Moving to Dallas, Texas: A Comprehensive Relocation Guide
Considering moving to Dallas, Texas? The ninth-largest city in the United States combines business opportunities, cultural attractions, and diverse neighborhoods across the heart of North Texas. Here’s your 2025 guide to relocating to Big D.
Demographic Profile to Consider If Moving to Dallas:
Dallas is home to approximately 1.3 million residents, making it the anchor city of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. The population is notably diverse: 42% White, 24% African American, 13% other races, and 4% Asian, with over 42% identifying as Hispanic or Latino. The median age of 33.4 years reflects a young, dynamic population drawn by job opportunities and urban amenities. Neighborhoods range from the trendy Uptown and Deep Ellum districts to family-oriented suburbs like Lake Highlands and Oak Cliff’s revitalized communities. More than a quarter of residents are foreign-born, contributing to the city’s multicultural character.
Cost of Living to Consider If Moving to Dallas:
While Dallas’s cost of living has risen with population growth, it remains competitive compared to coastal metros. The median household income is approximately $67,760, with significant variation by neighborhood. Median home values have decreased slightly in 2025, offering opportunities for buyers after recent market adjustments. Rental prices vary widely from urban high-rises to suburban apartments. Texas has no state income tax, providing financial advantages for residents. Property taxes and utilities represent the largest housing costs. Overall affordability, combined with strong earning potential, makes Dallas attractive for professionals and families seeking value in a major metropolitan area.
Economy and Job Market:
Dallas anchors one of the nation’s most diverse economies, spanning financial services, technology, healthcare, telecommunications, and logistics. Twenty-four Fortune 500 companies call the Dallas area home, including AT&T, Texas Instruments, Southwest Airlines, and American Airlines. The DFW Metroplex added 46,800 jobs in 2025, with particularly strong growth in tech sectors like AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Entry-level tech salaries now start around $105,000. The region’s data center market is expanding rapidly. Major employers span industries from healthcare systems to advanced manufacturing. The unemployment rate remains around 3.8%, reflecting robust job creation and business-friendly policies that continue attracting corporate relocations.
Education:
Dallas Independent School District serves the city, supplemented by numerous suburban districts in the surrounding area. Higher education options include Southern Methodist University, the University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas Baptist University, and multiple community college campuses. The region’s universities support workforce development in technology, business, and healthcare fields. School quality varies significantly by district and campus, with several campuses achieving state and national recognition for academic excellence.
Recreation and Lifestyle:
Dallas offers world-class museums including the Dallas Museum of Art, Perot Museum of Nature and Science, and the Sixth Floor Museum. The Dallas Arts District spans 68 acres downtown, featuring theaters, concert halls, and galleries. Sports fans follow the Cowboys, Mavericks, Stars, and FC Dallas across professional leagues. The city maintains extensive parks, including the 66-acre Klyde Warren Park built over Woodall Rodgers Freeway. Deep Ellum’s music scene, Bishop Arts District’s dining, and the historic West End provide entertainment options. White Rock Lake, Trinity River trails, and numerous golf courses offer outdoor recreation. The city’s mild winters and hot summers support year-round activities.
Healthcare and Services:
Dallas features a comprehensive healthcare network including UT Southwestern Medical Center (ranked among the nation’s top hospitals), Baylor University Medical Center, Texas Health Resources, and Children’s Health. The Medical District concentrates numerous specialty facilities. Major health systems operate hospitals, clinics, and urgent care centers throughout the metropolitan area, providing residents with accessible, quality healthcare options.
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 light rail, bus, and commuter rail lines connecting Dallas to surrounding cities. The system includes four light rail lines and extensive bus routes. Major highways include I-35E, I-30, I-45, and the Dallas North Tollway. The Trinity Railway Express links Dallas and Fort Worth. While public transit serves urban corridors well, most residents depend on personal vehicles for daily commuting.
Conclusion:
Moving to Dallas in 2025 offers access to Fortune 500 headquarters, world-class cultural attractions, and diverse neighborhoods within a business-friendly, no-income-tax state. The combination of job growth, urban amenities, and relatively affordable living compared to coastal cities makes Dallas a prime destination for professionals, families, and entrepreneurs seeking opportunity in the heart of Texas.