In these times of vast uncertainty, the state of Texas has proved to be every citizen’s potential haven. Rivers of East and West Coast transplants hurtle toward The Lone Star State in search of a better tomorrow. And most importantly, they find it. Besides, what’s not to love? Immaculate weather conditions all year round, saliva-inducing gastronomy, sports, no income tax policy, and an abundance of job opportunities. Big D has it all; a spread-out buffet that satisfies even the most peculiar wants and needs. Once you immerse yourself in the original 214 philosophy of life, the mere thought of disowning and/or losing it becomes unbearable. There’s more to Dallas than straight-from-heaven briskets and “Go, Cowboys!” That’s only scratching the surface. From young professionals to suburban-niche families, finding your sweet spot in a city has never been easier. These are our favorite up-and-coming neighborhoods in Dallas. Let’s find you a home.
Preston Highlands
This Far North Dallas neighborhood is perfect for young families and professional anti-urbanites. So, what do we like about it? Myriad pros, fewer cons; growing families thrive in Preston Highlands due to its proximity to high-quality schools (the Plano Independent School District and Richardson Independent School District), as well as picturesque outdoors. Its quaint, easy-going vibe is something most young families enjoy after long working hours. Although relatively affordable, Preston Highlands doesn’t score high on the walkability scale, not because it lacks walking paths but simply because restaurants and shops might not be as close as one’s moderately athletic legs would like. Before finally deciding on their new Dallas neighborhood, there are things every homebuyer should consider.
Uptown Dallas
There’s a little something for everyone. Our next stop is considered one of the hippest epicenters Big D has to offer. A historical area accommodating young businessmen and businesswomen (ever since the 1800s!) somehow found its way to blend with the contemporary effortlessly, resulting in one perky, hip, hybrid lovechild any transplant would adopt in a heartbeat, especially millennials. Known for its gourmet restaurants, eclectic bar, bistro, and cocktail lounge scene, very few can resist its indisputably lively charm. Uptown’s rich cultural life is something most young people look for in a neighborhood when relocating to Texas. Plus, it is also known for being a pedestrian-friendly district. You can’t beat that!
Deep Ellum
Called initially Deep Elm, this ever-funky neighborhood was once home to an almost unearthly blues and jazz scene (way back in the 1920s). And just like its famous “Traveling Man” sculpture, it never ceased to evolve through creativity, openness, and some refined culture. Vibrant street art, hip galleries, and live music venues are just the tip of the iceberg of this glorious, multifaceted neighborhood. Not only is it pedestrian-friendly, but it also has direct access to the DART Green Line, taking you literally anywhere you need to go. The good people of D.E. will greet you with a genuine smile, grab your hand and take you to a local TEX-MEX eatery, followed by a brewpub you cannot miss. This neighborhood will fit like a glove for all the young professionals with an inherent quirk looking for the hip condos in the area (within walking distance to all the trendiest restaurants and bars). Plus, it’s close to the Farmers’ Market. Beat that.
Design District
This industrial enclave has been one of the hottest up-and-coming neighborhoods in Dallas for a while now. And for a good reason. It’s a perfect kind of balance: living outside the Dallas hub implies affordability, but you’re just a short DART ride away from all Downtown has to offer. The best way to describe Design District would be – 100% chic. So, what’s in store? Although not the safest neighborhood in the city, it surely can and does compensate for its minor drawbacks. It could be a match made in heaven if you’re an avid admirer and consumer of contemporary art, high-end furniture showrooms, fine art dealerships, galleries, and gastronomic diversity. Bonus? Modern, hip apartment buildings have been popping up in the area over the past decade. An architectural buffet, if you please. Make an informed decision based on your needs before diving in, though. Right next to I35 and with easy access to 75, this neighborhood simply has the goodies. (The Virgin hotel, too!) Oh, and don’t miss out on the newest IN places, like Town Hearth and The Mexican.
Campbell Green
We’re back to family-oriented neighborhoods. This Far North Dallas familial gem checks all the boxes. Why is Campbell Green on our list? It’s one of the best available options for families on a tight budget in all of Dallas. Whether you’re renting or buying a property, the statistics show the prices are lower than the national average. Similar to Preston Highlands, walking is not considered the preferred means of transportation. Having a car is pretty much mandatory, as relying on public transit could become a daily inconvenience. All the same, it has plenty to offer. Not only is it a safe neighborhood for young families with children, but it also takes pride in being exceptionally green and outdoor activity-friendly. Public schools are considered above average, making them a perfect place for growing families.
Greenway Parks
A modern fairytale evolving ever since 1927. Its picturesque tree-lined streets and boulevards, spacious lots, and private parkways are the reason behind the neighborhood becoming a National Historic Register nominee, also making it one of the most significant areas in Dallas. Although a century old, this upscale, exclusive residential area has transformed its gracefully aging visage over the past five years into a contemporary swan. And the people of Dallas love it. It’s just the perfect kind of balance between old and new. Greenway Parks’ patina embraces newly built modern homes and duplexes, making it an organic entity rather than an architectural collage. Hip and quaint, this lovely upscale area is close to HP, UP, Preston Hollow, and Devonshire. As for education, there is a myriad of well-ranked public and private schools available (including Dallas County Community College District).
Oak Cliff/Bishop Arts District
Oak Cliff is one of the oldest and largest neighborhoods in Dallas. Still, its fine age and size don’t prevent it from growing and evolving within. Enveloping smaller localities, its cloak remains eternally young, with the Bishop Arts District rightfully becoming its vital organ – the heart. In fact, not that long ago, the Wall Street Journal found it to be one of the most up-and-coming neighborhoods in the entire country. Independent stores, chic boutiques, theaters, galleries, cross-cultural eateries, gastropubs, and performance venues, the whole district is one sugary cloud of diversity and freedom. Perfect for young professionals, but hip families are more than welcome to join the ever-growing community. As for schools, plenty to choose from: Trinity Basin Preparatory, Booker T. Washington High School, Rosemont Elementary School, and others. Like what you hear? It’s time to lock it down!
Medical District
This one’s hush-hush. The name doesn’t do it justice, trust us. Yes, it is home to some of the finest medical institutions in Texas: Parkland Hospital, Medical Center, Zale Lipshy University, and Children’s Medical Center. You get the point. It is one fast-growing area with over 3 million medical patients visiting each year and +35,000 employees. Newly built homes and apartment buildings are springing up like there’s no tomorrow, primarily due to a massive influx of healthcare professionals (and probably a hypochondriac or two. Hey, we have all been there!). The proximity to Dallas Love Field Airport, Dallas Market Center, the World Trade Center, and the apparel Mart is one of the reasons folks love this neighborhood. It is also seconds from Uptown, the Design District, Trinity Groves, Victory Park, and Oak Lawn, making it ideal for young professionals.
Take time to weigh your options
Up-and-coming neighborhoods in Dallas are everywhere. How does one make the right call? Is there even such a thing? Before deciding on your final new community, be sure to gather as much information as possible. Flying or driving down before the actual move and getting acquainted with your options in person is the best way to go about it. Be sure to bring your checklist! Best of luck, (soon-to-be) Dallasites.
Credit to Lindsay Denton, Assistant Editor @MiamiMovingGuide
