Dallas-Fort Worth Newcomer & Relocation Guide

Dallas Fort Worth COMMUNITIES / CULTURE / JOBS SCHOOLS / OUTDOORS / MORE

Newcomer & Relocation Guide

WINNING MOVES

How these athletes and sports execs found more than a place to play in DFW.

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2026 EDITION

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10 REASONS WHY EVERYONE’S LOOKING AT GARLAND AND YOU SHOULD, TOO 04

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Lake Days, Your Way

Room to Roam

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Downtown Garland

Historic charm meets modern flavor. Catch a live theater show, sip a craft cocktail or enjoy a bite from one of our local gems — all in a walkable, art-filled district.

With 68 parks and more than 2,800 acres of green space, Garland offers endless ways to explore and recharge. You’ll find miles of hiking and biking trails, nature preserves, playgrounds, fishing piers and even a disc golf course for outdoor fun of all kinds. Community favorites like the Jon Comer Skatepark and Garland Dog Park make it easy for everyone — twolegged and four — to enjoy the great outdoors.

03

Global Flavors, Local Favorites

Pho that warms your soul, tacos that pack a punch, pupusas made with love — Garland’s kitchens reflect the many cultures that call it home. Every bite tells a story, and every neighborhood is a chance to discover a new favorite.

Wide skies, open water and a breeze off the lake — Lake Ray Hubbard is where Garland slows down. It’s a built-in getaway for early morning fishing, spontaneous sunset cruises or weekend waterfront hangs. The lake also offers a wide range of recreational activities, including jet skiing, paddleboarding and kayaking that bring fun and relaxation to your doorstep.

05

Shop the Spectrum: Malls, Markets and Everything In Between

Garland offers a retail experience for every taste: explore major retailers at Firewheel Town Center, find unique treasures in Downtown Garland’s local shops and enjoy the lively Urban Market each month, where community and commerce come together.

06

A True Texas Original

Garland is the Cowboy Hat Capital of Texas, proudly housing western wear legend Resistol. With deep roots in craftsmanship and tradition, Garland’s legacy is stitched into every hat.

07

Music Lives Here

Garland hits all the right notes — literally. As a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community, our city draws both local talent and big-name acts to venues across town. From intimate stages to outdoor festivals, there’s always a chance to catch a show — sometimes ticketed, sometimes totally free.

Music lives here, and there’s a rhythm for everyone.

08

Events That Feel Like Home

Garland hosts events year-round that bring the community together — holiday events, storytime for kids, art classes, contests, movie nights on the lawn and cultural celebration festivals. There’s always something happening — and often, it’s free.

09

More Home for Your Money

Garland delivers where it matters most: quality homes, established neighborhoods and long-term value you can build your future on. Whether you’re looking for your first house, upgrading for more space or planting roots in a community that feels like home, Garland offers room to grow without stretching your budget.

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A Strong Foundation for Business

Garland is where business gets done — and gets supported.

With a growing customer base, a skilled local workforce and a City team ready to help at every stage, Garland makes it easier to start, grow or relocate your business.

VisitGarlandTX.com

INSIDE 10 Welcome

EXPLORE. 14 Immersive Entertainment High-tech amazements just keep coming.

20 They Came to Play Sports professionals who have relocated to DFW.

LIVE.

26 Finding Home

16 History & Culture

Discover your perfect neighborhood fit.

16 Community Matters

Explore a map of the region.

17 Taking Off

Dallas, Irving, Garland, and more.

74 Denton County: Cozy Suburbs and a College Town Denton, Carrollton, Lewisville, and more.

80 Outer Counties: Small-Town Texas

Burleson, Rockwall, Waxahachie, and more.

87 Home Sweet Home

28 Lay of the Land

Find your perfect living style.

31 Dallas County: The Heart of the Region

20 mixed-use communities to call home.

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport’s new Terminal F will make a more seamless journey from curb to gate.

54 Tarrant County: Where the West Begins Fort Worth, Arlington, and more.

WORK.

18 The Future of Sports

63 Collin County: Growing Into Greatness

98 Opportunity Meets Momentum

National Cowgirl Museum & Hall of Fame.

The D.O.C.’s prescription for underserved Dallas youth.

Growing leagues and world-class venues in a region of champions.

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MEET DALLAS-FORT WORTH

Frisco, Plano, McKinney, and more.

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

94 Live-Work-Play Hubs

Explore the employment landscape.

The award-winning Dallas skyline is one of the defining cityscapes in the Dallas region, which includes modern metros like Fort Worth, Arlington, Plano, and Irving.

101 Major Companies in DFW

121 Fashion & Fun Collide

103 Centers of Success

122 Fun for Families

Meet businesses powering the economy.

Fortune 1000 headquarters in DFW.

105 Wages & Salaries 107 Industry Mix

Diverse business sectors fuel careers in DFW.

108 Where the Jobs Are

Industry clusters from aerospace to high tech and healthcare to manufacturing.

PLAY. 114 Play Your Way PHOTO: MICHAEL SAMPLES

Where to find the fun.

116 Art & Soul

Get the pulse of the cultural scene.

118 Hot Spots

The region’s entertainment field of dreams.

Get ready for shopping around DFW.

Nonstop entertainment to thrill kids of all ages.

124 Game On

Sports fans here have a lot to cheer about.

126 The Outside Life

You’ll find countless natural wonders and green spaces, including parks, trails, lakes, and more.

134 Hidden Gems

Obscure-yet-public spaces that shouldn’t be missed.

THRIVE. 137 Spirit of a Startup DFW is where bold ideas can grow into thriving companies.

ON THE COVER Top row: FC Dallas midfielder Ramiro Benetti, Dallas Mavericks CEO Rick Welts, and Dallas Trinity FC goalkeeper Rylee Foster. Bottom row: Dallas Stars left wing Jason “Robo” Robertson, PGA of America CEO Derek Sprague, and Dude Perfect CEO Andrew Yaffe.

These athletes and executives spill the beans on why saying “yes” to Dallas was the right move for them, and what the region offers people in all phases of life.

2026 / DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE

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INSIDE 138 Find Your Community

Insights to help find your best community fit.

140 Cultures, Faiths, Communities The pulse of DFW—strength in our diversity.

144 In Good Hands

You’ll find top-notch healthcare in DFW.

146 Dallas-Fort Worth Education Discover the landscape of options.

154 Top High Schools

U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 America’s Best High Schools list.

156 Private Schools 50 schools ranked by tuition.

158 Not Your Average College Town

Dallas-Fort Worth has more than 70 accredited colleges and universities.

ESSENTIALS. 162 Getting Around

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166 Drive Time

How long will it take to get there? See road travel times around the region.

168 Public Transit

DART and more options to get around.

170 Taking Flight

Airports around the region connect DFW to the world.

172 Nonstop Flights

Flight times from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.

174 24 Things to Do in Your First 30 Days

Here’s a moving checklist to help you get established, make connections, and feel at home.

176 Taxing Matters

Peruse the rates around the region.

177 Utilities An aerial view of the intersection of Dallas North Tollway and Sam Rayburn Tollway in Collin County.

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DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

Cost examples of electric and gas service.

178 It’s the Law

Things to know about laws in Texas.

P H OTO S : F O R T W O R T H S TO C K YA R D S : YA S H M A N N E PA L L I / U N S P L A S H ; C O L L I N C O U N T Y A E R I A L : J E A N B U R B A N O / I S TO C K

Finding your way in the region.

®

A DALLAS REGIONAL CHAMBER PUBLICATION PUBLISHED BY DALLAS NEXT

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Advertising, Address Changes, Bulk Copies, or Other Inquiries publisher@dallasnext.com Mailing Address P.O. Box 822168 Dallas, TX 75382 The DALLAS® Newcomer + Relocation Guide is published for the Dallas Regional Chamber by Dallas Next LLC. Copyright ©2026 with all rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or reprinted without written permission.

Neither the DRC nor Dallas Next is a sponsor of, or committed to, the views expressed in these articles. The publisher is not responsible for unsolicited contributions.

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2026 / DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE

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WELCOME FROM THE DALLAS REGIONAL CHAMBER

Welcome to Dallas-Fort Worth!

Whether you are arriving for a new job, a new chapter, or simply a new sense of possibility, you are stepping into a place that welcomes people fully. As someone who has lived and led in this region for many years, and who is now beginning my next chapter as President & CEO of the Dallas Regional Chamber, I know how powerfully the Dallas Region helps people imagine what comes next.

This guide reflects that spirit. It offers a glimpse into a community shaped by its people: creators and builders, researchers and risk-takers, families planting roots, and ideas finding their moment. Ours is a region defined less by a single skyline and more by a constellation of “lighthouses”—our universities, our employers, our cultural institutions, and our neighborhoods—all illuminating pathways for those who choose to make Dallas their home.

The strengths that draw people here are both practical and profound. Our economy spans industries— from technology and healthcare to finance and advanced manufacturing—so careers can evolve without leaving the place you’ve come to love. The cost of living remains one of our greatest advantages, giving residents the freedom to live well, save more, and enjoy more of what matters. With a central location, global airports, and eight million neighbors from every corner of the world, Dallas offers connections on a scale few regions can match.

You can feel the region’s vibrancy in daily life. Our cultural scene is flourishing, from world-class arts venues to a dynamic culinary landscape. And our sports heritage continues to deepen, with iconic franchises alongside an exciting rise in women’s professional teams that bring new energy and pride to our community.

Yet the true magic of Dallas-Fort Worth is how it makes people feel. Opportunity here is broad, not narrow.

Ambition is welcomed, not fenced in. You don’t have to fit a mold to belong. This is a region that meets people at every stage of life and career—and invites them to step into what’s possible.

As you explore this guide, I hope you see not just what the Dallas Region offers, but what it makes possible.

And I hope you feel the same thing that has drawn so many of us to stay: the belief that this is a place where potential—yours, ours, and the region’s—is meant to be realized.

Welcome home to what’s next.

Brad Cheves President and CEO Dallas Regional Chamber

GET CONNECTED

The Dallas Regional Chamber champions economic growth and prosperity across one of the world’s most dynamic regions. We serve as the voice of business in the Dallas Region, working with our members and partners to strengthen our business community by advocating for pro-growth public policies, improving our educational system, attracting and developing talented workers, and enhancing the quality of life for all people and communities. The DRC is recognized as one of the nation’s most respected business organizations and was named National Chamber of the Year by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives.

For more information, please contact the DRC at 214-746-6600 or visit www.dallaschamber.org.

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DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

2026 CHAIR OF THE BOARD Darcy Anderson Vice Chairman Hillwood President & CEO Brad Cheves

Executive Vice President Meghan Kelley Wehner

Executive Vice President Dana Jennings

Economic Development, Senior Vice President Mike Rosa

Research & Innovation, Senior Vice President Duane Dankesreiter

Education, Talent, and Workforce, Senior Vice President Jarrad Toussant

Public Policy, Senior Vice President Rebekah Chenelle

Opportunity and Impact, Senior Vice President Latosha Herron Bruff

Research & Innovation,

PHOTO: MICHAEL SAMPLES

Vice President Eric Griffin

Storyteller & Data Journalist Nicole Ward

THE CONVERSATION CONTINUES ONLINE n Want to see how much money you’ll save moving here?

Test our cost-ofliving calculator.

n Trying to narrow down a neighborhood or city?

View bonus photos to get a better feel for each city’s distinct character.

n This guide is just a taste of the region.

There’s so much more to know.

Go online and learn more about DFW.

n Want more detail on something you see here?

Find articles, facts, links, essential contacts, and photos online.

n Don’t keep it to yourself!

Find shareable articles, everything in this magazine, and online extras.

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THE

NATURAL

HEART OF THE METROPLEX

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EXPLORE. NEWS // NEXT // NOTEWORTHY

YOUR PATH STARTS HERE

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Discover what’s happening now. >>

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EXPLORE GAME ON

ANNOUNCED

Immersive Entertainment Rules Ready to really get in the game? Dallas-Fort Worth has become a testing ground for an endless variety of immersive entertainment concepts—who knows what’s next?

UNIVERSAL KIDS RESORT ON TRACK FOR A 2026 OPENING Expect to see kidfavorite characters like DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek, Puss in Boots, Trolls, Gabby’s Dollhouse, and more, when the Universal Kids resort is set to open for business in the summer of 2026.

In addition to character meet-andgreets, you’ll find familyfriendly attractions, as well as interactive and playful shows.

Located in Frisco, the 100-acre park is designed for families with kids ages 3 to 11, and aims to capture a whole new generation of fans.

Don’t worry if you’re exhausted after a visit— the resort will also include a 300-room themed hotel.

OINK, OINK, HURRAY! Right on schedule, the $40 millionplus Peppa Pig Theme Park held its grand opening in North Richland Hills, near Fort Worth, in March 2025. Developed

by Merlin Entertainments, a global leader in branded entertainment destinations, it’s the third Peppa Pig Theme Park on Earth, following two others in Florida and Germany.

The preschool-centered attraction marks the latest addition to Merlin’s partnership with the leading games, IP, and toy company Hasbro.

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NETFLIX HOUSE OPENS AT GALLERIA DALLAS For two decades, Netflix has been invited into your home. Now they’re inviting you to theirs.

Welcome to Netflix House, a first-of-its-kind, immersive entertainment destination that brings your favorite shows and movies to life.

Dallas is one of only two cities in the country to host this groundbreaking concept, which officially opened on December 11, 2025, at Galleria Dallas.

Located at the intersection of LBJ Freeway and the Dallas North Tollway, the 100,000-plus-square-foot venue occupies the first and second floors of the mall’s former Belk department store. The space has been completely reimagined to transport visitors into the world of Netflix— offering a mix of activities, games, dining, and interactive storytelling. Netflix House is free to explore and will feature a variety of paid and complimentary experiences that

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

update and change over time. This way, guests can make repeated visits throughout the year, and still be delighted with something new. For the uninitiated, Netflix House’s technology allows visitors to place themselves in their favorite stories through immersive experiences, themed spaces, and exclusive retail and dining offerings.

Highlights include “Stranger Things: Escape the Dark,” where guests can journey into the ruins of Hawkins to find missing townspeople before creatures from the Upside Down find you; “Squid Game: Survive the Trials,” high-stakes, interactive challenges and a chance to win it all; and Netflix RePLAY, a new take on the classic arcade packed with physical challenges, immersive story rooms, and retro-style games inspired by hit Netflix titles such as “Floor Is Lava,” “Love Is Blind,” “Army of the Dead,” “Big Mouth,” and more.

Visitors can also enjoy show-themed meals and cocktails at Netflix BITES, take selfies with iconic characters and explore exclusive merchandise inspired by what’s popular on Netflix.

For tickets, hours, and upcoming events, visit netflixhouse.com.

EXPLORE

STEP INTO BATBOX

P H OTO S : M E O W W O L F, AT L A S M E D I A ; T W O B I T C I R C U S , D A L L A S I N N O VAT E S ; U N I V E R S A L O R L A N D O L A N D M A R K , M A A N S O N / S H U T T E R S TO C K ; OT H E R S C O U R T E S Y O F T H E C O M PA N I E S

Batbox Dallas is ready for you to play ball! You and a bunch of your besties can compete in the 13,000-square-foot, social and tech-infused baseball “eatertainment” facility. Located in Addison Village, it features 10 baseball simulators, a sports bar with nachos, fried pickles, tacos, burgers, salads, and more.

Cocktails and mocktails can also be purchased. Don’t feel like swinging a bat? Pick a game on one of the big screens and just be a spectator.

GIGA DIVE COASTER

Six Flags Over Texas is about to break six world records by building the “fastest, longest, and first-ever giga (300+-foot-tall) dive coaster” on earth. Called the Tormenta Rampaging Run, the 309-foot-tall coaster will open in 2026—soaring riders at up to 87 miles per hour and dropping them a world-record 285 feet down toward the planet at a brain-numbing, beyond-vertical 95 degrees.

SURF’S UP IN NORTH TEXAS

You can now hang 10 in North Texas. Goodsurf Deep Ellum opened during the summer of 2024. Shred waves with “standing wave” technology or get a bite to eat and have a beer with friends while you watch others test their skills. Over at Grandscape in The Colony, Fireside Surf offers a restaurant with craft beers, cocktails, and its own pool with up to six-foot curls. Both use tech from Germany-based citywave, offering “a perfect, naturally shaped wave.”

A FOODIE’S PARADISE From Michelin star establishments to street food wonders Families, single professionals, artists, and others have chosen Dallas-Fort Worth—many times coming for the opportunity and staying for the culture and quality of life. Now the Michelin Guide has found the region as well.

In 2025, Mamani, the French Contemporary restaurant, located in Uptown Dallas, earned its first Michelin star, and joined Tatsu Dallas, an Edomae Sushi restaurant in the Deep Ellum area, which earned a Michelin star for highquality cooking in 2024 and retained it in 2025.

The Exceptional Cocktails Award went to Chas Martin at Mister Charles, located in Knox Henderson.

Several other area restaurants earned a Bib Gourmand recognition—great food at a great value. In Dallas, these include Cattleack Barbeque, Gemma, Lucia, Mot Hai Ba, Ngon Vietnamese Kitchen, and Nonna. In Fort Worth, Goldee’s Barbecue earned the recognition. According to Michael Ellis, international director of the Michelin Guide books, “A restaurant in the Recommended selection is the sign of a chef using quality ingredients that are well cooked; simply a good meal.”

These newly recognized restaurants are part of the Dallas region’s impressive food scene. The area is packed with culinary adventures for food enthusiasts, showcasing an eclectic mix of regional and international flavors.

While it wouldn’t be Texas without authentic barbecue joints, regional staples from across the country also have found homes here—a testament to North Texans’ sophisticated palate. New York, Chicago, and California are just a few places whose food scenes have been “imported” to DFW. Consider, for example, Sadelle’s in Highland Park Village, inspired by New York’s great delis and described as an “allday restaurant.” Sadelle’s choices range from freshly made bagels with smoked salmon to gourmet salads and seafood.

District, an imported favorite from

San Francisco, opened in Addison in 2022. Part neighborhood bar, part refined dining spot, it’s the chain’s first location outside of California. The restaurant boasts a diverse menu, from farm-grown vegetarian options to oysters on the half shell to pizza.

Quartino Ristorante and Wine Bar is an Italian neighborhood eatery from Chicago that opened in 2023 in the Grotto District of Grandscape in The Colony. Patrons can choose from shared plates, handmade pastas, Neapolitan-style pizza, and more.

Quartino offers two levels, including an indoor and outdoor bar plus dining room seating.

These are just a few of the out-of-state eateries that have found their way to DFW, rounding out the area’s traditional options like steakhouses and Tex-Mex cuisine.

OTHER MICHELIN-RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS IN DALLAS: Barsotti’s—Highland Park Crown Block—Downtown El Carlos Elegante—Dallas Fearing’s—Uptown Georgie —Knox-Henderson Knox Bistro—Knox-Henderson Mercat Bistro—Harwood District Mister Charles—KnoxHenderson Monarch—Downtown Quarter Acre—Lower Greenville Rye—Lower Greenville Sachet—Oak Lawn Stillwell’s—Dallas Stock & Barrell—Bishop Arts Sushi Kozy—Arts District Tei-An—Downtown Written by the Seasons—Bishop Arts ARLINGTON: Smoke’n Ash BBQ FORT WORTH: Birreria y Taqueria Cortez Panther City BBQ MCKINNEY: Harvest

2026 / DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE

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EXPLORE H I S TO RY + C U LT U R E

Saddle up at the National Cowgirl Museum & Hall of Fame Whether you’ve got a future cowgirl at home, or you just want to learn more about the history and culture of this uniquely American—and Texan—tradition, head over to the National Cowgirl Museum & Hall of Fame, in Fort Worth.

The Cowgirl Museum was started in 1975 in Hereford, Texas, and moved to Fort Worth in 1994. At 33,000 square feet, it was an impressive addition to the Will Rogers Memorial Complex in the city’s cultural district, where you can also find the Kimbell Art Museum, Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, Amon Carter Museum, and the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History.

And as of this writing, the Cowgirl is getting a 16,000-square-foot, $19 million upgrade. The makeover will see the addition of a working carousel, which will have a personal touch. Donors had the option of purchasing and custom painting the horses to match the branding of their own ranches. There will also be a gallery dedicated to women’s fashions and the cowgirl influence through the years. Miranda Lambert’s costuming from her Velvet Rodeo tour is expected to be one of the featured exhibits.

And of course, the museum is packed with artifacts and history, as well as a mechanical bronco. See how long you can hang on.

C O M M U N I T Y M AT T E R S

‘We Are Dallas’: The D.O.C. Creates On-Ramp to $3T Media Industry

The nonprofit will blend the arts, STEM, and industry-driven education to engage students and show them a career pathway in the $3 trillion media, entertainment, and tech industry. It’s a vision many kids may not have had for themselves previously.

At launch, partners included Game-Square, Brag House, Taylor Sheridan’s Bosque Ranch Productions, Interbank, Stemuli, Vela Wood, the T.D. Jakes Foundation, For Oak Cliff, and the Big Thought Institute, which developed the DEA curriculum.

“We are Dallas in here,” said Curry. “We are Marines in here. There are teachers and preachers

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Full story on Dallas Innovates:

in here. There are civic leaders and civil rights icons in here. There are mothers and fathers in here. There are children of the city of Dallas in

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

here. And if we share anything, it is a love for our city. We know how special we are—and we know what we can be.”

P H OTO S : T H E D. O. C . : D R C ; OT H E R S C O U R T E S Y O F T H E O R G A N I Z AT I O N S

Dallas-reared Tracy “The D.O.C.” Curry launched his Dreams Experience Academy (or DEA) education initiative at an event at Oak Cliff’s Kessler Theater.

Hollywood has nothing on Dallas. Hiphop legend Tracy “The D.O.C.” Curry, who lost his voice in a 1989 car accident and took home a lifetime achievement award from the Grammys in 2024, launched the Dreams Experience Academy (DEA) in April 2025.

EXPLORE Rendering of interior of Dallas Fort Worth International Airport’s new Terminal F

TRINITY VISION

DFW DISCOVERY TRAIL Soon, you’ll be able to bike, hike, jog, or stroll across the metroplex on one continuous, 66-mile trail.

TAKING OFF NEW TERMINAL F IS BUILT FOR TRAVELERS

I M A G E S C O U R T E S Y O F T H E O R G A N I Z AT I O N S

PA N T H E R I S L A N D P H OTO : H R & A A D V I S O R S , I N C .

Opening in 2027, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport’s new Terminal F will make a more seamless journey from curb to gate.

DFW Airport’s planned Terminal F is set to make travel smoother, more comfortable, and more connected for passengers when its first phase opens in 2027. The new terminal—part of a $4 billion expansion—will add 31 gates and enhance the airport’s capacity and efficiency. For travelers, this translates into more flight options, easier connections, and a better chance of finding convenient departure times, especially on American Airlines, which will exclusively operate the terminal.

Terminal F is being designed with modern travelers in mind. Expect upgraded check-in areas, improved security lanes intended to shorten wait times, and next-generation baggage systems to speed up arrivals. Wider concourses, more seating, enhanced dining, and additional retail will help create a calmer, more enjoyable airport experience.

For international travelers, increased capacity for wide-body aircraft and smoother transfer points will make global travel through DFW feel more seamless than ever. Terminal F aims to elevate the journey from start to finish.

The DFW Discovery Trail is now 95% complete, a monumental effort led by five North Texas communities. It will serve as DFW’s “Route 66,” linking Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Grand Prairie, and Irving. The Loop Dallas Executive Director Philip Hiatt Haigh shared his enthusiasm for the project, noting how it complements the 50-mile trail circuit his organization is building for the City of Dallas. The two trails will connect along the Trinity River in Dallas. “As The Loop Dallas creates an active transportation system across the nation’s 9th largest city, the DFW Discovery Trail is the first step to connecting all of North Texas,” said Hiatt Haigh. “You can ride or walk from downtown Dallas to downtown Fort Worth and see Arlington, Grand Prairie, and Irving in between.”

THE ISLAND THAT WILL CONNECT PANTHER CITY Historically known as Panther City, Fort Worth is pursuing a once-in-a-generation placemaking project. Panther Island is a 330-acre live-work-play development—designed to connect downtown to the city’s cultural district and the Stockyards— centered just north of downtown and bounded by the Trinity River. The initial plan was approved by the city council in 2004. The Army Corps of Engineers received $423 million in project funding in 2022. In 2025, the Trinity Regional Water District issued an RFQ seeking partners to begin the first phase of the redevelopment project.

PA R K P L AC E S

GREEN SPACES: FROM DECK PARKS TO KALEIDOSCOPIC ATTRACTIONS Sometimes “going out” means attending a show.

Other times, it means getting into nature. And there are plenty of places across DFW to do that.

Southern Gateway is building a new deck park that will stretch across I-35E between Ewing and Marsalis avenues, adjacent to the Dallas Zoo. It will be named Halperin Park—after the $23 million grant given by the

Halperin Foundation; it’s expected to open in spring 2026.

Meanwhile, Kaleidoscope Park opened in October 2024. A 5.7-acre attraction in the heart of Frisco’s HALL Park, it joins Fort Worth’s Botanic Garden, Plano’s Arbor Hills Nature Preserve, and the Dallas Arboretum as greenspace destinations.

Kaleidoscope Park

2026 / DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE

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A PICKLE PLACE: The Dallas Flash was the 2024 Major League Pickleball (MLP) champ—winning the playoffs against the Miami Pickleball Club.

ADAPTIVE SPORTS: The Southwest Wheelchair Athletic Association promotes track & field wheelchair racing, sled hockey, fencing, soccer, and more.

STICKY WICKET: Major League Cricket launched its first-ever season in 2023 at Grand Prairie Stadium, with the Texas Super Kings as the local heroes.

HELL ON WHEELS: Dallas Derby Devils All Stars (B Team) vs. Panhandle United Roller Derby

D E E P RO OT S

EXPLORE

CUP CRAZY: Dallas will be one of 16 host cities in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

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DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

FORE: PGA of America’s Frisco HQ is just one of many golf and golfentertainment HQs teeing off in the Dallas area.

EXPLORE

B A L L S TO T H E WA L L

The Future of Sports Is in North Texas

P H OTO S C O U R T E S Y O F T H E C O M PA N I E S ; W O R L D C U P F I F A / S H U T T E R S TO C K . C O M ; D E R B Y D E V I L S R E V E L AT I O N S – Q U E N T I N C A M P B E L L R O L L E R D E R B Y P H OTO G R A P H Y

Dallas-Fort Worth has a vibrant and evolving sports landscape—with new leagues, exciting venues, and people still buzzing over recent championships The Texas Rangers capped a big year for DFW sports in November 2023 by winning their first World Series in the franchise’s 63-year history. But baseball is far from the only game in town. We also have the Dallas Cowboys, the UFL’s Dallas Renegades, the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks, the WNBA’s Dallas Wings, the NHL’s Dallas Stars, MLS’ FC Dallas, the USL Super League’s Dallas Trinity FC, and the indoor-soccer Dallas Sidekicks. And we’ve got up-and-coming leagues with a strong presence in North Texas—from Major League Cricket to the Pro Volleyball Federation to Major League Rugby to the PPA Tour.

JERRY WORLD GEARS UP FOR THE 2026 WORLD CUP

The Dallas Cowboys top the list of the most valuable sports franchises on earth at $11 billion, according to a 2024 CNBC article. But when the team announced it was spending $295 million to spruce up AT&T Stadium, owner Jerry Jones had something else on his mind: the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be played in 16 cities in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Dallas will be one of the host cities, with several matches slated to be played on the Cowboys’ home “pitch.”

MAJOR LEAGUE CRICKET

Sticky wickets have made their way to North Texas. So have cartwheels, cherries, diamond ducks, and golden ducks. We learned these terms when one of the world’s most popular sports came to DFW. Major League Cricket launched in DFW in July 2023.

The Texas Super Kings is the Lone Star State’s only Major League Cricket team, and plays at Grand Prairie Stadium, which has seating that can accommodate up to 20,000 people.

It’s expected to host international tournaments as well. The stadium is also home to USA Cricket, the governing body of the sport in the United States.

Professional cricket was brought to Texas and the U.S. by local investors Anurag Jain and Ross Perot Jr., who joined a $44 million funding round to build out the league’s infrastructure.

Currently, there are six teams representing Dallas, San Francisco, New York City, Seattle, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C.

AMERICA’S ‘GOLF MECCA’

The PGA of America moved its headquarters from Florida to Frisco, debuting its $33.5 million high-tech home in 2022 as part of PGA Frisco, a $500 million-plus mixed-use development.

The new HQ has plenty of company in North Texas. Dallas-based Invited is the world’s largest owner and operator of golf and country clubs.

Also headquartered in Dallas are tech-driven Topgolf, Drive Shack, and Puttery, as well as Arcis Golf, the second-largest owner of private, resort, and daily-fee golf clubs in the U.S. Other golf-themed local attractions include a 32,000-squarefoot Puttshack in Addison and Tiger Woods’ Popstroke at Grandscape in The Colony.

PICKLEBALL GETS HOTTER

Millions have fallen head over paddle for pickleball, and the craze is all over North Texas. In Plano, Pickleball Kingdom opened in 2024, with another location slated for an area north of Galleria Dallas. A third facility is destined for North Fort Worth, near the Keller border.

This follows consistent investment from Dallas billionaires.

In 2022, Tom Dundon, chairman and managing partner of Dallas’ Dundon Capital Partners and owner of the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes, acquired majority ownership of the Professional Pickleball Association, e-commerce platform Pickleball Central, and PickleballTournaments.com.

In 2023, Dallas Mavericks minority owner Mark Cuban was one of three Dallas business leaders who formed Dallas Flash Pickleball.

In addition to the Pickleball Kingdom locations, check out Pickle and Social in Frisco, Picklemall in Dallas, and The Picklr, which has several locations in Texas, including four in Dallas-Fort Worth.

MAKING OUR MARK IN ESPORTS

The largest turnkey esports facility in North America is in Arlington. Esports Stadium Arlington, under the management of OpTic Gaming, opened in 2018 as an adaptable venue for spectator gaming events. At 100,000 square feet, with a fully functional RGB stage, 90-foot LED displays, and more, it hosted the 2024 Halo Championship Series in March.

TEXAS LIVE!

HEAD TO ARLINGTON TO MAXIMIZE FAMILY FUN TIME The Arlington Entertainment District is home to AT&T Stadium, Globe Life Field, and Choctaw Stadium. But you can catch more than the Cowboys, the Rangers, and the Renegades here. Texas Live! has all kinds of dining and entertainment options, including the 35,000-squarefoot Live Arena, where you can catch live music and see games on a 100-foot screen.

Or get your heart racing at Six Flags Over Texas or Six Flags Hurricane Harbor. The National Medal of Honor Museum is also here.

ROLLER DERBY FOR EVERYONE

Ever competed in roller derby?

The Dallas Derby Devils could be for you. Youth, women, men, and gender-expansive individuals have the opportunity to participate in flat track roller derby at local, national, and international levels. Don’t want to compete? No problem—use the track to connect with a diverse community of roller derby enthusiasts and make some new friends!

ADAPTIVE SPORTS HAS A HOME IN DALLAS

From wheelchair basketball to wheelchair fencing, assisted fishing and climbing, mini horse visits for children with disabilities, and more, the UTSW Adaptive Sports Coalition is your connection to sports and recreation in North Texas. To learn more, visit the coalition’s Facebook page.

SWING LIKE THE GREATS AT REVERCHON PARK The “cathedral of baseball in Dallas” otherwise known as Reverchon Park, located in Uptown Dallas, got a makeover. It’s open and ready for kids to “play ball.”

Built in 1915, “It’s where legends like Ty Cobb, Willie Mays, and Johnny Bench once played—and where generations of Dallas kids chased dreams in the dirt,” said Lane Conner, board member, City of Dallas Park and Recreation.

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FEATURE

Dallas Stars left wing Jason “Robo” Robertson

They Came to Play: Behind Dallas-Fort Worth’s ‘World-Renowned Reputation’ as a Sports Capital From its major league teams and annual championship events to its first-class facilities for amateur sports, DFW has become a ‘star’ region for athletes and athletic competition of all stripes.

Just ask the pros.

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T

here’s no better place to be a sports fan than Dallas–Fort Worth. Every major professional sports league—from baseball, basketball, and football to hockey and soccer—boasts a team in North Texas.

Even cricket has found a home here, led by Major League Cricket with its headquarters in Grand Prairie.

There’s much more, too, including annual championships and marquee matchups of all stripes. College football takes the national stage with the University of Texas-University of Oklahoma Red River Rivalry in the fall and the College Football Playoff

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

Goodyear Cotton Bowl in December.

The region also welcomes the Professional Bull Riders World Finals, the 2026 INDYCAR Grand Prix of Arlington, the Pickleball World Championships, and PGA Tour staples like the CJ Cup Byron Nelson and the Charles Schwab Challenge at Colonial.

In 2026, Dallas also will host nine FIFA World Cup matches, including one semifinal match, thrusting the region into the global soccer spotlight. Over the eight-day event, roughly 4 million visitors are expected to attend the matchups and explore the area.

DFW isn’t just a great place to watch sports, though. It’s also an incredible

EXPLORE

FC Dallas midfielder Ramiro Benetti walks onto the field with his sons

place to play them yourself. From neighborhood leagues and running clubs to world-class public golf courses and miles of nature trails, the region makes it easy for everyone to get in on the action.

That includes families, of course— especially those with kids eager to shine under the stadium lights. With several nationally ranked youth athletic programs, professionallevel facilities, and a deep bench of experienced coaches, DFW offers one of the strongest environments in the country for budding competitors. In a region where high school sports are ingrained in the culture, students have every opportunity to excel.

It’s this thriving sports culture at all levels that propelled DFW to be named the No. 1 city in the country for sports business, as determined

by Sports Business Journal, in 2023.

“Dallas is clearly the star,” the publication declared.

The people who lead, compete, and build here have played a major role in attaining that stellar status. And their insights reveal just how dynamic the region truly has become from a sports perspective.

Transplants make their move

Jason “Robo” Robertson, left wing for the NHL’s Dallas Stars, first got a glimpse of Dallas while attending the team’s training camp in 2017. He spent the 2018-19 season in Ontario with the Niagara IceDogs—a development team for future NHL players—before the Stars called him up for his pro hockey debut in 2020. He has since become one of the league’s most

dynamic young talents.

“I didn’t know a lot about Texas when I moved here, but I was immediately impressed with how nice everyone is,” Robertson said.

Nice, yes, and serious about their sports—something FIFA will be counting on.

“Dallas has a world-renowned reputation as a sports city,” said Monica Paul, executive director of the Dallas Sports Commission and president of the North Texas FIFA World Cup organizing committee. “We are proud of the diverse array of sports events, organizations, and fans who call our region home.”

That’s something Robertson noticed right away, too.

“Each team in the metroplex has such a strong fan base,” he said. “No matter which sport, the team has so many

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FEATURE The lure of culture and community

Dallas Trinity FC goalkeeper Rylee Foster

diehard fans—and they’re very vocal and energetic. It doesn’t take much to get them engaged in the game.”

He also finds support and connection from the community, especially as one of the first Filipino American players to compete in the NHL. “It’s awesome when I look into the crowd and see more Filipino Americans,” Robertson said. “I think hockey is the best sport in the world and no matter what your background or previous exposure to the sport, once you come to a hockey game you will be hooked.”

Ramiro Benetti, a midfielder for Major League Soccer’s FC Dallas team who’s known professionally only by his first name, also is a transplant— arriving in Dallas by way of Brazil.

He knew a little then about the United States, and Dallas came highly recommended.

“I have friends who played here and told me great things about the city, so when I came, I already knew what to expect,” Ramiro said. “I was looking forward to sharing this experience 22

with my family and, honestly, we are very happy.”

Ramiro and his family settled in Frisco, where they quickly found a sense of familiarity.

“We have a Brazilian community,” he said. “We even have a family that is from my city in Brazil.”

Canadian-born Rylee Foster is the goalkeeper for Dallas Trinity FC, DFW’s first professional women’s soccer team and a member of the United Soccer League’s Gainbridge Super League. She and her husband, Jack, came to North Texas in 2025.

“Jack is a super, super Englishman,” Foster said. “Born and raised in Warrington, which is between Manchester and Liverpool. Can’t get much more English.”

They settled in Farmers Branch and, together, are figuring out their new home.

“Great coffee, great people,” she said. “We also found a church. It’s really nice to have that opportunity.

Other than that, the food and everything is miles different.”

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

Andrew Yaffe sits at the intersection of traditional sports and modern media.

With leadership experience at the NBA and now as the first CEO of Dude Perfect, he brings a unique perspective on how sports, entertainment, and business come together.

Dude Perfect, a creator-led entertainment company, produces family-friendly sports and lifestyle content. It was founded in 2009 by five college friends, and its YouTube channel has become the largest sports account on the platform with more than 60 million subscribers.

“The decision to leave the NBA and come to DFW was difficult, but I saw the chance to transform an amazing platform into a world-class business,” Yaffe said. “When my wife and I came to visit and understood the lifestyle we’d have here, and the opportunity it would present, we jumped at the chance.”

They settled in North Dallas, where he says they like having space without sacrificing connectivity. “We have access to restaurants, culture, and the community of Dallas. And my office is only a 25-minute drive in the morning.”

He’s not the only NBA alum who’s landed in North Texas. Rick Welts, CEO of the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks, thought his basketball days were behind him when opportunity came knocking in 2024.

“I was happily retired after 10 years at the Golden State Warriors, but this is the lone NBA team that could have changed my mind,” said Welts.

“It is the combination of the history of great fan support for the Mavs; the most exciting, growing region of the country; and the business-friendly environment.”

He decided to scope things out before deciding on a new neighborhood. For now, he’s living in a high-rise near the American Airlines Center, where the Mavericks play.

“I’m in Victory Park. I think I can see to Oklahoma!” said Welts. “I have a 100-foot walk to games and a 5-minute commute to the office and practice facility. It is my first time living in Dallas, and I wanted to be able to learn the city better before making a more permanent move.”

my wife “andWhen I came to visit

Dude Perfect CEO Andrew Yaffe

EXPLORE

and understood the lifestyle we’d have here, and the opportunity it would present, we jumped at the chance.

”

— ANDREW YAFFE CEO, DUDE PERFECT

‘People want to build relationships’

What made Dallas the No. 1 city for sports business goes beyond the facilities and the fans, though. It’s also the simple, everyday interactions—how people reach out, make connections, and support newcomers.

It’s something that Yaffe recognized after arriving here. “What has pleasantly surprised me is the hospitality and willingness of everyone in the community to open their homes—and ranches—and welcome us to Texas,” he said.

“The willingness of business leaders to engage was a great surprise,” added Welts. “People are interested, people want to help, and people want to build relationships at a level I haven’t experienced in other markets.”

The Mavs chief executive speaks with authority, having made stops in San Francisco, New York, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Sacramento, Chicago, Palm Desert, and Seattle before moving to North Texas.

Derek Sprague, who became CEO of Frisco-based PGA of America in February 2025, appreciates the DFW ecosystem as well.

“The business landscape here in Texas reminds me of the first club I worked with in New York,” Sprague said. “It’s structured as a public-private partnership—much like our approach with PGA Frisco. Texas has brilliantly

Dallas Mavericks CEO Rick Welts

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FEATURE

“

Texas has brilliantly leveraged this model, using sports as a significant economic driver.

PGA of America CEO Derek Sprague

”

— DEREK SPRAGUE CEO, PGA OF AMERICA

leveraged this model, using sports as a significant economic driver.”

Sports in Dallas is also a unifier—a way for people to double down on doing good.

“Every year, I look forward to the holiday season because of Robo’s Holiday Toy Drive in support of Children’s Health,” said Robertson.

“It’s an incredible opportunity to give back to my community and lend a helping hand. Stars fans have been incredible and generously donated tons of toys. We have been able to brighten the holiday season of so many kids.”

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‘A special energy’ for FIFA World Cup

Many people choose to plant roots in the Dallas region because of the balance if offers. A balance between professionalism and quality of life, between Michelin-rated restaurants and barbecue joints, between entertainment for singles and families.

“My kids were thrilled to see Big Tex at the State Fair,” said Yaffe.

“Probably the most Texan thing I’ve done so far is go to a Dallas Cowboys game at AT&T Stadium,”

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

said Robertson.

When FIFA fans descend on DFW in 2026, the objective will be to catch some games and cheer for their favorites.

“I experienced the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, and it’s a special time for everyone because people come from all over the world with a joy, a special energy,” said Ramiro. “So, it’s a tremendous joy to be here in the United States now that it will be welcoming many cultures, many countries, many people with an energy that is very special.”

His suggestion for visitors looking for things to do? “Texas barbecue is amazing.”

Others had different recommendations.

Yaffe points people to Uptown for dining, and a round of golf at Omni PGA Frisco. Robertson encourages visitors to take advantage of Dallas’ year-round good weather and get outside. And Sprague suggests exploring the Fort Worth Stockyards and making time for a trip to Magnolia Market at the Silos in Waco.

Whether people come to Dallas for a week or a lifetime, Yaffe says, they should expect to feel at home.

“It’s an amazing community. There’s a great willingness to meet new people, welcome them to the area, and make new connections,” he said.

“Take advantage when you’re invited or when someone offers help, as they usually mean it.”

LIVE.

COMMUNITIES, NEIGHBORHOODS, AND MAKING YOUR HOME IN THE DALLAS REGION.

PHOTO: DALLAS SPORTS COMMISSION/VISIT DALLAS

MEET DALLASFORT WORTH Explore the largest and fastest-growing cities and towns that make up the Dallas mega-region.

Big Tex with local mascots at the State Fair of Texas.

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MCKINNEY SQUARE

REUNION TOWER, DALLAS

FORT WORTH

JAPANESE GARDENS, FORT WORTH

SOUTHLAKE TOWN SQUARE

TEXAS LIVE!, ARLINGTON

BACHMAN LAKE, DALLAS

PGA OF AMERICA, FRISCO

GRAPEVINE GRAPESTOMP

CEDAR HILL

PLANO

WHITE ROCK LAKE, DALLAS

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COMMUNITIES

HEIGHTS AQUATIC CENTER, RICHARDSON

Finding Home DISCOVER YOUR PERFECT NEIGHBORHOOD FIT IN DALLAS-FORT WORTH.

DALLAS

WATER STREET, IRVING

MCKINNEY

The Dallas-Fort Worth region is a modern metro with more than 200 cities, each unique in personality but all Texas proud. The region’s four most populous counties are Dallas, Tarrant (home of Fort Worth), Collin, and Denton. Nine surrounding “outer ring” counties are dotted by small Texas towns and a few larger cities.

Within these pages, you’ll find a snapshot of the largest cities within these counties, as well as a look at key neighborhoods and interesting facts. It’s a lay of the land to help you find the right community for your lifestyle and family.

With so many welcoming neighborhoods, Dallas-Fort Worth has something for everyone, whether you’re looking to rent or buy. Generally, millennials flock to urban areas like Uptown and Downtown Dallas, and Near Southside in Fort Worth, for walkable fun with plenty of people. Families generally seek out newly built neighborhoods in suburban cities like Plano, Frisco, and Southlake. But wherever they settle, they’ll be pleased to find educational excellence throughout the region, including ISDs with campuses honored as 2025 Lone Star Ribbon Schools (formerly National Blue Ribbon Schools), located in Carrollton-Farmers Branch, Euless, and Wylie. Empty nesters retire to low-maintenance living in active adult communities. Outdoor lovers head to Lake Ray Hubbard, Grapevine Lake, or Lewisville lakefront neighborhoods.

Architecture buffs restore historic homes in areas like Highland Park, Dallas’ Swiss Avenue, or Fort Worth’s Ryan Place. Golf enthusiasts have premier golf communities like Las Colinas’ Four Seasons, Westlake’s Vaquero, and McKinney’s TPC at Craig Ranch, plus the PGA recently opened its new national headquarters in Frisco, bringing major tournaments to courses in the area.

Those looking for space can find acreage in scenic countryside cities like Celina or Rockwall.

Despite explosive growth, DFW is more affordable compared to other major U.S. metros. The region offers move-up, lateral, and downsize housing options to fit many budgets. With so many cities and types of real estate, newcomers can find their ideal home. From single-family homes of every design, to bespoke high-rises, to neighborhood townhomes, to modern apartments, to live-work-play communities, you’ll discover your perfect fit in Dallas-Fort Worth. You’ll also find land, and plenty of it, giving DFW a spacious, open feel.

Start your exploration in the pages ahead.

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LIVE / WORK / PLAY / THRIVE

Whitesboro

Sherm

Gainesville

The Lay of the Land Bowie

Start talking to people about Dallas-Fort Worth, and you’ll quickly realize the sheer size of the region. The official North Texas metropolitan area comprises 11 counties and more than 8,600 square miles, making it the largest landlocked metropolitan area in the United States. Fun fact: you can fit the island of Manhattan inside DFW Airport grounds.

WISE

DENTON

Pilot Point

COLLIN

Sanger

Alvord

Weston

Celina Aubrey Chico

Krugerville Krum Denton

Decatur Lake Bridgeport

Bridgeport Ponder

Runaway Bay

Shady Shores

Paradise DISH

New Fairview

Justin

Boyd Aurora

Briar CDP Springtown Reno Sanctuary

Double Oak

Westlake

Grapevine Lake

Haslet

Southlake

WataugaNorth Richland Hills

Saginaw Blue Mound

Hebron

Murphy

Addison Farmers Branch

Euless

Bedford

Garland

University Park Highland Park

Irving

FORT WORTH Benbrook

Pantego Dalworthington Gardens

HOOD Cresson

Rendon CDP

Burleson

Mansfield

Hutchins

DeSoto

Lancaster

Wilmer

DALLAS Glenn Heights

JOHNSON ELLIS

Briaroaks

Oak Trail Shores CDP

DALLAS

Cockrell Hill

Duncanville

Joe Pool Lake

Kennedale

TARRANTCrowley

White Rock Lake

Arlington

Forest Hill

Edgecliff Village

Mountain Creek Lake Grand Prairie

Cedar Hill

Ferris

Ovilla Red Oak Oak Leaf

Pecan Hill

Midlothian

Cross Timber Joshua

Godley

Palmer

Venus

De Cordova Bend Keene

Waxahachie

Alvarado

Tolar Pecan Plantation CDP

Richardson

Carrollton

Coppell

Colleyville

Everman

Granbury

Parker

Plano

Haltom Hurst City Richland Hills

Lake Worth

Aledo

PARKER

Allen

The Colony

Lewisville

Grapevine

Keller

Annetta North

Annetta South

Frisco

RoanokeTrophy Club

River Oaks White Settlement Westover Hills

Annetta

Little Elm

Flower Mound

Pecan Acres CDP Pelican Bay Eagle Mountain CDP Eagle Azle Mountain Lake

Willow Park Hudson ‘Oaks

McKinney

Oak Point

Corinth Lake Dallas Hickory CreekLewisville Argyle Lake Copper CanyonHighland Village Bartonville

Rhome

Newark

Lakeside

Weatherford

Northlake

Prosper

Cross Roads

Garrett Cleburne

Ennis Maypearl

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DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026 Glen Rose

Grandview

Bardwell

COMMUNITIES

man

Bonham

WHERE THE PEOPLE ARE

15 Largest Cities in Dallas-Fort Worth Big things are happening in DFW’s booming metro area. Here are the region’s 15 largest cities, ranked by their official 2024 U.S. Census data populations, along with the percentage of growth from 2014 to 2024.

Wolfe City Anna

No. 1 DALLAS 1,326,087

HUNT Blue Ridge

Growth: 3.7% | County: Dallas

Celeste

Melissa

No. 2 FORT WORTH 1,008,106 Commerce

Growth: 23.7% | County: Tarrant

No. 3 ARLINGTON 403,672

New Hope

Growth: 5.5% | County: Tarrant Princeton

Lowry Crossing

Farmersville

Campbell

Fairview

No. 4 PLANO 293,286 Growth: 5.4% | County: Collin

Greenville

No. 5 IRVING 258,060

Lucas Josephine St. Paul

Nevada

Lavon

Wylie

Growth: 11.0% | County: Dallas

Caddo Mills

Lone Oak Royse City

Quinlan

West Tawakoni Hawk Cove

No. 8 MCKINNEY 277,526 Growth: 44.7% | County: Collin

No. 9 GRAND PRAIRIE 207,331

McLendonChisholm

Heath

Sunnyvale

Growth: 62.2% | County: Collin

Union Valley

Lake Ray Hubbard Rockwall

Rowlett

Growth: 6.4% | County: Dallas

No. 7 FRISCO 235,208

ROCKWALL Fate

Sachse

No. 6 GARLAND 250,431

Growth: 11.6% | County: Dallas

KAUFMAN

No. 10 DENTON 165,998 Growth: 29.4% | County: Denton

Mesquite

Forney

Terrell

Balch Springs

No. 11 MESQUITE 150,140 Growth: 3.9% | County: Dallas

Talty Seagoville

Post Oak Bend City

Crandall Combine

No. 12 LEWISVILLE 155,983

Oak Ridge

Growth: 32.0% | County: Denton

No. 13 CARROLLTON 135,456 Growth: 5.5% | County: Denton

Kaufman

No. 14 RICHARDSON 118,221

Oak Grove

Growth: 8.3% | County: Dallas

Scurry

Rosser

Cottonwood Grays Prairie

No. 15 ALLEN 113,746 Growth: 20.7% | County: Collin

Kemp

Mabank

Scan the QR code to explore 200+ cities that make up the Dallas region.

Alma Rice

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COMMUNITIES

20 Fastest-Growing Cities

These DFW cities grew by more than 60% in the span of a decade, with Prosper and Northlake seeing populations triple since 2010 thanks to the region’s flourishing economy and popularity with families and new residents. Per census figures, here are the region’s rapidly growing communities from 2014 to 2024 and 2024 populations.

No. 1 OAK RIDGE 742.9% Population: 1,475 | County: Kaufman

No. 2 JOSEPHINE 696.3% Population: 8,807 | County: Collin

We’re Among the Fastest-Growing Regions in the Country

No. 3 CELINA 594.3%

With 8.3 million people—and counting—Dallas-Fort Worth is one of the fastest-growing metros in the country. And by 2050, 12 million will call DFW home.

Population: 10,746 | County: Denton

Population: 51,661 | County: Collin

No. 4 NORTHLAKE 451.9% No. 5 LAKESIDE 408.5% Population: 1,612 | County: Tarrant

But don’t worry, we have plenty of room. Our area is the size of New Jersey and Delaware combined, and we add more than 400 people to our population every day!

Interesting people live here

No. 6 PRINCETON 353.1% Population: 37,019 | County: Collin

No. 7 GODLEY 321.2%

Population: 4,402 | County: Johnson

Your ZIP code may be in North Texas, but the area is full of global influences—from food to population to religion.

You’ll find a mix of ages, education levels, sexual orientation, backgrounds, and more. We welcome all y’all.

No. 7 MELISSA 284.8%

Population: 26,194 | County: Collin

No. 9 CADDO MILLS 265.8%

Explore Dallas-Fort Worth Counties

Population: 5,257 | County: Hunt

The DALLAS Newcomer + Relocation Guide spans the area below. These counties surround the major urban centers of Dallas and Fort Worth with a mix of urban, suburban, and rural areas. With over 230 sunny days a year in DFW, you’ll have plenty of days to explore your favorite spots.

No. 10 LAVON 225.3%

Population: 8,491 | County: Collin

No. 11 AUBREY 214.1%

Population: 8,843 | County: Denton

No. 12 PROSPER 208.0% Population: 44,503 | County: Collin COOKE COUNTY

GRAYSON COUNTY

POPULATION:

POPULATION:

44,258

No. 13 ANNA 203.2%

Population: 31,986 | County: Collin

150,532

No. 14 MCLENDON-CHISHOLM 179.1% Population: 5,291 | County: Rockwall

WISE COUNTY

DENTON COUNTY

COLLIN COUNTY

POPULATION:

POPULATION:

POPULATION:

81,275

1,045,120

1,254,658

HUNT COUNTY POPULATION:

118,729

No. 15 HACKBERRY 177.3% Population: 2,959 | County: Denton

No. 16 FATE 176.1%

Population: 27,467 | County: Rockwall PARKER COUNTY

TARRANT COUNTY

DALLAS COUNTY

POPULATION:

POPULATION:

POPULATION:

179,707

2,230,708

2,656,028

KAUFMAN COUNTY POPULATION:

JOHNSON COUNTY

ELLIS COUNTY

POPULATION:

POPULATION:

210,547

197,829

232,387

ROCKWALL COUNTY POPULATION:

137,044

No. 17 HASLET 174.8%

Population: 4,743 | County: Tarrant

No. 18 VENUS 160.6%

Population: 8,209 | County: Johnson

No. 19 ROYSE CITY 142.6% Population: 26,387 | County: Rockwall

No. 20 FORNEY 132.7%

Population: 38,572 | County: Kaufman 30

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

COMMUNITIES

The Heart of the Region Dallas County has it all—from big-city living to quiet neighborhoods with unique appeal.

To the east are Garland and Mesquite, ring cities known for affordable neighborhoods, and down south are the heights of Cedar Hill, which sits at Dallas County’s highest point. Here you’ll get natural beauty and plenty of hiking trails at Cedar Hill State Park. And with more than 20 cities and a wide variety of vibes, there’s a lot more to discover.

PHOTO: MICHAEL SAMPLES

Packed with parks, entertainment venues, museums, and other attractions, Dallas County is the second-most populous county in Texas. Roughly 2.7 million people call the county home, and nearly half of them live in the city of Dallas. The city offers a great balance of fashion, food, and fun, all with classic Lone Star State warmth. It covers a lot of ground, from the downtown Arts District to the art-deco Fair Park to White Rock Lake, which is an attraction for outdoor lovers. To the west is Irving, which is best known for the community of Las Colinas, home to many Fortune 500 companies. To the north is the famed telecom corridor of Richardson, where the integrated circuit was invented and where UT Dallas churns out high-tech entrepreneurs.

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DALLAS COUNTY —

★

THE CITY OF

Dallas Residents: 1,326,087

Dallas is home to 1.3 million people who work as business executives, artists, scientists, homemakers, students—the list goes on. The city’s communities are a big reason transplants like what they find here.

Across Dallas’ neighborhoods, people can find the perfect match for their lifestyle. The city offers a wide range of housing options, from single-family homes and multifamily developments to highrise luxury buildings, new construction, and lovingly restored properties from generations past. And the area’s amenities don’t disappoint: from nature preserves to modern entertainment venues, small boutiques to massive malls, and nationally ranked public and private schools to home-schooling options.

The population of Dallas is diverse, and transplants find like-minded people in the area’s many houses of worship, volunteer opportunities, or when exploring the city.

Broadly speaking, Downtown and Uptown attract those who like the density of urban living, while neighborhoods like Preston Hollow and Lakewood offer a little more space. Communities north of Dallas proper tend to attract families who like suburban living and modern conveniences.

And Southern Dallas County has plenty of outdoor space and ample opportunities for growing 32

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

QUICK FACTS

Growth rate 2014-2024 3.7% Average household size: 2.43 Median age: 33.2 Median household income: $74,323

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TALKING POINTS

businesses—the median age is about 33.

Wherever people live in the region, they’re eager to tell you why their slice of North Texas is the best. People in Dallas point to the nationally renowned Arts District, the historic West End, and Deep Ellum, as well as all the choices for foodies. Catching a game is easy, no matter what the season, with professional basketball and hockey teams: the Mavericks and the Stars, who play at American Airlines Center. The Cowboys and World Series Champion Rangers are nearby with stadiums in Arlington.

You’ve probably heard that “everything’s bigger in Texas,” and while we can’t vouch for everything, Dallas does boast the largest urban nature preserve in the country along the Trinity River. With major employers like AT&T and Southwest Airlines, a growing life science market, and well-established financial services firms, it’s no wonder people find the right balance of big opportunities and southern charm.

• Dallas’ iconic Reunion Tower won “Most Instagrammable Big Market Spot” in the 2023 Texas Travel Awards. Its glowing orb is often lit in different colors to honor local sports teams or raise awareness for important causes. It’s not just a skyline highlight: the tower houses an observation deck with views and upscale bistro Crown Block.

• In the 2025–2026 U.S. News & World Report Best High School Rankings, several Dallas ISD campuses earned top national distinctions. The School for the Talented and Gifted ranked No. 9 overall and No. 33 in STEM. The Irma Lerma Rangel Young Women’s Leadership School placed No. 15 nationally, while the Science and Engineering Magnet School ranked No. 23 overall and No. 46 in STEM. • UT Southwestern Medical Center was named the best hospital in DFW for the ninth consecutive year and ranks among the nation’s top hospitals in 12 specialties—the most of any Texas hospital— according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best Hospitals.

• Dallas ranks 14th in Resonance’s 2025 “America’s Best Cities” report, citing its reputation for its strong economy and job market.

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Dallas Neighborhoods Each neighborhood in the city of Dallas has its own personality and amenities— which means those seeking familyfriendly living and those who want more action can find their own spaces. The urban core includes new luxury enclaves of homes and parks aplenty. And in the heart of downtown Dallas, you’ll find loft living, restored historic buildings, firstrate museums, and restaurants for every palate across its many districts.

DOWNTOWN DISTRICTS Dallas Arts District

Cypress Waters Far Northeast Dallas North Dallas

Northwest Dallas

Love Field Medical District Stemmons/ Market Center

Park Cities

Walk, bike, or take the trolley to shop, relax, and take in a show.

Highlights include the Neiman Marcus flagship store, which has been operating since 1914; Comerica Bank Tower; Bank of America Plaza; The Joule, Magnolia, and Adolphus hotels (where you can schedule spa time and have a great meal); plus numerous stand-alone restaurants. Other can’tmiss landmarks are the AT&T Discovery District, Main Street Garden, Majestic Theatre, Civic Garden, Stone Street Gardens, and Pegasus Plaza. The city has also saved and restored historic buildings in the Main Street District by converting them into cool downtown apartments.

Oak Lawn

Northeast Dallas

Old East Dallas

Downtown

White Rock

South Dallas

Pleasant Grove

West Oak Cliff Central Oak Cliff

Cityplace

Old East Dallas

Harwood

Design District

Bryan Place Baylor

Dallas Arts District

THE URBAN CORE: Deep Ellum Dallas’ Downtown Districts Main Exposition

La Bajada

Street District

West End

Trinity Groves

Riverfront District

Downtown

Park

Dallas Farmers Market

CivicCenter

South Dallas Fair Park

Reunion

Grand Park South

The Cedars Southeast Dallas Southeast Oak Cliff

Kleberg-Rylie

Park Row South Blvd

East Kessler

South Side

Oak Cliff

Edgewood Place

Lake Cliff The Bottoms

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West Village

State Thomas

West Dallas

East Oak Cliff

Mountain Creek Red Bird

Civic Center is the regional hub of many landmark destinations

Uptown

Far East Dallas

Fair Park

North Oak Cliff

Civic Center

Turtle Creek

Victory Park

West Dallas

The West End Historic District is a “mustvisit” for the American history buff. From the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, which tells the story of JFK’s assassination, to the Dallas World Aquarium and the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum, there’s always plenty to see.

The area is also packed with restaurants and entertainment venues enjoyed by visitors and locals alike. In its previous life, the West End served as a manufacturing hub for everything from hats and other apparel to farm equipment. Today, you’ll see a rebirth of the West End as developers and other stakeholders create an innovation district and smart city pilot.

THE URBAN CORE DOWNTOWN DALLAS DISTRICTS THE URBAN CORE: Dallas’ Downtown Districts

Lake Highlands

Lakewood Oak Lawn

Main Street District

Known as a blend of the artistic, educational, and commercial, the Dallas Arts District—the largest contiguous urban arts district in the nation—supports both the city’s creative power and its healthy economy. Here you’ll find the AT&T Performing Arts Center, Dallas Museum of Art, Crow Museum of Asian Art, Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, Dallas City Performance Hall, Nasher Sculpture Center, Dallas Black Dance Theatre, and Arts District Mansion.

Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts and One Arts Plaza—a 24-story mixeduse building—are also here, along with myriad restaurants and historic churches. Don’t miss Klyde Warren Park, a

Far North Dallas

West End

5.2-acre deck park built over Woodall Rodgers Freeway, bordered by eclectic food trucks.

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

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and home to the Omni Dallas Hotel and the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, one of the largest convention centers in the country. Here, you’ll find Dallas City Hall, Earle Cabell Federal Building and Courthouse, J. Erik Jonsson Central Library, George L. Allen Sr. Courts Building, Pioneer Plaza, and Pioneer Park Cemetery.

Reunion District

The Reunion District is widely known for two primary landmarks: Reunion Tower and Eddie Bernice Johnson Union Station. Reunion Tower is one of Dallas’ most iconic symbols.

Eddie Bernice Johnson Union Station is a hub for the Trinity Railway Express, DART Light Rail, and Amtrak Intercity Rail. Stay in the Hyatt Regency Dallas and enjoy both of these amazing landmarks.

Farmers Market District

The Dallas Farmers Market has been providing the people of Dallas with fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats for more than six decades. It encompasses a large area bounded by Jackson Street, North Central Expressway, R.L. Thornton Freeway, and St. Paul Street. Not only does the Dallas Farmers Market District offer unique food and specialty vendors, including “The Market,” which was known as Shed 2 before its renovation in 2015.

But it is also home to a collection of historic buildings, contemporary townhomes, and apartments. It’s a short walk from East Quarter, which sits between the Farmers Market, Downtown, Deep Ellum, and the Central Business District. It covers eight city blocks and brings together creativity and craftsmanship.

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URBAN CORE UPTOWN TO OAK LAWN Uptown

Uptown was one of Dallas’ earliest settlements, and redevelopment has resulted in a mix of restored older homes and new high-rise buildings, with both ownership and rental opportunities.

Construction projects during the last 20 years have transformed this area into a dense mixed-use, pedestrianfriendly place to live and work—it attracts people who like walkable neighborhoods with plenty of action. There are hundreds of dining options and nightlife venues, as well as galleries, boutiques, and an art-house movie theater. It all adds up to a lively mix of young professionals and retirees. The StateThomas neighborhood and the West Village are two popular neighborhoods. Just north of Uptown and right along the Katy Trail is Knox-Henderson, which blends residential and retail. This is an area where you can walk out your front door and grab a bite, meet for drinks, have a coffee, or do some retail therapy.

Reunion District

Harwood

The Harwood District, under the direction of developer Harwood International, launched in 1984 with the Rolex Building on downtown Dallas’ north side. Today, the 18-block, 30-acre district has 3.5 million square feet of Class A office, residential, and

West End

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retail space, along with 8 acres of green space, with more to come.

Victory Park

Victory Park is home to one of downtown’s most recognizable sporting venues, the American Airlines Center, where you can see the Dallas Mavericks and the Dallas Stars. This 75-acre district offers luxurious urban living, dining, sophisticated nightlife, and office space. Also located here is the beginning of the Katy Trail and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. Other landmarks include the W Dallas Victory Hotel and the House of Blues.

Turtle Creek

The elegant Turtle Creek corridor, north of downtown Dallas in the Oak Lawn area, makes up 80 city blocks containing approximately 90 acres of green space, as well as luxury townhomes and modern highrises. The area has spectacular natural beauty with the Katy Trail running through

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the neighborhood.

Turtle Creek is also home to the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Kalita Humphreys Theater.

State Thomas

The State Thomas area of Uptown Dallas offers easy access to freeways, the M Line Trolley, and close proximity to the central business district.

Settled as a Freedman’s Town, State Thomas is one of Dallas’ oldest neighborhoods, with the largest collection of intact Victorian residential structures.

It also has a modern touch, including mixeduse commercial and residential projects with restaurants, boutiques, art shops, and hotels.

West Village

West Village is known as Dallas “Uptown’s Downtown” with 275,000 square feet of retail and restaurants, and more than 5,000 residential units. This walkable shopping and dining district has a variety of one-ofa-kind retail shops and boutiques, along with restaurants and

entertainment options.

Developed by Phoenix Property Co. and Urban Partners, West Village has direct access to the Katy Trail, McKinney Avenue Trolley, and DART rail and buses.

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Oak Lawn

Nestled between Highland Park and Interstate 35, which separates it from the Design District, Oak Lawn is brimming with LGBTQ-friendly clubs, restaurants, shops, and events like the annual Halloween parade. The mix of posh, high-rise apartments among renovated postwar homes draws child-free urban professionals of all ages who have a taste for fine dining as well as fun and style.

Budget-friendly options are also easily found.

Just a block away, you’ll find Reverchon Park, which re-opened in 2025, after a renovation.

The area is also home to the five-star Rosewood Mansion—a hotel and restaurant with a separate bar that has live music on the weekends.

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

DEEP ELLUM TO OLD EAST DALLAS Deep Ellum Nestled east of downtown Dallas, Deep Ellum was established as a Freedman’s Town by former slaves after the Civil War. In the 1880s, the area was considered too far from downtown Dallas to be a reputable address.

Today, Deep Ellum is an eclectic entertainment district with a funky style consisting of avantgarde shops, nightclubs, art galleries, restaurants, and loft and apartment developments. People who live here tend to eschew traditional styles and embrace the unique.

Baylor

Baylor University Medical Center

anchors this district, which is comprised of pedestrian-friendly streets, historic homes, condos, and apartments. The Baylor District is home to several nonprofit organizations located along Swiss Avenue, as well as the Latino Cultural Center, Bryan Place neighborhood, and Exall Park.

Exposition Park and Fair Park Exposition Park and Fair Park are distinct areas but sit adjacent to one another. Fair Park is home to the State Fair of Texas, which happens every Fall. Meanwhile, Exposition Park sees hundreds of thousands of visitors all year ‘round. But especially during the annual Oklahoma-Texas football game at the Cotton Bowl, known as the “Red River Showdown.” This area includes boutique shops and eclectic bars and restaurants.

Cityplace

The Cityplace District is best known for its 1.4-million-squarefoot 42-story office

Cityplace Tower (served by a DART station), as well as the 275,000 square foot residentialand-retail West Village.

This 160 acre planned, mixed-use community, bounded by Haskell and Lemmon Avenues and the Katy Trail, also offers the tree-lined Haskell Boulevard. Here you’ll find more than threemillion-square feet of residential property, 500,000 square feet of retail, and 1.6 million square feet of office space.

Bryan Place

Originally named after Dallas founder John Neely Bryan, Bryan Place of East Dallas contains older houses and structures from the early 20th century, as well as 1980s houses developed

by Fox & Jacobs. The primarily residential neighborhood offers townhomes, zero-lot garden homes, and close-by entertainment and restaurants; a 10-minute walk brings residents to the Dallas Arts District. Exall

DALLAS COUNTY Park, complete with playgrounds, hiking trails, and sports fields, also defines Bryan Place.

Old East Dallas

Sought out for a mix of casual, yet foodieapproved restaurants and bars alongside older houses and new apartment buildings, this area includes lots of neighborhoods, including Lower Greenville, The M Streets, and part of Knox-Henderson.

You’ll find areas that are designated as conservation districts of Tudor homes and cottages; historic mansions on Swiss Avenue; two-story Prairie houses of the Munger Place Historic District; and renovated ‘60s apartment buildings along Gaston Avenue.

Most everything off of Ross Avenue is being rehabilitated. This is where families blend with young singles and schools are communitysupported. It’s known for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and the Granada Theater.

Trinity River (downtown Dallas’ greatest natural feature), the Riverfront District has created the most significant change to the city’s skyline with the construction of the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge, designed by internationally renowned architect and engineer Santiago Calatrava. From an array of unique antique shops to the famous tacos and longhorns of Fuel City, the Riverfront District is home to some of Dallas’ mostloved stops.

Deep Ellum street banners celebrated its artistic and musical heritage for the district’s 150th birthday in 2023.

West Dallas The Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge serves as a landmark gateway to West Dallas, linking the neighborhood to downtown and the Trinity River corridor.

A surge in apartment construction is underway, along with plans for offices, shops, and added neighborhood amenities. The $325 million, 250-acre Harold Simmons Park broke ground in 2025 along the Trinity River, initiating construction on one of Dallas’ most significant publicspace projects.

Main Street, Dallas

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RIVERFRONT DISTRICT TO TRINITY GROVES Design District As one of Dallas’ most successfully branded destinations, the Design District consists of more than 300 specialty merchants offering a unique selection of art, furnishings, antiques, and designer goods.

More than an attraction for interior designers, the Design District consists of numerous restaurants, residential, and other commercial projects that add to the district’s vitality, making it a blossoming community as well as a creative epicenter.

Riverfront District

As the front door to the

West Dallas has long been home to La Bajada, a largely Hispanic workingclass neighborhood It’s located north of the mixed-use Trinity Groves with views of downtown Dallas.

The area is home to Hispanic families, many of whom have owned their homes for generations. The area is revitalizing with small apartment buildings and retail under construction. The area is also home to Urban Youth Farm Park, a community garden in West Dallas that provides youth handson outdoor education.

Trinity Groves

This 15-acre restaurant and retail destination sits at the base of the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge in West Dallas. It is known for its variety of restaurants, large patios, a beer garden, and skyline views, making it a popular entertainment district.

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Austin, Risa, and baby Kate could have lived anywhere “We met in the spring of 2016. I was a senior in college on spring break and Austin was in flight training with the military,” says Risa Welch.

Austin had graduated from West Point in 2015.

“I flew Army helicopters, which was my little-kid dream,” says Austin, now a consultant. “To get to wear America’s away colors to defend the freedoms that we all enjoy here was an incredible mantle of responsibility, which we both took seriously.”

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They dated long distance for six years before marrying—each trying out multiple cities. When they married, they could have chosen any city in the country to start their lives together.

“We were evaluating against several criteria,” says Austin.

They wanted a place where they could plant deep roots and start a family. Connectivity to the rest of the country and world was important.

Finding a place where their dollar would go further was critical.

“We settled in Lower Greenville,” says Risa. “Dallas is a big city, but areas like this give you that small-

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

town community feel.”

But as their family began to grow with the arrival of baby Kate, Austin says, their vision of the perfect neighborhood changed.

“Dallas offers an incredible variety of neighborhoods to explore, each with its own unique character. We ultimately found our new fit in Far North Dallas, where we enjoy more space, excellent schools, and a convenient commute to both DFW and our new jobs.”

And they know the area will continue to provide what they need as their lives evolve.

PHOTO: MICHAEL SAMPLES

Dallas: the right place at the right time

DALLAS COUNTY NEIGHBORHOODS THROUGHOUT DALLAS

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South Side Canvas Rooftop

are interested as well because of Edgewood’s proximity to Downtown, Deep Ellum, Farmers Market, and Baylor University Medical Center.

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THE CEDARS TO EDGEWOOD PLACE The Cedars and South Side

Home to creative office and living space and affordable housing options, the Cedars neighborhood is where you’ll find City Park, a collection of historic buildings that date back to 1840, American Beauty Mill lofts, and the popular annual Cedars Open Studios art tour. You’ll also find a growing base of urban dwellers, many of whom live at South Side, an area within the Cedars, named for the apartment complex South Side on Lamar.

A remodeled Sears Catalog merchandising center, the building offers loft-style living with modern amenities.

It anchors a stretch of Botham Jean Boulevard, along which is the Canvas Hotel with its rooftop bar, several eateries, and other housing options. At the opposite end is Gilley’s, a popular event space.

Other points of interest include Jack Evans Police Headquarters and the administrative offices of Dallas College.

Edgewood Place

South Dallas Edgewood Place was once home to a predominantly Jewish community, and later on, AfricanAmerican residents; many of today’s Edgewood residents are from families who owned their houses for decades. Edgewood today is attracting the attention of young professionals and urban pioneers who are quietly buying houses in need of renovation. Developers

The Bottom

The 126-acre Bottom District is bounded by the Trinity River to the north, Interstate 35 to the west, and Corinth and Eighth streets to the east and south.

Originally settled as a Freedmen’s Town, the neighborhood is now undergoing a revitalization focused on affordable housing and community reinvestment. The city has made significant infrastructure upgrades, and new affordable homes are being developed by organizations such as Innovan Neighborhoods and The Golden S.E.E.D.S. Foundation, the community development arm of Golden Gate Missionary Baptist Church, a long-standing anchor and advocate for the area. Lundy City Park and Recreation Center features baseball and softball fields, a fitness center, tennis court, playgrounds, and more.

Cedars/South Side

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FAIR PARK TO PARK ROW SOUTH

FAIR PARK A new 18-acre community park with a kids’ playground, dog park, loop trails, and more is under development.

Fair Park

Built to host the Texas Centennial Exposition in 1936, Fair Park is a historically protected collection of art deco buildings housing museums and exhibits.

But everybody knows it as the grounds for the State Fair of Texas.

The annual spectacular is a sight like no other. Year-round, people visit the Texas Discovery Gardens, 2026 / DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE

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Lake Cliff

the Music Hall at Fair Park, Dos Equis Pavilion, The African American Museum, the Children’s Aquarium, and games at the Cotton Bowl.

An initiative launched by the city in 2025 aims to revitalize both the park and the surrounding neighborhoods and will include a new 10.5-acre community park.

South Dallas

South of downtown and surrounding Fair Park, these predominantly African-American and Hispanic-inhabited neighborhoods are pushing to rise again. Initiatives are underway to invigorate capital improvements and incentivize development. The Dolphin Heights area is a close-knit, familyfriendly neighborhood.

The South Boulevard/ Park Row Historic District is undergoing a revival. Parkdale/ Urbandale near the Keeton Park Golf Course is striving for the same.

Proximity to the city offers great growth promise.

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Grand Park South

Grand Park South (GPS) is a 228-acre taxincrement finance (TIF) district in South Dallas and adjacent to historic Fair Park with access to downtown and DART’s light rail Green Line.

Notable developments in the district include a 213,616-square-foot middle school that opened in 2013.

Park Row South Blvd

South Boulevard/Park Row Historic District is part of the Edgewood Historic District in South Dallas. The twoblock neighborhood consists of 100 houses on South Boulevard and Park Row that were built by the Jewish community in the early 20th century when Temple Emanu-El was at Harwood Street and South Boulevard.

This area is revitalizing with a mix of relatively intact Prairie School, Craftsman bungalow, and historical revival style homes by prominent Dallas architects of the period from 1910 to 1935.

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OAK CLIFF Oak Cliff

Most of the time, people mean North Oak Cliff, when they talk about the area.

But the district actually encompasses four unique sections—and a huge amount of real estate. n North Oak Cliff people are proud to represent a convergence of artists, musicians, and culture-rich Hispanic communities. It is one of the older neighborhoods, and has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years. Renovations to the Bishop Arts District and several historic districts like Kessler Park, with its hills and Tudor-style homes, and Winnetka Heights, with Prairie and Craftsman-style

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

houses, spurred the launch of independent restaurants and shops around family-owned Mexican restaurants and mercados. It strives to retain its open-minded, diverse character in the midst of its growing popularity.

Stevens Park Golf Course saw a complete redesign by architect John Colligan and is open for public golfing.

Kidd Springs Park offers walking trails and lots of outdoor opportunities. n East Oak Cliff you’ll find the Dallas Zoo, four top-100 schools in the nation, and Halperin Park, which spans I-35E between Ewing and Marsalis Avenues.

Opening in 2026, the 5.5-acre bridge park will reconnect historic Oak Cliff while creating a vibrant community gathering space and economic driver. n Southeast Oak Cliff you’ll find campuses of both recently expanded University of North Texas at Dallas and Paul Quinn College.

Big plans are in the works for the areas surrounding these

schools.

Central Oak Cliff is home to Wynnewood North, which is prized for its mid-century houses on gently sloping hills. The 263acre Kiest Park is full of sports options. Oak Cliff Nature Preserve offers eight miles of trails.

East Kessler

Established in the late 1930s by developer Roy Eastus and the Stemmons family, East Kessler’s chalk hills, combined with many doctors living there, once earned it the designation of “Pill Hill.” These days, East Kessler Park is home to Methodist Dallas Medical Center and is the furthest east of the Kessler Park neighborhoods in Oak Cliff. Crisscrossed by many creeks, this quiet residential area takes its street names from the many real estate figures who developed it, as well as the chalk hills embellishing it.

Lake Cliff

Lake Cliff takes its name from Cliff Park, which was constructed in the late 19th century.

Many of the houses in

this northern Oak Cliff neighborhood were built between 1890 and 1930; during this time, John Zang and Charles Mangoled built the Crystal Hill entertainment complex.

Lake Cliff includes the historic 12-story Lake Cliff Towers, once a hotel and now condominiums.

INNER LOOP URBAN MARKET CENTER TO MEDICAL DISTRICT Stemmons/ Market Center

Located five minutes from downtown Dallas, this area is an extension of the Design District and attracts indie,

DALLAS COUNTY artist-based businesses and trendy restaurants.

Home to the prestigious landmark Hilton Anatole hotel, this area is a short drive to the Medical District and the Oak Cliff neighborhood.

The area is still warehouse-heavy with commercial properties, and developers have been eyeing properties for redevelopment.

Greenway Parks, a conservation district designed in 1927 in the English commons tradition of clustering houses around private parkways.

Perry Heights, south of the landing strip, is a collection of prewar homes and condominiums.

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Medical District

A growing area, this neighborhood was already home to several of the city’s top-rated hospitals and research institutions and is now seeing new apartment buildings pop up.

Parkland Hospital (famous for treating President John F. Kennedy), Children’s Medical Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, and Zale Lipshy Pavilion-William P. Clements Jr. University Hospital all stand shoulder to shoulder, offering specialized care centers with topnotch services. Next door, Dallas Market Center, The Apparel Mart, and the World Trade Center serve as a wholesale trade resource for shops across the country.

London’s Crystal Palace doppelgänger, the Equinix Infomart, houses private, forprofit Wade College and data centers for numerous well-known firms.

Love Field

Love Field, just seven miles from downtown, serves as a key gateway to the city.

In 2025, the airport unveiled plans for a major transformation that will add a new two-level building, widen concourses, expand ticketing and concession areas, and upgrade passenger services. The overhaul is designed to increase capacity by up to 50%.

Nearby neighborhoods such as Bluffview—an affluent enclave near Inwood Village—have in recent years benefited from proximity to the airport. Cliffs overlooking Bachman Branch, sometimes 50 feet high, give the neighborhood natural charm. Close by is

NORTHWEST DALLAS TO NORTHEAST DALLAS Northwest Dallas

This pocket of Dallas has two distinct sections: residential and commercial.

Neighborhoods developed in the late 1950s contain midcentury and ranch-style houses on midsize lots. Public schools are highly rated, and private schools are abundant. Park Forest is known for its community pool.

Midway Hills is popular for the Disney Streets, whose characternamed streets attract high demand.

Koreatown to the west, while mostly commercial, serves the largest Korean community in Texas.

North Dallas

White Rock Lake

North Dallas’ NorthPark Center

North Dallas is the site of some of the city’s wealthiest neighborhoods, including Preston Hollow, which consists of Old Preston Hollow and a number of smaller neighborhoods. Strait Lane, in particular, is a multimillion-dollar street favored by many of Dallas’ most influential residents.

These estate-filled neighborhoods, with shade-covered hills, private lakes, streams, and expansive grounds, are home to notables such as 2026 / DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE

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Lakewood

Red Bird

Dallas Baptist University; Mountain Creek

George W. Bush, Mark Cuban, Dirk Nowitzki, and Roger Staubach.

Many of the area’s older mansions were crafted by prominent architects, among them are Frank Lloyd Wright design, but today the neighborhood is defined by new custom-built estates.

The community remains largely familyfocused, anchored by the prestigious private school corridor that runs through the area.

As you travel farther north, the Preston Forest neighborhoods transition into more modest ranch-style homes, where prices dip slightly but access remains ideal. Quick access to both the Dallas North Tollway and U.S. Highway 75 connects residents easily to the rest of the city, while high-end shopping and dining is found at Preston Center and the popular NorthPark Center.

by central services and a community country club, draws young professionals.

Nearby are newly built and renovated ‘50s complexes off University Drive which are popular with SMU students. North of Park Lane is a cluster of apartments called Vickery Meadows. It’s home to ethnically diverse families, including immigrants from all over the world.

A pocket of mid-priced ‘50s-era housing communities is found east of Skillman Street.

Housing is close to Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas, shopping centers, and DART stations that line upper Greenville Avenue.

Northeast Dallas

Apartment complexes and retail dominate Northeast Dallas. The Village, made up of 17 complexes served

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INNER LOOP DALLAS

WHITE ROCK TO FAR EAST DALLAS White Rock East of White Rock Lake is a host of diverse neighborhoods, plus the beloved Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden with the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden. Forest Hills rises up from the lake with larger homes and lots. Little Forest Hills is a funky, artistically minded bungalow community that loves to throw vivacious parades. Casa Linda, anchored by Casa Linda Plaza, uses the Spanish language as an influence for its street names. Mature trees fill the ‘50s-developed neighborhood and the surrounding midpriced housing areas of Eastwood, Lake Park Estates, and Lochwood.

Bath House Cultural Center, just off the lake, features local art exhibits and plays.

Public Tenison Golf Course and Samuell Grand Park with its summer Shakespeare Festival are close by as well.

Lake Highlands

It’s all about family in Lake Highlands.

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

Maintained as a huge farm until 1940, the community is large—composed of more than 40 neighborhoods—but flush with green space, parks, and a creek trail that leads to White Rock Lake. Officially established in 1946, the area was heavily developed throughout the ‘60s. There are many homes of varying values to be found here.

While part of Dallas, most of the public schools actually fall into the Richardson ISD. That includes Lake Highlands High School.

Golf pro Justin Leonard went there, as did recent Grammy winner Annie Clark, a.k.a. St. Vincent.

Lakewood

Tight-knit, eclectic in nature, and situated alongside White Rock Lake, Lakewood is adored for its character and proximity to downtown. Prized architects Charles Dilbeck and Clifford Hutsell designed many of its homes in modern or Spanish styles.

Craftsman and Prairie homes define the nearby Junius Heights

Historic District. While houses are updated and urban sensibilities integrated, the lifestyle here remains much like the idyllic community that first emerged.

Residents frequent the Lakewood Shopping Center, walk, run, bike, row, and sail around the lake, or play golf at Lakewood Country Club. And kids attend Woodrow Wilson High School, one of many International Baccalaureate high schools in Texas.

year degrees and continuing education.

The private Dallas Athletic Club offers golf and tennis.

Far East Dallas

OUTER LOOP DALLAS (NORTH)

This section of neighborhoods is closest to the southern tip of White Rock Lake and features tree-filled yards and one-story ranch houses from the ’60s that make great starter homes.

Grouped together as White Rock Hills, this area includes Claremont, Casa Linda Forest, and Hillridge.

Casa View, built in the post-war building boom, has gained attention as a bargain opportunity. The Creative Arts Center, a neighborhood gem, teaches visual arts classes. Dallas College’s Eastfield campus offers two-

FAR NORTHEAST DALLAS TO FAR NORTH DALLAS

Far Northeast Dallas

One of the largest companies in the world calls this area home. At the corner of Interstate 635 and east of U.S. Highway 75, just south of Richardson, lies the sprawling headquarters of Texas Instruments, a global semiconductor design and manufacturing company. Nearby is Dallas College’s Richland campus, with both accredited

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF THE ORGANIZATIONS UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. HOME: PHOTO BY ANDREW SMITH, COLLEGE: CC ROTHENBERGER

Trinity Audubon Center

and youth enrichment classes. People who choose to live here can expect a mix of lower-rent apartments alongside homes built in the ’70s.

Far North Dallas

Far North Dallas is sandwiched between suburban Addison and Richardson and bounded by Interstate 635 and Belt Line Road. The area was first developed in the ’70s and ’80s, and many homes date back to that era. Residents enjoy easy access to the 6.3-mile Preston Ridge Trail and the Galleria, a multistory mall that includes an ice-skating rink (yes, in Dallas). The area is especially attractive to families with young children since it’s close to Richardson ISD and is about equidistant to downtown Dallas to the south and Frisco to the north.

Named for a grove of cottonwood trees, Pleasant Grove was once its own town until annexed in 1954 and combined with other small communities. It is home to the Dallas College Pleasant Grove campus and is known for strong, diverse neighborhoods supported by a wide range of small businesses. The area also includes the Trinity Forest Golf Course, which serves as a home facility for SMU’s golf program and First Tee of Greater Dallas, and lies near new trail improvements expanding access to the Trinity Forest area.

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF THE ORGANIZATIONS UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. HIGHLAND PARK SC: SHUTTERSTOCK/VICTORIA DITKOVSKY

PLEASANT GROVE TO SOUTHEAST DALLAS TO RED BIRD Southeast Dallas

With roots tracing back to the early 1800s, much of Southeast Dallas is encompassed by the Trinity River green space. It includes the Trinity River Audubon Center—a nature preserve with hiking and biking trails and a bird sanctuary.

Across Elam Creek is McCommas Bluff Preserve—a 111-acre wooded preserve. It’s also home to the Trinity Forest Aerial Adventure Park and Texas Horse Park. Because of the scenery, this area is slated for future development.

George W. Bush Presidential Center

Mountain Creek

Set among rolling hills, the area includes Capella Park’s traditional homes and Dallas Baptist University, which enrolls several thousand students.

The nearby Dallas– Fort Worth National Cemetery forms part of the broader community landscape.

Red Bird

OUTER LOOP DALLAS (SOUTH, EAST)

DALLAS COUNTY

Pleasant Grove

Nestled between Oak Cliff and Duncanville, Red Bird is an established and vibrant community home to hard-working families.

With a diverse range of housing options, it remains a soughtafter destination for residents seeking affordability. Dallas Executive Airport provides convenient business access, while The Shops at RedBird delivers communityfocused retail, dining, and entertainment.

UT Southwestern Medical Center operates a state-ofthe-art outpatient facility as part of the area’s redevelopment, joined by the Dallas Entrepreneur Center, Parkland Health, and a Children’s Health Specialty Center coming in 2027.

Nearby are the Boulder Park Trail and the last Perry Maxwelldesigned course at The Golf Club of Dallas.

IN THE CENTER OF IT ALL

The Park Cities are comprised of two independent entities: the Town of Highland Park (population 8,762) and the City of University Park (population 25,268).

Highland Park is smaller, and known for its homes and affluence. University Park is home to Southern Methodist University. Each maintains its own tax structures, police departments, and municipal operations.

Park Cities The Park Cities are unique because the area is entirely surrounded by the city of Dallas, but they have their own governments. Home prices stretch into the millions and boutique shopping is luxe.

Highland Park Village is one of the oldest shopping centers in the United States. There, you’ll be treated to personal touches whether you’re enjoying a nice dinner or doing some retail therapy.

The streets are lined with majestic oak trees and lush green spaces are meticulously manicured.

During Christmastime, you can find horse-drawn carriages taking people sipping hot chocolate to view the area’s decorations and light shows.

The Park Cities are also home to Southern Methodist University, the Dallas Country Club, and George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum.

Highland Park Village

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LIVE / WORK / PLAY / THRIVE Las Colinas’ landmark flower clock gets a new look each season.

Irving/Las Colinas Residents: 258,060 Irving/Las Colinas calls itself the “Headquarters of Headquarters” for good reason. Eight Fortune 500 companies have their global headquarters in the city. The central location makes for an easy commute, especially to the Dallas Fort Worth International QUICK FACTS Airport. That convenience is Growth rate one reason so many companies 2014-2024: have opted to expand or 11.0% relocate here. And the industry Average household diversity spells opportunity for size: 2.75 potential residents.

Median age: Within Irving lies Las 31.6 Colinas, a mixed-use planned Median household community designed with income: resident and business needs $84,849 in mind (one of the first in the United States). It was developed in 1973 by a cattle rancher named Ben Carpenter, who envisioned transforming his family’s 6,000acre ranch—El Ranchito de Las Colinas (the little ranch of the hills)—into a world-class destination.

Inspired by his travels, he brought landmarks to

life with an eclectic blend of art, architecture, and design drawn from Europe and beyond. The city’s iconic flower clock, above, is a nod to Belgium; Las Colinas’ canals, below left, reflect the spirit of Venice; and its clock tower evokes London’s Big Ben. At the heart of Las Colinas is Lake Carolyn, where residents and visitors can take in panoramic views while paddle boarding, riding in gondolas, or strolling along the waterfront. Mustang Park offers even more trails and activities, while the city’s Campion Trail offers a vast network of paths perfect for walking, jogging, or biking through this scenic section of Irving.

Attractions like the Irving Convention Center—designed by RMJM and Hillier, who have futuristic-looking projects around the world—the Toyota Music Factory entertainment complex, and the walkable Las Colinas Urban Center create an area that people like for both form and function.

Irving is also home to the University of Dallas, a four-year private Catholic school, and Irving ISD serves nearly 32,000 students.

Mandalay Canals

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Iconic Irving Mustangs

NEIGHBORHOODS Irving includes some of the most popular areas in the Dallas-Fort Worth region. Some notable neighborhoods include: • Las Colinas, with housing options from apartments to luxury homes, is a planned community that caters to a variety of lifestyles and budgets and is very walkable.

• Valley Ranch includes canals, walking paths, and lush green spaces.

• The Hospital District is a quiet, older area, but just five miles from Toyota Music Factory.

• The Heritage District is Irving’s birthplace and is leading redevelopment efforts throughout South Irving. Here you’ll find the downtown corridor, including DART’s TRE station, the South Irving Library, and the Irving Heritage House.

• Northgate Heights offers a family-friendly atmosphere and a mix of affordable homes on tree-lined streets and reasonable rental prices for those not looking to buy.

DALLAS COUNTY

Toyota Music Factory

Irving’s Valley Ranch neighborhood

WELCOME TO DALLAS! The Dallas Opera invites you to enjoy up to 4 tickets at 30% off using promo code INTRO30 for your first visit.

PHOTO: LYNN LANE

Scan the QR code for details.

Tickets and Upcoming Events at dallasopera.org or 214.443.1000 Season Sponsor: The VanSickle Family Foundation in memory of Edith and Elmer VanSickle

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Firewheel Golf Park

Average household fresh vitality into the heart of size: 3.07 the city with new amenities, an illuminated entrance, Median age: magnificent pavilion, and a 32.4 sprawling event lawn designed Median household for regular community income: gatherings. $75,797 Garland’s eclectic arts scene can be found at entertainment venues such as the Granville Arts Center and Plaza Theatre, which host a variety of vibrant performances, concerts, and events throughout the year. Residents have a wide variety of neighborhood and education options to choose from, including both the Garland Independent School District and Richardson ISD.

COWB OY

The city’s massive skatepark is dedicated to the “Godfather of Adaptive Skateboarding,” native Jon Comer, the first professional skateboarder with a prosthetic leg. Garland also unveiled its remodeled town square in 2023—a $25 million project that enhanced its cultural and recreational appeal with a new event lawn, pavilion, and a vibrant shopping and dining scene, further enriching the community experience for residents and visitors alike. The event was headlined by Garland-raised country musician LeAnn Rimes.

Because Hatco and other hat manufacturers are located here, Garland was fittingly named the “Cowboy Hat Capital of Texas” by the state legislature. The city also sits against the shores of Lake Ray Hubbard, perfect for water sports and fishing. The Lake Ray Hubbard Greenbelt is 23.7 acres of natural wooded area and lakefront near Captain’s Cove Marina in the southern part of the city.

Beyond the city’s natural beauty, Garland features a robust local economy with a growing job market in manufacturing, technology, healthcare and more.

NEIGHBORHOODS

Among the city’s bestknown neighborhoods:

• Firewheel Estates, in close proximity to Firewheel Town Center, has beautiful homes and lush landscaping.

• Springpark gives residents access to a private clubhouse, swimming pool, tennis courts, and walking trails.

• Oakridge is a tree-lined neighborhood with a mix of newer and older homes.

• Club Hill is known for its rolling hills and mature trees.

• Camelot features wellmaintained homes, a community pool, parks, and playgrounds.

TALKING POINTS

Duck Creek

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Garland’s skatepark at Rick Oden Park is the second largest in Texas, with a 48,500-square-foot skating area.

• City of Garland was designated by the Texas Music Office (TMO) as a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community in 2025.

• Garland’s historic downtown district ushered in a new era with a two-year redesign unveiled in 2023.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE ORGANIZATIONS UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. DUCK CREEK PHOTO: MICHAEL SAMPLES; HAT: OPENAI, DN STUDIO

The city of Garland has something for everyone.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy miles of biking and hiking trails, while foodies and treasure hunters will lose themselves in unique dining and shopping. The QUICK FACTS historic downtown area has Growth rate undergone an extraordinary 2014-2024: 6.4% two-year makeover, infusing

XAS TE

Population: 250,431

CAPITAL AT O F

Garland

H

Officially designated as the biggest cowboy hat in Texas, The Big Hat in Downtown Garland is 20 feet long, 16 feet wide, 6 feet tall, and looms 15 feet in the air.

Guitar legend Jimmy Wallace’s Garland shop is part musician boutique, part museum.

Hawaiian Waters is a kid and family favorite.

Fuel your energy future with natural gas.

Affordable, reliable, and efficient energy is a key driver of our economy and essential for thriving communities. Natural gas fuels economic growth and meets the growing demand for energy in North Texas today and for generations to come.

atmosenergy.com/whychoosegas

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GrandPrairie Residents: 207,331

Grand Prairie straddles Dallas and Tarrant Counties, with the bulk of the land on the Dallas County side. It’s a community that values both work and play.

In Grand Prairie, you can see a show at Texas Trust CU Theatre at Grand Prairie, watch horse racing at Lone Star Park, or visit the “odditorium” at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! In terms of education, Grand Prairie has a mix of public and private K-12 schools. Some of the top schools include South Grand Prairie High School, Crosswinds Accelerated High School, and St. John Paul II Catholic School.

For outdoor activities, residents enjoy parks and trails along Joe Pool Lake as well as Lynn Creek Park and its wetlands area.

The Ruthe Jackson Center, renovated in 2021, has an arboretum and botanical gardens.

Grand Prairie has a long history dating back to the 1840s—in fact, the log cabin of pioneer settler William S. Peters still stands near

Main Street.

QUICK FACTS Over the next Growth rate few years, 2014-2024: 11.6% Downtown Average household will undergo size: 3.08 a major Median age: transformation 36.7 to become a Median household more vibrant income: and accessible $82,195 urban area.

Phased city investments will add new amenities, improve walkability, and modernize infrastructure while preserving its historic character.

In terms of entertainment, the EpicCentral provides year-round family fun with entertainment venues, restaurants, and a water park. The city also hosts popular events like Main Street Fest and the Fourth of July “Stars & Stripes” celebration. Sports fans might want to watch the Texas Super Kings, a Texas-based team in Major League Cricket, play at Grand Prairie Stadium.

An aerial view of the EpicCentral development in Grand Prairie, showcasing the sprawling 172acre park with its indoor water park, “Bolder Adventure Park,” new hotels, convention center, and restaurants, set against the backdrop of manmade lakes and lush greenery.

Andretti Indoor Karting

Chicken N Pickle has 11 pickleball courts.

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DALLAS COUNTY NEIGHBORHOODS Grand Prairie offers a variety of desirable neighborhoods that are right for young families and those looking for a central location in Dallas-Fort Worth:

Grand Prairie water tower at the local farmers market.

TALKING POINTS

Accolades and neat things to know include:

PHOTOS: VISIT GRAND PRAIRIE

The Illuvia fountain at EpicCentral in Grand Prairie has nightly Vegas-style water and light shows.

• Grand Prairie was designated a Film Friendly Texas Community in November 2023 by the Texas Film Commission.

• Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark placed in the top three for Best Indoor Water Park in the USA Today 10 Best Readers’ Choice 2025 Travel Awards.

• In 2022, the city was certified as a Scenic City, joining 91 other designated Scenic Cities in Texas.

• U.S. News & World Report ranks Grand Prairie Collegiate Institute No. 54 nationally and No. 6 among all Texas high schools in 2025.

PHOTO: MICHAEL SAMPLES

• Mira Lagos, an upscale, master-planned community in south Grand Prairie, offers a mix of beautiful homes, parks, and excellent amenities.

• The Parks at Joe Pool Lake is in southeast Grand Prairie and features modern homes.

It also is known for its excellent schools and is a popular choice for young professionals and growing families.

• Westchester is an established, family-friendly neighborhood in north Grand Prairie that is known for its spacious homes and tree-lined streets.

• High Hawk at Martin’s Meadow is in east Grand Prairie and offers a mix of wellmaintained homes and a strong sense of community. It’s known for its excellent schools and convenient location.

• Nottingham Estates is in west Grand Prairie and offers easy access to parks, recreational facilities, and a variety of shopping and dining options.

Saying Yes to Creativity AHAVA SILKEY-JONES VICE-PROVOST OF THE SCHOOL OF CREATIVE ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT, AND DESIGN AT DALLAS COLLEGE If you’re following the arts and entertainment scene in Dallas, the name Ahava Silkey-Jones may already be familiar to you. She’s a Midwest transplant with her fingerprints on today’s events and installations, while shaping the future of the local arts industry.

Jones moved to Dallas with her husband and two children in 2022, from Minneapolis.

“I was looking for a unique arts and education opportunity. I wanted a few different things, including a big scope of impact,” said Silkey-Jones.

She was open to any location where the opportunity was right and imagined that would be in a big city like Chicago or New York.

“Dallas was not on my radar when clearly it should have been. I came to learn that the entire state population of Minnesota is smaller than the DFW region,” she said, laughing.

But lured by the opportunity at Dallas College, she started learning more about the area and realized it checked most boxes. The area has also provided some great surprises.

“I pictured cowboy hats and country music, and that’s here, but Dallas is actually very layered, very multicultural, and very metropolitan. I knew I was stepping into a role where I would be promoting and working in the arts, but I had no idea how vibrant and dynamic the art scene is—I mean, number one in the nation two years in a row. Dallas is a force.”

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Mesquite

Mesquite Rodeo

Population: 150,140 Mesquite, Texas, is a thriving community where charm, culture, and Texas hospitality come together in perfect harmony. Located just east of Dallas, and QUICK FACTS known as the Rodeo Growth rate Capital of Texas, 2014-2024: 3.9% Mesquite proudly Average household celebrates its Western size: 2.72 heritage with the Median age: world-famous Mesquite 38.3 Championship Rodeo.

The city also boasts a Median household dynamic cultural scene, income: $66,083 with attractions like the Mesquite Arts Center and the historic Opal Lawrence Historical Park, which showcase the area’s artistic and historical significance. The city is family-friendly, offering over 70 beautiful parks to explore, along with trails and recreational opportunities for all ages.

Its affordable housing and proximity to Downtown Dallas make it an ideal place to live, work, and play.

Vanguard High School offers a non-traditional high school experience designed for students who are ready to explore, innovate, and prepare for what’s next. And recent industry growth in clean energy and high-tech manufacturing draws entrepreneurs and job seekers.

Mesquite Rodeo

Cinco de Mayo

SCENES IN THE CITY

Downtown Mesquite

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City Lake Aquatic Center

Music & arts

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

Heritage Trail

Mesquite Golf Club

DALLAS COUNTY

Richardson

University of Texas at Dallas

Population: 118,221

Residents of Richardson—a first-ring suburb of Dallas—love the close proximity to the urban experience of the inner city.

But make no mistake, the town has a culture QUICK FACTS and community feel of Growth rate its very own. Families 2014-2024: 8.3% clamor to enroll in Average household RISD schools, known size: 2.49 for teachers who go Median age: above and beyond to 33.8 see students succeed, Median household and a progressive set income: of magnet programs. $104,379 People who want a taste of international flavor visit for Bollywood films, true dim sum, ethnic grocery stores, Persian delicacies, temples, mosques, and worldly excursions of all kinds. In fact, almost 40% of Richardson residents identify as an ethnicity other than Caucasian. The Telecom Corridor’s massive presence is filled with work opportunities. New live-work-play areas like CityLine were built around several DART stations. Houses are a mix of ages and sought after by era along with a recent trend of new builds. Acclaimed festivals and the Eisemann Center for Performing Arts up the culture and music quotient while the University of Texas at Dallas promotes science and innovation.

FAST FACT

Richardson earned the Texas Municipal Library “Achievement of Excellence” award for the 20th year straight in 2025.

Richardson library yarn-bomb “Humpty”

Cottonwood Park

SCENES IN THE CITY

Aquatic center

Richardson IQ

Heights Shopping Center

Selfie mural

Wildflower festival concert

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MORE DALLAS COUNTY CITIES From largest to smallest, here are other Dallas County cities with more that 30,000 residents, per the 2024 Census. Beyond the cities listed, the county has many other towns from Balch Springs (population 27,307) to Cockrell Hill (population 3,662).

Rowlett

Population: 68,123

Farmers Branch Stars Sports Complex

Cypress Waters, Coppell

Lancaster walking trail

Lancaster Square

Rowlett takes its name from a nearby creek, but Lake Ray Hubbard is the main draw for this upscale suburb. With more than 30 miles of shoreline, the city offers abundant opportunities for lakeside recreation, scenic vistas, and waterfront living. Rowlett is also a Certified Scenic City at the Platinum level from Scenic Texas. In 2025, the city broke ground on its new Municipal Complex—its largest capital investment—which will house administrative offices and feature walking trails, community spaces, playgrounds, and a dog park.

DeSoto Population: 56,711

DeSoto attracts families with its affordable homes and strong sense of community. It hosts a growing list of companies, including those in healthcare, biotechnology, retail, advanced manufacturing, and transportation. The city features notable destinations such as Windmill Hill Nature Preserve, the Roy Orr Trail with its scenic pathways, and Thorntree Golf Club— considered one of the Dallas–Fort Worth area’s most challenging courses. It is also home to Metroplex BMX, the first covered BMX racing facility in the United States.

Cedar Hill Population: 49,618

Broadcast and communications towers make Cedar Hill visible from a distance, but don’t let those harbingers of technology fool you—this is a pretty, 52

lake-adjacent community that prioritizes the natural environment. The city is located along the eastern shore of Joe Pool Lake and Cedar Hill State Park. It has made open space a priority with parks and more than 36 miles of trails.

It’s also home to the Dogwood Canyon Audubon Center. The city’s new Library in a Park includes a 42,000-square-foot facility set within a 7-acre park featuring trails, outdoor seating and concert space, and a sensory garden.

Coppell

Population: 41,785

Coppell is in the northwest corner of Dallas County, with a small area in the northern section extending into neighboring Denton County. Among the areas to see is Old Town in the city’s historic district. The neighborhood is where the city began. It’s a walkable area of businesses and restaurants clustered around a beautiful town square and home to the Coppell Farmers Market.

Lancaster Population: 40,780

Lancaster is only 15 minutes from downtown Dallas yet retains quiet suburban charm alongside robust economic growth. One of Dallas County’s earliest settlements, the city is investing in improvements to its Historic Downtown, blending local heritage with innovative ideas. In 2024, Lancaster businesses were finalists in the Texas Downtown Association President’s Awards for design and downtown business excellence. Beyond downtown, Lancaster sits in one of the region’s hottest

markets, driven by industrial expansion, high-tech companies, and major data centers. The city is also home to the 300-acre Dallas College Cedar Valley campus, which serves more than 10,000 students.

Duncanville Population: 39,203

Duncanville has plenty to offer in outdoor and indoor activities. There’s nearby Joe Pool Lake for water sports and fishing. Kidsville is the largest volunteer-built playground in the world and a great place to take the kids. You can visit the International Museum of Cultures, which showcases artifacts and culture of Indigenous peoples from across the globe. Dating back to 1840, the community began to grow 40 years later when the construction of the Chicago, Texas and Mexican Central Railroad connecting Dallas and Cleburne turned it into a town.

Farmers Branch Population: 37,341

Farmers Branch is known as a “City in a Park” for its 28 parks in just 12 square miles.

The city has many things for visitors and residents to do.

The Frog Pond Water Park is in the Farmers Branch Aquatics Center. The Farmers Branch Historical Park is a museum nestled on 27 acres that trace more than 175 years of Farmers Branch history along with the history of Peters Colony. The Firehouse Theatre is an award-winning theater. The Grove is a picturesque location that hosts many city events, including the city’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting.

DALLAS COUNTY

Lake Ridge, Cedar Hill

Bayside Regatta, Rowlett

Lakeside Park, Duncanville

Farmers Branch Joya Glow in the Dark Playground

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Where the West Begins Even as it boasts cutting-edge cultural and entertainment amenities, Tarrant County retains and relishes its authentic Western heritage.

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Tarrant is the third-largest county in the state (by population). It is also the westernmost of the four counties making up the DFW metroplex. It’s known for its universities and cultural and entertainment landmarks, like world-class museums (the Kimbell, The Modern) and the Bass Performance Hall in Sundance Square. But its ability to retain its Western heritage is what drew “Yellowstone” to shoot in the county, including at the historic Stockyards in Fort Worth, the county seat. Long referred to as “Cowtown” for its location on the Old Chisholm Trail, Fort Worth is also where Alcon started—now a global leader in eye care.

Additionally, UNT Health Fort Worth and Texas A&M’s innovation campus, call the city home. To capture its dynamic personality, the city launched a new marketing campaign calling Fort Worth The Unexpected City. To its east, off Interstate 30 are Arlington and Grand Prairie, well known for AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, and Six Flags Hurricane Harbor.

—

TARRANT COUNTY —

★

The City of

Fort Worth Population: 1,008,106

SOURCES: STOCKYARDS: LOLA LAVENDER PATHWAYS/VISIT FORT WORTH; DALLAS NEXT

Nicknamed Cowtown, Funky Town, and Panther City, Fort Worth is the nation’s 11th largest city and one of the fastestgrowing large cities in the United States.

Best known for its “Cowboys and Culture,” it’s gaining ground as a favorite hometown for everyone from Gen Z’ers looking for affordable multifamily to retirees seeking engaging communities.

Under the cowboy heading, you’ll find the Stockyards National QUICK FACTS Historic District, where you can watch a twice-daily longhorn Growth rate drive, the annual Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo, and see The 2014-2024: National Cowgirl Hall of Fame, just to name a few.

23.7% The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo is the city’s oldest and Average household largest public event, with a 23-day run in January and February size: 2.76 that draws more than 1.2 million guests to the Will Rogers Median age: Memorial Center and adjacent Dickies Arena.

33.6 Dickies Arena is home to the rodeo and also hosts NCAA Median household basketball tourney games and some of the region’s hottest income: concerts.

For culture, head to the world-class Fort Worth Cultural District, $82,503 boasting the Kimbell Art Museum, the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, the Amon Carter Museum of American Art, and the family favorite Fort Worth Museum of Science and History.

In the heart of downtown, you’ll find angelic Bass Performance Hall and Sundance Square for urban living, foodies, and fashionistas.

Nature enthusiasts will adore the Fort Worth Zoo, rated the best zoo in the nation

by USA Today in 2020, the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge, Trinity Park, and more than 100 miles of Trinity Trails.

Find NASCAR’s best at Texas Motor Speedway on the north edge of the city.

Top neighborhoods include Arlington Heights, popular with families and single millennials; Fairmount, an historic neighborhood in the Near Southside district, known for both historic and multifamily homes, as well as food and fun along Magnolia Avenue; and TCU-adjacent Westcliff, which has great schools, a range of housing prices, and plenty of shopping and dining.

Don’t be surprised if you hear people saying, “In Fort Worth, Y’all means ALL,” which reflects the city’s warmth and diversity.

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Dickies Arena

Panther Island 56

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

IMAGES COURTESY OF VISIT FORT WORTH EXCEPT WHERE NOTED. DICKIES ARENA: FORT WORTH SPORTS COMMISSION

SUNDANCE SQUARE’S CHISHOLM TRAIL MURAL: A larger-than-life tribute by Richard Haas, where Fort Worth’s cowboy legacy leaps off the wall.

TARRANT COUNTY

FORT WORTH LAY OF THE LAND

TALKING POINTS

Need-to-know districts in Fort Worth

Accolades and neat things to know include:

Downtown: The heart of the city, known for its walkable streets and easy access to various entertainment options.

• Already home to Texas Christian University, Texas Wesleyan University, and UNT Health Fort Worth, Fort Worth is adding Texas A&M Fort Worth campus, which will include the TAMU School of Law and a Research & Innovation Building for engineering, biotech, and health sciences that also will offer space to partnering private sector tenants.

Stockyards: Historic district famous for its rich cowboy heritage and vibrant nightlife.

Near Southside: Including the prominent Medical District, the area is a mix of urban living, shops, dining, and live music.

West 7th: Known for its trendy shops, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.

Panther Island: A unique area focused on riverfront development, offering outdoor activities and events.

Sundance Square barber

SUNDANCE SQUARE: JHVEPHOTO/ISTOCKPHOTO; BARBER: DARAH HUBBARD/VISIT FORT WORTH

Riverside: A district that combines residential living with commercial development.

Southeast Fort Worth & Historic Southside: These areas are known for their historical significance and community-focused living.

Cultural District: Home to world-class museums and cultural institutions.

Camp Bowie District: Offers a mix of historical charm and modern retail and dining options.

University/TCU Area: Centered around Texas Christian University, this area is bustling with student life and academic institutions.

TMS/AllianceTexas: A rapidly growing planned community known for the Texas Motor Speedway and commercial development.

Clearfork: A newer development known for upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Northside: A neighborhood with a strong sense of community and cultural diversity.

East Fort Worth: An area that offers a blend of residential, commercial, and natural spaces.

Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth

• Fort Worth’s largest employers include Alcon Laboratories, American Airlines, Bell, Ben E. Keith, BNSF, Amazon, Lockheed Martin, and health providers JPS Health Network, Cook Children’s Medical Center, and Texas Health Resources. Future-focused companies include Hillwood with its Mobility Innovation Zone; MP Materials, which will provide rare earth magnets for GM and Apple; and Wistron, one of the world’s largest electronics manufacturers, which announced plans in 2025 to build two AI supercomputing facilities at AllianceTexas.

• Billboard rates Dickies Arena, which opened in late 2019, as North America’s top grossing venue for its size (10,001 to 15,000 seats). While it’s got all the modern amenities, it was designed to fit in with the century-old art deco vibe of the surrounding Will Rogers complex. In 2022, it took the PBR (Professional Bull Riders) World Finals away from Las Vegas. Yeehaw!

• The National Juneteenth Museum, slated to open on the city’s Southside in 2026, offers education, awareness, and celebration of June 19, 1865, when slaves in Texas learned they were free following the Civil War. Fort Worth’s own Opal Lee, the Grandmother of Juneteenth, led the effort to make the day a federal holiday. The museum also looks to the future to positively impact society and uplift the surrounding community.

EVENTS Cool happenings, every year • Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo: In January and early February, find 23 days of fun-filled celebrations of Western heritage.

Enjoy rodeos, livestock and horse shows, a carnival midway, and plentiful food and shopping.

Celebrating more than 120 years, it lives up to its motto: “This thing is legendary.”

• Main Street Fort Worth Arts Festival: April brings downtown’s biggest event, offering more than 200 juried artists, and 300+ live performances. With free admission and kid crafting areas, it’s fun for all ages.

• Van Cliburn International Piano Competition: Worldrenowned concert pianist and one of Fort Worth’s favorite sons, Van Cliburn was the winner of the first International Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow in 1958, at the height of the Cold War. His namesake contest, the “Van Cliburn,” happens every four years in May and June, next up in 2029, and draws the best pianists from around the globe.

In between the big contests, watch for Cliburn Concerts featuring premier classical musicians —many of them past winners—throughout the year.

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Arlington Population: 403,672

Arlington is home to several wellknown sports, entertainment, and amusement park venues, as well as The University of Texas at Arlington, and a GM assembly plant.

Arlington officials like to say that the city was built on QUICK FACTS two words: “We can.”

And here you can Growth rate see a Texas Rangers 2014-2024: 5.5% game, attend a Dallas Average household Cowboys football size: 2.71 game, ride a roller Median age: coaster at Six Flags 34.5 Over Texas, or shoot Median household down a water flume at income: Hurricane Harbor. $74,388 In fact, the Arlington Entertainment District is becoming known as a center for dining, drinking, and music. Looking for something to do outdoors? You can enjoy River Legacy Park’s 1,300 acres of forests and greenbelts. It’s a popular place for birdwatching, jogging, relaxing for a picnic, and viewing wildflowers in the spring.

Nature enthusiasts can also explore the beauty of Crystal Canyon Natural Area, a hidden gem with unique geological features, providing a serene escape for hiking and nature photography. Arlington also celebrates diverse cultures with events like the annual Levitt Pavilion concert series, offering outdoor music performances.

And you can find a lot of down-toearth folks who work hard to make things such as airplanes, cars, and pet products.

Arlington has a long history as a center for sports in Dallas-Fort Worth. Arlington Downs, a popular horse racing track, opened there in 1929 and operated until 1958.

Choctaw Stadium, formerly Globe Life Park, was once the home of the Texas Rangers, but now is used as home of the North Texas SC of MLS Next Pro (FC Dallas’ reserve team).

TEXAS Live! in the Arlington Entertainment District

SCENES IN THE CITY

Esports stadium

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National Medal of Honor Museum

TARRANT COUNTY NEIGHBORHOODS

Significant communities and neighborhoods to know:

GLOBE LIFE: TEXAS RANGERS; TEXAS LIVE!: ARLINGTON CVB.

View of AT&T Stadium

The District

Globe Life Field inside

Texas Rangers call Globe Life Field their home.

• Viridian is considered one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in Arlington and certainly has an upscale vibe. Viridian is only 10 miles from downtown Arlington and is characterized by a low crime rate and unique homes.

• The downtown area of Arlington is packed with things to do. You can catch a Texas Rangers game or go to a music festival at the university. The Dallas Cowboys play nearby at AT&T Stadium.

It’s also close to the popular Entertainment District.

• Not far from downtown is East Arlington, which is characterized by outdoor recreational experiences and green surroundings. It’s a neighborhood with prime real estate for people who work in Arlington because it is affordable.

• In Southeast Arlington, there are three different parks where you can run, jog, bike, or simply just enjoy walking outdoors.

Downtown is just 8 miles away, which makes it super convenient to go and enjoy the area.

TALKING POINTS

Accolades and things to know: • In 2025, WalletHub chose Arlington as the second best-run city in Texas.

• In 2025, Niche named Arlington the 11th Most Diverse City in America.

• In 2025, Arlington was ranked No. 7 in SmartAsset’s 2025 list of America’s Safest Cities.

• Arlington was ranked among WalletHub’s best large cities to start a business for the second consecutive year in 2025.

• The city was ranked in the Top 25 Best Places to Live in the Southwest by Livability.com.

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MORE TARRANT COUNTY CITIES From largest to smallest, here are other Tarrant County cities with more than 30,000 residents, per the 2024 Census. Beyond the cities listed, the county has many other towns from Colleyville (population 26,012) to Lakeside (population 1,612).

Mansfield Population: 80,803

Southlake Town Square PHOTO: SHAWN O’CONNOR

Retail center, North Richland Hills

Mansfield is experiencing a major development boom, transforming from a quiet suburb into a vibrant, mixeduse community. Major projects like the $1 billion Reserve development, new downtown townhomes, and emerging business districts are driving growth as the population is projected to double by 2040.

The city offers standout amenities including Hawaiian Falls Mansfield water park, Elmer W. Oliver Nature Park, and Big League Dreams Sports Park. Staybolt Street, a new 100-acre sports and entertainment district, is slated for completion in 2026.

North Richland Hills Population: 71,436

Haltom City

Grapevine Lake fireworks

North Richland Hills is known as the home of many businesses, a major hospital, a state-of-the-art library, good neighborhoods, and the NRH20 Water Park. It’s the third largest city in Tarrant County, following Fort Worth and Arlington. SmartAsset has named it one of the Most Livable Small Cities in America for 2025. The insurance company HealthMarkets is headquartered in the city.

Euless

Population: 60,010

Euless is known as a diverse city next to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. The city, for example, has one of the largest concentrations of Tongans outside of Tonga, with a community of 3,000 to 4,000 people. It also has a sizable Nepalese population.

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Among the notable attractions in Euless are its annual Arbor Daze celebration, the Texas Star Golf Course, the Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas, The Upright Theatre Co., and several city parks.

housing and renewed energy to the city. A commercial portion is planned for the western side of Bedford Commons with the goal of creating a unique retail destination that would spur future development in the area.

Grapevine

Keller

Population: 51,320

Grapevine gladly lives up to its name with the Urban Wine Trail and the annual GrapeFest in Historic Downtown Grapevine pours regional varietals by the gallon. But it isn’t all about vino—Grapevine is also a fantastic destination for families. The SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium, LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Meow Wolf, Dig World, and the Gaylord Texan Resort all offer endless entertainment.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Lake Grapevine provides opportunities to boat, ski, fish, camp, and picnic. With nearly 30 city parks and highly rated schools, and neighborhoods at a wide range of price points, Grapevine delivers an exceptional quality of life that continues to draw residents from across the region.

Bedford

Population: 48,728

Bedford is a part of the Hurst-Euless-Bedford Independent School District in what is called the Mid-Cities area. It has a vibrant arts community.

There’s the Old Bedford School, a beautifully restored 1915 schoolhouse, where concerts and events are held. The 60-acre Bob Eden Park offers hiking, a bike trail, nature preserve, and a creek. New developments at Campus West and Bedford Commons are also poised to bring additional

Population: 46,643

Keller is a much-honored city that is known for its schools, variety of shopping and dining destinations, and award-winning city facilities, programs, and services. It’s been called by some Texas’ Most Family-Friendly City. The city has two distinct business districts, historic Old Town Keller and the urban Keller Town Center. Its citywide parks and trails system offers recreation and mobility.

Recent accolades for Keller have included mentions as one of the “Best Small Cities in America,” among the “Top 10 Places to Live in Texas,” and among the “Best Places to Raise a Family in Texas.”

Haltom City Population: 45,786

Haltom City is a diverse community offering a wide range of amenities. Highlights include the revitalized Haltom Theater, the Birdville Historical Museum, and the DFW Elite Toy Museum, with the Salon and Spa Museum nearby. A major new addition is the 50acre mixed-use development anchored by a full-service H Mart. The project will feature more than 50 retail shops, including restaurants, bakeries, coffee shops, salons, and specialty stores—bringing significant new dining, shopping, and lifestyle options to the city.

TARRANT COUNTY

Hurst

Population: 39,500

Nestled in the heart of DFW, Hurst is 10 miles from downtown Fort Worth and 25 miles from downtown Dallas.

It’s home to the Tarrant County College Northeast campus and is a center of education and manufacturing in Tarrant County. The Hurst/Bell Station is jointly owned by Dallas Area Rapid Transit and the Trinity Railway Express and is a major transportation hub. North East Mall continues to attract shoppers while new housing has attracted new residents in the luxury community of Adkins Park, which features new singlefamily homes from builders like Toll Brothers and Britton Homes.

Grapevine Urban Wine Trail, Landon Winery

Southlake Population: 31,500

This affluent suburb and thriving community did not occur by accident, but through long-term, strategic planning. Homes in Southlake’s master-planned neighborhoods command premium prices and are served by the highly acclaimed Carroll ISD. Proximity to Dallas–Fort Worth International Airport makes it especially popular with frequent travelers. The city is known for its premier shopping destination, Southlake Town Square, featuring more than 120 stores, restaurants, boutiques, a hotel, and green spaces. Nearby, Carillon Parc is set to become one of Southlake’s signature destinations—a 42-acre European-inspired mixed-use village with luxury residences, boutique retail, chef-driven dining, and beautifully designed public spaces centered around a vibrant park.

North Richland Hills

A new Mansfield Innovation Community is planned for mixed use.

RENDERING: GENSLER

Arthouse Apartments in Keller

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PLAY BIG. LIVE BOLD. GO FAR. JOIN A COMMUNITY OF UNRIVALED PERFORMANCE

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COLLIN COUNTY

Growing Into Greatness Fast-growing Collin County is a corporate mecca boasting top schools, outstanding shopping and dining, and world-class sports facilities.

Collin County, just north of Dallas County, has consistently been ranked as one of the fastest-growing areas in the country. And no wonder. The corporate mecca has great schools, relatively affordable housing, and an outstanding quality of life. All that’s evident in the county seat, McKinney, which offers plenty of shopping and dining options in the middle of historic downtown.You can catch a show over at the renovated, 1875-era McKinney Performing Arts Center in the Courthouse building. South and west of the county seat is Frisco, home to multiple professional sports teams, including the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys.

Frisco also boasts the sprawling Stonebriar Centre regional mall and unique attractions like the National Videogame Museum. To the east— and then south—of Frisco sit Allen and Plano, respectively. Allen is renowned for Allen High School’s $60 million, 18,000-seat Eagle Stadium, while Plano’s bragging rights include its many company headquarters and Legacy West, a multibillion-dollar, open-air urban village.

Hall Office Park in Frisco 2026 / DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE

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Plano

Downtown Plano arts district

Population: 293,286

Consistently appearing on Best City lists, Plano is a darling of suburbs. Families fill acres of affordable planned neighborhoods and shopping centers. Corporate headquarters are flocking to new developments like Legacy West. While Plano is a commutable distance to just about anywhere in the QUICK FACTS metroplex, jobs increasingly Growth rate will be within miles, as is 2014-2024: 5.4% every other modern amenity Average household you might want: parks and size: 2.52 trails, diverse restaurants, Median age: entertainment one-stops, 40.5 churches of all denominations, major hospitals, and familyMedian household friendly events. income: $115,901 Though active for decades, Plano really started making a name for itself 20 years ago. The city concentrated its efforts on building a strong public school system.

Combine that with being able to get a bigger, newer house for less than in larger cities, and families moved there. The spread continues west even today.

While it grows older in some parts, Plano works to keep vibrancy and progress up to date, which may be why so many corporate headquarters have chosen to build national campuses in the city.

Legacy West

LAY OF THE LAND East Plano This includes the oldest communities, like Historic Downtown, Old Towne, Douglass Community, and Haggard Park. It has a growing international population and you’ll find a range of housing types and styles, including large lots, ranch homes, and plenty of space for animals.

Central Plano This section includes the revitalized arts district and plenty of restaurants to choose from. The homes are predominantly single-family, ranch-style, from the 1970s and 1980s. This neighborhood is conveniently located near North Central Expressway.

West Plano The area is known for expansive two-story homes and major mixed-use developments including The Shops at Legacy, Legacy West, and Granite Park. These destinations combine high-rise and Class-A office space with retail and dining.

North Plano Many homes in North Plano were built in the 2000s.

Families appreciate the top-rated schools, safe reputation, and outdoor space, including Russell Creek Park.

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Toyota North American headquarters

—

COLLIN COUNTY —

THINGS TO DO

PLANO BALLOON FESTIVAL

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE CITY/ORGANIZATIONS EXCEPT WHERE NOTED. TOYOTA: JHVEPHOTO/ISTOCK; NEIGHBORHOOD: STREKOVA2/ISTOCK; LEGACY WEST: FANG ZENG/ISTOCK.

For three days in September, you can see hot air balloons at night and early morning. Music, food, and family fun is also part of the event.

You can also take a tethered balloon ride, weather permitting.

★

INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL

The fall festival celebrates more than 100 cultures in the city through fashion, food, performances, free children’s activities, booths, and a fitness/wellness fair.

CYCLING IN PLANO

The city is a bike-friendly community with bike lanes on many streets and trails with scenic views passing through parks, nature reserves, and alongside creeks.

Go Ape treetop adventure course at Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve

TALKING POINTS • Plano was named the happiest city in America in 2025, by SmartAsset.

• The city also boasts the No. 1 park system in Texas in 2024 per the Trust for Public Land.

• Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is a 200-acre park with 56 miles of trails crisscrossing the city.

• Plano is home to the largest collection of cricket fields in the Southwest.

DART RAIL ACCESS Lines: Red Line, Orange Line, Silver Line Number of stations: Four Approximate time to Downtown Dallas: 37 minutes Crayola Experience

Plano neighborhood

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Frisco Population: 235,208

EVENTS

Cool happenings, every year: TRICK-A-TROUT KID FISH Every February, the Frisco Commons pond is stocked with 3,000 rainbow trout, and kids under 16 are invited to try the sport of fishing.

MOTHER-SON / DADDY-DAUGHTER DANCES Two citywide dances are held in the winter and fall of each year.

EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA More than 80,000 Easter eggs for children ages 12 and under are hidden at Toyota Soccer Center, along with bounce houses, face painting, and photos with the Easter bunny. Specialneeds children get their own field. It’s all free.

JEAN BURBANO/ISTOCK

It’s hard to believe that just 30 years ago, Frisco was mostly farmland. Today, it’s a fast-growing city and a major employment hub, home to companies like TIAA, Keurig Dr Pepper, and the PGA of America. The Dallas QUICK FACTS Cowboys’ headquarters Growth rate at The Star anchors an 2014-2024: 62.2% already vibrant sports scene, complemented by Average household size: 2.76 venues like Dr Pepper Median age: Ballpark, home of the 39.4 Frisco RoughRiders, and Median household Toyota Stadium, where income: Major League Soccer’s FC Dallas and the Dallas $145,444 Renegade United Football League football team plays.

And shopping? It’s plentiful, with destinations like Stonebriar Centre Mall and Frisco Square, plus Fields West, a new district that will bring new shops, restaurants, and entertainment. The area thrives with family-friendly activities, including the Frisco Athletic Center and KidZania, as well as the Frisco Discovery Center, home to the Sci-Tech Discovery Center, the National Videogame Museum, and the Black Box Theatre. Universal Parks & Resorts is set to open a one-of-a-kind theme park in 2026, specifically designed around families with young children. The park’s concept, set in a lush green landscape and featuring immersive themed lands, celebrates Universal’s iconic brand of entertainment, humor, and innovation.

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STREKOZA2/ISTOCK

JERRY BALLARD/ISTOCK

SCENES IN THE CITY

Stonebriar Centre

COLLIN COUNTY NEIGHBORHOODS

Significant communities and neighborhoods to know:

The Star

• Newman Village is a master-planned community that is built around an appreciation for the fine arts, sculptures, and distinctive displays that enhance the landscaped grounds of the plaza.

Homes with European and Mediterranean architectural influences create a unique streetscape.

• The Chapel Creek neighborhood features green spaces, bike trails, hiking trails, parks, and natural creeks. Its proximity to the North Dallas Tollway and large properties make this area a popular one.

• A 550-acre gated community, Starwood consists of luxurious single-family homes that boast modern designs and high-end finishes.

• The Lakes on Legacy is a gated neighborhood that offers picturesque lake views and stunning estates. Residents in Lakes on Legacy also are included as members of the Lakes Tennis & Fitness Academy.

• The Stonebriar neighborhood is in close proximity to the Stonebriar Country Club and is a destination for those looking for the most expensive homes in Frisco. Some of the homes are in Lewisville Independent School District, and others are in Frisco Independent School District.

TALKING POINTS

STREKOZA2/ISTOCK

Accolades and neat things to know include:

National Soccer Hall of Fame

Kidzania

• No. 6 Best Real Estate Market in U.S. (2025, WalletHub).

• No. 10 Safest City in the U.S. (2025, SmartAsset).

• No. 9 Best Places to Live in the U.S. (2024, Livability).

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McKinney Population: 227,526

What once was a pioneer town has evolved into a growing, sophisticated city.

QUICK FACTS McKinney is known for its vibrant Growth rate downtown filled with boutiques, 2014-2024: chef-driven restaurants, and 44.7% year-round events, while new Average household developments like District 121 and size: 2.64 Hub 121 continue to introduce fresh dining, entertainment, and gathering Median age: 38.8 spaces across the city. McKinney Median household also honors its heritage through income: destinations such as Chestnut $124,177 Square Historic Village and the historic Collin County Courthouse, now transformed into the McKinney Performing Arts Center.

A network of trails connects residents to dozens of parks, fitness centers, and sports complexes, supporting an active lifestyle. The city is gaining recognition for its innovative startup scene and is home to major employers such as Globe Life Insurance, Dynacraft, Encore Wire, and Raytheon, a leading defense contractor.

LAY OF THE LAND EastSide This includes the McKinney National Airport; wellestablished communities like Eldorado, which has thousands of homes and a country club; and the 30-block historic district.

The newer side of McKinney is made up of many unique planned neighborhoods, including: Craig Ranch This 2,500-acre master-planned community is anchored by the TPC Craig Ranch Golf Course, located just 10 miles from downtown McKinney. This award-winning development offers easy access to entertainment, shopping, dining, and employment centers, blending upscale living with everyday convenience.

Stonebridge Ranch The largest planned community in the city, made up of 75 distinctive villages, with lakes and miles of trails, and homes ranging from the mid $400,000s to more than $2 million.

Tucker Hill A front-porch lifestyle inspired by Texas architecture, plenty of outdoor space and amenities, but close to major highways and schools.

Westridge Sitting on the edge of the Frisco line, this is a familyoriented area, surrounded by a country club and golf course.

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McKinney golfing community

Sunset Amphitheater opening in 2026

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE CITY/ORGANIZATIONS EXCEPT WHERE NOTED. STADIUM: 900 LBS.

WestSide

COLLIN COUNTY

WHAT’S NEW & NEXT

GRAIN SILO MURAL NEAR MAIN STREET

Artist Guido van Helten, an Aussie who painted the historic 100-foot-tall concrete silos, was inspired by a Juneteenth celebration in a McKinney park.

NEW CITY HALL

McKinney’s new City Hall on the east side of town is a gathering spot for residents—and could spark other redevelopment.

TUPPS BREWERY

Tupps Brewery in the city’s historic cotton mill is a hub for craft beer enthusiasts. The brewery is known for its expansive taproom, colorful murals, and lively community events.

NEIGHBORHOODS

Significant communities and neighborhoods to know: • Adriatica is a 45-acre, mixed-use development, about five miles from downtown McKinney. It was modeled after a small Croatian fishing village.

• Auburn Hills is located in the heart of McKinney. The Gray Branch Community Park is here. Amenities include cycling and hiking trails, an amphitheater, sports fields, and indoor recreational facilities.

• Hardin Lake is a community that offers hillside lots with terraced gardens, and many homes have views of the water. It was built in the mid-2010s and is part of McKinney ISD. • The Serenity neighborhood is a wellestablished luxury neighborhood, and is zoned for Lovejoy ISD. It is adjacent to the 600-acre Heard Museum Nature Preserve.

Historic Downtown McKinney

TALKING POINTS

Accolades and neat things to know include:

In-town camping at Erwin Park

• WalletHub named McKinney as the #1 real estate market in the U.S. in 2025.

• In 2025, the McKinney Farmers Market ranked #1 in Texas, #3 in the Southwest by America’s Farmers Market Celebration.

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Allen Population: 113,746

LAY OF THE LAND East Allen Everything east of U.S. 75 is the original downtown plus a mix of newer and older homes nestled among mature trees and parks.

West Allen Most homes west of U.S. 75 were built in the last 15 years. This area has upscale housing, much of which sits along creekside trails.

The 18,000-seat Allen Eagle Stadium has a sunken bowl design.

NEIGHBORHOODS

Significant communities and neighborhoods to know: • Abbey Hill Park is in East Allen with easy access to anywhere in the North Dallas area. Abbey Hill Park has an average home size of around 2,200 square feet featuring a variety of elevations, floor plans, and custom styling.

• Morgan Crossing is close to shopping and within minutes of Lake Lavon for family entertainment. It has exemplary schools, shopping malls, and fine dining within minutes.

• Cumberland Crossing is a luxury community adjacent to Rowlett Creek and within minutes of Highways 121 and 75.

The home sites in Cumberland Crossing wrap around a large woodland full of mature trees and rolling hills.

• Avondale is just off State Highway 121 and Alma in West Allen. It’s a well-maintained neighborhood including patio homes and town homes.

• The Preserve, a 32.858-acre development, is a heavily wooded community with its own stocked catch-and-release lake.

• Twin Creeks is a masterplanned golf course community.

• Watters Creek at Montgomery Farm is a sustainable mixeduse development featuring shopping, dining, and offices set in an open-air environment with lush green spaces and a creek.

Connemara Meadow Nature Preserve

Fireworks in Allen

SCENES IN THE CITY

Allen trail

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Event center

KidMania Sprayground

Bethany Lakes Park

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE CITY/ORGANIZATIONS EXCEPT WHERE NOTED. FIREWORKS: MIKE MEZEUL II

This family-focused community offers standout education and amenities. Allen ISD is home to the largest high school in Texas, with more than 6,000 QUICK FACTS students, and its Growth rate STEAM Center 2014-2024: provides a state-of20.7% the-art campus for Average household science, technology, size: 2.82 engineering, arts, Median age: and math. The 39.5 district’s 18,000Median household seat football income: $126,370 stadium rivals professional facilities.

Entertainment extends far beyond sports: the Allen Event Center hosts major concerts and national shows, KidMania is one of the largest accessible playgrounds in Texas, and the HUB offers 15,000 square feet of dining space, a lawn, a stage, and 11 restaurants and bars. Watters Creek provides shopping and entertainment, while Allen-based Billings Productions (The Dinosaur Company) partners with museums and zoos nationwide to create animatronic exhibits. Allen Premium Outlets features more than 120 designer and name-brand stores. Housing options range from traditional suburban homes to modern, space-efficient designs and mid-rise residences in mixed-use developments.

COLLIN COUNTY

MORE COLLIN COUNTY CITIES Here are other Collin County cities with more than 30,000 residents, per 2024 U.S. Census data. Beyond the cities listed, the county has many other smaller towns from Murphy (population 21,109) to Lowry Crossing (population 2,028).

Wylie

Population: 62,954 Like many towns and cities in North Texas, Wylie has its roots in the railroads that opened up new opportunities for burgeoning communities in the 1880s and later. Historic downtown Wylie is home to vibrant shops and fine restaurants, such as Ballard Street Café, Bold BBQ Pit, Frankie’s Casa, and Villa Vinci. The historic Brown House offers a glimpse back into the past when visitors drove a Model T or rode a horse to get downtown. The city also has special events such as Taste of Wylie, Bluegrass on Ballard, Wylie Championship Rodeo, and the Wylie Arts Festival.

Celina sunset

Students in Wylie learn about fire prevention.

Celina PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE CITY/ORGANIZATIONS EXCEPT WHERE NOTED. WYLIE STUDENTS: WYLIE/CC BY-NC 2.0

Population: 51,661 Growth and a booming population characterize this Collin County city. It’s 78 square miles, with 10 miles of commercial real estate along the Dallas North Tollway and 10 miles of Preston Road. People like Celina for its neighborhoods, historic Downtown Square, and A+ rated schools.

You can dive deep into its heart and soul with hometown traditions, 30+ annual special events, and a thriving business community.

Prosper

Population: 44,503 Prosper is experiencing rapid growth and has become a sought-after destination for families thanks to strong schools and new housing options. The city’s Richland High School resembles a corporate campus with state-of-the-art facilities, including a food court, hightech learning spaces, and a 2,200-seat arena. New homes continue rising across farmland, including the 2,000-acre Windsong Ranch community.

TALKING POINTS Collin County and seven of its cities are especially notable for their fast growth from 2014 to 2024, per census figures.

Collin County was one of six DFW counties to land in the top 25 fastest growing in the U.S. in 2024.

But Collin also ranked fourth in the country for total growth, adding nearly 47,000 new residents.

Many cities in Collin have seen phenomenal growth—becoming as much as six times larger that a decade ago.

City (2014-2024)

2024 Population

10-year growth %

Prosper

44,503

208.0%

Melissa

26,194

284.8%

Celina

51,661

594.3%

Princeton

37,019

353.1%

Anna

31,986

203.2%

Lavon

8,491

225.3%

Frisco

235,208

62.2%

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Mosaic: A New Chapter in North Dallas Living Award-Winning Amenity Sets a New Standard for Lifestyle Communities Tellus Group LLC, the developer of Windsong Ranch, has once again elevated the standard of master-planned living in North Dallas with Mosaic, their newest signature community in Celina, Texas. This stunning 663-acre, $1.45 billion development, located immediately north of Windsong Ranch in Denton County, recently celebrated the grand opening of its major amenity area, The River, an awardwinning lazy river complex that embodies the community’s lifestyle vision.

Mosaic’s amenity design embraces a natureinspired theme that encourages residents to connect with the outdoors. More than 100 acres of parks and open space are preserved throughout the community, and every homesite is designed to be within a fiveminute walk of a greenway or park. Lakes, restorative landscapes, and native plantings further enrich the natural beauty while supporting water conservation and local wildlife habitats.

“The North Dallas area is a highly soughtafter primary home destination,” said Craig Martin, CEO and founding partner of Tellus Group. “Mosaic is a remarkable property, and it holds significant potential to be one of the best new master-planned lifestyle communities to come to this area since Windsong Ranch.”

Residents of Mosaic are served by the highly esteemed Prosper ISD, which includes a new onsite elementary school that opened in August 2025.

Mosaic features an impressive variety of homes ranging from townhomes to single-family homes on 40- to 70-foot lots, all crafted by seven of the region’s premier builders: American Legend Homes, Bloomfield Homes, Cadence Townhomes, Drees Custom Homes, Highland Homes, Perry Homes, and Tradition Homes. Home prices span from the low $400s to more than $1 million, offering options for a wide range of buyers.

With The River, residents can enjoy Mosaic’s resort-inspired lifestyle. The amenity includes a lazy river and pool complex, a fitness center, a sand volleyball court, creative play areas, and indoor/outdoor gathering spaces—all connected by miles of hike and bike trails. The amenity center will also feature a scenic lake with a fishing pier in early 2026.

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vibrant markets. By prioritizing environmental responsibility, disciplined investment, and intentional land design, we’re able to shape communities that genuinely inspire families. Mosaic is a standout example of that philosophy in action.”

Uniquely positioned in one of the fastestgrowing areas of North Dallas, Mosaic sits just off Frontier Parkway, eight miles southwest of downtown Celina, and only one mile from the Dallas North Tollway. This enviable location puts residents 10 minutes from the PGA Headquarters and the future $2 billion retail, dining and entertainment venues that will surround the new headquarters, 15 minutes from the famed luxury shopping and dining destinations of Legacy West, The Star, and Granite Park, and 38 miles from downtown Dallas.

“This property immediately resonated with us because it reflects the core principles our company is built on,” said Andre Ferrari, COO of Tellus Group. “Our focus is on creating exceptional projects in strong,

For more information on Mosaic, please visit

www.mosaiclivingtx.com.

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

A N AWA RD -WI N N I N G

Welcome Home!

Mosaic in Celina, TX, invites you to experience the art of living well. Greeted by our iconic entry beacon and welcomed by The River, our new, award-winning amenity and lazy river, you’ll find every space thoughtfully TM

crafted for connection, natural beauty, and lasting memories. With a full calendar of year-round events and activities for all ages, this isn’t just a place to live – it’s where your life’s masterpiece takes shape.

A Tellus Group Signature Community

HOMES & TOWNHOMES FROM THE LOW $ 400S TO $1M+

4601 MEANDER WAY, PROSPER, TX 75078 | PROSPER ISD | MOSAICLIVINGTX.COM All features, amenities, or other representations contained within are based upon current development plans, which are subject to change without notice. There is no guarantee that any of these features, amenities, or other representations depicted will be built or performed at all or as depicted or described. © 2025 Tellus Group 2026 / DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE

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Cozy Suburbs and a College Town Denton County offers a diversity of scenes, from a shopping mecca and recreational lakes to wholesome suburbs and a classic college town.

University of North Texas in Denton

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DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

Situated in the northern part of the DFW metroplex, Denton County is blessed with family-friendly suburbs, abundant recreational opportunities, and a rich historical heritage. At its heart is the city of Denton, the county seat, known for its two universities, its music scene, and Denton Square.

The square’s centerpiece is the Denton County Courthouse, built in 1896.

East and south of Denton is scenic Little Elm, an extended suburb of the college town. The Colony sits south of Little Elm along sprawling Lewisville Lake, famed for its fishing and recreational boating.

The Colony also is a popular retail destination, as its Grandscape mixed-use real estate development includes Nebraska Furniture Mart of Texas—the biggest retail furniture store in the country.

Further south still are Carrollton, with its highly rated schools, as well as Flower Mound and Lewisville. The former is minutes away from DFW Airport, while the latter boasts marinas and restaurants fronting Lewisville Lake, plus a 2,600acre nature preserve.

—

DENTON COUNTY —

★

THE CITY OF

Denton

SOURCES: PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE ORGANIZATIONS; DENTON TOWN SQUARE: MIKE MEZEUL II; NTX GIVING DAY: DAVID LEESON

Residents: 165,998

The city of Denton is home to the QUICK FACTS University of North Texas and Texas Growth rate Woman’s University. It is also the 2014-2024: 29.4% Halloween Capital of Texas—a title Average household earned during the state Legislature’s 89th size: 2.64 session.

Median age: Affordable housing, an historic town 30.9 square, and an active music scene offer Median household something for everyone. Just north income: of Denton is wide open land where $80,908 you might live on a ranch and interact with animals more than your next-door neighbor, if that’s your preference.

The city offers nearly 40 bike trails, more than 30 playgrounds, and lots of open land, including South Lakes Park. The roughly 187-acre city park includes Eureka 2—a playground well known to locals.

Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center features familyfriendly hiking trails and is a gateway to more than 2,900 acres of bottomland hardwood forest, upland prairie, and aquatic habitats. The city leases the land from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and is responsible for operation and maintenance of Clear Creek Natural Heritage Area.

Looking for a little history? The Bayless-Selby House Museum is in the Denton County Historical Park. The Victorian-style house museum tells the story of life in Denton at the dawn of the twentieth century. Built in 1904, a simple frame house holds the Denton County African American Museum that was once part of an African American neighborhood known as Quakertown.

The city is also home to the annual Texas Storytelling Festival, the longstanding Denton Blues Festival, the Denton Arts & Jazz Festival, and the Industrial Street Pop Festival.

Home to a thriving business community, Denton sits 35 miles northwest of downtown Dallas and 38 miles northeast of Fort Worth. Major companies such as Peterbilt Motors Co., Jostens, Southwire (which acquired United Copper Industries), Acme Brick and ESAB/Victor Technologies have their HQs in Denton. Sally Beauty moved its HQ to Plano at the end of 2025 but still has operations here.

Denton’s town square at sunset: unique shops and eateries and the historic 1896 Denton County Courthouse.

NEIGHBORHOODS

Significant communities and neighborhoods to know: • Southridge is a well-established neighborhood in south Denton known for its large, tree-lined lots and custom-built homes, with easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment.

• Oakmont is a master-planned community with a variety of home styles, plus a country club, golf course, and excellent schools.

• Forrestridge in east Denton has tree-lined streets, large lots, and custom homes close to shopping, dining, and entertainment.

• Northwood in north Denton has top-rated schools, parks, and community events. It offers a variety of home styles and prices.

• Idiot’s Hill is an historic neighborhood in north Denton with a mix of architectural styles and large, tree-filled lots. There are a few theories on the origin of the name.

SCENES FROM THE CITY

Ariat Distribution Center

North Texas Giving Day

Historic home

Rayzor Ranch

Downtown Denton

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The Festival at the Switchyard is a signature event that honors the important role the railroad played in putting Carrollton on the map and the continuing importance of rail in Carrollton’s present and future.

Carrollton

PIONEER PARK VIEW: A redesigned mural by local artist and R.L. Turner High School graduate Rasheal Winters in downtown Carrollton celebrates the city’s vibrant growth and community spirit.

The city boasts that QUICK FACTS it is 20 minutes Growth rate from everything.

2014-2024: 5.5% It is slated to be Average household a rail transit hub, size: 2.5 with travel going Median age: in six directions 41.2 over the next two Median household decades. Downtown Carrollton’s charming income: $102,231 100-year-old buildings contain small jewelers, boutiques, and restaurants. The center gazebo stands watch while railroad tracks weave among pedestrians. Public school children, for the most part, attend the Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD. The city features plenty of outdoor space for residents and visitors including the A.W. Perry Homestead, Green Trail, Nob Hill Greenbelt, the Greenbelt Disc Golf Park, and Elm Fork Nature Preserve.

NEIGHBORHOODS

Significant communities and neighborhoods to know: • Castle Hills is a master-planned community with beautiful homes, top-rated schools, and a multitude of amenities. It features a golf course, swimming pools, parks, and even a private lake for residents.

• Austin Waters offers a serene and peaceful environment for residents with tree-lined streets, green spaces, and beautiful homes—and amenities like a pool, playground, and walking trails.

• The Homestead at Carrollton offers a sense of community and a family-friendly atmosphere with a community pool and walking trails.

• Oak Creek Estates offers a mix of traditional and contemporary homes with large lots and mature trees near top-rated schools.

TALKING POINTS

Accolades and neat things to know include:

• Two schools in the Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD, Kent Elementary and Rosemeade Elementary, have been named 2025 Texas Lone Star Schools.

• Top 10 Best Cities to Start a Family Report, LendEDU, 2023.

SCENES FROM THE CITY

City trail

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May the 4th Be With You

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

Paws on the Square

Carrollton Camp Wonder

Blue Sky Sports Center

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE CITY/ORGANIZATIONS EXCEPT WHERE NOTED.

Population: 135,456

Experience the Best of Celina Living

Mustang Lakes

Cambridge Crossing

Ask your Realtor about Celina’s premier master-planned communities, developed by Cambridge Companies.

New homesites are now available in all three communities from top North Texas homebuilders.

The Parks

CELINA ISD

CambridgeCrossingTX.com

T H R E E E XC E P T I O N A L C O M MU N I T I E S B Y

CELINA ISD

TheParks-Celina.com

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Lewisville Population: 135,983

Lewisville Lake “old dam” trail

Firefighter Pipe & Drum

NEIGHBORHOODS Significant communities and neighborhoods to know: • Castle Hills, a massive 2,900-acre master-planned community spanning cities offers everything from rental living to luxury homes.

• Lewisville Valley is known as a place that’s good for taking walks, especially with your dog.

• Vista Ridge is a well-kept neighborhood with good access to local highways.

• Vista Ridge Village is a neighborhood conveniently situated near the Vista Ridge Village shopping mall.

Environmental Learning

Grand Theater

Waterfront apartments

SCENES FROM LEWISVILLE

City Hall

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Metropolitan Winds

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

Western Days Rodeo

Public art: Railroad Park bench

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE CITY/ORGANIZATIONS EXCEPT WHERE NOTED. APARTMENTS: TRONG NGUYEN/ISTOCK; TRAIL: ISTOCK.

First settled in the early 1840s, QUICK FACTS shortly before Growth rate Texas received 2014-2024: its statehood, 32.0% Lewisville grew Average household rapidly after the size: 2.5 completion of an Median age: enormous reservoir 36.5 in 1954, now known Median household as Lewisville income: Lake. The more$93,715 than-29,000-acre lake offers excellent water recreational opportunities and features many marinas and public parks and boat ramp access for fishing, skiing, boating, and swimming. Further growth continues due to its convenient location at the crossroads of Interstate 35E and the Sam Rayburn Tollway.

Lewisville takes arts, leisure, and recreation seriously with venues such as the Lewisville Grand Theater and Lewisville Railroad Park, 14 miles of trails, and all the outdoor amenities of the lake. Lewisville is the home to several large companies including Caliber Collision, Horizon Health, Air Medical Group Holdings, and Xome.

MORE DENTON COUNTY CITIES From largest to smallest, here are other Denton County cities with more than 30,000 residents, per the 2024 Census estimates. Beyond the cities listed, the county has many other towns from Trophy Club (population 13,704) to Copper Canyon (population 2,369).

The Tribute at The Colony

Flower Mound

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE CITY/ORGANIZATIONS EXCEPT WHERE NOTED. FLOWER MOUND: TRONG NGUYEN/ISTOCK

Population: 79,990

Flower Mound sits along Lewisville Lake and is especially popular with residents who value trails and strong schools.

In 2025, SmartAsset ranked it the No. 1 Most Livable Small City in Texas and No. 7 in the U.S. The city offers 59 miles of hike-andbike trails, 11 miles of equestrian trails, and numerous sports fields for all ages. Golf enthusiasts enjoy year-round play at the nationally recognized Tour 18 and Bridlewood Golf Club.

The transformative 2,300-acre Furst Ranch development will bring 1,400 homes, 500,000 square feet of retail, a planned medical district, new schools, and roughly 450 acres of open space and parks, with the first homes expected to break ground in 2027.

Economic growth is also accelerating: in 2024, Uniden America Corp. announced it would relocate its U.S. corporate headquarters to Flower Mound, and Niagara opened a state-of-the-art global headquarters in the city.

Little Elm Population: 61,219

A beach in North Texas? Yep. Along Lake Lewisville are miles of sand, fire pits, a pavilion and snack bar, 10 regulation volleyball courts, an amphitheater, and a playground.

Little Elm has 66 miles of shoreline within its city limits and a lake attitude to go along with it. As you can imagine, community events throughout the year center around the waterfront, including Christmas on the Beach. The town of Little Elm was presented with a Platinum Scenic City Certification from the Texas Municipal League in 2023. By earning the highest designation of Platinum Scenic City Certification, the town showed that it embraces a responsible and forward-looking

vision for its infrastructure standards and public spaces.

The Little Elm Craft Brew & Que Festival in June is a family-friendly event featuring over 500 craft beers, barbecue from pitmasters across Texas, and some good Texas country music.

The Colony Population: 45,897

Affectionately known as “the city by the lake,” The Colony features 23 miles of shoreline along Lake Lewisville and two lake parks.

Development is booming in the city.

Grandscape is one of the largest and most unique mixed-use real estate developments in the country.

It stretches across more than 400 acres along SH 121, and features over 3.9 million square feet of retail, entertainment, residential, dining and attractions. Anchored by the state’s only Nebraska Furniture Mart, the district is also home to Cosm’s 87-foot-diameter LED dome, which now provides customers with immersive shared reality experiences for live events. Tiger Woods’ PopStroke, a mini-golf experience designed to replicate traditional golf courses, also recently opened. WorldSpring, the largest social outdoor mineral pool experience, offers 40 unique pools inspired by famous hot springs on 9 acres. Nearby, Truck Yard has more than 15,000 square feet of heavily shaded, pet-friendly, outdoor space that boasts a treehouse bar and an airstream bar. The massive Austin Ranch community is over 1,700 acres of picturesque rolling Texas hills, with apartments, luxury homes, retail and corporate campuses.

Truckyard in The Colony

Concert at Grandscape

Award-winning retail/entertainment development Grandscape

Flower Mound

Flower Mound sunset

Little Elm beach

2026 / DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE

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Small-Town Texas Outside of the “Big Four” North Texas counties, you’ll find open spaces and towns with a charm and character all their own.

Waxahachie historic town square and courthouse PHOTO: AMANDA MORENO LAKE

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DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

RURAL COUNTIES COOKE COUNTY

GRAYSON COUNTY

POPULATION:

POPULATION:

44,258

WISE COUNTY

DENTON COUNTY

POPULATION:

150,532

82,275

PARKER COUNTY Weatherford

HUNT COUNTY

COLLIN COUNTY Rockwall

TARRANT COUNTY

POPULATION:

118,729

DALLAS COUNTY KAUFMAN COUNTY

POPULATION:

179,707

POPULATION:

Burleson

JOHNSON COUNTY POPULATION:

210,547

ROCKWALL COUNTY POPULATION:

137,044

197,829

Waxahachie

ELLIS COUNTY POPULATION:

232,387

The region’s biggest counties are packed with people and activities, but if you prefer laid-back, wide-open spaces, you can find those too. Out west in Parker County, you’ll find true Western heritage in Weatherford and smaller towns. To its north, Wise County offers the small-town appeal of Decatur with its Instagram-ready murals. East of Dallas, Rockwall County’s namesake city is perched on Lake Ray Hubbard and makes full, fun use of it. South of Fort Worth, Johnson County is the home of Burleson, DFW’s largest outlying city, with 56,253 people, two wineries, and an art center on a century-old farm. South of Dallas, Ellis County features the I-35 town of Waxahachie, which boasts one of the most photographed town-square county courthouses in all of Texas. Nearby Midlothian saw 72% growth in the last census. Northeast of Dallas, Hunt County offers family-friendly fun from museums to fairs to a planetarium in Greenville and Commerce. And out east on Highway 80, Kaufman County’s Forney is the “antique capital of Texas,” while nearby Terrell offers historic downtown shops and more history on display at two mustsee museums. Turn the page to read about a few of the biggest towns in the seven counties.

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SMALL-TOWN TEXAS

Here are cities with populations between 30,000 and 100,000 residents, per the 2024 U.S. Census estimates. Beyond the cities listed, the outer ring counties have many other smaller towns from Ennis (population 24,753) to Neylandville (population 74). The fastest-growing town above 20,000 people from 2014 to 2024, is Celina (population 51,661), which saw 594.3% growth. More than 20 other small towns grew between 50% and 700%!

Burleson

Population: 56,253 County: Johnson

Burleson, nestled between Johnson and Tarrant counties, was founded in 1880 as a midpoint station on the railroad expansion between Fort Worth and Alvarado. Today it blends small-town charm with modern amenities. The city offers a family-friendly atmosphere complemented by an emphasis on nature and recreation with over 550 acres of parkland. Of note, Grammy and “American Idol”-winning singer and television host Kelly Clarkson grew up there and graduated from Burleson High School in 2000.

Former U.S. Treasury Secretary Robert B. Anderson was born in Burleson.

Rockwall Population: 53,547 County: Rockwall

Rockwall sprawls along the east side of Lake Ray Hubbard, and people who live here appreciate the swimming, boating, water skiing, and more that comes with living close to the water. The fast-growing community claims a hometown feel with all of the advantages of a major city, and it draws people from all over to its summer evening concerts by the lake. The city’s downtown area features more than 100 businesses, including retail, restaurants, and fitness, along with service businesses and several churches. Its name comes from the mysterious underground rock wall that was discovered in 1851 during digging for wells.

Waxahachie Population: 48,617 County: Ellis

PHOTO: STANLEY FORD/SHUT-

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TERSTOCK

Sunrise at Quanah Hill in Weatherford is a special event. The popular outdoor recreational area named after Comanche leader Quanah Parker features a trail system that’s frequented by hikers, mountain bikers, and runners.

The Texas State House has designated Waxahachie as the Crape Myrtle Capital of Texas where, in the summer, the city’s streets are lined by beautiful pink blossoms. In fact, Waxahachie is a picturesque place.

Numerous television shows and

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

movies have been filmed in the city, including Academy Award winners “Places in the Heart,” “Tender Mercies,” and “Trip to Bountiful.”

The city’s downtown area has been undergoing a renaissance with redevelopment of older commercial properties and new construction underway. There are more than 100 retail locations and restaurants to choose from.

Midlothian Population: 44,104 County: Ellis

Midlothian is known for its spacious, large-lot, semi-rural living, and its fast-growing population is fueling a wider variety of housing options for families of all sizes. The city develops more than 500 new residential lots each year. In 2019, Google opened an 800,000-squarefoot, $600 million data center in Midlothian, with ongoing expansion.

Long recognized as the cement capital of Texas for its three major cement plants, the city is now experiencing rapid growth and diversification. A new joint city hall and library has become a cornerstone of community life and downtown revitalization.

Cleburne Population: 38,131 County: Johnson

Cleburne is the county seat of Johnson County and is the home of Lake Pat Cleburne, which offers 1,500 acres of water for swimming, boating, fishing, and kayak and Jet Ski rentals. The city is known for its quaint downtown area with shopping and restaurants. And it’s home to the Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum and Big Bear Native American Museum, the Cleburne Railroad Museum, and the Layland Museum of History.

Cleburne has a Walmart Distribution Center with more than 1,000 employees, and Interamerican Foods La Moderna produces a variety of pasta products at its high-tech plant there.

ROOM TO ROAM

A Texas sunset on Lake Ray Hubbard in Rockwall.

PHOTO: ROCKWALL EDC

Old Town Burleson

Tack room on a working cattle ranch in Weatherford.

PHOTO: BOB POOL/SHUTTERSTOCK

A Victorian house in Waxahachie.

PHOTO: LMPARK PHOTOS/SHUTTERSTOCK

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SMALL-TOWN TEXAS continued Weatherford Population: 39,397 County: Parker

Weatherford is the county seat of Parker County, just west of Fort Worth. It’s known as the “Peach Capital of Texas,” and each year it hosts the Parker County Peach Festival, one of the best-attended such festivals in Texas.

Weatherford is known as the “Peach Capital of Texas.”

PHOTO: TRONG NGUYEN/ISTOCK

Sherman

The headquarters of the National Snaffle Bit Association, an equestrian organization, is located in the city.

And Weatherford College, turning 157 years old in 2026 offers more than 50 degrees and certificates across disciplines like nursing, engineering, computer science and agribusiness. Originally built by the Masons, and founded in 1869, the college was one of the first in Texas.

TEXOMA REGION Texoma, a portmanteau of Texas and Oklahoma, refers to an interstate region that in north central Texas consists chiefly of Cooke and Grayson counties.

Cooke’s county seat, Gainesville, is known for its Victorian-era architecture, while a smaller town to the west, Muenster, is renowned for its German heritage.

Grayson County’s city of Denison is the birthplace of U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Denison’s fast-growing neighbor to the south, Sherman, is the Grayson county seat.

Sherman

Population: 50,229 County: Grayson

Texas Instruments’ new multi-billion-dollar “fab” plants in Sherman.

PHOTO: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS

The future of technology is unfolding today in Sherman, a once-quiet North Texas town that’s being reshaped into a high-tech manufacturing hub and an epicenter of the U.S. semiconductor industry. Texas Instruments and GlobalWafers Co. chose the Grayson county seat for major semiconductor projects that bring thousands of new jobs, attract skilled professionals to the area, and may spark future investment. It’s great for Sherman, and is creating ripple effects throughout the region.

In 2021, TI selected Sherman as the site of an unprecedented, $30 billion project to build multiple semiconductor plants employing up to 3,000 and bolstering the U.S. chip supply chain. GlobalWafers added to the to the momentum by putting up the first phase of a giant, $5 billion silicon wafer factory—a critical base material for chips, marking the first such U.S. facility to be built in over two decades. It brought hundreds of manufacturing jobs with it. Sherman’s rise also is being fueled by the Texoma Semiconductor Tech Hub, a new

federal effort led by Dallas’ Southern Methodist University. The hub aims to knit together an entire regional semiconductor ecosystem, promoting innovation, and growing its workforce.

The latest developments reinforce Sherman’s “business-friendly” approach to growth as it touts its ample workforce, plentiful water supply, and diversified economy. To accommodate the new activity, the city has adopted an updated zoning map and is attracting significant new housing development. Smaller towns around Sherman also are preparing to accommodate workers with new housing, and industrial facilities for high-tech suppliers and vendors are popping up around the region as well.

“There are a lot of developers up here and a lot of new homes going in. It’s got a boomtown type of atmosphere,” former Mayor David Plyler said at the time. New neighborhoods include Bel Air Village. Sherman residents have a variety of parks and outdoor activities, including Binkley Park’s 10-mile bike trail and Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge.

Sherman ISD is a fast-growing district with roughly 7,800 students across 16 campuses.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIES Planned Bel Air Village lagoon in Sherman.

In addition to the nine outer “ring” counties in the Dallas region, the Dallas-Fort Worth Combined Statistical Area includes Hopkins, Henderson, Navarro, Hood, Somervell, Erath, and Palo Pinto counties.

RENDERING: BEL AIR VILLAGE

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DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

Fueling Innovation Across North Texas.

Co-working Spaces- Innovative, collaborative work environments in Dallas, & Fort Worth Accelerator Programs- High-impact programs designed to launch and scale startups.

Mentorship - Connect with experienced founders and industry leaders.

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Join North Texas’ largest entrepreneur network today.

Top 5 Fastest Growing City in the Nation

Combining a prime location in the bustling corridors of Collin County with nearly 78 square miles of opportunity, Celina offers 20 miles of key commercial frontage along the Dallas North Tollway and Preston Road (SH 289). When you choose Celina, you get more than just an address — you gain a community partner committed to your success, featuring a thriving local economy, A+ rated schools, and a charming historic Downtown Square that champions both hometown traditions and business growth.

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DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

celinaedc.com

HOUSING

Home Sweet Home Find your perfect living style in Dallas-Fort Worth, from cozy single-family homes and modern apartments to active 55-plus communities and dynamic live-work-play developments.

Dallas-Fort Worth communities are filled with convenience and charm in lifestyle.

Whether you are an individual or a family of five, the region offers diverse housing options to fit your style.

If you lean toward urban chic, relocate to a trendy loft with skyline views. Want something prioritizing convenience?

Check out the area’s mixed-use developments, where you can live above shops and restaurants and access pretty much everything you need on foot. Established neighborhoods with single-family homes and expansive yards are plentiful. Or, for a more relaxed small-town feel, neighboring communities provide homegrown pride (with lots of space), friendly neighbors, and big-city conveniences. Whatever your style and needs, the region has the home for you. What’s more, housing in the Dallas area is more affordable than what you’ll find in similarly sized cities. If you’re moving from another major metro area, you may be surprised to find how far your money goes. Home prices in Dallas-Fort Worth are still among the most affordable in the country, according to research from the Urban Land Institute.

The local housing market’s strength during global economic fluctuations is due to a combination of a lower cost of living—compared with other major metropolitan

East Dallas is renowned for its unique residential architecture, featuring homes with historical charm.

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LIVE / WORK / PLAY / THRIVE areas—and a diverse economic base that provides a variety of employment opportunities.

The bottom line for families is that a dollar buys more square footage per home in DFW than many places in the country.

The ease of travel between smaller cities and major job centers allows employees to choose from a variety of communities and neighborhoods to accommodate their lifestyles and price points.

Custom-built homes

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Median Home Price Points Dallas-Fort Worth has a wide range of home prices. Here’s a landscape view.

FORT WORTH

DENTON

MCKINNEY

DALLAS

$117,000-$342,500

$470,001-$656,650

$656,651-$1,000,000

> $1,000,001-$2,110,000

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

Sources: North Texas Real Estate Information Systems, Inc Quarterly NTREIS Economic Report

If you search and don’t find just the right house for your needs, there’s always the custom-built route. Choosing every detail of a home, from the floor plan to the doorknobs, is exciting for a lot of people. Costs can amount to about the same as buying a pre-owned home, and you get exactly what you’ve always wanted. Dallas-Fort Worth has plenty of homebuilders and ready-to-build lots—urban, suburban, and rural.

One- and two-story traditional and contemporary single-family homes are the baseline for most new subdivisions, though patio homes (zero-lot-line houses) are also popular. It’s also possible to customize a townhouse or condominium that’s in the early stages of construction or preconstruction.

Unlike other parts of the country, one thing you’re not likely to find here is a basement. The region’s expansive clay soil typically precludes their construction.

Homes here often feature delightful outdoor living spaces, perfect for enjoying the region’s sunny disposition, ranging from patios to elaborate outdoor kitchens, and inviting pools.

A growing trend towards ecofriendly living is also evident in features like drought-resistant landscaping and rainwater harvesting systems, aligning your home with the future of sustainable living. Building in Dallas-Fort Worth is not just about creating a house; it’s about crafting a lifestyle.

$342,501-$470,000

MODERN URBAN LIVING: Parkside view of threestory single-family residences in Richardson.

NEW CONSTRUCTION N E W C O N S T R U C T I O N H OT S P OT S

Top 10 ZIP codes for new home sales

PHOTO: Trong Nguyen/istockphoto

Ready-to-Build Plats DENTON

DALLAS

SOURCE: Zonda

FORT WORTH

MCKINNEY

VACANT DEVELOPED LOTS: The abundance of buildable lots in Dallas-Fort Worth is notable in a booming metropolitan hub. Here’s a look at vacant recorded plats with streets and utilities in place, ready for building your future home.

75126

FORNEY 1,242 HOMES SOLD AVG. PRICE: $368,227

75071

MCKINNEY 1,004 HOMES SOLD AVG. PRICE: $490,313

75407

PRINCETON 975 HOMES SOLD AVG. PRICE: $326,329

76227

AUBREY 785 HOMES SOLD AVG. PRICE: $454,995

75114

CRANDALL 659 HOMES SOLD AVG. PRICE: $278,062

75009

CELINA 658 HOMES SOLD AVG. PRICE: $694,387

76052

HASLET 623 HOMES SOLD AVG. PRICE: $457,730

76247

JUSTIN 589 HOMES SOLD AVG. PRICE: $491,469

76179

SAGINAW 560 HOMES SOLD AVG. PRICE: $389,651

75189

ROYSE CITY 534 HOMES SOLD AVG. PRICE: $343,074

SOURCE: METROTEX ASSOCIATION OF REALTOR®S FROM THE MLS, JAN 2024-DEC 2024

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“ How much house can I buy?”

DALLAS, UPTOWN | 758 SQ FT | 1 BED/1 BATH

$312,500

DENTON | 2,042 SQ FT | 5 BEDS/3 BATHS

$399,900

Photos provided by CENTURY 21 Judge Fite Company

GRAPEVINE | 2,329 SQ FT | 3 BEDS/2 BATHS

KELLER | 2,968 SQ FT | 4 BEDS/2.5 BATHS

LAKE DALLAS | 1,578 SQ FT | 3 BEDS/2 BATHS

RICHARDSON | 1,746 SQ FT | 3 BEDS/2 BATHS

ROCKWALL | 3,476 SQ FT | 4 BEDS/3.5 BATHS

SOUTHLAKE | 4,158 SQ FT | 3 BEDS/2 BATHS

MANSFIELD | 2,042 SQ FT | 4 BEDS/2 BATHS

PLANO | 2,639 SQ FT | 4 BEDS/2 BATHS

WAXAHACHIE | 2,226 SQ FT | 3 BEDS/2 BATHS

$560,000

$409,000

$439,900

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$638,000

$700,000

$570,000

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

$329,900

$1,499,000

$425,000

ACTIVE 55+ LIVING

“FOREVER YOUNG”: Avenida Carrollton is the new cool kid at the senior lunch table. A new active 55+ living community in Castle Hills tosses out the bingo halls of yesteryear for a saltwater pool, yoga studio, spa, fitness studio, and enough event space to cater to an active social calendar. It also offers garden-to-table dining, pickleball, and plenty of pocket parks. Avenida Partners says the property is the first of its type in the area to offer both “boutique apartments” and villas for residents.

Active 55+ living

With a warm climate, easily accessible airports, abundance of golf courses, renowned healthcare, and myriad senior-focused activities, it’s no surprise Dallas-Fort Worth attracts retirees from across the country. Over 12% of the population here is 65 or older, and the area offers plenty of living options catering to this vibrant demographic.

Relocating families often choose to bring older loved ones with them. In recent years, active adult communities have been reimagined as age-restricted subdivisions with resort-style amenities like clubhouses, fitness centers, golf courses, pools, and walking trails.

Builders also offer active adult products within traditional neighborhoods.

For those desiring luxury, Dallas-Fort Worth provides premier high-end

communities with gourmet dining, concierge services, cultural excursions, and wellness programs designed for an elevated lifestyle. Independent living facilities also abound for seniors seeking rich, full lives without homeownership burdens.

Beyond active-adult communities, Dallas-Fort Worth offers every type of senior living. Assisted facilities strike the ideal balance between independence and support with daily activities.

Specialized memory care centers provide compassionate, engaging environments for those with cognitive impairments.

Continuing care retirement communities enable customized transitions between on-site care levels.

The breadth of diverse options means newcomers can find the perfect setting to suit their loved ones’ needs and budget.

SAMPLE OF 55+ RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES SUBDIVISION

CITY

Robson Ranch

Denton

Frisco Lakes

Frisco

Heritage Ranch

Fairview

Elements at Viridian

Arlington

Kerala Estates

Royse City

Del Webb at Union Park

Little Elm

Del Webb at Trinity Falls McKinney Meadowstone Place

Dallas

Ladera at Prosper

Prosper

Ladera at Tavolo Park

Fort Worth

Avenida Carrollton

Carrollton

Overture Flower Mound Flower Mound Sweetwater at Light Farms

Celina

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The new One Rangers Way multifamily community in Arlington is practically on Globe Life Field’s doorstep— and within walking distance of AT&T Stadium too.

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RENTAL LIFESTYLE

Multifamily living

PHOTO: THE CORDISH COMPANIES

Apartment dwelling in the DFW area depends on your preferences: all types and sizes are found throughout our region. Communities range from traditional apartment complexes to luxury high-rise buildings to large-scale communities with every bell and whistle imaginable.

Some newer apartment communities offer amenities such as dog runs, workout facilities, tanning services, and community activities ranging from movies on the lawn to wine tastings to Monday Night Football parties.

Townhouses offer a balance between single-family homes and condos and can be found throughout North Texas. Duplexes and triplexes, multifamily in a single structure, offer a more intimate living experience when compared to traditional apartment complexes.

Whether you hope for hardwood floors or just need an affordable studio, DallasFort Worth offers rentals suiting all wallets and wishes. Those seeking an upscale urban experience will discover a burgeoning array of luxury communities cropping up across the region. Addison’s incoming 290-unit Jefferson Aero is slated to begin leasing soon, while Streetlights Residential’s high-rise Galatyn tower overlooking Highland Park plans 56 refined units with ample space.

Elsewhere, apartments of every type are in the works. Bridgeview Multifamily recently broke ground on apartments coming soon to Arlington and Denton. In downtown areas, several notable office-toapartment conversion projects are underway.

Downtown Dallas’ wave of office building conversions are adding hundreds of units just steps from arts and culture. Woods Capital has completed the conversion of Santander Tower, a 50-story, 1.4-millionsquare-foot tower from the 1970s, and work is now underway on Bryan Tower, a 40-story, 1.1-million-square-foot building from the 1980s. The two projects will add 600 residential units to downtown.

In downtown Fort Worth, several historic conversions are underway, including plans for the Oil & Gas building on West 7th Street, which is slated for 180 apartments, along with ground-floor retail.

Across the region, mixed-use communities—which include not only multiple apartment buildings, but also restaurants, shops, movie theaters, and underground parking—have sprouted all over, ready for those who want an urban, walkable neighborhood experience without

the responsibilities of homeownership from Dallas to Fort Worth and Frisco to Rockwall.

In fact, multifamily living has become big business in North Texas, so big that even the World Series Champion Texas Rangers of Major League Baseball are getting involved.

The Rangers and developer Cordish Cos. have built a new luxury rental community in Arlington’s entertainment district. The new eight-story, 299-unit One Rangers Way apartment community sits south of Interstate 30 and adjacent to Globe Life Field and Choctaw Stadium.

A push already is underway for the next phase of the more than $1 billion Texas Live! entertainment complex that includes the Live! by Loews Hotel, new Arlington Hotel & Convention Center, the National Medal of Honor Museum, and Spark Coworking. The apartment development is within walking distance of AT&T Stadium, the Dallas Cowboys’ home. A marketing center for One Rangers Way has opened in Choctaw Stadium.

But according to RentCafe, Frisco in Collin County is the top city for new apartments, according to a recent study of ZIP codes. The city, specifically ZIP code 75034, has seen a 69.5% increase in new apartments, with 5,872 units added in the previous five years. That growth is attributable to an influx of major corporations and the high desirability of the city, RentCafe said.

In fact, as far north as Grayson County, where Sherman is located, several apartment communities are being readied for new residents. Industry trackers forecast that about 30,000 apartments metro-wide will be completed by the end of 2025, as builders work to accommodate steady streams of new residents in emerging housing hotspots. Only New York City has built more during the same period.

TWO-BEDROOM RENT RATES

Average monthly rent Find the best rental area to match your budget; scan the QR code to see a breakdown of rates across the region, from less than $762 to more than $2,000.

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CITYLINE

RICHARDSON Originally billed as a city within a city, CityLine is centered around a DART rail station and State Farm offices.

Live-Work-Play Hubs Modern mixed-use developments in every corner of the region make the transition of a Dallas move easier than ever. We highlight a few notable locations.

These well-thought-out living centers make it possible to have a community where you literally walk from the place you live to shopping, dining, entertainment, green space, public transport, and sometimes even your workplace. And many more are in the process of being built. Imagine how much time that frees up, and how flexible your schedule becomes—not to mention the social opportunities it affords. In Dallas-Fort Worth, you’re lucky to have many options for this style of living—true live-work-play environments where residents can easily embrace an integrated lifestyle.

MAIN STREET DISTRICT DALLAS

DOWNTOWN McKINNEY MCKINNEY

Downtown Dallas urban revival at its best.

Preserved buildings let hotels pair with residences. Active nightlife and dining.

The revamped original historic town square sits in the middle of quaint shops, local restaurants, and entertainment venues.

WEST 7TH FORT WORTH The former headquarters of Acme Brick is now a pedestrian-friendly urban entertainment district not far from downtown, near TCU.

MORE ONLINE: LIVE-WORK-PLAY MAP

See where mixed-use developments are located around the region

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MIXED-USE COMMUNITIES VICTORY PARK DALLAS Anchored by the American Airlines Center with a big crowd-gathering screenfilled plaza. High-rise living is upscale and service-oriented.

LEGACY & LEGACY WEST

MOCKINGBIRD STATION

PLANO

DALLAS

The Shops at Legacy is the vibrant heart of the Legacy Business Park.

Legacy West has 250+ acres of retail, residential, hotel, and offices.

Centered around a park-and-ride DART Station. Houses an Angelika Film Center, restaurants, shopping, loft-style offices, and dwellings.

BISHOP ARTS

CEDARS/SOUTHSIDE

DALLAS

DALLAS

Built in the 1920s around Dallas’ busiest trolley stop. Recent redevelopment maintains the vintage artsy character with 160 shops and restaurants.

Conversion of an old Sears distribution center into lofts with community space for artists, bars, and retail.

SUNDANCE SQUARE

FRISCO SQUARE

ADDISON CIRCLE

WATTERS CREEK

FORT WORTH

FRISCO

ADDISON

ALLEN

Park free on the 35 blocks of brickpaved streets in downtown Fort Worth.

Features restored turn-of-the-century buildings and an expansive plaza.

Incorporates Frisco’s City Hall and public library along with lots of shopping, apartment buildings, and office space.

You’ll remember it for the giant blue steel sculpture in the center of a roundabout. You’ll visit for events like Kaboom Town and Oktoberfest.

The first LEED-certified retail complex in Texas offers open-air shopping, dining, office space, and apartments along with concerts and events.

ALLIANCE TOWN CENTER

CYPRESS WATERS

THE STAR

GRANDSCAPE

FORT WORTH

DALLAS

FRISCO

THE COLONY

National large retailers shoulder grocery stores, a Cinemark movie theater, casual restaurants, and three residential complexes.

This thousand-acre planned community sits around a 36-acre lake near Coppell. Includes one of the first “net-zero” elementary schools.

The Star is the 91-acre campus of the Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters and practice facility, surrounded by shopping and housing.

Grandscape is home to over 400 acres, anchored and owned by Nebraska Furniture Mart. A Ferris wheel towers over this fun destination.

EASTSIDE

DOWNTOWN PLANO

DOWNTOWN ROANOKE

PARKER SQUARE

RICHARDSON

PLANO

ROANOKE

FLOWER MOUND

Just south of DART’s Galatyn Park Station in the heart of the Telecom Corridor. Nice apartments surround international dining options.

Named as one of America’s best downtowns, it includes a vibrant community of urban living, arts, unique shops, and restaurants.

They redesigned the town’s established Oak Street and plaza, but maintained the historic downtown feel.

Antique-inspired awning-covered storefronts surround a park with gazebo. Also home to the campus of North Central Texas College.

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DALLAS THE URBAN CORE OF ONE OF THE WORLD'S

MOST DIVERSE ECONOMIES

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WORK. EMPLOYERS // INDUSTRIES // INNOVATION

WHERE GREAT CAREERS ARE BUILT Dallas-Fort Worth nurtures professional growth from corporate ladders to startup trenches.

PGA of America Frisco Headquarters 2026 / DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE

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LEARNING MEETS LEADERSHIP: Financial services and consulting giant Deloitte unites hundreds of thousands of leaders from all over at “Deloitte University” in Westlake, northwest of DFW International Airport at Hillwood’s Circle T Ranch. The more than 700,000-square-foot DU campus with its quarter-mile-long building was Deloitte’s first dedicated training ground (the company now has five worldwide) for employees from all over the country. The company has in the works a $300 million expansion of the part learning center, part ranch-style retreat in a natural setting.

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WORK FEATURE

Opportunity Meets Momentum MAJOR CORPORATIONS AND HIGH-GROWTH VENTURES CHOOSE DFW TO SCALE AMBITIOUS MISSIONS. Dallas–Fort Worth offers one of the most dynamic job markets in the nation, supported by major corporations, successful small businesses, and fast-growing startups. Global companies anchor headquarters across the region, while entrepreneurial ventures create new roles in emerging and innovative fields. Established pillars such as finance, technology, logistics, aerospace, and healthcare continue to expand their workforces, even as rapidly advancing sectors like life sciences build fresh demand for talent. The result is a richly layered employment landscape where professionals at any stage can find meaningful, diverse avenues to grow.

For newcomers, DFW’s breadth of industries translates into remarkable flexibility to shape a career on their own terms. The region’s economic diversity supports upward mobility for executives, skill development for mid-career professionals, and hands-on opportunity for those exploring entrepreneurial paths. Because companies and industries are spread throughout the region, residents can pursue job opportunities without having to relocate, making career transitions smoother.

Whether someone hopes to shift sectors, accelerate advancement inside a major enterprise, or build something entirely new, DFW provides a runway where ambitious career trajectories can take flight.

The region’s exceptional job market is rooted in the strength of its corporate landscape. Dallas–Fort Worth stands as a major center for company headquarters, attracting some of the most influential brands in the world. Twenty-one Fortune 500 companies call the region home, including global leaders AT&T and McKesson, which each rank within the Fortune 50 and Global 100. In total, 44 Fortune 1000 companies maintain significant corporate offices and executive teams across the region. Legacy innovators and industry giants—from Texas Instruments and 7-Eleven to Southwest Airlines—have long recognized Dallas-Fort Worth as an 2026 / DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE

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Toyota Motor North America, Inc. (TMNA), headquartered in Plano, Texas, brings together Toyota’s marketing, sales, engineering and manufacturing arms in North America on one shared, stateof-the-art campus.

Dallas-based LTK—founded by Amber Venz Box and Baxter Box in 2011—pioneered an entirely new industry of creator commerce, launching the firstever influencer-driven consumer shopping app in 2017. Now, LTK, just named to the TIME100 2025 Most Influential Companies, drives more than $5B in annual sales and has more than 40M monthly users.

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environment capable of supporting large-scale operations, deep workforce pipelines, and sustained business growth.

This concentration of corporate activity is not confined to a single area.

Instead, companies are distributed across interconnected areas such as Uptown Dallas, Irving, Plano, Richardson, Fort Worth, and Arlington.

This multi-center structure strengthens the region’s resilience, expands access to jobs, and reinforces DFW’s ability to support a wide range of industries simultaneously.

Big business magnet

The region is a powerful magnet for corporate headquarters and major company operations, drawing a steady stream of notable relocations year after year. It consistently ranks among the nation’s top markets for new and expanded corporate facilities. “We count 460 notable corporate announcements in DFW since 2020,” said DRC Senior Vice President of Economic Development Mike Rosa. “In just five years, the region has welcomed 160 headquarters relocations—59 from California, 69 from 24 other states, and 32 international companies from 19 countries.”

In 2025, Abbott Laboratories announced its expanding manufacturing operations in DFW creating 100 new jobs, while GEICO has pledged 1,000 additional positions at its Richardson office. Canadian banking giant Scotiabank chose Dallas for a major new hub, bringing more than 1,000 jobs.

Kentucky Fried Chicken also announced it will move its headquarters from Louisville, Kentucky, to Plano, adding to the wave of household-name brands that have selected Dallas-Fort Worth for their corporate base.

These newcomers join a substantial roster of past headquarter relocations, including AT&T, Fluor, Toyota Motor North America, AECOM, Caterpillar, CBRE, Jacobs, and McKesson. The region has also seen major expansions in logistics and manufacturing from companies such as Amazon, MP Materials, General Motors, Molson Coors, and many others in recent years.

This level of corporate movement signals not a temporary surge but a longterm shift in where companies choose to grow.

EMPLOYERS

Major Companies in DFW A snapshot of businesses powering the Dallas-Fort Worth economy Construction AECOM American Legend Homes Austin Industries Balfour Beatty Beck Group Builders Firstsource Centex Corporation Clune Construction D.R. Horton First Texas Homes Fluor Corporation Green Brick Partners Inc Highland Homes Hill & Wilkinson Invitation Homes Landsea Homes Lennar McCarthy Building Companies MEDCO Construction Pogue Construction Primoris Services Rogers-O’Brien Construction SRS Distribution TDIndustries Turner Construction U.S. Concrete

Energy Atmos Energy Bass Enterprises Comstock Resources Inc Delek US Holdings Energy Transfer EnLink Midstream Halliburton HF Sinclair Hunt Consolidated/ Hunt Oil J-W Power Company Kosmos Energy Ltd Luminant Matador Resources Co Oil States Management Oncor Electric Delivery Petro-Hunt Pioneer Natural Resources ProFrac Holdings Range Resources Reliant, an NRG Company Scout Energy Management Sunoco TXU Vistra Energy

Education & Health Care Abbott Laboratories Addus HomeCare Corp.

American Heart Association AMN Healthcare ARPA-H Customer Experience Hub Axxess Baylor Scott & White Health BioLabs Pegasus Park Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas Cencora Children’s Health CHRISTUS Health Collin College Cook Children’s Health Care System Dallas College Galderma JPS Health Network McKesson Medical City Healthcare

Methodist Health System Tarrant County College Tenet Healthcare Texas Health Resources University of North Texas System University of Texas at Arlington University of Texas at Dallas UT Southwestern Medical Center Verily

Leisure & Hospitality American Airlines Center Arcis Golf Arlington Sportservice AT&T Stadium Brinker International CEC Entertainment Cinemark Holdings Dave & Buster’s Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group Inc Fiesta Restaurant Group Hilton Hotels.com Invited La Madeleine Live Nation Lone Star Park LSG Sky Chefs USA Omni Hotels PGA of America Pizza Hut Six Flags Entertainment Park Smoothie King Texas Motor Speedway Topgolf Entertainment Group VisitDallas Yum China Holdings

Manufacturing Airbus Helicopters Alcon Laboratories American Leather Arcosa ATI AZZ Bell Helicopter Bombardier Aviation Caterpillar Celanese Corporation Cisco Systems Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages Commercial Metals (CMC) Dal-Tile Corporation Darling Ingredients Diodes Elbit Systems Encore Wire Corp Ericsson EssilorLuxottica Flowserve Fossil Group Frito-Lay North America Fujitsu Network Communications General Motors Gulfstream Aerospace Integer Holdings Corp Interceramic Interstate Battery Keurig Dr Pepper Kimberly-Clark Kubota

L-3 Technologies Lennox International Lockheed Martin Louis Vuitton Mary Kay NCH Corporation NEC Corporation of America Nokia North America PepsiCo Peterbilt Motors Poly-America Qorvo Raytheon, an RTX Business Ruiz Foods Sally Beauty Holdings Samsung Electronics America Smith & Nephew Solar Turbines STMicroelectronics Tetra Pak U.S. Texas Instruments Toyota Motor North America Trinity Industries Triumph Aerostructures Valhi Williamson-Dickie

Financial Activities AAA Texas Allstate Amegy Bank Ashford Hospitality Trust Associa Avantax Bank of America Bank of Texas Billingsley Company Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s Capital One Bank CBRE Group Century 21 Judge Fite Charles Schwab Citi Comerica Bank CyrusOne Digital Realty Ebby Halliday Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas Fidelity Investments FirstCash Holdings Frost Bank Globe Life Goldman Sachs & Co. Hilltop Holdings Hillwood, a Perot Company HUB International JLL JPMorgan Chase Mr. Cooper Options Clearing Corporation Pegasus Bank PlainsCapital Bank PNC Regions Bank Santander Consumer USA State Farm Insurance TD Ameritrade Texas Capital Bank TIAA Toyota Financial Services TPG Truist Bank Veritex Holdings Inc Wells Fargo

Professional & Business Services Accenture Allied Universal AT&T Atos Boston Consulting Group Conifer Health Solutions CoreLogic Corgan Deloitte DXC Technology Ernst & Young FedEx Office Freeman Company Google HKS IBM Corporation Intuit Jacobs Solutions KPMG McAfee Microsoft NTT Data PwC RealPage Ryan Salesforce Slalom TATA Consultancy Services Thomson Reuters Thryv T-Mobile Tyler Technologies Verizon Weaver

Trade & Transportation 7-Eleven Amazon American Airlines Group Andrews Distributing Company At Home Group Inc Aurora Innovation Ben E Keith Company BNSF Railway Boeing Distribution Consolidated Electrical Distributors Container Store Group Copart Dallas Love Field Daseke DFW International Airport Gamestop Hilti North America HOLT CAT J.C. Penney Match Group Michaels Companies Mode Global Mouser Electronics Inc MV Transportation Neiman Marcus Group Republic National Distributing Company Sabre Sewell Automotive Companies Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits Southwest Airlines Stevens Transport Target Tom Thumb - Albertson’s Union Pacific Upbound Group

HOT JOBS From tech jobs to opportunities in a growing life sciences sector to the steady influx of companies from across the U.S., jobs in DFW are here for the taking.

Gov. Greg Abbott has proudly declared that “Texas is the blueprint for America’s future economic success.”

Dallas–Fort Worth has played an outsized role in turning that claim into more than a boast.

Texas’ economy is now the 8th-largest in the world, and DFW is a central engine of that momentum. With an economic output of $745 billion, the region accounts for nearly 30% of Texas’ total GDP—a scale that would rank DFW 22nd globally if it were its own economy.

As one of the state’s most powerful drivers of growth, DFW remains a premier destination for technology talent.

High-paying roles such as AI Architect, Cloud Engineer, and Data Scientist are in especially strong demand heading into 2026. At the same time, job seekers across the region have no shortage of ways to prepare: skills-training workshops, technology bootcamps, and programs focused on emerging fields like artificial intelligence offer clear pathways into these in-demand careers.

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American Airlines Group, Fort Worth

Small business strength In DFW, small business is a vital part of our economic success because of its entrepreneurial spirit and role in job creation. Here, 75% of establishments in the region have fewer than 100 employees. They’re a big part of the economy, according to the Small Business Administration: Businesses with fewer than 500 employees represented 99.7% of all employers nationally, created 62% of net new private-sector jobs, and accounted for 40% of private payroll.

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Many private companies are small and mighty. In 2025, 16 DFW companies made the Inc. 500 list, and a total of 224 companies were listed in the Inc. 5000.

Small businesses are strengthened by organizations dedicated to helping entrepreneurs at every stage. The DEC Network offers mentorship, training, and community support; SCORE provides free, one-on-one guidance from experienced business leaders; and the region’s Small Business Development Centers deliver practical advice to help owners start, manage, and grow their companies.

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

Global connections

International business thrives in Dallas–Fort Worth, supported by one of the world’s most connected gateway airports and a central U.S. location that provides unmatched access to domestic and global markets.

Combined with a highly skilled workforce and a technology-forward infrastructure network, these strengths make the region an ideal platform for multinational companies advancing their North American strategies.

A wide range of global brands

EMPLOYERS

Centers of Success Dallas-Fort Worth continues to draw Fortune and Global 500 headquarters by growth and expansion of local companies as well as by relocations of headquarter operations.

It is both a testament to the vibrant, diverse economy in DFW today as well as a natural progression for this region that is so recognized internationally for its strengths in advanced services and headquarters operations.

Fortune 1000 headquarters (2025)

PLANO Yum China Holdings....................No. 373 Upbound Group...........................No. 738

DALLAS

Cinemark Holdings .................... No. 904

AT&T................................................. No. 37

WESTLAKE

Energy Transfer..............................No. 53 CBRE Group...................................No. 128 HF Sinclair..................................... No. 150 Southwest Airlines....................... No. 156 Tenet Healthcare......................... No. 206

Charles Schwab........................... No. 164

GRAPEVINE GameStop.....................................No. 799

DENTON

Jacobs Solutions..........................No. 245

Sally Beauty.................................. No. 815

AECOM..........................................No. 259

SOUTHLAKE

Texas Instruments........................ No. 277

Sabre............................................ No. 907

Primoris Services ........................No. 555 Frontier Communications.......... No. 583 Comerica..................................... No. 665 Brinker International....................No. 724 Copart...........................................No. 749 Atmos Energy................................No. 761 Matador Resources..................... No. 845 Match Group................................ No. 849 Trinity Industries...........................No. 901

No. 46 Republic National Distributing Company, Grand Prairie

AMN Healthcare Services........... No. 916

No. 80

IRVING

Sammons Enterprises, Dallas

McKesson..........................................No. 9

No. 84

Caterpillar.......................................No. 64 Kimberly-Clark.............................. No. 213 Fluor............................................... No. 257 Vistra...............................................No. 241 Celanese........................................No. 412

maintains significant operations across the region. Major companies such as Capgemini, Samsung, and LG Electronics have established substantial footprints in North Texas. European leaders including Siemens and Airbus have built strong regional presences that support engineering, manufacturing, and commercial activities. Asia-based consulting and technology firms—NTT Data, Tata Consultancy Services, Infosys, and Tech Mahindra—continue to expand throughout the region, drawn by the region’s deep talent pool, operational efficiencies, and rapidly

Forbes Top Private Companies (2024)

Ben E Keith, Fort Worth

No. 118 Consolidated Electric Distributors, Irving

Commercial Metals......................No. 476

No. 136

Darling Ingredients .....................No. 597

Michaels Companies, Irving

Nexstar Media Group.................. No. 620

No. 147

Flowserve...................................... No. 710

ARLINGTON D.R. Horton....................................No. 123

RICHARDSON Lennox International....................No. 629

FORT WORTH American Airlines Group................No. 81

Austin Industries, Dallas

No. 169 Hunt Consolidated/Hunt Oil, Dallas

No. 232 Mary Kay, Addison

No. 249

FirstCash Holdings...................... No. 860

Mode Global, Dallas

MCKINNEY

No. 260

Globe Life......................................No. 595

Highland Homes Holdings, Plano

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Company campuses in DFW offer all manner of amenities to attract—and keep— talent. Toyota Motor North America, which says its success is driven by its workers, has a two-story climbing wall at its headquarters in Plano to help employees stay fit. Toyota offers a fitness center that includes amenities such as yoga, treadmills, an indoor track, and basketball courts. It also offers an on-site medical center for primary health care, physical therapy, and a full pharmacy.

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EMPLOYERS growing innovation ecosystem. Other international enterprises use DFW as a strategic launchpad into broader U.S. and hemispheric markets, including Elbit Systems, Israel’s largest private defense contractor, and GRUMA, the Mexicobased global leader in tortilla production.

Many multinational firms go even further, choosing DFW as the base for their U.S. or regional headquarters.

EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in ophthalmic lenses; Trend Micro, a major international cybersecurity company; and Ericsson’s network and telecommunications divisions all operate substantial North American hubs in the region.

Wages and salaries You might hear people say Texas is a business-friendly state. What does that mean for transplants? No state income tax and no payroll tax taken out of your paycheck.

Though median wages and salaries in the DFW region generally track slightly below national levels, it’s less expensive to live here than in some similarly sized metros.

Below you can see the numbers of workers in various job sectors, median wages, and salaries in the DFW area compared to the entire United States.

MANAGEMENT

LEGAL

396,912 | Total Workers $110,572 | DFW Median $107,297 | U.S. Median

31,839 | Total Workers $103,480 | DFW Median $100,111 | U.S. Median

BUSINESS AND FINANCIAL OPERATIONS

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND LIBRARY

313,420 | Total Workers $78,370 | DFW Median $79,455 | U.S. Median

224,477 | Total Workers $63,538 | DFW Median $57,080 | U.S. Median

COMPUTER AND MATHEMATICAL

ARTS, DESIGN, ENTERTAINMENT, SPORTS, AND MEDIA

FOOD PREPARATION AND SERVING RELATED

CONSTRUCTION AND EXTRACTION

353,205 | Total Workers $29,691 | DFW Median $32,251 | U.S. Median

200,684 | Total Workers $48,256 | DFW Median $53,437 | U.S. Median

BUILDING AND GROUNDS CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE

INSTALLATION, MAINTENANCE, AND REPAIR

Innovation everywhere

196,647 | Total Workers $107,596 | DFW Median $104,340 | U.S. Median

ARCHITECTURE AND ENGINEERING

71,701 | Total Workers $53,357 | DFW Median $54,871 | U.S. Median

HEALTH CARE PRACTITIONERS AND TECHNICAL

64,656 | Total Workers $88,076 | DFW Median $91,210 | U.S. Median

145,804 | Total Workers $33,404 | DFW Median $35,874 | U.S. Median

LIFE, PHYSICAL, AND SOCIAL SCIENCE

HEALTHCARE SUPPORT

26,254 | Total Workers $72,076 | DFW Median $77,581 | U.S. Median

SOURCE: 2025Q1 QCEW, Lightcast

Ever since Texas Instruments’ Nobel Prize-winning 1958 microchip ignited the modern tech era, Dallas-Fort Worth has held an essential role in shaping innovations that reach across the world.

That breakthrough laid the foundation for technologies that power everything from laptops and smartphones to advanced manufacturing systems and even space exploration.

Today, DFW’s innovation landscape spans IT services, manufacturing, logistics, finance, retail, energy, mobility, and healthcare. Deep strengths in semiconductors, telecommunications, and cloud technologies now fuel pioneering work in artificial intelligence and nextgeneration automation. No metro is better positioned to lead in applied AI, and DFW has become the place where real-world AI solutions are designed, deployed, and scaled to deliver measurable ROI for companies.

The region’s capacity for innovation keeps advancing, supported by a widening network of accelerators, incubators, venture capital firms, and collaborative hubs that bring together companies, universities, and startups.

This momentum is strengthened by the depth of the region’s technology workforce. DFW now has the fourthlargest concentration of tech jobs in the United States, giving companies access to engineering, data science, software development, and cybersecurity talent that accelerates innovation. This density fuels experimentation and speeds commercialization, allowing new ideas to move from concept to market faster than in many traditional tech hubs.

COMMUNITY AND SOCIAL SERVICE

51,838 | Total Workers $55,917 | DFW Median $52,855 | U.S. Median

147,277 | Total Workers $30,203 | DFW Median $33,180 | U.S. Median

PROTECTIVE SERVICE

81,910 | Total Workers $46,368 | DFW Median $48,258 | U.S. Median

138,989 | Total Workers $32,750 | DFW Median $35,527 | U.S. Median

PERSONAL CARE AND SERVICE

112,591 | Total Workers $30,786 | DFW Median $33,080 | U.S. Median

SALES AND RELATED

417,588 | Total Workers $38,233 | DFW Median $37,325 | U.S. Median

189,494 | Total Workers $51,864 | DFW Median $53,808 | U.S. Median

PRODUCTION

211,081 | Total Workers $39,788 | DFW Median $42,579 | U.S. Median

TRANSPORTATION AND MATERIAL MOVING

437,903 | Total Workers $41,110 | DFW Median $40,715 | U.S. Median

OFFICE AND ADMIN SUPPORT

553,681 | Total Workers $43,734 | DFW Median $43,500 | U.S. Median

FARMING, FISHING, AND FORESTRY

5,317 | Total Workers $33,006 | DFW Median $33,654 | U.S. Median

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Key Occupations in DFW Target Industries 2024 JOBS

2025 JOBS

2026 JOBS

2027 JOBS

DFW MEDIAN

General and Operations Managers

136,751

140,124

142,758

144,943

$101,771

Computer and Information Systems Managers

25,288

26,328

27,187

27,931

$167,301

Financial Managers

24,716

25,710

26,576

27,341

$161,123

Accountants and Auditors

43,402

44,710

45,790

46,692

$80,379

Financial Analysts and Advisors

27,804

28,715

29,476

30,116

$87,265

Credit Counselors and Loan Officers

12,657

12,855

13,023

13,172

$71,283

Miscellaneous Financial Specialists

3,847

3,953

4,041

4,115

$67,336

Computer and Information Analysts

26,832

27,975

28,940

29,779

$121,572

Computer Support Specialists

28,893

29,913

30,754

31,467

$58,755

Database and Network Administrators and Architects

25,325

26,053

26,634

27,116

$114,226

Software and Web Developers, Programmers, and Testers

79,611

83,872

87,571

90,833

$122,197

Mechanical Engineers

5,226

5,407

5,559

5,689

$99,947

Registered Nurses

77,028

78,889

80,416

81,707

$93,269

First-Line Supervisors of Sales Workers

46,894

47,532

48,050

48,484

$46,902

First-Line Supervisors of Office and Administrative Support Workers

54,892

55,743

56,331

56,758

$63,956

Bill and Account Collectors

8,363

8,365

8,351

8,331

$44,051

Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks

43,567

44,335

44,901

45,325

$48,730

Customer Service Representatives

109,063

110,550

111,588

112,333

$40,213

Loan Interviewers and Clerks

9,474

9,510

9,541

9,570

$49,556

Receptionists and Information Clerks

27,064

27,691

28,180

28,573

$35,081

Secretaries and Administrative Assistants

79,667

80,824

81,624

82,180

$45,086

Office Clerks, General

58,739

59,763

60,521

61,079

$39,376

First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers

17,598

17,954

18,232

18,457

$61,727

Electrical, Electronics, and Electromechanical Assemblers

7,280

7,442

7,575

7,684

$38,664

Miscellaneous Assemblers and Fabricators

37,530

38,065

38,423

38,662

$36,811

Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers

15,808

16,084

16,290

16,446

$42,323

Semiconductor Processing Technicians

3,456

3,515

3,564

3,606

$38,205

Description

Source: Lightcast

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INDUSTRIES

Employees at Texas Instruments’ RFAB2 facility in Richardson

Industry Mix Diverse business sectors fuel growth and career opportunities.

Dallas–Fort Worth has emerged as one of the nation’s most economically dynamic regions, fueled by growth in both established and fast-rising industries. It’s a place where talent has room to advance and where companies of all sizes find the conditions to thrive.

programmers transform logistics through cloud-based technologies, creatives craft immersive retail experiences for leading brands, and corporate strategists shape mergers and acquisitions. From established corporate careers to emerging tech roles, professionals in DFW can pursue a wide range of opportunities and pathways.

These job opportunities are rooted in the major sectors that drive Dallas-Fort Worth’s economy.

For professionals and newcomers, DFW’s diverse business landscape provides a strong foundation for longterm career growth. The region ranks among the most diverse economies in the U.S., outperforming major cities such as New York, Miami, San Francisco, and Houston. This balanced industry mix reduces dependence on any single sector and creates a stable, opportunity-rich environment for building a career and having impact.

Pilots support global air cargo routes,

Advanced services Advanced services traditionally referred to corporate headquarters, but the category extends far beyond that. It encompasses financial, professional, and technical services— from management consulting and business insurance to accounting, legal, and communications services.

These knowledge-based firms provide the expertise that underpins modern enterprise operations: strategic

guidance, financial insight, real estate and transaction support, technical consulting, and specialized business solutions.

This sector spans a wide range of high-skill professions, including attorneys, management consultants, financial analysts, IT advisors, and corporate strategists. It is a core pillar of the Dallas–Fort Worth economy, anchored by major operations from the Big Four accounting firms, Ernst & Young, KPMG, PwC, and Deloitte.

Leading tech and business consulting companies like Accenture, Slalom, and Improving further strengthen the region’s capabilities. Countless major U.S. law firms maintain a presence in DFW, and many of the nation’s largest corporations base their general counsel and legal teams here.

Together, these strengths make advanced services one of the region’s most robust engines for high-wage job creation and corporate growth.

>>

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LIVE / WORK / PLAY / THRIVE facilities in Sherman, Canadian Solar’s operations in Mesquite, and Louis Vuitton’s manufacturing site in Keene.

Beyond the major corporate names, small-scale manufacturers continue to grow as well, producing specialized and niche goods that contribute to the region’s expanding industrial base.

Manufacturing maverick Another pillar of the region’s economy is manufacturing, which accounts for more than 7 percent of DFW’s employment and spans everything from heavy industry to consumer goods.

The region hosts more manufacturing activity than any other metro in Texas, with locally produced goods ranging from bricks and steel to plastics, apparel, aircraft parts, and SUVs. For decades, the General Motors Assembly Plant in Arlington, Bell Helicopter and Lockheed Martin Aeronautics in Fort Worth, and Texas Instruments in Dallas have served as anchors of the DFW manufacturing landscape. More recent additions include GlobalWafers’ semiconductor

Financial activity One of the most notable shifts in DFW’s economy is its emergence as a major national financial center, so significant that the industry increasingly refers to the region as “Y’all Street.” What began as a concentration of operations and service functions has grown into a full-fledged financial ecosystem that is reshaping the national map.

The 2026 launch of the Texas Stock Exchange (TXSE), headquartered in Dallas, marks a new chapter in capital markets activity. At the same time, both the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq have expanded major regional operations to the area, strengthening DFW’s ties to capital markets, corporate issuers, and financial technology networks.

This momentum is reinforced by some of the largest financial-sector workforce investments in decades.

Goldman Sachs is building a new 5,000-employee campus in Uptown Dallas, Wells Fargo opened a major new campus in Irving in 2025, and Scotiabank has announced a significant opening in Uptown. JPMorgan Chase continues to grow and now employs

Where the Jobs Are Heat maps show significant industry clusters in Dallas-Fort Worth.

Manufacturing

Financial

McKINNEY

DENTON

McKINNEY

DENTON

FORT WORTH FORT WORTH

DALLAS

DALLAS

Number of financial Number of Advanced Services Businesses industry businesses

Number of mfg.

Number of Advanced Services Businesses industry businesses

11

DENTON

Life sciences

10 60

52

60

229

760

DENTON

McKINNEY

Hospitality

FORT WORTH

FORT WORTH DALLAS

McKINNEY

DALLAS

Number of life sciences Number of Advanced Services Businesses industry businesses

Number of hospitality Number of Advanced Services Businesses industry businesses

1

1

1

108

1

1

37760

4

60

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

16

760

1

40

60

216

760

WHERE THE JOBS ARE more workers in Texas than in New York. Bank of America, Capital One, TIAA, PNC Bank, Charles Schwab, Citigroup, and Fidelity all have strong regional footprints, underscoring DFW’s rising prominence in banking, trading, wealth management, and financial innovation. The presence of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas further solidifies this influence. In insurance, the region is home to national or regional headquarters for major providers including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, State Farm, Globe Life, and Liberty Mutual.

DFW is no longer simply a center for financial operations; it is becoming one of the country’s most consequential hubs for finance, capital markets, and financial services.

Healthcare & Life Science hub Dallas–Fort Worth boasts marquee medical centers such as the highly rated UT Southwestern Medical Center and Baylor University Medical Center, along with Parkland Hospital’s nationally recognized burn unit. But the region’s healthcare strength extends far beyond hospital walls. Fortune 500 companies Tenet Healthcare and AMN Healthcare are headquartered in DFW, as is CHRISTUS Health, reinforcing the region’s role as a center for major health systems and administrative operations.

Medical-device manufacturers, pharmaceutical producers, research organizations, and large-scale distributors form a robust ecosystem that supports innovation and patient care across the globe. These activities

DALLAS-FORT WORTH LIFE SCIENCE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GUIDE Get the tool for understanding the DFW biotech and life science community.

This data-driven resource can be used by companies and individuals making relocation or expansion decisions.

Scan the QR code to search for job openings as well as find helpful resources for education and job training across the region.

DENTON

Healthcare

FORT WORTH

Advanced services

McKINNEY

DALLAS

FORT WORTH

DALLAS Number of advanced Number of Advanced Services Businesses services businesses

1

1

42

1

246

60

760

DENTON

165

60

750

760

Aviation and aerospace

McKINNEY

FORT WORTH DALLAS

McKINNEY

Number of health Number of Advanced Services Businesses industry businesses

1

High-tech

DENTON

Number of high-tech Number of Advanced Services Businesses industry businesses 1

1

12

60

64

760

FORT WORTH

DALLAS Number of aviation and Number of Advanced businesses Services Businesses aerospace 1

1

3

60

11

760

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LIVE / WORK / PLAY / THRIVE often cluster together, creating powerful synergies within the healthcare and life sciences community. The life sciences industry is anchored by major pharmaceutical, optical, and medical-device manufacturers such as Alcon, Medtronic, and Stryker.

The region has demonstrated strong capacity to attract leading industry players, including McKesson and AstraZeneca. In recent years, new arrivals have further expanded the region’s capabilities. Verily, a precisionhealth company originally launched

by Alphabet, announced a significant relocation and expansion into DFW, signaling growing momentum in the biotech sector. Additional companies in medical devices, diagnostics, and biotech have also selected the region for new facilities, research centers, and innovation hubs.

A major driver of this momentum is Pegasus Park, a new life sciences and innovation campus in Dallas. Anchored

by BioLabs, the nationally recognized coworking wet-lab operator, the campus gives early-stage biotech companies the infrastructure and support they need to launch and scale. A second major life sciences development, the Texas Research Quarter in Plano, is also underway, further expanding the region’s capacity for research, innovation, and commercialization.

Aviation and aerospace Dallas–Fort Worth is among the nation’s leading regions for aviation and aerospace activity and is home to one of the most concentrated and diverse aerospace clusters in the United States.

The industry spans 701 companies and supports more than 100,000 jobs, reflecting a depth of talent and technical specialization unmatched in most metros.

At the commercial core are American Airlines in Fort Worth and Southwest Airlines in Dallas, two of the country’s most influential carriers.

On the manufacturing and defense side, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics and Bell Textron remain among the region’s largest employers, collectively supporting more than 15,000 highskilled workers in advanced aircraft production, engineering, and nextgeneration rotorcraft design. The presence of Airbus Helicopters’ North American headquarters in Grand 110

Prairie, along with Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, also located in Grand Prairie, further strengthens the region’s leadership in helicopter production, precision systems, and technical services. In addition, Boeing Global Services is headquartered in Plano, while three RTX companies — Raytheon, Pratt & Whitney, and Collins Aerospace—maintain major operations across the region.

Together, these assets make the Dallas–Fort Worth region not only one of the nation’s premier aviation centers but also a globally significant hub for the future of aerospace innovation, production, and operations.

Hospitality haven Dallas–Fort Worth is not only the most visited metro in Texas—it is also one of the country’s most important corporate hubs for hospitality, lodging, travel, and entertainment brands.

Omni Hotels & Resorts anchors this presence with its corporate headquarters in Dallas, overseeing a portfolio of luxury properties across North America. Major players such as Aimbridge Hospitality and Remington Hospitality operate large corporate offices in the region, managing hotel assets, brand strategies, and thousands of rooms worldwide. G6 Hospitality, parent company of Motel 6 and Studio 6, also calls DFW home.

DFW’s hospitality ecosystem extends into travel, meetings, and entertainment. Sabre’s headquarters provides technology and services specifically for the hospitality industry.

Topgolf, headquartered in Dallas, Dave & Buster’s, headquartered in Coppell, and Main Event, headquartered in Plano, further broaden the region’s entertainment footprint and help shape national trends in experiential leisure.

Logistics leader Dallas–Fort Worth stands as one of the nation’s most pivotal logistics and distribution epicenters, thanks to its prime position in the central United States. At the heart of this activity are Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, Perot Field Fort Worth Alliance Airport, and the inland port of Southern Dallas County. Both BNSF Railway and Union Pacific operate major intermodal terminals here, connecting

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

rail freight seamlessly with road and air cargo. A dense mesh of highways and interstates—including I-30, I-35, I-45, and I-20—provides flexible routing options for trucking, linking distributors directly to the vast majority of the North American population.

Distribution centers from local firms to global brands dot the region, supported by one of the country’s most advanced freight and warehouse ecosystems. Walmart, for example, operates a next-generation fulfillment center in Lancaster, while Amazon runs a major air hub at Alliance. And now, nearly every major autonomous trucking company operates in the region, leveraging DFW’s infrastructure, climate, and accessibility to test, scale, and deploy next-generation logistics technologies.

High-tech evolution Every company is a tech company— and with more than 300,000 high-tech workers across industries, few regions embody that more than Dallas–Fort Worth. Household-name brands like Foot Locker, PepsiCo Foods, Keurig Dr Pepper, and 7-Eleven operate major tech hubs and innovation teams here.

They’re joined by Intuit, McAfee, AT&T, Verizon, Toyota Connected, and virtually every major financial firm, all advancing digital products, data science, cybersecurity, and mobility technologies from the heart of DFW. This region is also a test bed for emerging technologies, from Waymo’s autonomous cars to Zipline’s and Wing’s delivery drones, as well as new robotics and automation platforms being piloted across all industries.

Adding to the tech momentum, Google, Microsoft, IBM, Meta, and Amazon each maintain a significant presence in DFW. The region is now the second-largest data center market in the U.S., and these companies’ data centers, cloud engineering teams, and corporate operations fuel job growth and strengthen DFW’s leadership in AI, cloud computing, and digital services.

REGIONAL INNOVATION GUIDE Explore DFW’s Tech Hubs, Research Centers, Startup Resources, and the VC Ecosystem

INDUSTRIES

Neekta Hamidi’s biotech vision in Dallas-Fort Worth Neekta Hamidi came to Dallas with a hypothesis: that the region was poised to become a globally recognized hub for biotech and health innovation.

After years working across the East Coast in science, policy, and strategy, she saw an opportunity to apply her experience where it could be catalytic – at the intersection of impact, infrastructure, and innovation.

And after making the move, Dallas proved her hypothesis right.

From the launch of ARPA-H’s customer experience hub, to the expansion of accelerators like Health Wildcatters and MassChallenge, and the growth of several biotech and life sciences companies in the region, Dallas–Fort Worth is quickly establishing itself as a national center for innovation and commercialization.

But for Neekta, the real differentiator has been the welcoming, collaborative community. Early introductions to organizations like BioNTX, Biolabs, and the Dallas Regional Chamber helped her build her community quickly.

Now, she plays the same connective role across the Dallas-Fort Worth innovation landscape that her early contacts played for her, from venture-backed healthcare startups to ecosystem-level strategy work. She is currently expanding Ignite Healthcare Network into North Texas with support from Lyda Hill Philanthropies, and actively consults with civic and innovation leaders to translate ideas into scalable outcomes. Whether advising accelerators, structuring founder-facing programs, or helping organizations operationalize their mission, her approach is grounded in execution and community alignment.

Why Dallas? For Neekta, the list is long—but it all comes down to the region’s unique mix of assets. The Dallas region boasts a thriving medical district, world-class institutions, affordable real estate, abundant capital, and a strong civic commitment to innovation. It’s a globally minded, mission-driven city filled with transplants like her—all working to

build something meaningful. And with DFW Airport just minutes from her home in Coppell, she can hop on a flight and be on either coast in about four hours, making it easy to stay connected with conferences, meetings, and collaborators across the country.

When she’s off the clock, free from the high overhead of coastal living, she has more room to recharge meaningfully than ever before. That includes discovering ethnic cuisine in the Northern suburbs (BigDash and Lahori Kabob are her favorites), exploring one of Dallas’ nationally renowned farmers markets in Coppell,

McKinney, or downtown, or enjoying the city’s many family-friendly offerings, like mommy-and-me Pilates at Align Studio or a morning at the newly renovated Children’s Museum at the Perot.

For Neekta, saying yes to Dallas was more than a career move—it was a strategic bet that’s now paying off. She’s found a region where innovation moves quickly, collaboration comes naturally, and the appetite for meaningful impact is matched by the infrastructure to support it. With the biotech sector on the rise and new opportunities emerging across the innovation landscape, she’s exactly where she wants to be.

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MUSIC THAT M OV E S YO U The DSO has spent 125 years creating stunning music and lifelong memories for Dallas, and with so many concerts to explore, every music lover can expect an elegant, intriguing and passionate experience at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center.

Share the sounds of Dallas and bring a friend to any participating show for free using code FRIENDS26

HOLST’S THE PLANETS JAN 22-24

HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON IN CONCERT FEB 6-8

DANNY ELFMAN’S MUSIC FROM THE FILMS OF TIM BURTON

How To Train Your Dragon © 2010 DreamWorks Animation LLC. All Rights Reserved.

MAR 13-15

STRAVINSKY’S THE FIREBIRD

MAHLER’S SYMPHONY OF A THOUSAND

TOP GUN: MAVERICK IN CONCERT

APR 30 - MAY 3

MAY 15-17

MAY 22-24 A Royal Albert Hall production. With thanks to esk film.

E XPLORE T HE LINEUP AND GE T YOUR T ICKE T S TODAY VISIT DALL A SSYMPHON Y.ORG OR CALL 214-849-4376

PLAY. CULTURE // SPORTS // OUTDOORS

FINDING FUN

PHOTO: MICHAEL SAMPLES

New experiences and adventures are just around the corner.

Klyde Warren Park in Downtown Dallas hosts a wide variety of events and activities year-round.

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Mariachi Rosas Divinas performing at AURORA Biennial 2024: FuturePresentPast in Downtown Dallas

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Play Your Way ALL WORK AND NO PLAY? NOT IN DFW. WE’VE GOT SPORTS, ART, MUSIC, MOVIES, AND MORE. We like our place in the history of pioneers pushing West, and you can still find traces of the old West. But you also have gourmet dining, live music, and sports teams to root for year-round. In a word, Dallas-Fort Worth culture is dynamic.

If getting outside is the way you like to unwind, take advantage of parks and nature centers throughout the region. South of Dallas, you’ll find rolling hills and the great Trinity Forest—the largest urban hardwood forest in the United States. East Dallas has White Rock Lake, Cedar Hill features Joe Pool Lake, and north of the city are Grapevine and Lewisville lakes.

Fun fact: Within 100 miles of the region, there are more than 400 public parks and over 60 lakes.

DFW sees more than 230 sunny days each year on average, meaning there are plenty of chances to hike, bike, and swim year-round (but keep your parkas—you’ll need them now and again).

Whether it’s date night or family time, you can indulge your artsy side in downtown Dallas, which boasts the largest contiguous urban arts district in the nation, spanning 118 acres.

The AT&T Performing Arts Center, the Crow Museum of Asian Art, the Dallas Black Dance Theatre, and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science are all here.

Fort Worth, known as the “City of Cowboys and Culture,” offers its renowned Cultural District—a haven for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The district, spanning several blocks, is home to the Kimbell Art Museum, the Modern Art Museum, and more.

And various accessibility options are available—from “sensory bags” with headphones and other products to established calming rooms for people who need a break from the action, plus sign language tours, special surfaces for wheelchairs, accessible parking, and entrances. For specific information, including the procedure for reserving an accessibility product or service, call each museum directly.

Between local performers and big stars on national tours, DFW is never short on shows to see.

In recent years, Post Malone, the Rolling Stones, Santana, Chelsea Handler, DreamHack, and the immersive Van Gogh experience have all made stops here.

Start your adventure in the pages ahead.

PHOTO: MICHAEL SAMPLES

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Art & Soul

Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth

Explore the creative pulse of the region’s cultural scene.

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DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

DFW has not one but two major arts districts.

The Dallas Arts District, which is anchored by the Dallas Museum of Art, Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, Nasher Sculpture Center, and AT&T Performing Arts Center, is 118 acres—the largest urban arts district in the country. Here, you can catch a performance of Texas Ballet Theater, a Broadway touring production, classical or local musicians, a night of live storytelling, TED talks, movies and music under the stars, festivals, art exhibits, and so much more. We’d be willing to bet you could spend every weekend in our Arts District and never run out of new things to do.

What’s more: The Fort Worth Cultural District claims five internationally recognized museums, including the Kimbell Art Museum, the Amon Carter Museum of American Art, and Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth.

Beyond our fantastic cultural centers, the Dallas region is home to hundreds of smaller museums and public galleries, scores of professional and community theaters, dozens of local symphony and chamber orchestras, dance troupes, and opera associations. No matter what artistic pursuit you’re into, you can find it here.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF VISIT DALLAS AND VISIT FORT WORTH EXCEPT WHERE NOTED.

DEAN FIKA/ISTOCK

Bass Performance Hall, Fort Worth

Dallas-Fort Worth is a modern urban oasis that serves as home to people from around the country and world, creating a diverse culture and a global region. Whether you’re looking for fine arts, entertainment, professional sports, or giving back, you’ll never run out of activities—fun here knows no bounds.

THE ARTS C U LT U R A L C A N VA S

9/11 TRIBUTE AND WORLD TRADE CENTER ARTIFACT Winspear Opera House and Reflecting Pool, Dallas Arts District

The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History’s 9/11 Tribute Exhibit features N-101, the largest World Trade Center artifact in Texas.

Nasher Sculpture Center

MORTON H. MEYERSON SYMPHONY CENTER: DSO; BROOKS BURRIS/VISIT FORT WORTH. WINSPEAR: CARTER ROSE/AT&T PAC

JOHN WAYNE: AN AMERICAN EXPERIENCE John Wayne had a deep appreciation for the Lone Star State— and the American Dream. The museum in the Fort Worth Stockyards features 400 pieces of personal and professional memorabilia.

Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center

NATIONAL JUNETEENTH MUSEUM A 50,000-square-foot National Juneteenth Museum is planned for Fort Worth. It will celebrate the date Texas slaves learned of their freedom—two years after the end of the Civil War. Opal Lee, who led the charge to make Juneteenth a federal holiday, is also from Fort Worth.

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Hot Spots Where the action is.

Start with the 75-acre planned development known as Victory Park—packed with trendy shops and restaurants; the House of Blues; The W Hotel; and American Airlines Center, which hosts the Mavericks and the Stars, and transforms into a concert venue.

Then head to McKinney Avenue and join the crowds making their way from The Rattlesnake Bar at The RitzCarlton to The Violet Crown Cinema in the West Village. If you need some retail therapy, check out the funky shops on Greenville Avenue and hit up the rooftop bars, or take in a live show at the historic Granada Theater.

Bishop Arts is another popular area— add to your vinyl collection, find books by local authors, and satisfy your craving for BBQ. And don’t forget about the ’burbs … where you can easily lose a couple of hours on a Saturday afternoon.

At Plano’s Shops at Legacy you can find boutique shopping, best-in-class restaurants and bars, and Legacy Hall.

Plus check out the murals produced by local artists. While there, head over to the Willow Bend Center of the Arts and take in a performance by the North Texas Performing Arts (NTPA) Deaf Theater. At Frisco Square, go to Cinemark’s Next GenXD Theater, Toyota Stadium, or the Black Box Theatre at Frisco Discovery Center. And we’re only scratching the surface—there’s so much more to explore.

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DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

SHOPPING & ENTERTAINMENT HOT SPOTS CHECK IT OUT

AT&T Discovery District, downtown Dallas

MULE ALLEY, FORT WORTH History meets the modern West in a bustling mix of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues, set in Fort Worth’s iconic Stockyards.

LEGACY HALL, PLANO

PHOTOS VIA THE CITIES AND ORGANIZATIONS EXCEPT WHERE NOTED. AKATY TRAIL ICE HOUSE: VISIT DALLAS

Legacy Hall in Plano buzzes with life, featuring a craft brewery, eclectic food stalls, wine bar, and the Box Garden outdoor event venue with LED screen.

GRANDSCAPE, THE COLONY Starting with its colossal Ferris wheel, Grandscape is perfect for an impressive date night or family fun with open-air amusements.

It’s also packed with indoor entertainment like Andretti Indoor Karting, modern mini golf, laser tag, movies, and more. You’ll find an array of dining from sports bars to wineries, too.

LAKEWOOD AND LOWER GREENVILLE, DALLAS These Dallas neighborhoods offer popular gathering spots with a lively mix of ambiance, entertainment, and community spirit.

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BISHOP ARTS DISTRICT, DALLAS

DEEP ELLUM, DALLAS

STOCKYARDS, FORT WORTH

LEGACY TOWN CENTER, PLANO

The downtown Dallas neighborhood, which just celebrated its 150th birthday in 2023, is brimming with eclectic boutiques, vintage stores, men’s streetwear, indie goods, plants, and plenty of finds. After a walkable street experience appreciating the local art, you can refuel at one of its many eateries and watering holes. And maybe get a tattoo.

Celebrity chef and entrepreneur Tim Love has launched the Love Collection, a premium limited edition, domestically made apparel and accessory brand that’s hit the shelves in the heart of the Fort Worth Stockyards at Goods and Chattels in the Tannahill’s Tavern & Music Hall lounge. Elsewhere in the area, you’ll find Western items, cowboy hats, gifts, and more.

The mixed-use town center, which also has a hotel, entertainment, and housing, is home to The Shops at Legacy. You’ll find retailers like Urban Outfitters and Kendra Scott, and eateries like Mi Cocina, Del Frisco’s Grille, and Brasão Brazilian Steakhouse. You can catch a movie at the Angelika Film Center, too.

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SHOPPING & ENTERTAINMENT

Fashion & Fun Collide

SHOPPING SAMPLER

BISHOP ARTS PHOTO: DANA MCCURDY; ALL TOHERS VIA THE CITIES AND ORGANIZATIONS

In Dallas-Fort Worth, there’s no shortage of events and opportunities to strut your stuff in your finest—or to decorate your home like you’re getting it ready for a magazine spread. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have a little fun while you’re shopping.

Neiman Marcus and Stanley Korshak, as well as more casual companies such as JCPenney and Fossil, are staples.

You’ll find posh indoor malls packed with amenities (think: modern sculpture, an ice-skating rink, spas, and more) and every major retail brand; relaxed, open-air centers for those who prefer a zen approach to retail therapy; and boutique districts that boast independent businesses with individual flair.

We’ve got outlet malls for bargain shoppers and scores of vintage shops for those who love the look of days gone by. And you’ll find unique stores like DAISO, which brings its whimsical array of affordable Japanese goods to Dallas-Fort Worth.

Plus, we have the Dallas Market Center—a global business-to-business trade center connecting retailers and interior designers with top manufacturers in sectors like home décor, lighting, and fashion. At five million square feet, the center hosts nearly 200,000 wholesale customers from all 50 states and 85 countries each year.

NORTHPARK CENTER, DALLAS NorthPark Center blends sophisticated shopping with contemporary art. With more than 230 retailers and chic dining spots, it’s a cultural rendezvous for the fashion-forward and art aficionados alike.

STONEBRIAR CENTRE, FRISCO A top destination in the region, Stonebriar has a unique mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment. You’ll find specialty stores and restaurants, including popular brands. For family fun, there’s a theater with IMAX, Dave & Buster’s, a carousel, and KidZania.

HIGHLAND PARK VILLAGE

GALLERIA DALLAS

The historic open-air center—a designated national landmark—offers high-end fashion and upscale shopping. The luxury experience includes about a dozen dining options, along with valet and other personal services.

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Fun for Families DFW delivers nonstop entertainment to thrill kids of all ages.

Moms and dads know that when it comes to kids, entertainment is key. And entertainment in Dallas-Fort Worth comes in many forms, from flat-out fun to fun with an educational twist.

Whether you have animal lovers, nature fans, budding Einsteins, aspiring sports stars, or kids who just want to play ’til they pass out, we have the perfect activity for your family.

Visit the Dallas or Fort Worth Zoos, both favorites among families, where kids can marvel at thousands of animals and engage in interactive exhibits. For aquatic enthusiasts, the SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium offers a peek into the underwater world, featuring a 360-degree ocean tunnel and a variety of marine life. The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History combines fun with learning through its innovative children’s exhibits, planetarium, and IMAX theater, providing an immersive educational experience.

Nature-loving families will enjoy the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, where kids can explore beautiful gardens and participate in educational programs. For a splash of fun regardless of the weather, Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark in Grand Prairie offers exciting indoor water adventures, from thrilling slides to a relaxing lazy river. Sports enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the opportunity to 122

tour the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, home of the Dallas Cowboys, offering a behind-the-scenes look at a worldclass sports venue.

For a day of adventure, Six Flags Over Texas, also in Arlington, promises thrills with its roller coasters and family-friendly rides.

Younger kids will love Storybook Land in the Dallas Arboretum, a magical experience set amidst beautiful botanical gardens. And the Frontiers of Flight Museum ignites the imaginations of young aviation enthusiasts with its extensive collection of aircraft and space vehicles.

Also in Dallas, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science is a treasure trove for curious minds, with handson exhibits spanning topics from dinosaurs to space exploration. For a unique outdoor experience, the Trinity River Audubon Center offers nature trails, bird watching, and environmental education programs, perfect for families looking to explore the great outdoors.

In Plano, the Crayola Experience provides a colorful and creative outlet for kids, with hands-on art activities and interactive exhibits.

And for those hot Texas days, NRH2O Family Water Park in North Richland Hills offers a refreshing escape with water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river.

These destinations and more are an opportunity for families to bond, laugh, learn, and create lasting memories in the region. From exploring the wonders of the animal kingdom to stimulating young minds with science and history, there’s something in DFW for every family to enjoy.

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THE PEROT MUSEUM OF NATURE AND SCIENCE’S BUG LAB

FAMILY FUN I N - TOW N A DV E N T U R E S

SIX FLAGS OVER TEXAS

FORT WORTH ZOO

DALLAS ZOO

PHOTOS VIA THE CITIES AND ORGANIZATIONS. DALLAS ZOO: TAYLOR GREGORY/UNSPLASH. PEROT MUSEUM: MIKE O’NEILL

GREAT WOLF LODGE

CRAYOLA EXPERIENCE

FORT WORTH MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND HISTORY

LEGOLAND DISCOVERY CENTER

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Game On

Sports fans in Dallas-Fort Worth have a lot to cheer about.

Baseball. Basketball. Football.

Hockey. Soccer. Whatever your passion, DFW has a winning professional team to cheer on.

The Dallas Mavericks, who captured the 2011 NBA Championship and energized an entire city, are now entering an exciting new chapter as they rebuild around rising star Cooper Flagg. The Dallas Cowboys—who call the billion-dollar, state-of-the-art AT&T Stadium in Arlington home—hold five Super Bowl titles.

Globe Life Field in Arlington, featuring a retractable roof, serves as the home of MLB’s 2023 World Champion Texas Rangers. Also based in Arlington, the Dallas Wings of the WNBA plan to relocate to a refurbished downtown Dallas arena in spring 2027.

Major League Soccer’s FC Dallas has been a member of the league since its inception. The professional women’s soccer club Dallas Trinity FC, competing in the USL Super League, plays its home matches at the historic Cotton Bowl.

The Dallas Stars claimed hockey’s holy grail by winning the Stanley Cup in 1999, and their legacy also includes two Presidents’ Trophies and three Western Conference titles.

The region also hosts two PGA Tour events—the CJ Cup Byron Nelson at TPC Craig Ranch in McKinney and the Charles Schwab Invitational at the Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth— and offers world-class auto racing at Texas Motor Speedway.

Sports fans can also enjoy a wide range of minor league teams yearround, including the Texas Elite women’s football team, the Texas Legends NBA G League basketball team, the Allen Americans of the ECHL, and the Frisco RoughRiders AA baseball club.

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The Texas Rangers won the 2023 World Series on the road in Arizona.

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DALLAS COWBOYS AT&T Stadium, Arlington

DALLAS MAVERICKS American Airlines Center, Dallas

SPORTS

On the rise CRICKET

Cricket is gaining popularity in Dallas-Fort Worth—and the U.S.— with two major leagues: Major League Cricket (MLC) and the National Cricket League (NCL).

MLC’s Texas Super Kings, based in Grand Prairie, played their inaugural season in July 2023. Meanwhile, the NCL is set to establish a new cricket stadium at UT Dallas.

The league features a fast-paced, highscoring form of cricket. And fans can expect Bollywood-style entertainment, too. Both leagues aim to make the sport more prominent in the U.S., especially in a region with a rich sports culture and an established fan base.

ESPORTS

Esports is a growing industry—and DFW is a big player.

DALLAS STARS American Airlines Center, Dallas

FC DALLAS Toyota Stadium, Frisco

Since 2019, Dallas has hosted DreamHack, the world’s premier gaming lifestyle festival. Professional esports are booming in the region, driven in part by Complexity Gaming’s training center at The Star in Frisco. OpTic Gaming is also headquartered in Frisco and operates Esports Stadium Arlington, the largest dedicated esports venue in North America, further solidifying the region as a major hub for competitive gaming.

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The Outside

Life

Dallas has more than 230 sunny days a year—and lots of sunshine means lots of time to be outside.

Dallasites have access to countless outdoor activities with sprawling parks, green spaces, and several lakes featuring boating, water sports, and trails for mountain biking, road biking, and hiking—you won’t have to go far to find your favorite spot.

White Rock Dog Park

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PARKS & OUTDOORS

Parks & Trails While big cities often boast impressive parks, Dallas-Fort Worth, encompassing cities like Dallas, Plano, Fort Worth, and Arlington, offers an array of stunning and functional green spaces that might surprise you. In the heart of downtown Dallas, Klyde Warren Park stands as an award-winning marvel. Built over Woodall Rodgers Freeway, this park is a feat of urban engineering, featuring a performance pavilion, a restaurant, walking trails, a mini dog park, a kid’s playground, and more within its 5-acre expanse.

Not far from downtown, East Dallas is home to a crown jewel of the area’s park system, White Rock Lake. This expansive park, spanning over 1,015 acres, provides breathtaking downtown views and is a hub for outdoor activities like walking, biking, and water sports.

Each city in the region boasts its own natural wonders, offering a slice of nature and recreation. From the open spaces of Plano’s Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve to the charming Trinity Park in Fort Worth and the River Legacy Park in Arlington, it’s a rich tapestry of green spaces. Additional gems include the lush landscapes and walking trails of Grapevine’s Parr Park, the serene beauty of McKinney’s Bonnie Wenk Park with its dog park and amphitheater, and the sprawling Bear Creek Park in Keller, known for its extensive playgrounds and sports facilities. Wherever you are, a favorite park or trail is within reach.

Dallas’ 50-mile loop trail includes travel from White Rock Lake to the Trinity Forest, around to the Trinity River, and through Dallas’ urban core. The trail, still under construction in parts, “loops” together 39 miles of existing trails with 11 miles of newly built trails.

TRINITY RIVER TRAILS Fort Worth

MEADOWMERE PARK Grapevine

@DHOLLISTER77/VISIT FORT WORTH

THE LOOP TRAIL Dallas

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CEDAR HILL STATE PARK Cedar Hill  Fishing, boating, and kayaking on Joe Pool Lake  1,200 acres with 15 miles of mountain biking trails  Walking trails through open fields and wooded areas  More than 350 wooded campsites  Penn Farm Agricultural History Center

RIVER LEGACY PARK Arlington  1,300 acres of forests and greenbelts  10 miles of cross-country trails  A treetop playground that looks like a giant treehouse  A canoe launch with access to up to 8 miles of paddling  River Legacy Living Science Center

White Rock Lake Park

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ARBOR HILLS NATURE PRESERVE Plano  200 acres of rolling hills for exploring  Off-road biking trails  Picnic pavilion and kids’ playground  Butterflies, birds, and other wildlife  Dog friendly

PARKS & OUTDOORS

Trails Dallas-Fort Worth has hundreds of hike and bike trails—and outside of its urban areas, you’ll find plenty of pastoral pursuits.

DENTON

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The Katy, Santa Fe, and White Rock trails are lovely paved paths, but if a walk (or ride) in the woods is more to your liking, it’s only a matter of effort.

Certified Master Naturalist Bill Holston recommends Cedar Ridge Preserve in southern Dallas for its wooded hills and wildlife, Dogwood Canyon in Cedar Hill for its hilly terrain and flowering trees in spring, and Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve in Plano for its creeks, ponds, and easy-to-follow routes.

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Erwin Park Frisco NW Community Park Trail Knob Hills Arbor Hills Northshore Trail Katie Jackson Squabble Creek Rowlett Creek Preserve Horseshoe Harry Moss Park L.B. Houston Nature Trails River Legacy Oak Cliff Nature Preserve Boulder Park Big Cedar Goat Island Preserve

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Fort Worth Japanese Garden

Nature Centers There’s a wealth of natural beauty in the Dallas region.

Here are just a few of the best spots to take in the natural wonders.

CEDAR RIDGE PRESERVE

FORT WORTH JAPANESE GARDEN

DALLAS

FORT WORTH

CHILDREN’S AQUARIUM AT FAIR PARK

FORT WORTH NATURE CENTER AND REFUGE

DALLAS

FORT WORTH

DALLAS ARBORETUM AND BOTANICAL GARDEN

FORT WORTH

DALLAS WORLD AQUARIUM

GLEN ROSE

DALLAS ZOO

HEARD NATURAL SCIENCE MUSEUM & WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

FORT WORTH ZOO

DALLAS

FOSSIL RIM WILDLIFE CENTER

DALLAS DALLAS

MCKINNEY

DINOSAUR VALLEY STATE PARK

RIVER LEGACY PARK

GLEN ROSE

ARLINGTON

DOGWOOD CANYON AUDUBON CENTER

CEDAR HILL

TRINITY RIVER AUDUBON CENTER

DALLAS

FORT WORTH BOTANIC GARDEN

FORT WORTH

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Bush Central Barkway, Richardson

Dog Parks

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McKinney Dog Park Frisco Dog Park Canine Commons Dog Park Jack Carter Park Toyota of Lewisville Railroad Park Northbark Dog Park Bush Central Barkway Wagging Tail Dog Park Coppell Dog Park Redding Trail Dog Park Les Lacs Trail Dog Park Tipps Canine Hollow Bedford Bark Park Euless Dog Park

15 Westminster Dog Park 16 Mockingbird Point Dog Park 17 Central Dog Park 18 Mutts Canine Cantina 19 The Pooch Patio 20 My Best Friend’s Park (at Klyde Warren Park) 21 Meadows Foundation Dog Park 22 Bark Park Central 23 Fort Woof Dog Park 24 Central Bark Dog Park 25 Tails N’ Trails 26 BooBoo’s Buddies Dog Park (at Bob Jones Park)

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Dining With Dogs Though there are scores of restaurants with pet-friendly patios all over Dallas-Fort Worth, it’s the rare establishment that caters specifically to those who don’t want to leave home without their furry best friends. That’s where Mutts Canine Cantina (muttscantina.com) in Allen, Dallas, and Fort Worth and The Pooch Patio (thepoochpatio. com) in Uptown Dallas come in.

Mutts is a privately owned park for dogs of all sizes to play off-leash and owners to socialize with friends and make new acquaintances. Separate areas for large and small pups, and a patio where people can eat without having to share their meals with their pets, mean everybody’s happy. Membership is by the day or month.

Pooch Patio is a dog wash, doggie daycare, and bark boutique that also has a coffee and wine bar. Dogs are free to romp around both inside the building and out, and you’re welcome to bring in a doggie bag, er, lunch if you wish. No membership required.

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DOG PARKS / GOLF

Golf

As Dallas-Fort Worth continues to cement its status as a premier golfing destination, the PGA of America’s headquarters relocation to Frisco in 2022 adds another feather to its cap.

The move adds to the region’s rich golfing scene, which already boasts two PGA Tour tournaments each year: the CJ Cup Byron Nelson at TPC Craig Ranch in McKinney and the Charles Schwab Challenge at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth. You don’t have to be a pro to play these courses—and you’ve got plenty of other options, too. We have more than 100 public golf courses in the area, and they touch on all skill levels and price points.

Golf Digest named Dallas National Golf Club in Southwest Dallas the top course in the state. Cowboys Golf Club in Grapevine makes several “best” lists.

It’s an “over-the-top NFL-themed golf course once owned by Jerry Jones,” according to the Golf Channel—and a superb course despite the theme-parksounding description. The Tribute and Old American golf clubs in The Colony also pop up on list after list, but there are many more worth a swing.

Rockwall Golf and Athletic Club

Top-Rated DFW Courses

The Bridges in Gunter

1 Fields Ranch (Frisco)

13 Indian Creek Golf Club (Carrollton)

2 Dallas National (Dallas)

14 Stevens Park (Dallas)

3 Trinity Forest Golf Club (Dallas)

15 Grapevine Golf Course (Grapevine)

4 TPC Craig Ranch (McKinney)

16 Pecan Hollow (Plano)

5 Brook Hollow (Dallas)

17 Rockwood Park (Fort Worth)

6 Colonial (Fort Worth)

18 Vaquero (Westlake)

7 Shady Oaks (Westworth Village)

19 TPC Las Colinas (Irving)

8 Preston Trail (Dallas)

20 Shady Oaks (Fort Worth)

9 Texas Rangers Golf Club (Arlington)

21 Tierra Verde (Arlington)

10 The Tribute Golf Club (The Colony)

22 Texas Star Golf Course (Euless)

11 Cowboys Golf Club (Grapevine)

23 The Bridges (Gunter)

12 Old American (The Colony)

24 Fossil Creek (Fort Worth)

This list was compiled by cross-referencing lists from Golf Channel, Golf Digest, Golf Week, and the PGA.com.

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On the Water Whether you want to find a great fishing hole, a place to wakeboard, or just an area to sit by the water, DallasFort Worth has plenty of options. The roughly 8,000acre Grapevine Lake is best known for its water sports: swimming, boating, jet skiing, windsurfing … take your pick. Southwest of Dallas you’ll find Joe Pool Lake, which is nearly as big at 7,000 acres. Lynn Creek Marina, at Joe Pool Lake, has wet slips for all kinds of boats and rentals are available too. There’s also a marina store and restaurant. And if you’re in the mood to try reeling one in, largemouth black bass; white, striped, and yellow bass; carp; catfish; crappie; gar; and sunfish have been known to swim in this water.

WHITE ROCK LAKE East Dallas  Fishing and picnicking  Kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals  Corinthian Sailing Club— White Rock Rowing  9-mile running and biking trail around the lake 132

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LAKES / THE TRINITY

LAKE RAY HUBBARD Dallas, Kaufman, Collin, and Rockwall Counties

PHOTO: JUSTIN TERVEEN, PROVIDED BY TRINITY COALITION

 Great fishing (bass, catfish, crappie)  Boating, including boat rentals  Three marinas, a number of boat ramps, and several yacht clubs  The Harbor Rockwall, featuring restaurants, shops, and entertainment

LEWISVILLE LAKE Lewisville  Boating, including boat rentals  Nice campgrounds  Lots of beaches and picnic areas  Party cove

JOE POOL LAKE Near Grand Prairie, Cedar Hill, and Mansfield  Has four parks: Cedar Hill State Park, Loyd Park, Lynn Creek State Park, and Britton Park  Good for bird watching, fishing, jet skiing, barbecuing

More lakes around the region LAKE RAY ROBERTS—Northeast of Denton LAKE ARLINGTON—Arlington BENBROOK LAKE—Southwest Tarrant County EAGLE MOUNTAIN LAKE—Northwest Tarrant County LAKE LAVON—near Wylie LAKE WORTH—Fort Worth LAKE TAWAKONI—near Greenville CEDAR CREEK RESERVOIR—Henderson & Kaufman Counties

A River Runs Through It The Texas-sized Trinity River—the longest within a single state— winds through Dallas-Fort Worth and the Great Trinity Forest. It’s “Where Nature Happens,” offering hiking, biking, and a 130-mile paddling trail that spans nine cities.

“Nature happens here, on the river or in the forest—both of which are abundant in Dallas-Fort Worth,” says Steve Smith, who leads a group that wants people to know what bounty lies hidden in the heart of the region.

In fact, the group has trademarked the phrase “Where Nature Happens” to prove that up. It’s a well-deserved tagline, according to Smith, who says spreading the word is a mission for his team at the Trinity Coalition.

The Great Trinity Forest, a 6,000-acre wilderness that claims the status of “the largest urban hardwood forest in the U.S.,” is a gateway to the 710-mile Trinity River that wends its way through DFW. Both offer plenty of possibilities for outdoor adventures, family memory-making, and Instagrammable moments.

Smith and his group, along with support from local municipalities, have created a contiguous 130-mile Trinity River Paddling Trail that received the National Park Service’s National Trail Designation in fall 2020.

The paddling trail runs through nine DFW cities, including

Kayaking offers hidden views of the region’s natural wonders.

Fort Worth, Arlington, Irving, Carrollton, and Lewisville, with multiple launch sites.

The natural abundance of the Trinity Corridor offers something for most everyone, and there are many entry points and experiences of all types throughout the region.

In Dallas, you can bird-watch at the 128-acre Trinity River Audubon Center, hike and bike the 4.6-mile Trinity Skyline Trail, and experience the 75-acre Lower Chain of Wetlands.

In Fort Worth, you can take a geocaching adventure with the TRWD Trinity Trails Geocaching Adventure GeoTour and enjoy the only waterfront stage in Texas at the Panther Island Pavilion.

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Hidden Gems When you want to get into nature and out of the crowd, check out the hidden gems dotted around Dallas-Fort Worth.

MYSTERIOUS TEDDY BEAR SCULPTURES IN LAKESIDE PARK 4601 Lakeside Drive, Highland Park, 75205

CHANDOR GARDENS West Lee Street, Weatherford, 76086

On Christmas Day 1995, the Crow family donated several larger-than-life Teddy Bear statues to the town of Highland Park, where they remain to this day. Sure, there’s a waterfall, lily pads, and a rolling creek. But it always comes back to the Teddy Bears. The largest bear stands 8 feet, 5 inches tall and smiles while staring vacantly forward, as a cub perches on its left hind leg.

Chandor Gardens—named for Englishman Douglas Granvil Chandor—captures both the ornate design of ancient Chinese architecture and the elegance of a formal English garden.

The 3.5-acre estate leads visitors along a meandering path that includes a 30-foot manmade waterfall and picturesque fountains.

During his career, Chandor painted about 300 portraits, including those of Prime Minister Winston Churchill, Queen Elizabeth II, and President Franklin Roosevelt.

CONNEMARA MEADOW NATURE PRESERVE

MARIE GABRIELLE RESTAURANT AND GARDENS

Alma Dr, Allen, 75013

2728 N Harwood St, Dallas, 75201

The 72-acre Connemara Meadow Nature Preserve that sits on the border of Allen and Plano was founded in 1981 by Frances Williams and her daughter as one of the first land trusts in Texas. They wanted to preserve, restore, and maintain open space for native plants, animals, and people. With more than three miles of trails, it’s a perfect place to explore on your own or sign up for a guided walk.

Another example of urban green space, Marie Gabrielle hides in the shadows of foliage and can be easily missed. An English garden and reflecting pools often serve as makeshift picnic spots for patrons of Marie Gabrielle Restaurant, but many people visit or happen upon this place out of pure curiosity. Like a woodland sprite, much of Marie Gabrielle’s charm lies in her seclusion and in the delight that comes in discovering her.

More hidden gems online Say Yes to Dallas has compiled a list of places for urban explorers. These include former outlaw hideouts, abandoned HIDDEN GEMS rail beds, and suburban oases.

Of course, not all 442 miles of offstreet paths in the region offer such adventures. So, the “Say Yes” crew has cobbled together a list of trails.

In assembling our “Hidden Trails” list, we stuck with our methodology of avoiding well-known destinations and HIDDEN TRAILS steering clear of wellworn paths. Trails are open to both pedestrians and cyclists unless otherwise noted.

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THRIVE. LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE IN DALLAS-FORT WORTH.

AT&T’s storied Spirit of Communication statue, nicknamed “Golden Boy,” resides in the AT&T Discovery District.

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Finding your founder community on the Katy Trail Walking meetups prove Dallas’ startup scene thrives on genuine connection—outdoors, unplugged, and unscripted.

In Dallas, some of the best startup connections begin with a Saturday morning stroll. Kat Weaver, founder of Power to Pitch (center with megaphone), launched regular Founder Walks on the Katy Trail as an antidote to traditional networking. The investor and serial entrepreneur who started her first company in a college dorm room has a knack for bringing people together. What started with 20 participants has grown to more than 100 founders, investors, and VCs—some flying in from New York, Washington, D.C., and Utah. The format is deliberately casual: a short walk, coffee after, “no panels, no PowerPoints, just connection,” Weaver says. But the impact is real.

Recent “Kat-alyst” walks have led to deals moving into due diligence. For Weaver, who moved to Dallas from Chicago after a year-long trial and “never left,” the walks are proof of concept. “It’s been a more supportive ecosystem than I’ve ever experienced before,” she says.

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Spirit of a Startup DFW IS WHERE BOLD IDEAS CAN GROW INTO THRIVING COMPANIES “You should do that!” That’s typically the first response when someone in Dallas-Fort Worth decides they’re going to start a business and shares the idea with a friend. The natural follow-up is almost always, “How can I help?”

That spirit of encouragement and collaboration is the heartbeat of the DFW startup scene, a community where bold ideas take root and entrepreneurs find champions ready to help them grow.

Across the region, organizations and programs provide a strong foundation for innovation. The DEC Network supports early-stage founders through mentorship, education, and investor access. TechFW in Fort Worth helps technology-driven ventures move from concept to commercialization. Global accelerators are investing here as well. Boston-based MassChallenge brings its worldwide network of mentors, investors, and partners to the region, while Silicon Valley’s Plug and Play connects local startups to corporate innovation opportunities. Homegrown leaders like Health Wildcatters, shaping regional health innovation for more than a decade, fuel new biotech, medtech, and digital health founders.

DFW’s entrepreneurial energy is also reflected in events that bring the community together. Weekly 1 Million Cups gatherings give founders a place to share ideas and gain feedback. Dallas Startup Week unites thousands of innovators each year. Venture Dallas highlights the region’s most promising companies to investors nationwide, and Impact Ventures, focused on supporting under-championed founders, hosts pitch days and showcases that draw investors and community leaders.

Startup hubs across the region amplify that momentum. Places like Pegasus Park in Dallas anchoring life sciences innovation, CreateFW energizing Fort Worth’s entrepreneurs, Origin in Frisco bringing sports-tech innovation and international startup support, and the Richardson Innovation Quarter advancing technology and research strengthen the region’s startup ecosystem.

Whether your startup serves businesses or consumers, DFW offers the ideal environment to grow. For B2B founders, the region is unmatched because the customers and partners they need are already here. More than 40 Fortune 1000 companies call the region home, providing direct access to decision-makers and enterprise opportunities. For B2C innovators, there is no better testbed than a diverse, fast-growing community of nearly nine million residents. Here, big ideas do more than take off—they thrive.

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Find Your Community Dallas-Fort Worth ‘market tapestry’ insights can help you weave your way into the lifestyle you’re seeking.

The market tapestry is an interesting way to get a highlevel picture of the personalities of DFW neighborhoods. The main purpose of this type of demography- and geographybased data is targeted marketing efforts, but it’s also a great way to get a broad overview of the region.

When people are ready to move to Dallas-Fort Worth, zeroing in on the perfect neighborhood is a logical first step. It’s more than just finding a new place to live; it’s about discovering a community where they can thrive.

This is where Esri’s Market Tapestry Segmentation tool comes in handy.

It offers insights to newcomers about the various DFW neighborhoods.

Esri’s insights delve into the unique aspects of communities and who dominates the area— whether it’s family-oriented, filled with young professionals, scholars, Gen X, or another contingent. The understanding can help newcomers pinpoint communities that resonate with their family dynamics and personal preferences, for a sense of belonging right from the start.

The Tapestry Segmentation offers clues about the types of services and amenities prevalent in different neighborhoods. From parks and schools to shopping centers and dining options, this information can help newcomers select an area that not only meets day-to-day needs but also enhances the quality of life.

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DENTON

FORT WORTH

DALLAS

HOW IT WORKS: Esri’s Tapestry Segmentation, shown on the map above, combines the “who” of lifestyle demography with the “where” of local neighborhood geography to create a model of various lifestyle classifications or segments of actual neighborhoods with addresses—distinct behavioral market segments. To create this map, U.S. census tracts are divided into 65 distinctive segments based on socioeconomic and demographic characteristics to provide an accurate, detailed description of U.S. neighborhoods.

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

MARKET TAPESTRY Median Household Income

Median Net Worth

$157,500

$1,052,900

519,663

17.5%

$124,300

$547,500

94,009

3.2%

$109,000

$106,200

169,026

5.7%

$100,100

$385,300

353,008

11.9%

$82,200

$301,600

165,750

5.6%

$79,600

$329,900

125,530

4.2%

$78,500

$200,100

646,743

21.7%

$68,300

$102,700

180,769

6.1%

$63,400

$217,700

53,371

1.8%

$58,200

$188,600

119,365

4.0%

$51,300

$19,300

306,702

10.3%

$46,900

$66,100

90,585

3.0%

$53,900

$23,800

131,760

4.4%

$43,100

$12,600

22,083

0.7%

Percentage of DFW Households Households

AFFLUENT ESTATES

Established wealth— educated, well-travelled married couples

UPSCALE AVENUES

Prosperous married couples living in older suburban enclaves.

UPTOWN INDIVIDUALS

Young, successful singles in the city.

FAMILY LANDSCAPES

Successful young families in their first homes.

GEN X URBAN

McKINNEY

Gen X in middle age; families with fewer kids and a mortgage.

COZY COUNTRY LIVING

Empty nesters in bucolic settings.

SPROUTING EXPLORERS

Young homeowners with families.

MIDDLE GROUND

Lifestyles of thirtysomethings.

SENIOR STYLES

Senior lifestyles reveal the effects of saving for retirement.

S

RUSTIC OUTPOSTS

Country life with older families in older homes.

MIDTOWN SINGLES

Millennials on the move— single, urban.

HOMETOWN

Growing up and staying close to home; single householders.

SOURCE: ESRI Business Analyst

These segments are then grouped into the 14 Tapestry Segmentation LifeMode Summary Groups, which are characterized by lifestyle and life stage and share an experience such as being born in the same time period or a trait such as affluence.

NEXT WAVE

Urban dwellers; young, hardworking families.

SCHOLARS AND PATRIOTS

Highly mobile college and military populations.

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Cultures, Faiths, Communities The pulse of DFW—strength in our diversity.

Demographics in the Dallas region are changing as the population diversifies.

Around 20 percent of residents are foreign-born, with Hispanics accounting for the largest minority group in both the region and the state. The region’s low cost of living means we enjoy a higher standard of living on a lower median household income than most other large metro areas.

Faith and religion Dallas-Fort Worth is a marvelous mix of people of all faiths, Christian and non-Christian alike. Members of every Protestant group will find church homes here, as well as Catholics, Mormons, Seventh-Day Adventists, and Unitarian Universalists. Non-Christian faiths represented here include Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism, as well as smaller groups such as Bahá’í Faith, Jain, Sikh, Tao, and Zoroastrian.

Dallas-Fort Worth hosts numerous religious festivals and events annually, celebrating the rich tapestry of faiths, from Diwali and Eid to Hanukkah and Christmas.

International studies Folks from Argentina, Zimbabwe, and every country in between call the region home. With a vibrant and growing immigrant population, the region provides all kinds of opportunities for people of many nations and ethnic groups to come together and share their cultures, talents, and perspectives on the world.

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Thanksgiving Square is a public park and spiritual center in downtown Dallas, featuring a non-denominational chapel and renowned for its spiraling stained glass ceiling.

PHOTO: UNSPLASH/ADAM GONZALES

A racially diverse region The racial makeup of the region is more diverse than you may think. Though the majority of our residents are Caucasian or Hispanic, our racial representation spans the world, encompassing ethnicities from every corner of the globe. Pockets of people from various countries pepper the metro area, giving the region a rich, international texture.

LGBTQIA community The LGBTQIA community thrives in

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

Dallas-Fort Worth, with a widespread sentiment of welcome throughout the cities and business communities.

Many company headquarters based in the region, such as American Airlines, Toyota, Brinker International, and Andrews Distributing are key investors in equality—and those are just a few of the business supporters. The region also hosts several Pride events and has numerous resources for the LGBTQIA community, including community centers and support groups.

CULTURE

The Edith and Peter O’Donnell Jr. Athenaeum, a 12-acre new cultural district at the edge of UT Dallas, is a second home of the Crow Museum of Asian Art .

RENDERING: UT DALLAS

Cathedral Shrine of the Virgin of Guadalupe in the Arts District of downtown Dallas has one of the largest Latino parish congregation in the nation.

Oak Lawn Place in Dallas provides “high-quality affordable rental living” for residents 55 and older in the LGBTQ community.

RENDERING: PERKINS & WILL

Chùa Ðao Quang Temple in Garland is among two dozen Buddhist temples in DFW. PHOTO: DCVB

PHOTO: MICHAEL SAMPLES

LGBTQIA

KEY NEIGHBORHOODS

LOCAL RESOURCES

Oak Lawn—This neighborhood hosts a high concentration of LGBTQIA residents, shops, restaurants, and nightclubs. Popular joints include Round-Up Saloon, Jr’s Bar & Grill, Sue Ellen’s, Station 4 (S4), and The Rose Room.

Black Tie Dinner—Largest fund-raising dinner for the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community in the nation.

Oak Cliff—Home to the Bishop Arts District, Trinity Groves, Kessler Park, and many historic designated neighborhoods. Favorite restaurants include Paradiso, Lucia and Hunky’s Old Fashioned Hamburgers.

Cathedral of Hope—Dallas hosts the “world’s largest gay church,” Cathedral of Hope, with more than 4,000 members.

North Texas LGBT Chamber of Commerce—Striving for inclusion through the LGBT WE zone for 10 years.

The Dallas Voice—Keep in touch with the Dallas LGBTQIA community through the weekly magazine.

Out of the Closet Thrift Store—Offers free HIV testing and other medical support. The proceeds of shopping and donating go to support the AIDS Healthcare Foundation.

Resource Center—The Dallas-based center provides culturally sensitive, LGBTQIAfriendly services including low-cost mental health counseling, vaccinations, lab work, transgender health, and HIV services.

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Dallas-Fort Worth: A Global Melting Pot Home to a diverse immigrant community, whose home countries range from Argentina to Zimbabwe, the region thrives as a cultural crossroads.

With a vibrant and growing immigrant population, the region provides all kinds of opportunities for people of many nations and ethnic groups to come together and share their cultures, talents, and perspectives on the world. The maps below are a sampling of clusters of various foreign-born populations in the region.

35

35

INDIA

DENTON MCKINNEY

DENTON

35E

MCKINNEY

35E

75

75

121

121

35E

35E

114

35W

114

35W 635

635 75

75 78

30

78

183

820

FORT WORTH

35W

DALLAS

161

80

30

FORT WORTH

DALLAS

161

80

30

12

12

35E

35E

360

360 175

20

20

20

1 DOT = 20 PEOPLE

35W

1 DOT = 20 PEOPLE

35W

45

45 35 DENTON

JAPAN

35

MCKINNEY

MCKINNEY 35E

35E

75

75

121

121 35E

35E

114

35W

114

35W

635

635

75

75

78

78

30

30

183

820

183

820

35W

35W

30

80

DALLAS

161

FORT WORTH

161

FORT WORTH

DALLAS

30

80

12

12 35E

35E

360

360 175

20

20

20

1 DOT = 20 PEOPLE

35W

1 DOT = 5 PEOPLE

35W

45

45

VIETNAM

35

DENTON MCKINNEY

35

DENTON MCKINNEY

35E

35E

75

75

121

121

35E

35E

114

35W

114

35W 635

635 75

75 78

30

78

183

820

35W 161

FORT WORTH

DALLAS

161

80

30

80

FORT WORTH

12

30

35E

DALLAS

12

35E

360

360 175

20

20

175

20

20

20

142

30

183

820

35W

35W

175

20

20

20

KOREA

175

20

20

20

NIGERIA

30

183

820

35W

20

1 DOT = 20 PEOPLE 45

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

35W

1 DOT = 20 PEOPLE 45

SOURCE: U.S. Census American Community Survey 2012 five-year estimates. Population groups are mapped by census tract. Individual dots are randomly located within a particular tract.

CHINA

CULTURE

The Givelify team at the Stevie Awards

Photos: Givelify

Givelify Co-Founder and CEO Wale Mafolasire

Givelify in Dallas: How one founder found community, culture, and generosity

Wale (sounds like Wally) Mafolasire moved from Nigeria to Indiana in the early 2000s for college. A person of faith who believes in helping others, he saw a need in the community for a reliable and secure way to make cause-based donations. So, he created an app that connects people to the causes that matter most to them—currently more than 75,000 organizations in need of monetary donations. It’s called Givelify … and people responded immediately.

The business grew as he responded to customer input and he realized that he needed to hire more people.

“We kept looking around the country, exploring a couple of different cities, and there was just something

about Dallas—the vibe, the culture, the people,” Mafolasire added.

Today, Givelify is a global, remote company and while headquarters remains in Indiana, Mafolasire moved with his family to Dallas in 2017. More than 20 percent of the company’s workforce also lives here.

Mafolasire settled with his family in the Oak Lawn area, where he says he enjoys both being able to get out and walk five miles every day and being close to big city amenities.

And as much as he loves the business opportunities here, he’s equally impressed with options for fun.

“I’d say definitely visit the museums.

The Dallas Museum of Art downtown is one to look out for; Perot Museum is another one, and go Uptown to do a little bit of restaurant hopping.”

“There’s a lot of restaurants around that are authentic Nigerian meals, and it’s a good collection. I gotta say, before I moved to Dallas, I didn’t have those kinds of options.”

Celebrating a diverse city with a common goal Mafolasire says what he’s most impressed by is the way people with different backgrounds and life experiences join forces to make things happen.

“One thing I encourage people to do is just appreciate the diversity of Dallas.

Not just the Nigerian community, right, but the other communities as well, all the different communities together and the networks that you’re able to build because of that, the people you’re able to meet, and the friendships that come out of that.”

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In Good Hands You’ll find top-notch healthcare in Dallas-Fort Worth.

In Dallas, UT Southwestern Medical Center, a leader in medical research, and Baylor University Medical Center, renowned for heart and cancer care, are just two examples of the region’s medical excellence. In Fort Worth, Cook Children’s Health Care System is an award-winning nonprofit leader in healthcare. And the city of Frisco, a rising star in sports health, boasts the Baylor Scott & White Sports Therapy & Research at The Star. The facility, in collaboration with the Dallas Cowboys, provides advanced sports medicine and rehabilitation services.

The healthcare landscape in the region is complemented by a holistic approach to health, with facilities like the Fort Worth Moncrief Cancer Institute integrating traditional healthcare with wellness practices, embodying the concept of whole self-health.

For people seeking diverse options, DFW has a plethora of whole-person experiences, innovative wellness practices, and high-tech fitness studios, too. You’ll find cutting-edge spa and aesthetic treatments, meditation, immersive yoga, luxury spas, fitness-wellness fusion, every flavor of health club, ozone therapy, sound bathing, nutrient IV treatments, and creative mindfulness.

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PHOTO: COURTESY OF THE ROBERSONS; RIGHT: PHOTO AND RENDERING COURTESY OF THE HEALTHCARE SYSTEMS; THE CENTER FOR BRAINHEALTH AT UT DALLAS

Dallas-Fort Worth is home to exemplary medical facilities operating with the newest technology and top professionals.

Our state-of-the-art healthcare ecosystem is supported by aggressive research and educational programs, two medical schools, and a dental school. Residents find it easy to maintain a healthy lifestyle with world-renowned physicians and top-notch hospitals providing the highestquality health care. Wherever you live, there’s a medical expert nearby able to treat conditions of all sorts, ranging from serious to minor concerns. But don’t take our word for it: In 2025, 42 Dallas-Fort Worth general hospitals were listed as either nationally ranked or high performing by U.S. News & World Report.

Three children’s hospitals made the list.

In Dallas, Cacti leverages technology from fellow DFW company Blackbox Bio to pioneer psychedelic-derived medicines without traditional side effects. This innovative effort, led by the husband-wife team of Kaitlin and David Roberson, includes AI-powered algorithms capable of automatically detecting psychedelic hallucinations in mice.

READ THE FULL STORY ON DALLASINNOVATES.COM

AV E R AG E H E A LT H C A R E P R I C E S

$143

AVERAGE DOCTOR’S VISIT

$138

AVERAGE OPTOMETRIST VISIT

$142

AVERAGE DENTIST VISIT

HEALTHCARE BEST OF THE BEST

U.S. News Best Hospitals 2025 The Center for BrainHealth at UT Dallas, with its new state-of-the-art Sammons BrainHealth Imaging Center, is pioneering advanced research to enhance brain potential—and intervention for issues.

UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER

Karen Meadows, leading UNT Health Science Center’s Regional Simulation Center in Fort Worth, has created an innovative training hub with features like realistic clinic exam rooms, immersive virtual reality with 360-degree cameras, and diverse learning spaces revolutionizing healthcare education.

DALLAS  Nationally ranked in 12 specialties  High performing in 19 procedures/conditions  Ranked the No. 2 hospital in Texas

BAYLOR UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER

DALLAS  Nationally ranked in 5 specialties  High performing in 5 specialties and 15 procedures/conditions  Ranked the No. 3 hospital in Texas

BAYLOR SCOTT & WHITE ALL SAINTS MEDICAL CENTER

FORT WORTH  High performing in 5 specialties and 10 procedures/conditions  Ranked the No. 13 hospital in Texas

Baylor Scott & White Sports Therapy & Research at The Star in Frisco offers a wide range of outpatient services, including treatment for both serious athletes and “weekend warriors.”

CHILDREN’S MEDICAL CENTER DALLAS

DALLAS  Nationally ranked in 11 children’s specialties

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A Landscape of Options:

Dallas-Fort Worth Education Getting Schooled on Education in Dallas-Fort Worth Dallas-Fort Worth is served by traditional and nontraditional educational institutions, including charter schools, private schools, pathways in technology (P-TECH), “Early College High School,” virtual options, magnet schools, and a strong homeschooling network.

Here’s a closer look.

Independent School Districts (ISDs) in DFW may cover multiple jurisdictions. Richardson ISD, for example, serves parts of Richardson, Dallas, and Garland; approximately 240,000 people live in RISD boundaries.

Like other jurisdictions, to enroll your child in any Texas school, you must have: • Birth certificate or other proof of identity; • Immunization records; • Any records from a previous school, and • Proof of residency in the district.

Kindergarten and pre-K is encouraged but not required in Texas—roughly 250,000 children are enrolled in pre-K programs; Public schools typically begin in August and include 180 days of instruction per year, with each district setting its own holiday calendars, winter, and spring breaks.

Testing usually takes place in the spring for public schools.

Private schools typically start earlier in August, with testing taking place in January or February.

State of Texas learning standards are called the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS).

Graduating seniors are required to complete a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) form, even if it is only to check the box opting out of assistance.

All public schools (including magnet and charter) require students to choose one of five career-related pathways by the end of eighth grade. Once chosen, the student must complete the curriculum requirements in that pathway to earn an endorsement and graduate. (Yes, it is possible to graduate without an endorsement, but you need written approval.) The five pathways are: STEM (Science, (Continued on p. 148) DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

Slidell ISD 482 | 975

Alvord ISD 850 | 997

Chico ISD 558 | 977

Bridgeport ISD 2119 | 896

Pon 167 Paradise ISD 1304 | 1071 Boyd ISD 1293 | 939

Poolville ISD 749 | 1103

Garner ISD 365 | #N/A

K 2

Decatur ISD 3811 | 985

Peaster ISD 1706 | 1071

Millsap ISD 1100 | 1036

Northwest 30736 | 10

Springtown ISD 4171 | 1007 Azle ISD 7218 | 949

Weatherford ISD 8203 | 940

Brock ISD 2177 | 1034

Eagle MountainSaginaw ISD 23462 | 961

Lake Worth ISD 3238 | 944 White Settlement Castleberry ISD ISD 3740 | 838 6895 | 902

Fort W 7106

Aledo ISD 8161 | 1084

Ev Crowley ISD 5 16956 | 857

Lipan ISD 447 | 1106 Granbury ISD 7933 | 1050

Godley ISD 3002 | 919

Joshua ISD 6020 | 950

Burl 1271

Keene 1097 Cleburne ISD 7082 | 927

Tolar ISD 908 | 1086

Education at a glance

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North Texas Public School District Ratings 2025

Glen Rose ISD 2060 | 1046

Rio Vista ISD 967 | 958

EDUCATION Dallas ISD’s $80M Nolan Estes Campus will bring three downtown schools under one roof by 2027

Cypress Waters school with flexible learning space.

Garland High School step team in performance.

Sanger ISD 2810 | 1069

Pilot Point ISD 1551 | 1002

Prosper ISD 28467 | 1088

Denton ISD 32866 | 964

nder ISD 77 | 940

Little Elm ISD Lake 8211 | 939 Dallas ISD 3811 | 1052

Argyle ISD 5414 | 1188

Frisco ISD 66698 | 1151

Lewisville ISD 48440 | 1151

ISD 014

Keller ISD 33250 | 1044

CarrolltonFarmers Branch ISD Coppell ISD24386 | 960 Grapevine-13414 | 1252 Colleyville ISD 13565 | 1099

Birdville ISD Hurst-Euless22219 | 975 Bedford ISD 23226 | 985

Kennedale ISD 2827 | 969 verman ISD 5139 | 836 Mansfield ISD 35851 | 988

Farmersville ISD 2236 | 1022

Greenville ISD 5418 | 868 Caddo Mills ISD 2836 | 1000

Community ISD 4628 | 917

Wylie ISD 19231 | 1067

Royse City ISD 9371 | 946

Highland Park ISD 6437 | 1300

Campbell ISD 287 | 1066

Lone Oak ISD 1146 | 1014 Boles ISD 552 | 1130

Rockwall ISD 18798 | 1033

Quinlan ISD 2889 | 927

Sunnyvale ISD 2317 | 1170

Dallas ISD 139246 | 903

Mesquite ISD 38265 | 883

Forney ISD 17002 | 1013

Terrell ISD 5255 | 838

Duncanville ISD 11761 | 850 Crandall ISD 6443 | 902

Lancaster ISD Cedar Hill ISD DeSoto ISD 6336 | 906 5995 | 867 7014 | 928 Red Oak ISD 6592 | 904 Midlothian ISD 11103 | 994

e ISD | 1037 Alvarado ISD 3782 | 905

Grandview ISD 1428 | 996

Princeton ISD 8688 | 1058

Garland ISD 51659 | 925

Grand Prairie ISD 26638 | 910

leson ISD 18 | 1080 Venus ISD 2308 | 966

Bland ISD 794 | 1048

Richardson ISD 37085 | 1134

Irving ISD 31485 | 883

Arlington ISD 54750 | 935

Worth ISD 60 | 884

Lovejoy ISD 4092 | 1170 Allen ISD 21370 | 1140

Commerce ISD 1559 | 955

Celeste ISD 524 | 1132

McKinney ISD 23306 | 1041

Plano ISD 47899 | 1119

Carroll ISD 8292 | 1281

Wolfe City ISD 720 | 1060

Blue Ridge ISD 1030 | 1003

Melissa ISD 6735 | 1077

Aubrey ISD 4000 | 1058

Krum ISD 2483 | 951

Anna ISD 5470 | 934

Celina ISD 4577 | 1153

Ferris ISD 2877 | 975

Scurry-Rosser ISD 1046 | 944

Palmer ISD 1338 | 1020

Waxahachie ISD 11052 | 1025 Maypearl ISD 1224 | 1014

Kaufman ISD 4378 | 903

Mabank ISD 4066 | 1002 Kemp ISD 1967 | 953

Ennis ISD 6466 | 1027

Legend Italy ISD 628 | 1080

Milford ISD 261 | #N/A

Avalon ISD 349 | 895

ISD Name

District Boundaries

2024 Enrollment | 2023 SAT Score

North Texas School District Ratings, 2025

A

B

C

D

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Tips for choosing a district In Texas, public school districts operate independently and are governed by elected school boards that implement state guidelines through instructional programs and curriculum. This setup allows some flexibility in the types of programs being offered and their stance on statewide issues, like book bans.

Each district’s board of trustees hires a superintendent to be CEO; sets a district philosophy (which might be called its vision, beliefs, or mission), and local policies; selects a curriculum within the state guidelines; and sets the budget, district boundaries, and part of the tax rate.

In addition to school size, proximity, and philosophy here are some considerations for finding the right school district for you.

• English as a second language; • Courses that will help your child improve his or her reading, writing, grammar, listening, and speaking skills; • Dual-language capability.

Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics); Business and Industry; Public Service; Arts and Humanities; or Multidisciplinary Studies.

In addition to curriculum requirements for the endorsement, there are also core classes that students must complete in subjects including: mathematics, science, and fine arts.

Public school districts

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PHOTO: WAVEBREAKMEDIA/ISTOCK

Most of the Dallas Region’s largest school districts and charters have seen stability or growth in their latest Texas Education Association A-F ratings, with Frisco, Garland, and Dallas ISDs leading the pack.

Dallas ISD, the largest, has achieved significant growth in the last few years and now has a B ranking. DISD employs nearly 23,000 individuals who serve a diverse population of roughly 140,000 students.

The district is comprised of 240 schools and

has expanded pre-K classes; 150 dual language programs; 25 P-TECHs and early college high school programs; as well as 30 magnet schools and academies, including several that have been nationally recognized.

Students attending DISD schools come from Addison, Balch Springs, Carrollton, Cockrell Hill, Dallas, Farmers Branch, Garland, Highland Park, Hutchins, Mesquite, Seagoville, University Park, and Wilmer.

How it makes the grade: • National recognition: DISD schools are among the top 10% of Texas high schools in a 2025 ranking by U.S. News & World Report; • Average rating: B, from the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) • Post-secondary preparation: according to the latest data from the Commit Partnership— an educational partnership unique to Dallas County—45% of Dallas County residents, age 25 to 34, graduated in 2022 with an associate,

EDUCATION

Need to Know

Essential education and childcare resources for parents

To search for a licensed childcare center or home: n childcaregroup.org (Teaches children and parents; trains early childhood professionals and helps families)) n dfwchild.com (since 1986, this publication has been geared towards women with children in the DFW area) n dfps.state.tx.us (Department of Family and Protective Services) For questions about testing into AP-level classes as well as gifted and talented placement; eligibility to join school sports teams; top-rated schools and what school district you’re zoned for; transportation options, charter and homeschooling options, go to: TEA.texas.gov

PHOTO: DRAZEN ZIG/CISTOCK

For information on private schools in your area, go to: tepsac.org

bachelor, or graduate degree. That’s up from 34% in 2012.

The second largest school district in the region is Fort Worth ISD. It dominates Tarrant County, with approximately 75,000 students. It serves most of the city of Fort Worth, as well as Benbrook, Westover Hills, and Westworth Village. Students from parts of Forest Hill, Haltom City, and Kennedale also attend FWISD schools.

The district is home to the Leadership Academy Network.

Composed of six schools, the system was created to improve and maintain academic performance. The network was made possible by a partnership with the Texas Wesleyan School of Education and authorized by Texas Senate Bill 1882.

How it makes the grade: • According to TEA data it has climbed three points since 2023 and has a C rating; • The World Language Institute, in Fort Worth, is ranked 25th in the state; • The Young Women’s Leadership Academy, in Fort Worth, is ranked 34th in the state.

Specialized programs P-TECH

Pathways in Technology Early High schools, known as P-TECH, serve nearly 6,500 students across Texas.

Business and industry partners provide career mentoring, host site visits, offer paid internships to enrolled students, and serve on advisory councils to

Texas Schools 411 n ISDs across Texas have the option of requiring students to carry clear backpacks in public schools—contact your local ISD for guidance; n Uniform/dress code may differ between ISDs. Special education/accessibility needs For parents of children who have disabilities or need certain accommodations, one great resource is DFWchild.com. There you can find a section devoted to the evaluation process in Texas, tips from experts, how to prepare your child for starting school, and more.

The Texas Education Agency also has information on support research and resources to help you and your child navigate the system. Go to tea.texas. gov and search “special education.”

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Students can choose to complete a P-TECH program in: • Financial services; • Criminal justice; • Network administration and support; • EMT skills; • Business operations; • Software programming; • Accounting; • Education and training; • Construction; • Supply chain—specifically transportation, distribution, and logistics.

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

ECHS

Early College High School programs allow students the opportunity to earn up to 60 hours of college credit, along with their high school diploma.

Curriculum includes: all classes required for high school graduation, plus dual-credit electives and classes emphasizing study skills and technology.

Students must maintain a GPA of 2.0 or above and up to 125 students can be accepted into ECHS each year.

For an interactive map of statewide P-TECH and ECHS locations visit www. texasccrsm.org/school-locator

PHOTO: MONKEYBUSINESSIMAGES/ISTOCK

improve alignment of programming with workforce needs.

Students who graduate from the P-TECH program enter the workforce with in-demand skillsets, making them top candidates in their chosen industry.

Below are program differentiators, and examples of industries students can choose from.

• Open enrollment—acceptance is not application-based or determined by a lottery; • Curriculum is balanced with an internship, apprenticeship, or other job training program;

Career institutes

Career institute programs also provide access to technical and career training and exposure to career opportunities that are not available at a student’s home campus. Through a series of courses, projects, and experiences, including completion of an internship, students graduate high school with the background they need to enter a high-demand career immediately.

Special education

Parents can find programs tailored to help their child with reading, writing, focusing, or other learning differences, and children are educated under an individual education plan (IEP) until the age of 22. For detailed information on special education, go to: SPED Family Resources | Texas Education Agency AP classes, and ‘talented & gifted’

Advanced placement classes, as well as talented and gifted programs, are available throughout the region.

You’re advised to contact your school district for specific information.

Private schools

CISTERCIAN PREPARATORY SCHOOL Gr All ad B es oys 512

There are more than 900 private schools, serving 290,000 students in Texas. A few examples include St. Mark’s School of Texas, E.A. Young Academy, and Fort Worth Country Day. In 2025, the state established the Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) program, through which eligible families can receive state funds for private school tuition.

For more information, visit the TEFA website (Texas Education Freedom Accounts) (Continued on p. 152)

Greenhill School

An Independent Private Catholic School in Irving, TX Class of 2026

52% National Merit Scholars

82 wooded acres

6:1 student-teacher ratio

daily bus routes

All advanced honors, single-track academic curriculum (We meet 100% of demonstrated financial need.)

3660 Cistercian Road Irving, Texas 75039 • school.cistercian.org

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LIVE / WORK / PLAY / THRIVE Many offer specialized educational approaches like multilingual or college prep. Westlake Academy, Universal Academy, and Harmony School of Innovation are a few examples.

Virtual

Part of the Texas Virtual School Network, these are online public schools and programs for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. The content is approved by the Texas Education Agency. For more information visit www.txvs.org.

Flight simulator at Dallas ISD’s Career Institute

Magnet schools

Public schools with specialized focus areas like STEM, the arts, or health professions. Booker T. Washington is one well-known magnet school and has turned out talent like Norah Jones, Erykah Badu, and George T. Flemming.

A global leader in international education, the IB continuum of programs is designed to teach students problem

152

solving skills they can use today and into the future. A few top-rated IB schools include The Hockaday School, Greenhill School, and International Leadership of Texas.

Compared to other states, there are not as many requirements to educate your child at home. Texas law requires that: the instruction be bona fide; in visual form (books, workbooks, video); and include basic subjects of reading, spelling, grammar, mathematics, and good citizenship.

Charter schools

GED

These are public, tuition-free, open enrollment schools that are subject to the same state and federal accountability standards, and can be shut down for bad performance.

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

You must be at least 18 years old and withdrawn from high school for at least six months. You must pass all four exams to receive a State of Texas Certificate of High School Equivalency.

PHOTO: DALLAS ISD

International Baccalaureate (IB)

Homeschooling

await you at Parish.

Possibilities Await You at Parish Episcopal School.

Visit us online at parish.org/admission

All-Girl Catholic College Prep Grades 9-12

www.ursulinedallas.org 4900 WALNUT HILL LANE | DALLAS, TEXAS 75229 2026 / DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE

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Dallas ISD’s School for the Talented and Gifted: Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Center PHOTO: MICHAEL SAMPLES

Dallas-Fort Worth high schools make the grade.

64 high schools across the region rank on U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 America’s Best High Schools list.

These schools were featured in the U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 America’s Best High Schools list. The ranking of nearly 18,000 of the best public high schools in the nation identified those that have proven the most effective in turning out college-ready graduates based on variables such as graduation rate, college acceptance rate, SAT/ACT scores, students enrolled in AP/IB/AICE courses, and others.

NATIONAL RANK | SCHOOL | CITY

9 15 23 54 84 119 131 171 188 193 194 233 238 242 287 316 345 365 395 452 482 490 507 541 552 577 598 634 650 751 768 154

Dallas

Irma Lerma Rangel Young Women's Leadership School

Dallas

School of Science and Engineering Magnet (SEM)

Dallas

Grand Prairie Collegiate Institute

Grand Prairie

Judge Barefoot Sanders Law Magnet

Dallas

School of Health Professions

Dallas

Westlake Academy

Westlake

Trinidad Garza Early College At Mountain View

Dallas

Imagine International Academy of North Texas

McKinney

World Languages Institute

Fort Worth

Uplift Education - North Hills Prep HS

Irving

Young Women's Leadership Academy

Fort Worth

Grand Prairie Fine Arts Academy

Grand Prairie

Highland Park HS

Highland Park

Booker T. Washington SPVA Rosie Sorrells School of Education and Social Services HS James M Steele Accelerated HS Marvin E Robinson School of Business and Management Founders Classical Academy

Dallas

Dr. Wright L Lassiter Jr Early College HS

Dallas

Cedar Hill Collegiate HS

Cedar Hill

Reedy HS

Frisco

Coppell HS

Coppell

Lovejoy HS

Lucas

Liberty HS

Frisco

Independence HS

Frisco

Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy

Dallas

Centennial HS

Frisco

Founders Classical Academy

Lewisville

Uplift Grand HS

Grand Prairie

Uplift Infinity HS

Irving

North Lake Early College HS

Irving

Dallas Roanoke Dallas Frisco

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

879 891 982 988 993 1016 1019 1062 1132 1162 1243 1288 1302 1314 1330 1373 1463 1468 1496 1512 1518 1522 1536 1563 1569 1794 1825 1832 1845 1871 1948 1996

IM Terrell Academy for STEM and VPA

Fort Worth

Lebanon Trail HS

Frisco

Wakeland HS

Frisco

Heritage HS

Frisco

Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts

Fort Worth

iUniversity Prep

Grapevine

Harmony Science Academy - Euless

Euless

Young Women's Leadership Academy at Arnold

Grand Prairie

Early College HS

Dallas

Harmony School of Innovation - Fort Worth

Fort Worth

Texas Academy of Biomedical

Fort Worth

Uplift Peak Preparatory High School

Dallas

Uplift Summit International HS

Arlington

Flower Mound HS

Flower Mound

Arlington Collegiate HS

Arlington

Uplift Luna Preparatory HS

Dallas

McKinney North HS

McKinney

McKinney Boyd HS

McKinney

New Tech HS at Coppell

Coppell

Harmony School of Innovation - Dallas

Dallas

Sunnyvale HS

Sunnyvale

Harmony School of Innovation - Garland

Garland

Byron Nelson HS

Trophy Club

Uplift Williams Preparatory HS

Dallas

Rockwall High School

Rockwall

Frisco HS

Frisco

Keller HS

Keller

Harmony Science Academy - Carrollton

Carrollton

North Garland High School Wylie HS Mansfield Lake Ridge HS Aledo HS

Garland Wylie Mansfield Aledo

PHOTOS: MICHAEL SAMPLES

Source: U.S. News & World Report

353

NATIONAL RANK | SCHOOL | CITY

School For The Talented And Gifted (TAG)

EDUCATION

Richardson High School football

FAQ: Navigating the system

Researching schools

I just had a baby. How do I find a day care or preschool?

To search for a licensed child care center or home, go to the Department of Family and Protective Services website (dfps.state.tx.us). Other resources include DFW Child (dfwchild.com) and Child Care Group (childcaregroup.org).

Does Texas follow the national Common Core State Standards?

No. Texas does not follow the Common Core State Standards program. State of Texas learning standards are called the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). Every grade level and every subject have learning standards that drive curriculum development.

What is the school year calendar?

Public schools begin the last week in August and include 180 days of instruction per year. Each district sets its own holiday calendars, typically including winter and spring breaks. Testing typically takes place in the spring for public schools. Private schools typically start earlier in August, and testing takes place in January or February.

Will my elementary school student need to retest for gifted and talented?

My child has always taken AP classes. Will they be offered in Texas? What about dual credit?

Yes. Most districts in the DFW region offer AP classes, International Baccalaureate programs, and dualcredit learning opportunities. You’ll need to confirm with your individual district and school to be sure.

It depends. Bus service is provided to students living more than two miles away from their schools. Transport is also provided in cases where students might face hazardous conditions such as crossing a major roadway or a lack of a crossing guard. Confirm with your new school.

Are there bilingual or ESL programs available in DFW public schools?

Yes, many schools in DFW offer bilingual education and English as a Second Language (ESL) programs. These programs are designed to support students whose primary language is not English.

Learning differences schools

These schools provide for students with learning differences across the spectrum and can range from pre-K through 12th grade.

Boarding schools

Several of the single-gender private schools offer full-time boarding as well as day student options.

Language/culture specific

Yes, most likely. You’ll need to confirm with your new district and school.

Will transportation to and from school be provided for my child?

Need-to-know terminology

Some schools offer immersion in specific languages, such as French, Chinese, and Japanese. Many of these schools offer Saturday and summer options for families who want students to attend a traditional school and supplement with cultural immersion.

Classical

Usually characterized by small class sizes and a classics-based education, normally with fewer team athletic options.

College preparatory

Focused on academic rigor in preparation for demanding collegiate programs.

Religious/parochial

Some schools are associated with specific religious denominations or churches and incorporate religious teaching as part of the curriculum.

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Private Schools in Dallas-Fort Worth The most recent tuition costs are provided below, not including other fees. Only schools offering 12th grade are shown. Tuition costs are for 12th grade, and when applicable: for a single child enrolled (no multi-child discounts); for resident students (not international); for non-parishioners; and for single payment.

PRIVATE SCHOOLS RANKED BY 2025-26 TUITION 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 24

Alcuin School Shelton School Greenhill School St. Mark’s School of Texas The Episcopal School of Dallas The Hockaday School Parish Episcopal School Bridge Builder Academy The Winston School Dallas Vanguard Preparatory School Dallas Academy Dallas International School Fort Worth Country Day Lakehill Preparatory School The St. Anthony School The Oakridge School All Saints Episcopal School Fort Worth Trinity Valley School Trinity Christian Academy Addison The Cambridge School of Dallas Ursuline Academy of Dallas Hill School of Fort Worth Akiba Yavneh Academy of Dallas Prestonwood Christian Academy Fairhill School

26 Legacy Christian Academy $27,900 27 The Selwyn School $27,510 28 The Key School $27,100 29 Cistercian Preparatory School $26,800 30 Jesuit College Preparatory High School $26,300 31 John Paul II High School $25,300 32 The Westwood School $25,295 33 Southwest Christian School - Lakeside Campus $25,200 34 Bishop Lynch High School $25,100 35 Dallas Christian School $24,331 36 Prestonwood Christian Academy - North Campus $24,081 37 Liberty Christian School $23,810 38 The Novus Academy $23,800 39 Fort Worth Christian School $23,420 40 Prince of Peace Christian School Carrollton $22,990 41 Grapevine Faith Christian School $22,990 42 The Clariden School $22,400 43 Covenant Christian Academy $21,980 44 Dallas Lutheran School $21,600 45 The Highlands School $21,600 46 Great Lakes Academy $21,300 47 Northstar School $20,900 48 E.A. Young Academy $20,500 37 49 Mesorah High School for Girls $19,450 50 Nolan Catholic High School $19,400

$42,148 $41,700 $41,620 $40,735 $40,600 $39,510 $39,080 $38,500 $35,277 $31,400 $30,840 $30,700 $30,620 $30,600 $30,500 $30,250 $29,930 $29,810 $29,600 $29,400 $29,200 $28,700 $28,400 $28,303 $27,900

36

McKINNEY 26

27

24 40 48

42 41 38 43

39

FORT WORTH 50 17

16 13 33

156

28

18

22

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DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

46 31

19 2 8 15 25 10 32 7 49 3 6 30 12 23 20 5 1 9 44 21 4 29 45 14

DALLAS

11

34

35

“As an alumnus of Jesuit Dallas who has talked to many people from other “As “As an an alumnus alumnus of of Jesuit Jesuit Dallas Dallas who who hashas talked talked to to many many people people other other schools around the country, I simply can’t imagine a better placefrom tofrom have schools around around the country, country, I simply I who simply can’t can’t imagine a better aisbetter place place to to have have “Asschools an alumnus of the Jesuit Dallas has talked to many people from other attended high school.

Jesuit’s motto, Men forimagine Others, instilled continuously attended attended high high school. school.

Jesuit’s Jesuit’s motto, motto, Men Men forfor Others, Others, is instilled isextracurricular instilled schools around the country, I simply can’t imagine a better placecontinuously tocontinuously haveand and effectively while the academics are phenomenal, the and and effectively effectively while while the academics academics are are phenomenal, phenomenal, the the extracurricular extracurricular and and attended high school.

Jesuit’s motto, Men for Others, is sense instilled athletic programs arethe superb, and the brotherhood and of continuously community athletic athletic programs programs areare superb, superb, and and the the brotherhood brotherhood and and sense sense of of community community and effectively while the academics are phenomenal, the extracurricular and is extraordinary.” is extraordinary.” is extraordinary.” athletic programs are superb, and the brotherhood and senseWill of community Nickols ’20 is extraordinary.”

Will Will Nickols Nickols ’20 Harvard University, Master of Arts in Statistics, Bachelor of Arts in’20

Harvard Harvard University, University, Master Master Arts of Arts in Statistics, in Statistics, Bachelor Bachelor of Arts of ’20 Arts in in Will Nickols Statistics and Chemical &ofPhysical Biology, Summa Cum Laude Statistics Statistics and and Chemical Chemical & Physical & Physical Biology, Biology, Summa Summa Cum Cum Laude Laude Harvard University, of in Arts in Statistics, of Arts in PhDMaster Student Biostatistics at Bachelor Harvard University PhD Student Student in Biostatistics in Biostatistics Harvard at Harvard University University Statistics and PhD Chemical & Physical Biology,atSumma Cum Laude PhD Student in Biostatistics at Harvard University

DISCOVER STORY. YOUR YOUR DISCOVER DISCOVER YOUR STORY. STORY. YOUR DISCOVER STORY.

� National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence and College � National � National Blue Blue Ribbon Ribbon School School of of Excellence Excellence and and College College Board’s AP GOLD Honor Roll � National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence and College Board’s Board’s APAP GOLD GOLD Honor Honor Roll Roll � Top-Ranked High School Athletics Program in Texas Board’s AP GOLD Honor Roll � Top-Ranked � Top-Ranked High High School School Athletics Athletics Program Program in Texas in Texas � Nationally Recognized Service Program Partnering with �� Top-Ranked High School Athletics Program in Texas Nationally � Nationally Recognized Recognized Service Service Program Program Partnering Partnering with with over 350 Agencies Locally and Abroad � Nationally Recognized Service Program Partnering with over over 350 350 Agencies Agencies Locally Locally and and Abroad Abroad � 100+ Clubs, Teams, and Extracurriculars, including over 350 Agencies Locally and Abroad � 100+ � 100+ Clubs, Clubs, Teams, Teams, and and Extracurriculars, Extracurriculars, including including the Performing Arts and Nationally Competitive � 100+ Clubs, Teams, and Extracurriculars, including thethe Performing Performing Arts Arts and and Nationally Nationally Competitive Competitive Robotics and Debate the Performing Arts and Nationally Competitive Robotics Robotics and and Debate Debate Robotics and Debate

Schedule a tour at Schedule Schedule a tour a tour atat www.jesuitdallas.org/visit Schedule a tour at www.jesuitdallas.org/visit www.jesuitdallas.org/visit www.jesuitdallas.org/visit

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NORTH CENTRAL TEXAS COLLEGE (GAINESVILLE)

LIVE / WORK / PLAY / THRIVE

Not Your Average College Town Dallas-Fort Worth has more than 70 accredited colleges and universities.

TEXAS WOMAN’S UNIVERSITY WEATHERFORD COLLEGE (WISE COUNTY)

UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS

1

4

NORTH CENTRAL TEXAS COLLEGE (DENTON CAMPUS)

DENTON

NORTH CENTRAL TEXAS COLLEGE (CORINTH CAMPUS)

From public and private institutions with robust programming in life sciences, engineering, and the arts to community colleges and other centers of higher education, DFW offers one of the widest varieties of education in the country.

The University of North Texas, the University of Texas at Dallas, the University of Texas at Arlington, and Southern Methodist University are all now tier one research institutions, along with UT Southwestern Medical Center. Texas now leads the nation with the most tier 1 research universities. UT Southwestern Medical Center is among the nation’s best in biology and biochemistry research, boasting countless clinical breakthroughs and innovations, as well as six past or current Nobel WEATHERFORD COLLEGE laureates.

The diverse economy in DFW is an advantage to students: Long before many graduate, students can engage in design thinking, pitch their ideas for new startups, and collaborate with major companies on real-world problems through internships and capstone projects.

Where else would students collaborate with the professional sports team Dallas Cowboys while earning sports-management MBAs? Or enroll in a law school geared WEATHERFORD toward helping secure legal services COLLEGE CENTER for all socioeconomic statuses? Or(EDUCATION AT GRANBURY) train on one of the largest medical simulation centers in the nation?

These experiences can lead to jobs in our vast talent pool.

COLLIN COLLEGE - EAST TEXAS A&

TEX

NORTH CENTRAL TEXAS COLLEGE (FLOWER MOUND CAMPUS)

MIDWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY - FLOWER MOUND

ABIL UNIV

DALLAS COLLEGE (COPPELL CENTER) TARRANT COLLEGE (NORTHWEST CENTER OF EXCELLENCE FOR AVIATION, TRANSPORTATION AND LOGISTICS)

DALLA (BROOKHAVE

DALLAS CHRISTIAN COLLEGE

DALLAS C (CULINARY, PASTRY, HOSPITALITY C

UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT ARLINGTON - FORT WORTH

UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT ARLINGTON RESEARCH INSTITUTE

UNT HEALTH FORT WORTH

12

15

10

ARLINGTON BAPTIST UNIVERSITY

TEXAS

6 TCU SCHOOL WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE

SOUTHWESTERN BAPTIST THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

DALLAS COLLEGE (IRVING CENTER)

UN

O

ARLINGTON

TEXAS A&M - FORT WORTH TEXAS A&M COLLEGE OF LAW

TERRELL SCHOOL OF TARLETON STATE TCU (TEXAS CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY)

UD 13 UNIVERSITY OF DALLAS

FORT WORTH

TARRANT COUNTY COLLEGE (TRINITY RIVER CAMPUS) UTA WEST (2028)

DALLAS COLLEGE (NORTH LAKE CAMPUS)

TARRANT COUNTY COLLEGE (NORTHEAST CAMPUS)

TARRANT COUNTY COLLEGE (NORTHWEST CAMPUS)

TARRANT COUNTY COLLEGE (OPPORTUNITY CENTER)

TARRANT COUNTY COLLEGE (SOUTH CAMPUS)

2 UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT ARLINGTON

8 DALLAS

BAPTIST UNIVERSI

TARRANT COUNTY COLLEGE (SOUTHEAST CAMPUS)

DAL (CE TARLETON STATE UNIVERSITY-FORT WORTH

HILL COLLEGE (BURLESON)

MIDLOTHIAN HIG - NAVARRO COLL - TARLETON STAT

SOUTHWESTERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY

HILL COLLEGE (JOHNSON COUNTY)

HILL COLLEGE (GLEN ROSE)

ATE

Texas Christian University

158

University of Texas at Arlington

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

NO

University of Texas at Dallas

Texas Woman’s University

AUSTIN COLLEGE (SHERMAN)

HIGHER EDUCATION

COLLIN COLLEGE (CELINA CAMPUS)

Private University Public University

COLLIN COLLEGE (PUBLIC SAFETY TRAINING CENTER)

COLLIN COLLEGE (MCKINNEY CAMPUS)

MCKINNEY

UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS AT FRISCO COLLIN COLLEGE (TECHNICAL CAMPUS) E [FRISCO CAMPUS] &M UNIVERSITY

Community College

COLLIN COLLEGE HIGHER EDUCATION CENTER - TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY - COMMERCE - TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY - TEXAS WOMAN’S UNIVERSITY - UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS AT FRISCO - UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT DALLAS

COLLIN COLLEGE (FARMERSVILLE CAMPUS)

MAJOR UNIVERSITIES UNIVERSITY

COLLIN COLLEGE (ALLEN)

AMBERTON UNIVERSITY (FRISCO)

UNIVERSITY OF NORTH XAS AT FRISCO [HALL PARK]

COLLIN COLLEGE (PLANO CAMPUS) COLLIN COLLEGE (COURTYARD CENTER)

AS COLLEGE EN CAMPUS)

N E

COLLIN COLLEGE (WYLIE CAMPUS)

UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS

3 AT DALLAS

LENE CHRISTIAN VERSITY DALLAS

TEXAS A&M AGRILIFE CENTER AT DALLAS UNIVERSITY OF PHOENIX DALLAS CAMPUS

2025 ENROLLMENT*

1 University of North Texas (UNT) - Denton

43,568

2 The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA)

42,709

3 The University of Texas at Dallas (UTD)

30,131

4 Texas Woman’s University (TWU)

15,010

5 East Texas A&M University (ETAMU)

13,565

6 Texas Christian University (TCU)

12,866

UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT DALLAS - CENTIQ WEST COAST UNIVERSITY

7 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

12,544

8 Dallas Baptist University (DBU)

4,230

DALLAS COLLEGE (RICHLAND CAMPUS)

9 University of North Texas at Dallas (UNTD)

3,592

10 Texas Wesleyan University

2,790

DALLAS COLLEGE (GARLAND CENTER)

COLLEGE CENTER) PARKER UNIVERSITY

5 EAST TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY

ART INSTITUTE OF DALLAS

COLLIN COLLEGE (ROCKWALL CENTER)

SMU (SOUTHERN EAST TEXAS A&M METHODIST UNIVERSITY [DALLAS] AMBERTON UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY) (GARLAND) TEXAS TECH EVEREST DALLAS COLLEGE HEALTH SCIENCE 7 COLLEGE (EASTFIELD CENTER DALLAS THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY CAMPUS) UT SOUTHWESTERN CRISWELL COLLEGE 11 MEDICAL CENTER TEXAS A&M COLLEGE OF DENTISTRY TEXAS EAST TEXAS A&M WOMAN’S UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS AT DALLAS COLLEGE OF LAW UNIVERSITY MESQUITE NIVERSITY UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS AT UNIVERSITIES CENTER AT DALLAS METROPLEX CENTER INSTITUTE 14 UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS MCCOMBS MBA AT DALLAS OF HEALTH DALLAS COLLEGE (EL CENTRO CAMPUS) SCIENCES DALLAS COLLEGE (BILL J. PRIEST CENTER) DALLAS COLLEGE (WEST DALLAS CENTER) UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT DALLAS CENTER FOR DALLAS COLLEGE (HEALTH SCIENCE & DENTAL HYGIENE CENTERS) BRAINHEALTH DALLAS COLLEGE (DOWNTOWN DESIGN CENTER) DALLAS - DALLAS COLLEGE DALLAS COLLEGE COLLEGE -UNT DALLAS (PLEASANT (MOUNTAIN VIEW (LANCASTER GROVE CENTER) CAMPUS) INNOVATION CENTER) ITY PAUL QUINN COLLEGE 9 UNIVERSITY OF 9 ORTH TEXAS AT DALLAS

DALLAS

DALAS COLLEGE (CEDAR VALLEY CAMPUS)

LLAS COLLEGE EDAR HILL CENTER)

11 UTSW Medical Center at Dallas

2,703

12 UNT Health Fort Worth

2,439

13 University of Dallas (UD)

1,963

14 University of North Texas College of Law - Dallas**

435

15 Texas A&M University School of Law - Fort Worth**

394

*preliminary **2024 enrollment SOUTHWESTERN CHRISTIAN COLLEGE

TRINITY VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE (TERRELL)

TRINITY VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE HEALTH SCIENCE CENTER

COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICTS INSTITUTION

2025 ENROLLMENT*

Dallas College

68,005

Tarrant County College

46,001

Collin College

40,282

North Central Texas Community College

8,133

Weatherford College

7,022

Navarro College

6,733

Trinity Valley Community College

6,557

DFW Total Community College Students

182,733

The Texas Workforce Commission provides funding for continuing education courses within the community college system. A total of 6,313 students enrolled in CE courses in the districts and colleges listed above in fall 2025.

TEXAS STATE TECHNICAL COLLEGE (RED OAK)

GHER EDUCATION CENTER LEGE TE UNIVERSITY

*preliminary

NAVARRO COLLEGE (WAXAHACHIE CAMPUS) SOUTHWESTERN ASSEMBLIES OF GOD

INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING Here’s a sample of other institutions of higher learning in DFW  Abilene Christian University Online  Arlington Baptist University  Aviation Institute of Maintenance  Chicago School of Professional Psychology  Concorde Career College  Dallas Institute of Funeral Service  Dallas Theological Seminary  DeVry University  KD Conservatory College of Film and Dramatic Arts  Lincoln College of Technology

NAVARRO COLLEGE - EAST TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY (CORSICANA)

UNT Health Fort Worth

 MediaTech Institute  PCI Health Training Center  Peloton College  Remington College  School for Allied Health Professionals  Strayer University  United States National Tennis Academy  Universal Technical Institute  University of Phoenix  Wade College

Southern Methodist University PHOTOS VIA THE UNIVERSITIES

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“Poetry is so much more than lines on a page.

Whether writing or reading it, poetry connects with us on a human level—it can change the way we think and the way we see the world. I may be biased, but I think Dallas-Fort Worth, with its mix of cultures and concentration of scholars, is just beginning to show what it can do with the written word.”

— MAG GABBERT, DALLAS POET LAUREATE

In April 2024, Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson named Mag Gabbert, a clinical assistant professor at SMU, the city’s second poet laureate.

Gabbert will wrap up her two-year term in April, 2026. She says the best part of being poet laureate is being able to share her poetry at schools and community events. She also established regular artistin-residence office hours at the central library.

A Dallas native, Gabbert earned her B.A. in English from Trinity University in San Antonio, M.F.A. from the University of California, Riverside, and Ph.D. in English from Texas Tech. She is also an alum of Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, in Dallas.

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DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

An Aria The gas station speakers blast La Traviata when I stop to fil l up. It’s nightfall.

Downtown’s buildings glow ne on against periw inkle shadows. Before you tell me this isn’t romantic, I know: studies ha ve shown that op era music makes a space le ss desirable, that it might coax transient people and loiterers to m ove on.

But I can’t stop th inking about a bo ok I read recently; how, in it, a scientist argu ed that music itself is a miraculous phen omenon.

Because, he wro te, it’s hard to ex plain the way we hear songs— not just as indivi dual chords and notes, but so mething whole.

I wonder, might this show that we can over ride instincts, that we can resis t the brain’s urge to pick apart every piece, aski ng, “which amon g these doesn’t belong?”

(From the Social Venture Partners’ PhilanthroParty— and the Thanks-G 4/27/24, iving Foundation’s National Day of Pr Luncheon—5/2/24 ayer )

ESSENTIALS.

GETTING AROUND // MOVING IN // VITAL INFO

NEED TO KNOW Necessary information about getting around, taxes, laws, essential contacts, and a moving checklist.

Exall Park, Dallas

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ESSENTIALS

Getting Around FINDING YOUR WAY IN THE DALLAS REGION

DENTON McKINNEY

FORT WORTH

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DALLAS

GETTING AROUND

Getting around the Dallas area is easy, thanks to a well-developed network of interstate freeways, state highways, tollways, and the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) public transportation system, enabling easy access to key job centers in Dallas and its suburbs. With two major airports—DFW International, situated between Dallas and Fort Worth, and Dallas Love Field, located just seven miles northwest of downtown—the region has quick and easy access to the rest of the world.

M A K I N G S E N S E O F H I G H WAY N A M E S

In DFW, we call some roads by their number, like “75,” and some by their name, like “George Bush Turnpike.” Here’s your handy guide to highways with more than one name.

Alternate name

What it looks like on a map

AIRPORT FREEWAY

S.H. 183 from S.H. 114 to the south DFW International Airport entrance

PRESIDENT GEORGE BUSH TURNPIKE

PGBT, S.H. 190, S.H. 161 in Las Colinas

JOHN W. CARPENTER FREEWAY

S.H. 183 and S.H. 114 from I-35E to the north Dallas Fort Worth International Airport entrance

C.F. HAWN FREEWAY

U.S. Highway 175 south of downtown Dallas

LYNDON B. JOHNSON FREEWAY (LBJ)

I-635 begins at the north entrance of DFW International Airport and circles the city from the north, east, and south; it includes I-20 in the south

LOOP 12

Inner-city loop including Northwest Highway on the north, Buckner Boulevard on the east, Ledbetter Drive on the south, and Walton Walker Boulevard on the west

TOM LANDRY HIGHWAY

I-30 between I-35E in Dallas and I-35W in Fort Worth

MARVIN D. LOVE FREEWAY

U.S. Highway 67 from I-35E to I-635 south of downtown

NORTH CENTRAL

U.S. Highway 75 from downtown to the north

GEORGE W. BUSH

U.S. Highway 75 from Walnut Hill Lane to downtown Dallas

JULIUS SCHEPPS FREEWAY

I-45 from downtown to the south

STEMMONS FREEWAY

I-35E from downtown to the north

R.L. THORNTON FREEWAY

I-35E south of Dallas and I-30 from downtown to East Dallas

ELMER WEAVER FREEWAY

U.S. Highway 67 from I-635 to the south

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163

ESSENTIALS

Life in the Fast Lane Toll roads and managed lanes keep things moving.

Moving around the Dallas area, you might find yourself on one of the North Texas toll roads. Here’s what you need to know before you do.

DENTON

TOLLWAYS

DALLAS NORTH TOLLWAY

LEWISVILLE LAKE TOLL BRIDGE

McKINNEY

SAM

AY OLLW NT

BUR

RAY

PRESIDENT GEORGE BUSH TURNPIKE

North Texas Tollway Authority (NTTA): The organization sanctioned by the State of Texas to develop and maintain toll roads in North Texas.

Dallas North Tollway (DNT): Runs northsouth, connecting motorists between downtown Dallas and cities in Collin, Denton, and northern Dallas counties, passing through Dallas, Highland Park, University Park, Addison, Farmers Branch, Plano, and Frisco. It links with the Sam Rayburn Tollway, President George Bush Turnpike, I-635, and I-35E.

TollTag: If you’re going to be a frequent traveler on one of the tollways or the turnpike, you’ll want to get a TollTag. The adhesive transponder sticks on your windshield and debits your NTTA account each time you use a toll road (there are no toll booths on North Texas toll roads). You can skip the whole TollTag business, but you won’t get a free ride. The NTTA bills the registered owner of the vehicle by mail via ZipCash, which costs 50 percent more than paying via TollTag. Bonus: You can use your TollTag to pay for parking and pass-through at Dallas Fort Worth International and Dallas Love Field airports. To open a TollTag account, go to ntta.org or call 972-818-6882. You can also apply for a tag in person at a regional NTTA partner, which includes government offices, libraries, and grocery stores all over the area.

164

DALLAS

PARKWAY

Sam Rayburn Tollway (SRT): Formerly State Highway 121, extends northeasterly from Business 121 near the Dallas/Denton county line to U.S. 75 in Collin County. It links with U.S. 75 and DNT.

MOUNTAIN CREEK LAKE BRIDGE

CHISOLM TRAIL

President George Bush Turnpike (PGBT): Makes a partial loop around the Dallas area, currently extending from I-20 in the Grand Prairie area west of Dallas; north across I-30 into Irving, Carrollton, and North Dallas; east to Richardson and into Garland; before turning south through Sachse and Rowlett, across Lake Ray Hubbard to the interchange at I-30 in Garland.

FORT WORTH

NTTA Toll Roads TEXPress Lanes

WHAT DOES IT COST? On North Texas toll roads, the amount you pay depends on the distance you drive.

The estimates below reflect the NTTA’s price per mile, as of July 1, 2025.

Road DNT DNT PGBT PGBT SRT SRT HWY 360

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

Route 635 - PGBT Legacy to 35E DNT to US 75 I-30 to DNT 35E to Legacy 121 to US 75 Broad Street to I-20

TollTag $1.38 $4.53 $2.29 $6.06 $1.90 $5.26 $1.99

ZipCash $2.70 $8.86 $4.49 $11.88 $3.71 $10.27 $3.91

GETTING AROUND

CURREN & NEW M

Cu HO

EXPRESS & MANAGED LANES

Tra hig ve Ma

WISE

COLLIN

PARKER

DENTON

ROCKWALL

Major roadways

KAUFMAN

Express lanes Tolled TEXpress managed lanes

HUNT

The Dallas region has the most managed lanes of any metro in the U.S. The area’s regional transportation planning agency has created a program to use managed lanes to ensure that critical transportation modes, such as buses, are able to maintain 50-70 mph speeds in order to reliably arrive on time. Managed toll lanes are taking the place of what were carpool lanes on freeways. Commuters who want to avoid congestion during peak travel times can take a managed lane for a price.

Ne ma

TARRANT

JOHNSON

DALLAS

ELLIS

2026 / DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE

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ESSENTIALS

Drive Time

A sampling of road travel times around the region.

It’s common to work in one part of the Dallas-Fort Worth area and live in another. It’s only a matter of getting from point A to point B. More than 90 percent of people who commute to work here do so by car, truck, or van. It’s easy, thanks to our well-developed network of interstate freeways, state highways, and tollways connecting job centers to fast-growing new communities. The following maps—based on morning rush hour—give you an idea of how long you can expect it to take.

DENTON McKINNEY

HWY 190 and HWY 75

FORT WORTH

DALLAS

DENTON McKINNEY

Downtown Dallas

DALLAS FORT WORTH

166

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

GETTING AROUND McKINNEY McKINNEY DENTON

FORT WORTH

FORT WORTH

DALLAS

DALLAS

HWY 121 & Dallas North Tollway

Denton

DENTON

DENTON

McKINNEY

McKINNEY

DALLAS

FORT WORTH

FORT WORTH

DALLAS

Southern Dallas

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport

Downtown Fort Worth

Travel Time

DENTON McKINNEY

15 Minutes

15-30 Minutes

30-45 Minutes

DALLAS FORT WORTH

45-60 Minutes

60-75 Minutes

75-90 Minutes

90-120 Minutes Source: North Central Texas Council of Governments 2026 / DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE

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ESSENTIALS

Public Transit The Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system, which includes light rail and bus service, owns and operates the longest light rail transit system in the United States. It facilitates access to key job centers in Dallas and its suburbs, as well as the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.

DART also links to the Trinity Railway Express (TRE), a commuter train connecting downtown Dallas and Fort Worth with stops in several suburbs. Fort Worth residents are served by Trinity Metro, a citywide bus and on-demand system with available TRE connections.

TEXRail provides additional service between downtown Fort Worth and Northeast Tarrant County, including

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.

The DART Silver Line, which opened in 2025 and spans more than 26 miles, links Plano, Richardson, Dallas, Addison, Carrollton, Coppell, Grapevine, and DFW International Airport. The A-Train, operated by the Denton County Transportation Authority (DCTA), links DART riders in Carrollton to five stations ending in Denton. Two streetcar systems

operate around downtown Dallas: the M-Line trolley, running between the West Village in Uptown and downtown, and the Dallas Streetcar, a 2.5-mile route between downtown and the Bishop Arts District. DART’s GoLink provides ondemand service within designated zones to support first and last mile travel. In Arlington, Via offers flexible on-demand transit shuttles across the city.

DA RT B Y T H E N U M B E R S

13 CITIES

168

60

MILES OF COMMUTER RAIL

85

RAIL STATIONS

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

93

MILES OF LIGHT RAIL

85+ BUS ROUTES

700 SQUARE MILES

GETTING AROUND

DallasFort Worth Rail System

P

Parker Road O R

Regional Zone — Fare Change

Legend/Leyenda

P

Med Park

Highland Village/ Lewisville Lake

Downtown Denton TC

P

P

P

Addison Station Knoll Trail

North P Richland Hills/ Iron Horse

Las Colinas Urban Center

P

P

Hidden Ridge

Belt Line

P Walnut Hill

P

Bachman P

P

Southwestern Medical District/ Parkland

Fort Worth Central Station

West Irving P

White Rock

Downtown Irving/ Heritage Crossing

Pearl/Arts District

Market Center P

Medical/ Market Center

P

Cityplace/Uptown Deep Ellum

Baylor University Medical Center Fair Park

St. Paul Akard

Victory

MLK, Jr. P

West End

EBJ Union Station

P

P

P

Lake Highlands

SMU/Mockingbird P

Inwood/ Love Field

Cent rePort/ DFW Airport

Trinity Lakes P

P

Park Lane

B Downtown Rowlett

Forest/ Jupiter

Lovers Lane

Burbank

5

P

P

Downtown Garland

LBJ/ Skillman

Walnut Hill/Denton P

Irving Dallas College Convention Univ. of Center North Dallas Lake Campus

P

Park & Ride o Centro de Transporte

P

Forest Lane

Royal Lane P

P

Bell

Estacionamiento disponible

LBJ/Central P P

Mercantile P Center North P Side

Trinity Railway Express TEXRail A-train Parking Available

P

Spring Valley P

Farmers Branch P

P

S O DFW DFW Airport Airport Terminal Terminal B A

(Regional Fares Apply) Límite de la zona tarifaria

Park & Ride or Transit Center

Cypress Waters

North P Richland Hills/ Smithfield

Fare Zone Boundary

(Se aplican tarifas regionales)

Arapaho Center P

P

P

Autobús de enlace del aeropuerto Love Field

Regional Zone

Galatyn Park

Downtown Carrollton

DFW Airport North

Weekdays Peak Only Solo en horas pico entre semana

ROUTE 5 Love Field Shuttle

CityLine/ P Bush

P

P

R

O

P

UT P Dallas

P Trinity Mills

B

Shiloh S Road

12th Street

G

P Hebron

Grapevine/ Main Street

G

Downtown Plano

North Carrollton/ Frankford

P Old Town

Silver Line Green Line Blue Line Red Line Orange Line

S

P

Hatcher Convention Center

T& &P P Fort Worth T

Lawnview P

Cedars

Regional Zone — Fare Change

P

8th & Corinth P Dallas Zoo Tyler/Vernon P P

Lake June

G

Morrell

Buckner P

Illinois P Kiest P

Hampton

VA Medical Center

Westmoreland R

Ledbetter P Camp Wisdom P

B UNT Dallas P E AV

N UR KB AC BL

ON

M

M

W LA

LE

N

E AV

IS

LE

ST

ST

K OA

CA

RL

M-Line Trolley

POINTS OF INTEREST E AC

PL

TY

CI

1

VD BL E

AVE

E AV

CO

LE

3

4

2

W

5

7

6 NEY AV

M

AP

LE

10

AV E

McKIN

CEDAR SPRINGS RD

E

8

AV E

ST

9

ON

LL

T KA

M

HA

AIL

R YT

ON

M

M

M

LE

LE

11 Y

R LL

T LS

AR

E IV

OL

ST

13

DA

OO W

15

14

16 17 18

AK D

AR ST

SS

E AV

O NT

RO

N

SA

ST

CI JA

19 Y VA ER ST

GRIFFIN ST

20

FW

RS

GE

OD

PE

12

C PACIFI

AVE

ELM ST

21

MAIN

ST ERCE

COMM

ST

1. West Village 2. Cityplace Tower 3. McKinney Plaza 4. William B. Travis Academy 5. Greenwood Cemetery 6. Uptown Visitors Center 7. Quadrangle 8. Hotel St. Germain 9. Maple Manor Hotel 10. Shops at The Crescent 11. Hotel ZaZa 12. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel 13. American Airlines Center 14. Klyde Warren Park 15. AT&T Performing Arts Center 16. Nasher Sculpture Center 17. Dallas Museum of Art 18. Crow Collection of Asian Art 19. Fairmont Hotel 20. Dallas World Aquarium 21. West End

2026 / DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE

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ESSENTIALS

Taking Flight AIRPORTS AROUND THE REGION

W

hether you’re a family of four traveling to Mexico for vacation, a business traveler headed to Chicago for the day, or a busy corporate executive flying private, takeoffs and landings are easy here. Dallas is home to the world’s largest global airline, American Airlines, and the U.S.’s largest domestic carrier, Southwest Airlines, as well as three fullservice general aviation airports serving private and executive clients.

170

Situated between Dallas and Fort Worth, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport is the highest-capacity commercial airport in the world, connecting the area to the entire planet.

The airport offers travelers a highfrequency schedule and access to any major city in the continental United States in less than four hours. More than a dozen new international routes have been added in the last few years.

Plus, DART’s Orange Line and Tarrant County’s TEXRail run to DFW Airport, meaning it’s possible to take public transportation to the airport. Dallas Love Field is a convenient generaluse airport, located just seven miles from downtown Dallas, that is home to low-cost carrier Southwest Airlines.

The airport recently completed a $519 million renovation that included a centralized terminal with 20 gates, a new lobby, and an expanded baggage

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

claim area. Together, these things mean a big future for this little airport.

Corporate jets most often operate out of Addison Airport, in North Dallas; McKinney National Airport, 30 miles north of Dallas; or Dallas Executive Airport, just south of downtown.

These airports offer state-of-the-art infrastructure and amenities and firstclass service to their clients.

GETTING AROUND

Airports

8

5

15 3

4

9

16

1 2

7

17

10

14

6

12

Airports

18

Helicopters and vertical take-off and landing aircraft only

13

11

1 DFW International Airport 2 Love Field 3 Fort Worth Alliance Airport 4 Addison Airport 5 McKinney National Airport 6 Dallas Executive Airport 7 Fort Worth Meacham International 8 Denton Municipal 9 Rockwall Municipal 10 NAS Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base 11 Fort Worth Spinks 12 Arlington Municipal 13 Lancaster Regional Airport 14 Mesquite Metro 15 Northwest Regional 16 Garland/DFW Heloplex 17 Dallas CBD Vertiport 18 DeSoto Heliport

DFW International Airport high-frequency destinations Seattle

DFW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Portland Boston

Minneapolis Chicago

Philadelphia

Detroit

Charlotte

Nashville

Los Angeles San Diego

DAILY PASSENGERS

Kansas St Louis City

Las Vegas

240,597

Washington, D.C.

Denver

San Francisco

New York

818,484

Atlanta

Phoenix San Antonio

Honolulu

TOTAL CARGO (TONNAGE)

Austin Houston

New Orleans

12,427,720

Orlando Miami San Juan

INTERNATIONAL PASSENGERS

Love Field nonstop destinations DALLAS LOVE FIELD

Seattle/Tacoma

44,743

Portland Bozeman

Milwaukee Chicago

Salt Lake City Sacramento

Reno

Oakland San Jose Las Vegas Burbank Palm Springs Los Angeles Ontario Long Beach Orange Co Phoenix San Diego Tucson

DAILY PASSENGERS

Minneapolis/ St. Paul

Kansas City

Telluride Taos Albuquerque

St Louis Louisville

Tulsa Amarillo

Lubbock El Paso

Pittsburgh Philadelphia Baltimore Columbus Washington, D.C. Indianapolis

Omaha

Steamboat Springs Denver Colorado Springs

Midland/ Odessa

Dallas Love Field

Austin San Antonio

New York

Norfolk/Virginia Beach

Nashville Memphis Little Rock

Houston

Atlanta Birmingham

246,682 TOTAL OPERATIONS

Raleigh/Durham Charlotte Myrtle Beach Charleston Savannah Jacksonville

Pensacola Destin Panama City Beach Orlando New Orleans Tampa Sarasota West Palm Beach Ft. Meyers Miami Ft. Lauderdale

Harlingen

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ESSENTIALS

Nonstop Flights FLIGHT TIMES FROM DFW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT DESTINATION — FLIGHT TIME IN MINUTES

Alaska & Hawaii Anchorage, AK — 412 Kahului/Maui, HI — 487 Honolulu/Oahu, HI — 493

Canada Toronto, ON — 180 Montreal-PET, QC — 212 Calgary, AB — 232 Vancouver, BC — 265

South America Bogota, CO — 320 Lima, PE — 490 Santiago, CL — 559 Sao Paulo-Guarulhos, BR — 605 Buenos Aires, AR — 619

Europe Dublin, IR — 528 London-Heathrow, GB — 547 Madrid, ES — 556 Paris-De Gaulle, FR — 557 Amsterdam, NL — 564 Frankfurt, DE — 582 Helsinki, FI — 614 Rome-Da Vinci, IT — 625

Middle East Dubai, UAE — 880 Doha, QA — 883

Asia/Pacific

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DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

Nassau, BS — 190 Grand Cayman Island, KY — 200 Montego Bay, JM — 218 Providenciales, TC — 238 Santa Domingo, DO — 272 Punta Cana, DO — 276 San Juan, PR — 278 Saint Thomas, VI — 288 Aruba, AW — 290 St. Maarten, SX — 306 St. Lucia, LC — 338

Central America Belize City, BZ — 171 Roatan, HN — 193 Guatemala City, GT — 195 San Pedro Sula, HN — 197 San Salvador, SV — 207 Comayagua, HN — 215 Guanacaste, CR — 236 San Jose, CR — 243

Mexico Monterrey, MX — 106 Chihuahua, MX — 124 Torreon, MX — 127 San Luis Potosi, MX — 129 Zacatecas, MX — 138 Durango, MX — 139 Aguascalientes, MX — 141 Queretaro, MX — 142 Leon/Guanajuato, MX — 144 Morelia, MX — 151 Merida, MX — 152 Mazatlan, MX — 153 Guadalajara, MX — 154 Hermosillo, MX — 158 Cozumel, MX — 160 Mexico City, MX — 161 Puerto Vallarta, MX — 161 Cancun, MX — 162 Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo, MX — 169 Oaxaca, MX — 173 San Jose del Cabo, MX — 173 Loreto, MX — 176 Manzanillo, MX — 182 Acapulco, MX — 183 Huatulco, MX — 189 La Paz, MX — 196

Source: Dallas Fort Worth International Airport

Istanbul, TK — 693 Tokyo-Narita, JP — 802 Tokyo-Haneda, JP — 815 Seoul, KR — 882 Auckland, NZ — 902 Shanghai, CN — 915 Sydney, AU — 1012 Melbourne, AU — 1055

Caribbean

GETTING AROUND U.S. West

U.S. Midwest Wichita, KS — 79 Springfield, MO — 82 Manhattan, KS — 92 Kansas City, MO — 93 Garden City, KS — 93 Ft. Leonard Wood, MO — 94 Columbia, MO — 99 St. Louis, MO — 103 Omaha, NE — 106 Grand Island, NE — 112 Evansville, IN — 112 Des Moines, IA — 112 Peoria, IL — 113 Springfield, IL — 114 Bloomington/Normal, IL — 117 Moline, IL — 119 Cedar Rapids, IA — 120 Champaign/Urbana, IL — 124 Sioux Falls, SD — 126 Indianapolis, IN — 127 Cincinnati, OH — 130 Madison, WI — 134 Dayton, OH — 137 Chicago-Midway, IL — 137 Milwaukee, WI — 137 Rapid City, SD — 140 Fort Wayne, IN — 140 South Bend, IN — 142 Columbus, OH — 142 Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN — 142 Chicago-O’Hare, IL — 144 Grand Rapids, MI — 145 Green Bay, WI — 152 Fargo, ND — 156 Cleveland, OH — 157 Detroit, MI — 157 Bismarck, ND — 163 Traverse City, MI — 167

U.S. Northeast Pittsburgh, PA — 157 Washington-Dulles, VA — 172 Buffalo, NY — 172 Washington-National, DC — 172 Baltimore, MD — 176 Harrisburg, PA — 176 Syracuse, NY — 186 Philadelphia, PA — 190 Hartford, CT — 203 New York-LaGuardia, NY — 204 Newark, NJ — 204 Burlington, VT — 211 New York-JFK, NY — 215 Boston, MA — 220 Portland, ME — 225

U.S. South Waco, TX — 46 Tyler, TX — 49 Longview, TX — 55 Killeen/Fort Hood, TX — 55 Abilene, TX — 56 Lawton/Fort Sill, OK — 58 Wichita Falls, TX — 58 College Station, TX — 60 Texarkana, AR — 60 Austin, TX — 62 Oklahoma City, OK — 62 Shreveport, LA — 62 Tulsa, OK — 65 San Antonio, TX — 67

Fort Smith, AR — 68 Stillwater, OK — 68 San Angelo, TX — 68 Alexandria, LA — 72 Lubbock, TX — 73 Houston-Intercontinental — TX — 73 Northwest Arkansas — AR — 73 Houston-Hobby — TX — 73 Monroe, LA — 74 Little Rock, AR — 75 Midland/Odessa, TX — 75 Lake Charles, LA — 78 Amarillo, TX — 79 Beaumont/Port Arthur, TX — 80 Corpus Christi, TX — 84 Baton Rouge, LA — 84 Lafayette, LA — 84 New Orleans, LA — 86 Jackson, MS — 87 Greenville, MS — 87 Memphis, TN — 89 Laredo, TX — 90 Harlingen, TX — 94 McAllen, TX — 94 Gulfport/Biloxi, MS — 95 Brownsville, TX — 98 Mobile, AL — 101 El Paso, TX — 103 Birmingham, AL — 103 Pensacola, FL — 104 Hot Springs, AR — 105 Montgomery, AL — 107 Huntsville/Decatur, AL — 108 Nashville, TN — 108 El Dorado, AR — 110 Destin-Fort Walton Beach, FL — 114 Panama City, FL — 114 Chattanooga, TN — 119 Knoxville, TN — 124 Tallahassee, FL — 125 Louisville, KY — 125 Atlanta, GA — 127 Harrison, AR — 130 Lexington, KY — 131 Augusta, GA — 135 Greenville/Spartanburg, SC — 135 Asheville/Hendersonville, NC — 137 Columbia, SC — 139 Jacksonville, FL — 139 Savannah, GA — 140 Tri-Cities, TN — 140 Gainesville, FL — 141 Tampa, FL — 144 Charleston, SC — 147 Sarasota/Bradenton, FL — 148 Charlotte-Douglas, NC — 150 Greensboro, NC — 150 Hilton Head, SC — 152 Fort Myers, FL — 152 Daytona Beach, FL — 155 Myrtle Beach, SC — 156 Orlando, FL — 156 Raleigh/Durham, NC — 160 Wilmington, NC — 161 Fayetteville, NC — 161 Melbourne, FL — 162 West Palm Beach, FL — 162 Key West, FL — 165 Fort Lauderdale, FL — 168 Richmond, VA — 169 Miami, FL — 169 Norfolk, VA — 173

Clovis, NM — 85 Roswell, NM — 96 Albuquerque, NM — 110 Santa Fe, NM — 113 Colorado Springs, CO — 118 Carlsbad, NM — 121 Denver, CO — 127 Durango, CO — 127 Montrose (Telluride), CO — 135 Grand Junction, CO — 138 Vail/Eagle, CO — 140 Tucson, AZ — 141 Aspen, CO — 144 Gunnison, CO — 144 Hayden (Steamboat Springs), CO — 151 Grand Canyon, AZ — 153 Phoenix, AZ — 154 St. George, UT — 163 Salt Lake City, UT — 168 Jackson Hole, WY — 173 Yuma, AZ — 175 Las Vegas, NV — 175 Billings, MT — 176 Long Beach, CA — 176 Oakland, CA — 181 Idaho Falls, ID — 184 San Diego, CA — 184 Palm Springs, CA — 186 Bozeman, MT — 188 Ontario, CA — 188 Orange County, CA — 194 Burbank, CA — 198 Los Angeles, CA — 200 Boise, ID — 202 Bakersfield, CA — 204 Fresno, CA — 207 Missoula, MT — 207 Santa Barbara, CA — 208 Reno, NV — 210 Kalispell-Glacier, MT — 212 San Luis Obispo, CA — 216 Sacramento, CA — 220 San Jose, CA — 222 Spokane, WA — 224 Monterey, CA — 225 San Francisco, CA — 229 Santa Rosa, CA — 231 Portland, OR — 245 Eugene, OR — 246 Seattle, WA — 261

2026 / DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE

173

ESSENTIALS

24 Things to Do in Your

First 30 Days

GET ESTABLISHED, MAKE CONNECTIONS, AND FEEL AT HOME

S

ettling into a new community takes time and often requires a checklist. Here are the things you need to do during those first few weeks to get established, make connections, and feel at home.

1. First things first: Meet your neighbors.

Research shows that knowing the people who live around you is good for both your physical and mental health. Don’t wait for your neighbors to come to you—be your own welcome wagon.

2. Read up on specific Texas and Dallas-Fort Worth laws that could impact you.

3. Get your vehicle inspected. Most counties in the Dallas region require an annual state emissions inspection. Many mechanic shops, gas stations, and oil change locations offer these inspections.

Find one near you at txdps.state.tx.us/rsd/vi/ vIactivestationlocator. Be sure to take your driver’s license and proof of insurance.

4. Get your Texas vehicle registration sticker and license plates. You can do this at your county tax assessor-collector’s office. You’ll need to show proof of ownership, such as registration or title from your previous home state, as well as proof of insurance.

5. Apply for a Texas driver’s license at the Texas Department of Public Safety office in your area.

To find the location nearest you, go to txdps.state. tx.us or call 512-424-2600.

6. If you’re going to commute to work via public transportation, find your nearest DART station or bus stops and plot your route. Buy passes and do a test ride.

7. If you’ll commute by car, map out first and secondary highway routes. If toll roads are in your future, get a TollTag. Test out your routes.

8. Drive other stuff, too. DFW is a big place, and it can be difficult to budget for traffic. As you have time, pick a neighborhood that is not your own and drive to it. Do it a couple of times during different parts of the day. Then challenge yourself to get there and back home without using GPS. This will help you orient yourself to the area and make life easier when you need to get someplace out of your comfort zone.

9. Print out emergency numbers, such as fire, ambulance, police, etc. Program these numbers into your phone as well.

10. Locate the hospital emergency room nearest

174

your home. Take a test drive to determine the fastest route before you need it. Likewise, find the nearest urgent care center to your home and office—and review your health insurance policy to discover what it covers.

11. Find a new doctor. Find a new dentist. Find a new hairdresser. Find someone to fix your car when it breaks. Having the people you will need in place before you need them is peace of mind.

A good way to do this is ask neighbors and coworkers for referrals.

12. If you have kids, register them in school. If they’ll be walking to classes, map out their routes and do a test run. If they’ll be taking the bus, find out the schedules and routes. If school has already started, arrange a parent-teacher conference to kick things off right.

13. If you have a dog, scout out dog parks.

Ask around for a veterinarian referral or check out a veterinarian’s office close to your home.

Locate the all-night emergency vet clinic in your neighborhood.

14. Get up to speed on current local news.

Subscribe to the newspaper or a community magazine or bookmark related websites. Check your cable/satellite/digital channels for local news stations and program your radio with your favorites.

15. Read up on our colorful past.

16. Join a gym near your home or office. It’s a good way to meet people and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Alternatively, you may want to join a club, professional organization, or special interest group.

DFW has an abundance of running clubs, book

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

clubs, car clubs, environmental groups, theater troupes, etc. You’re sure to find something that suits your interests.

17. If you’re keen on local politics, attend a local government meeting. Call the one in your community and ask about open meetings.

18. Register to vote and locate your polling place.

Go to votexas.org for information.

19. Get to know your new co-workers. Join an after-work happy hour or ask someone to lunch or coffee.

20. If religion is an important part of your life, explore the churches, temples, or synagogues in Dallas-Fort Worth. Our area has a plentiful and diverse selection of places to worship, so if your first selection isn’t the right fit, there’s likely another choice just around the corner.

21. Get outside. DFW has a lot to offer an outdoors enthusiast, including hiking trails, cycling paths, running trails, lakes, parks, and more.

22. Support the home team. Whatever your interest—football, basketball, baseball, hockey— we’ve got game (and a lot of trophies)! It’s also fun to connect with your college alumni group so you can support your own teams. It’s a good way to meet people with a background similar to yours and feel more at home.

23. Volunteer. It’s good to give back, and helping out in your new community is a great way to meet like-minded people.

24. Get some sleep. Moving is stressful. Take care of yourself.

MOVING CHECKLIST M Y DA L L A S S TO RY

Cameron Woods

“There are ALL stripes of people here, living and working together.

It’s a very encouraging thing to see.”

City: Carrollton Job: Corporate Paralegal, Fay Financial When did you move here? From where?

I moved here from Chicago in August 2017.

Where else have you lived?

Florida, Pennsylvania What made you choose the Dallas area?

My reasons for choosing Dallas and returning to Texas were numerous, including: family ties, cost of living, and new opportunities in general.

Where do you go and what do you do on the weekends or days off?

I spend a lot of weekends road-tripping to catch up with family and friends in Tyler and Round Rock. When I’m not on the road, I love finding new food places, catching good movies, or going to places where I can get both—Alamo Drafthouse!!

✓ Moving checklist STEP 1: DECIDE WHEN YOU WANT TO MOVE

FOUR WEEKS UNTIL MOVE: UPDATE ADDRESS

Moving can be both exciting and stressful as you pick up your entire life to start over somewhere new. If you have the freedom to pick when you want to move, there are a few things to consider. If cost is a factor, moving during the off-season, such as in spring or late fall, will give you the least expensive rates from moving companies.

Try to avoid booking your move on the weekends, during the summer, or on the first of the month as rates can be their highest. If you have children in school, you may need to move during the summer as it’s least disruptive to them.

Once you’ve weighed the pros and cons and figured out when to move, use our 8-Week Moving Checklist to help you plan an organized move to get you settled in your new place.

❏ Submit a change-of-address form. Go

EIGHT WEEKS UNTIL MOVE: GET ESTIMATES & MAKE LISTS

❏ Relocating for a job? Find out what

expenses your employer will cover.

❏ If buying a home, contact a real estate agent in Dallas.

❏ Decide if you want to hire a moving

company and start getting estimates.

SIX WEEKS UNTIL MOVE: PURGE & START PACKING

❏ Begin organizing your closets and sorting out clothing, accessories, and shoes you do not want to keep.

❏ Choose what you can donate to charity

and schedule a charity organization of your choice to pick them up (for example, Salvation Army or a veterans’ charity).

❏ Have a garage sale or sell online (on

Craigslist or eBay) value items and things that are not worth the cost of moving, but which you don’t want to give away for free.

❏ Notify movers ahead of time if you’re

to your local post office and submit a change-of-address form in order to ensure that all your mail will be properly forwarded. You can do this online in order to save time.

❏ Request 1 or 2 days off from your work

for date(s) planned for your move (unless you are changing jobs).

❏ Find a new primary doctor (and

pediatrician, if you have children) and dentist and arrange for your medical records to be transferred.

❏ If you have children, check the pre-

registration procedures for enrolling children in school.

❏ Talk to the current and future school/

daycare to transfer school records and make plans for a smooth transition.

THREE WEEKS UNTIL MOVE: TAKE CARE OF SPECIAL ITEMS

❏ Gather important documents, jewelry,

and valuables and pack them separately in your personal bags or ship them with a trackable delivery with insurance.

❏ If you’re driving long distance to your

new home, have your car checked up and serviced for a long drive.

❏ Take an inventory of your most expensive

or cherished possessions and take photos of them to have proof in case of damage.

TWO WEEKS UNTIL MOVE: FINISH UP LOOSE ENDS

❏ Check the pre-registration procedures for enrolling children in school.

moving big appliances which may need special handling; likewise, for gas appliances, consult with your gas utility provider.

❏ Refill your medication prescriptions and keep them easily accessible by packing them in your handbag.

❏ Keep some cash on hand for tips and

small expenses, as you may not be able to pay by credit card everywhere.

❏ Update your shipping address on

Amazon, eBay, PayPal, and other online shopping sites you use, and direct any scheduled or future shipments to the correct address.

ONE WEEK UNTIL MOVE: TAKE CARE OF FINAL DETAILS

❏ Plan to transfer utilities. Call your utility

companies—electricity, water, gas, telephone, mobile, internet, TV cable, sewer, trash—and put in a request to turn off utilities at the old address on the day after your move.

❏ Pack a personal suitcase with toiletries, essentials, valuables, and comfortable clothes for each person in your household; keep these suitcases with you.

❏ Do a final box count to have an accurate count for your records and for the moving company, if they request it.

❏ Confirm the important details with your

moving company to avoid any last-minute misunderstandings: phone numbers on both sides, contact person’s name, destination address, date and time when the truck will arrive, etc.

❏ Use up food from the refrigerator, freezer, and pantry, to minimize waste.

❏ Double-check that you’ve updated your address everywhere where needed.

MOVING DAY: YOU’RE OFF TO YOUR NEW HOME!

2026 / DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE

175

ESSENTIALS

Taxing Matters TAX RATES AROUND THE REGI ON

W

hen you move to Texas, you won’t pay a personal income tax at the state or local level. You also won’t pay a local occupation tax or local wage tax. This means more money in your paycheck. Instead, you pay for local government services, such as education, through local property taxes, sales taxes, and business taxes.

It’s a balance, to be sure, but for people who are moving to DFW from high incometax states, this is a welcome change.

176

COUNTIES Collin Dallas Denton Ellis Hunt Johnson Kaufman Parker Rockwall Tarrant Wise CITIES

RATE $0.149343 $0.215500 $0.187869 $0.273992 $0.323328 $0.379276 $0.415113 $0.299238 $0.254700 $0.187500 $0.275000

Addison $0.609822 Allen $0.417500 Anna $0.507200 Arlington $0.599800 Azle $0.614087 Balch Springs $0.794629 Bedford $0.495726 Benbrook $0.555000 Burleson $0.662700 Carrollton $0.538750 Cedar Hill $0.636455 Celina $0.598168 Cleburne $0.588504 Cockrell Hill $0.695086 Colleyville $0.276204 Commerce $0.798909 Coppell $0.458632 Corinth $0.514800 Crowley $0.608300 Dallas $0.704700 Decatur $0.577551 Denton $0.595420 DeSoto $0.684934 Duncanville $0.614834 Ennis $0.664000 Euless $0.446700 Everman $1.026080 Fairview $0.310281 Farmers Branch $0.543500 Fate $0.259245 Flower Mound $0.387272 Forest Hill $0.724094 Forney $0.405240 Fort Worth $0.672500 Frisco $0.425517 Garland $0.689746 Glenn Heights $0.565015 Grand Prairie $0.660000 Grapevine $0.241165 Greenville $0.558000 Haltom City $0.580727 Heath $0.290311 Hickory Creek $0.223060 Highland Park $0.208550 Highland Village $0.500273 Hurst $0.591324 Hutchins $0.630082 Irving $0.589100 Joshua $0.689468 Kaufman $0.759500 Keene $0.834134 Keller $0.291120 Kennedale $0.706190 Krum $0.664485 Lake Dallas $0.513601

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

Lake Worth $0.485420 Lancaster $0.604606 Lewisville $0.422435 Little Elm $0.559900 Lucas $0.239051 Mansfield $0.645000 McKinney $0.415513 Melissa $0.454116 Mesquite $0.690000 Midlothian $0.650000 Murphy $0.362533 N. Richland Hills $0.489389 Parker $0.310439 Plano $0.417600 Princeton $0.440226 Prosper $0.505000 Red Oak $0.696886 Richardson $0.542180 Richland Hills $0.518879 River Oaks $0.675827 Roanoke $0.308039 Rockwall $0.247450 Rowlett $0.769691 Royse City $0.578000 Sachse $0.650416 Saginaw $0.493747 Sanger $0.689747 Sansom Park $0.779605 Seagoville $0.710932 Southlake $0.305000 Sunnyvale $0.453000 Terrell $0.764200 The Colony $0.635000 Trophy Club $0.415469 University Park $0.229964 Watauga $0.570200 Waxahachie $0.610000 Weatherford $0.398420 White Settlement$0.679816 Willow Park $0.432546 Wylie $0.534301 SCHOOLS Aledo ISD $1.205200 Allen ISD $1.125800 Alvarado ISD $1.166900 Alvord ISD $0.879900 Anna ISD $1.255200 Argyle ISD $1.209900 Arlington ISD $1.103500 Aubrey ISD $1.255200 Avalon ISD $0.821530 Azle ISD $1.097900 Birdville ISD $1.198300 Bland ISD $0.872320 Blue Ridge ISD $1.255200 Boles ISD $1.013700 Boyd ISD $1.129200 Bridgeport ISD $0.939463 Brock ISD $1.255200 Burleson ISD $1.255200 Caddo Mills ISD $1.255200 Campbell ISD $0.666900 Carroll ISD $0.961700 Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD $0.983600 Castleberry ISD$1.246900 Cedar Hill ISD $1.127900 Celeste ISD $0.925200

Celina ISD $1.235800 Chico ISD $0.848637 Cleburne ISD $1.211900 Commerce ISD $1.255200 Community ISD$1.255200 Cooper ISD $0.917500 Coppell ISD $1.034300 Crandall ISD $1.286900 Crowley ISD $1.255200 Cumby ISD $1.235200 Dallas ISD $0.997235 Decatur ISD $0.902900 Denton ISD $1.156900 DeSoto ISD $1.065200 Duncanville ISD $1.105700 Eagle MountainSaginaw ISD $1.245700 Ennis ISD $1.215200 Era ISD $0.905500 Everman ISD $1.226800 Fannindel ISD $0.837500 Farmersville ISD$1.239400 Ferris ISD $1.140800 Forney ISD $1.286900 Fort Worth ISD $1.062400 Frisco ISD $1.029200 Frost ISD $0.999200 Garland ISD $1.050900 Garner ISD $0.727500 Godley ISD $1.286900 Granbury ISD $0.931900 Grand Prairie ISD$1.057700 Grandview ISD$0.996600 Grapevine-Colleyville ISD $0.923300 Greenville ISD $0.966900 Highland Park ISD $0.866900 Hurst-EulessBedford ISD $0.968900 Irving ISD $1.015900 Italy ISD $1.073700 Jacksboro ISD $1.126900 Joshua ISD $1.257500 Kaufman ISD $1.255200 Keene ISD $1.046400 Keller ISD $1.085200 Kemp ISD $0.974400 Kennedale ISD $1.135200 Krum ISD $1.229800 Lake Dallas ISD $1.255200 Lake Worth ISD $1.255200 Lancaster ISD $1.224400 Leonard ISD $1.225200 Lewisville ISD $1.117800 Lipan ISD $1.053856 Little Elm ISD $1.225200 Lone Oak ISD $1.156900 Lovejoy ISD $1.255200 Mabank ISD $0.946900 Mansfield ISD $1.146900 Maypearl ISD $0.976600 McKinney ISD $1.125200 Melissa ISD $1.255200 Mesquite ISD $1.096900 Midlothian ISD $1.106900 Milford ISD $1.098160 Millsap ISD $1.069800 Mineral Wells

ISD

$0.987300

Northwest ISD $1.087900 Palmer ISD

$1.050200

Paradise ISD

$1.089200

Peaster ISD

$1.166400

Perrin-Whitt CISD

$0.799200

Pilot Point ISD $1.026260 Plano ISD

$1.042450

Ponder ISD

$1.242300

Poolville ISD

$0.757500

Princeton ISD

$1.255200

Prosper ISD

$1.255200

Quinlan ISD

$0.925200

Red Oak ISD

$1.103300

Richardson ISD $1.105200 Rio Vista ISD

$1.180990

Rockwall ISD

$1.146900

Royse City ISD $1.255200 Sanger ISD

$1.143400

Scurry-Rosser ISD $0.915200 Slidell ISD

$1.010900

Springtown ISD$0.955500 Sunnyvale ISD $1.186900 Terrell ISD

$1.055200

Trenton ISD

$1.255200

Van Alstyne ISD$1.222800 Venus ISD

$1.178400

Waxahachie ISD $1.168100 Weatherford ISD$1.034200 White Settlement ISD $1.206900 Whitewright ISD$0.986300 Wills Point ISD $0.733900 Wolfe City ISD $0.939600 Wylie ISD

$1.210200

OTHER Collin County Junior College District (CCD) $0.081220 Dallas College District (CCD) $0.105595 Dallas County Hospital District (HD) $0.212000 Dallas Co. School Equalization (SET) $0.000000 Tarrant County College (CCD)

$0.112280

Tarrant County Hospital (HD) $0.182500 Tarrant County Water District (WD) $0.026700 Sources: Collin, Dallas, Denton, Ellis, Hood, Hunt, Johnson, Kaufman, Parker, Rockwall, Somervell, Tarrant, and Wise County Appraisal Districts

TAX RATES & UTILITIES

Sample tax information for DFW communities 2024 RATE PER $100 OF TAXABLE VALUATION

CITY Plano

COUNTY $0.417600

Dallas

$0.735700

Denton

$0.595420

Fort Worth

$0.672500

Collin

SCHOOL DISTRICT Plano ISD

$0.149343

Dallas Denton

$0.997235

Denton ISD

$0.187869

Tarrant

$1.042450

Dallas ISD

$0.215500

TOTAL

CCD

$0.081220

SET

$0.105595

HD

$0.212000

CCD

$0.000000

WD

$0.112280

$1.690613 $2.235030

$1.156900

Fort Worth ISD

$0.187500

OTHER

$1.940189

$1.062400

HD

$0.182500

CCD

$0.026700

$2.243880

SET = School Equalization Tax; HD = Hospital District; WD = Water District; CCD = Community College District

Utilities Dallas-Fort Worth ranks close to the national median in terms of overall electric rates.

Reliability in the system is better here because 85% of Texas operates on a separate power grid from that of the rest of the country.

Since Texas has a deregulated electricity market, residents have the power to choose their providers, which creates flexibility in pricing and service.

Powertochoose.org is the official electric

choice website of the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the place where you can compare providers’ offers and select the plan that is right for you.

Many providers offer rates well below the national average, but you have to take the time and make the effort to get a good rate—it doesn’t happen automatically. $300.00 Though most of the region sits atop $250.00 two aquifers, our residential water supply $200.00 water comes primarily from surface (reservoirs and lakes). Water $150.00 rates for moderate users are lower$100.00 than in many comparable-size cities in the country.

Most cities in DFW have programs to encourage water conservation, and some impose watering restrictions due to drought conditions.

Natural gas prices are relatively low here, due in part to natural underground gas fields such as the Barnett Shale.

The charts here represent real-life examples of what you might expect in terms of power and insurance costs.

Every home is different, and many factors contribute to insurance pricing.

The prices you pay may or may not compare to these.

$50.00

Utility cost examples

$0

$300.00

$250.00

$250.00

$200.00

$200.00

$150.00

$150.00 $100.00

$100.00

$50.00

$50.00 $0 Jan

Feb

Mar

$250.00 Family Home: Single 1,755 Square Feet, 1 Story, $200.00 Brick, Built in 1953, Dallas, TX

Apr

May

$100.00

Compare rates & save money $0

$800.00 $700.00

Jul

Aug

Utilities: Majority gas, including heating, gas water heater, and cooktop

$150.00

$50.00

Jun

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Home Insurance Rate: Policy Amount: $300,000, Monthly Rate: $295.58

$0 Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

$900.00

Apartment: 1,020

$800.00 Square Feet, 1 story,

3rd Floor, Stucco Built $700.00 in 1952, Dallas, TX

$600.00 $500.00

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Utilities: Electric air conditioning and natural gas heating, gas water heater and cooktop

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Rental Insurance Rate: Monthly: $28.25

$400.00

powertochoose.org—The official and $300.00 unbiased $200.00 electric choice website of the Public Utility Commission of Texas allows electricity$100.00 providers to list their offers at no charge, so consumers can $0 compare and choose what’s best for them.

helpinsure.com—The free service of the Texas Department of Insurance and Office of Public Insurance Counsel helps Texans with their auto, commercial, and residential property insurance needs.

$250.00

2026 / DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE $200.00

177

ESSENTIALS

It’s the Law Laws vary from state to state, city to city. Here are a few important laws that may be different in Texas and/ or the area you plan to live in.

Driving laws

DRIVER’S LICENSE

You have 90 days to obtain a Texas driver’s license after moving to the state. If you are over 18 and already have a valid, unexpired license from another state, you won’t have to take the driving or knowledge test. To obtain your new Texas license you must: • Submit an application to your local Department of Public Safety • Provide proof of Texas residency • Submit a valid form of ID, such as a passport, unexpired military ID card, or U.S. Citizen Identification Card and pay the fee VEHICLE INSURANCE In Texas, you are required to have liability car insurance. It’s OK if your auto insurance was issued by another state, but it will have to meet the minimum coverage requirement. In Texas, all drivers must have at least $25,000 in coverage for property damage, $30,000 for each injured person, and $60,000 for injuries per incident.

VEHICLE INSPECTION Beginning January 1, 2025, Texas vehicle owners are not required to obtain a safety inspection prior to vehicle registration. State law continues to require a passing emissions inspection for vehicle owners who reside in one of the following 17 emissions counties including Collin, Dallas, Denton, Ellis, Johnson, Kaufman, Parker, Rockwall, and Tarrant Counties.

VEHICLE REGISTRATION The State of Texas operates a “Two Steps, One Sticker” vehicle inspection and registration program. Your registration sticker serves as combined proof of registration and inspection, if an inspection is required to register your vehicle. In order to renew on time, your vehicle must pass an emissions inspection no earlier than 90 days before your registration expires, if you live in certain Texas counties.

HELMETS Texas does not require drivers or passengers of motorcycles to wear helmets. The state also does not require helmets for bicyclists.

However, city regulations vary on the latter, and the city of Dallas requires helmets for bicyclists ages 17 and younger. For more on driving laws, go to dmv.org/tx-texas/safety-laws.php

178

Gun laws LEGALITY Texas law allows most Texans age 21 and older to carry handguns—open or concealed— without a state license, if no other state or federal law applies.

There are some places and circumstances you cannot carry a handgun legally even under the handgun law. Owners of any establishment can prohibit handguns on their properties if they post a legal notice. For more on Texas gun laws, go to dps.texas.gov/rsd/ltc/index.htm

Labor laws

RIGHT TO WORK

Texas is a right-to-work state. That means you cannot be denied employment for participation or nonparticipation in a labor union/organization. Your employer cannot discriminate against you for choosing to join or not join a union. Texas is also an employmentat-will state, which means the employer or employee can terminate employment at any time, for any reason, with few exceptions. For more information on labor laws, go to www2.texasattorneygeneral.gov/ agency/right-to-work-laws-in-texas

Family laws

MARRIAGE/DIVORCE REQUIREMENTS

To get married in Texas, you need to be at least 18 years old. Apply in person at a Texas County Clerk’s Office to receive your marriage license. Texas is a no-fault divorce state, meaning you do not have to prove wrongdoing to be granted a divorce. Texas does not stipulate that a couple must be separated for any period of time prior to getting a divorce.

COMMON-LAW MARRIAGE Texas recognizes common-law marriage. You and your partner simply need to either file a Declaration of Informal Marriage or agree that you are married, live together in Texas, and represent to other people that you are married to each other.

DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIPS As of the summer of 2015, the State of Texas recognizes marriage, civil unions, and domestic partnerships between individuals of the same gender, per the U.S. Supreme Court ruling. For more on marriage and divorce, go to dshs.state.tx.us/Vital_Statistics/Verification_ of_a_Marriage_or_Divorce.aspx

Education laws KINDERGARTEN

Smoking and drinking laws USE/PURCHASE OF TOBACCO

You must be older than 21 years of age to purchase tobacco products in Texas.

SMOKING RESTRICTIONS Smoking is not allowed in public places in Dallas, including city parks, libraries, buses, or within 15 feet of any pedestrian entrance.

The city of Dallas has also banned smoking in bars and restaurants. However, some of the surrounding communities do allow smoking in bars.

Texas does not require kindergarten. However, children age 6 and over must attend school.

TESTING Texas requires students to take standardized tests in grades 3-8 and high school end-ofcourse (EOC) exams called the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR).

This program is being replaced beginning in the 2027-28 school year with a new assessment program called the Student Success Tool (SST).

The number of EOC tests a student is required to take depends on what that student plans to do after graduation. https://www.tasb.org/

DRINKING RESTRICTIONS The legal age to purchase and consume alcohol in Texas is 21. In Texas, driving with a blood alcohol content of .08 percent or higher is considered driving while intoxicated (DWI). It is illegal in Texas to have open containers of alcohol in the passenger area of your vehicle while you are driving or parked on a public highway.

DRY VERSUS WET AREAS A wet area is one in which sales of all alcoholic beverages are permitted at all times. A dry area is one in which some or all alcoholic beverage sales are restricted some or all the time. There are also partially wet areas in which beer and wine sales are legal, but the sale of liquor is not.

DFW is a complicated patchwork of all of the above.

DALLAS-FORT WORTH NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE / 2026

Real estate laws HOMESTEAD LAW In Texas, the homestead exemption allows homeowners who live in their house as their principal residence to reduce the taxable value of that home—effective January 1, 2025, the school-district portion of that exemption is $140,000. Many other taxing units offer additional or different exemptions (for example, for seniors or disabled homeowners). Texas law also provides strong protection for a residence homestead against forced sale by most general creditors, with specified exceptions for things like mortgages, unpaid property taxes, mechanic’s liens, and certain refinancings. To claim the exemption, homeowners should file the appropriate form with their county appraisal district. www.comptroller.texas.gov/taxinfo/