses seeking the advantages of Texas-sized opportunity.