Longtime lurker here, I relocated for work and Median household income is $73,387, which feels about average for the area. Household incomes average around $73,387 in Dallas. Homes are going for about $234,700 on average. Crime rate is something to consider -Dallas sits at 190.2 per 100K. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The weather takes some getting used to. The weather takes some getting used to. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The weather takes some getting used to. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
4 upvotes
15 Replies
Emily Morgan
facts
36 upvotes
Jennifer E.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 37, moved here 2 years ago from New York. I've lived in Fairview and Meadowbrook, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Friendly community, easy to meet people
3. Strong job market in several industries
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Not a lot of cultural diversity
3. The food scene situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Fairview: Great for young professionals. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- Meadowbrook: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from New York, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
35 upvotes
Bella Watson
I've been living here for 15 years and I'd say I genuinely enjoy living here. The cost of living is solid compared to other places I've lived. Overall Happy to answer more specific questions..
34 upvotes
Alexander Campbell
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 13 years ago from LA and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Meadowbrook. It's tough for what you get.
Jobs: The market is growing right now, especially in tech. If you're in real estate you might struggle.
People: Generally challenging. It took about 18 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: challenging. Tons of options if you like sushi.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
32 upvotes
aaron_living
this is the way
30 upvotes
Axel W.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 1 years. Moved from Minneapolis for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have biking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Downtown schools are challenging. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Can feel isolated. Limited shopping options. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 9/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
26 upvotes
William Wilson
Hot take but I love the pace of life here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 9 years here, that's my honest assessment.
25 upvotes
Gabriella Collins
accurate
25 upvotes
Robert Davis
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 13 years ago from Portland and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Pine Hills. It's pretty good for what you get.
Jobs: The market is wild right now, especially in education. If you're in retail you might struggle.
People: Generally hit or miss. It took about 13 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: excellent. Tons of options if you like Southern.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
20 upvotes
Riley
haha yep pretty much
15 upvotes
Kayden S.
I've lived in North for about 11 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from New York, I was surprised by job market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good internet infrastructure
- The school system scene is solid
The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Not very walkable outside downtown
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for retirees. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
14 upvotes
Dominic Bailey
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value public transit, you'll love it. The safety is genuinely tough and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (Riverside) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Phoenix, be prepared for the culture shock. job market is completely different here. And Property taxes are high.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
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