Best Places to Live in Dallas

Dallas may have some of my favorite neighborhoods in the country.  With the massive trees and luxurious custom homes, it is no surprise why some of the most powerful individuals in the world decided to call the city of Dallas their home.  One neighborhood in particular, Preston Hollow, boasts residents such as former President George W. Bush, Dallas Maverick’s owner Mark Cuban, eccentric billionaire Ross Perot, along with many other notables.  Below are the ten best places to live in Dallas:

1. Preston Hollow

Undoubtedly you have heard mention of this notable Dallas neighborhood in the News recently, it is the neighborhood that former President Bush has moved to since leaving office. Preston Hollow’s is not only the wealthiest neighborhood in Dallas but arguably the wealthiest neighborhood in all of Texas. Other prominent residents are Dallas mayor Tom Leppert, Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban, billionaire investors Harold Simmons and T. Boone Pickens along with many others. Currently homes range from $800,000 tear downs up to $40,000,000 estates.

2. Highland Park

Highland Park has some of the largest and most luxurious homes in Dallas. It is no surprise that the area was recently rated as one of the wealthiest locations in Texas with the average income of $150,000. This neighborhood has numerous outdoor recreation facilities, parks, and is located within one of the best public schools systems in the nation. The area also has numerous shopping centers, art galleries, independent movie theatres, and much more.

3. University Park

University Park is one of the most desirable neighborhoods in all of Texas and is known for having some of the most beautiful homes in Dallas. They also have a spectacular school district, are surrounded by more than 30 lakes and has the lowest crime rate in the entire city. Real Estate tends to use Spanish architecture and are extremely luxurious. The neighborhood is also home to SMU.

4. Uptown

Uptown is one of the neighborhoods that gives Dallas its metropolitan feel. It is a popular place for young professionals to both live and play. There  are a number of highrises, townhomes, and apartments that cover the area and the neighborhood feel is heightened by the ability to access nearly anything, boutiques, gyms, grocery stores, restaurants and bars are all with in walking distance.

5. Deep Ellum

Described as a trendy SoHo in the heart of Texas, Deep Ellum is the arts and entertainment headquarters for the entire city. With a myriad of live music venues, art galleries, opera houses, and famous venues like Club Dada, this neighborhood has everything necessary for a memorable night out on the town. Although there are some houses in the area, most of Deep Ellum real estate comes in the form of urban lofts, high rises, condos and townhomes. This neighborhood is for anyone who wants to live and play in the same place.

6. Upper Greenville

Real Estate is a bit more upscale and as a result the homes, lofts, townhouses and condos are more expensive. This neighborhood is similar to Midtown in Houston or South Congress in Austin. A recent development is Mockingbird Station which is a newly developed urban village with upscale lofts and restaurants. Upper Greenville also has plenty of luxurious and spacious homes for sale.

7. Oak Lawn

This Dallas neighborhood provides more affordable living options than the neighboring Uptown. And you get a little more space for your dollar. Homes tend to be a bit older, but with arguably more character. Oak Lawn is known for its artsy flare. They have a number of good restaurants and one of my favorite organic grocery stores, Whole Foods.

8. Devonshire

Is an upscale and affluent neighborhood in North Dallas, Children in the neighborhood attend Sudie L. Williams Elementary School (located in neighboring Bluff View), Benjamin Franklin Middle School, and Hillcrest High School. Something fun and unique to this neighborhood is their annual 4th of July parade.

9. Lakewood

Neighborhood in East Dallas, has many unique shopping areas with shops, bars, cafes, and restaurants and what I really appreciate is that most are original and chains or franchises.  Lakewood also boasts the historic Lakewood Theater, which shows classic films and hosts many contemporary musical and comedy events. Lakewood is a popular neighborhood for cyclists, runners, and hikers who want easy access to White Rock Lake.

10. Bluff View

Neighborhood in North Dallas, Bluffview is named for its relatively hilly topography. Some of the cliffs in the neighborhood are built 50 feet over the water giving a beautiful view of Bachman Branch and its tributaries. The neighborhood is served by the Dallas Independent School District and Holy Trinity, which is the oldest continually operating Catholic school in North Texas.