Best 10 Cities Near Dallas to Live In (2024)

Dallas is a bustling hub for commerce and culture. Its neighboring cities are close enough for residents to enjoy all the city has to offer, along with their own unique lifestyles and amenities. Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or a retiree, this guide to the top 10 cities near Dallas will help you find the perfect spot that aligns with your life stage and preferences. Whether you’re seeking vibrant nightlife, peaceful suburbs, or scenic spaces, the Dallas area provides a fitting backdrop for anyone considering a move to this flourishing part of Texas.

The best cities near Dallas

1. Highland Park
2. University Park
3. Irving
4. Richardson
5. Garland
6. Plano
7. Arlington
8. Frisco
9. McKinney
10. Flower Mound

1. Highland Park, TX

• Driving distance from Dallas: 5.0 miles
• Population: 8,719
• Median rent: $5,025, according to August 2024 rent research
• Best for: Affluent families and professionals seeking a luxurious lifestyle
• Attractions: Highland Park Village, Dallas Country Club

Why Highland Park is a great place to live

Highland Park is an upscale enclave known for its stunning mansions, top-rated Highland Park Independent School District, and the historic Highland Park Village shopping center. The town’s pristine streets, manicured lawns, and proximity to Dallas make it an ideal choice for those seeking a high-end living experience with easy access to the city.

2. University Park, TX

• Driving distance from Dallas: 7.5 miles
• Median rent: $1,297 as of August 2024
• Population: 25,032
• Best for: Families and academics associated with Southern Methodist University
• Attractions: Southern Methodist University, George W. Bush Presidential Center, Snider Plaza

Why University Park is a great place to live

University Park is home to Southern Methodist University, which gives the city a lively, collegiate atmosphere. The city boasts great public schools, well-maintained parks, and a variety of local boutiques and restaurants at Snider Plaza. Its proximity to Dallas and the presence of the George W. Bush Presidential Center make this area very appealing to families and academics.

3. Irving, TX

• Driving distance from Dallas: 9.6 miles
• Commute time to Dallas via car: 28 minutes
• Population: 254,715
• Median rent: $1,620, according to August 2024 rent research
• Best for: Young professionals and families looking for affordable living near Dallas
• Attractions: Toyota Music Factory, Irving Arts Center, Mustangs of Las Colinas

Why Irving is a great place to live

Irving has a diverse mix of neighborhoods, from the vibrant Las Colinas urban center to the quiet, family-friendly Coppell. The city’s strong job market, anchored by the headquarters of ExxonMobil and Kimberly-Clark, attracts young professionals. Residents enjoy cultural attractions like the Irving Arts Center and the Toyota Music Factory entertainment complex.

4. Richardson, TX

• Driving distance from Dallas: 12.9 miles
• Commute time to Dallas via car: 37 minutes
• Population: 118,802
• Median rent: $1,809, according to August 2024 rent research
• Best for: Tech professionals and families seeking excellent schools
• Attractions: CityLine, Eisemann Center for Performing Arts, Spring Creek Nature Area

Why Richardson is a great place to live

Richardson is known for its thriving tech scene, with the Telecom Corridor home to major companies like AT&T, Verizon, and Cisco Systems. The city’s CityLine development is a walkable, mixed-use environment with restaurants, shops, and entertainment. Richardson has a good school district and beautiful green spaces like the Spring Creek Nature Area.

5. Garland, TX

• Driving distance from Dallas: 14.6 miles
• Commute time to Dallas via car: 38 minutes
• Population: 240,854
• Median rent: $1,607, according to August 2024 rent research
• Best for: Families and outdoor enthusiasts
• Attractions: Firewheel Town Center, Lake Ray Hubbard, Garland Landmark Museum

Why Garland is a great place to live

Garland is great for anyone who loves a small-town feel with big-city amenities. The city’s historic downtown square hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, fostering a close community. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the city’s parks and Lake Ray Hubbard, which allows fishing, boating, and kayaking. The Firewheel Town Center provides a variety of shopping and dining options.

6. Plano, TX

• Driving distance from Dallas: 19.8 miles
• Commute time to Dallas via car: 48 minutes
• Population: 289,547
• Median rent: $2,166, according to August 2024 rent research
• Best for: Families and professionals seeking a balance of urban and suburban
• Attractions: Legacy West, Arbor Hills Nature Preserve, The Shops at Legacy

Why Plano is a great place to live

Plano is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the United States, thanks to its good schools and thriving business community. The city’s Legacy West development is a live-work-play environment with high-end shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Nature lovers will appreciate the Arbor Hills Nature Preserve, which features hiking and biking trails, a playground, and a pavilion.

7. Arlington, TX

• Driving distance from Dallas: 20.3 miles
• Commute time to Dallas via car: 34 minutes
• Population: 394,602
• Median rent: $1,47, according to August 2024 rent research
• Best for: Sports enthusiasts and families seeking affordable living
• Attractions: AT&T Stadium, Six Flags Over Texas, Globe Life Field

Why Arlington is a great place to live

Arlington is known as the “Entertainment Capital of Texas,” thanks to its world-class sports and amusement venues. The city is home to the Dallas Cowboys’ AT&T Stadium, the Texas Rangers’ Globe Life Field, and the Six Flags Over Texas amusement park. Arlington offers a range of affordable housing options and a strong public school system, making it an attractive choice for families.

8. Frisco, TX

• Driving distance from Dallas: 27.3 miles
• Commute time to Dallas via car: 50 minutes
• Population: 219,587
• Median rent: $2,500, according to August 2024 rent research
• Best for: Young families and sports enthusiasts
• Attractions: The Star, Frisco Discovery Center, National Videogame Museum

Why Frisco is a great place to live

Frisco is one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, attracting young families with its top-rated schools and plenty of recreation. The city is home to The Star, the Dallas Cowboys’ headquarters and practice facility, which also features restaurants, shops, and a hotel. Frisco has attractions like the National Videogame Museum and the Frisco Discovery Center, which hosts art exhibits and performances.

9. McKinney, TX

• Driving distance from Dallas: 35.9 miles
• Population: 207,507
• Median rent: $2,250, according to August 2024 rent research
• Best for: Families seeking a small-town, modern atmosphere
• Attractions: Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, Historic Downtown McKinney, Chestnut Square Historic Village

Why McKinney is a great place to live

McKinney has a cute historic downtown with shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The city’s Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary provides a beautiful setting for hiking, picnicking, and learning about nature. McKinney’s highly-rated schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and charming community make this town popular for families seeking a small-town feel with access to modern amenities.

10. Flower Mound, TX

• Driving distance from Dallas: 27.9 miles
• Commute time to Dallas via car: 52 minutes
• Population: 78,486
• Median rent: $2,599, according to August 2024 rent research
• Best for: Nature lovers and families seeking a quiet, suburban lifestyle
• Attractions: Flower Mound Farmers Market, The Flower Mound, Twin Coves Park

Why Flower Mound is a great place to live

Flower Mound is known for its picturesque natural setting, which includes rolling hills, wildflower fields, and the town’s namesake mound. The city offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking and biking trails, fishing at Twin Coves Park, and boating on Grapevine Lake. Flower Mound’s highly-rated schools and weekly farmers market contribute to its strong sense of community and family-friendly atmosphere.

Whether you’re seeking luxury, cultural vibrancy, community, or excellent schools, these top 10 cities near Dallas offer diverse living experiences to suit every lifestyle.