The Best of Dallas TX: A Neighborhood Guide

Published 9:33 am Wednesday, September 4, 2024

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Cowboys, culture, and cocktails — that’s Dallas, Texas. 

It’s no secret that Dallas has just the right personality and boasts of a diverse community rivaled only by New York City. Still, it’s not out of place to wonder where the best neighborhoods in Dallas are to plant your Lone Star roots. 

The city is a patchwork of neighborhoods, each with its vibe and charm. From areas with the best education to happening zones teeming with trendy hotspots, Dallas has it all.

For those seeking a more family-friendly environment or stacking up the dollars for their first home, there’s a perfect Dallas neighborhood to meet their needs. 

Let’s explore some of the best areas in Dallas, TX, and find out what makes them so special.

Quick Overview

  • Preston Highlands — Most Family-friendly Neighborhood
  • Prestonwood — Most Affordable Housing
  • Carruth Terrace — Best Urban Amenities
  • Lower Greenville — Best Nightlife Culture
  • Old Lake Highlands — Most Historic Neighborhood
  • Oaktree — Most Culturally Diverse Dallas Neighborhood
  • Lakeview Heights — Most Affluent Area
  • Uptown — Excellent for Young Professionals
  1. Preston Highlands

Located in North Dallas in Collin County, Preston Highlands is a popular neighborhood for families looking for excellent schools, safe streets, and plenty of green space. 

Although the area possesses a stark difference from Southern Dallas, the community has neighbors who look out for one another, making it one of the best areas to live in Dallas and raise kids. 

Plus, with easy access to major highways and shopping centers, Preston Highlands best combines suburban and urban living.

  • Population: 5,869
  • Average House Rent: $1,321
  • Median Home Value: $679,900
  • Median Household Income: $426,462
  • Best For: Families and diverse communities

 

2. Prestonwood

Urban areas often get a bad rap for being noisy and chaotic. Yet, many people put up with the hustle and bustle because of the economic advantages. 

Luckily, when you discover a suburban gem like Prestonwood, you realize you don’t have to sacrifice peace for convenience. In this North Dallas neighborhood, you can enjoy the best of both worlds — peaceful streets, beautiful, affordable homes, and easy access to everything the city has to offer.

If you’re thinking about making the move — whether across town or from a different state — long distance movers in Dallas can help make your transition to Prestonwood a breeze. 

The neighborhood is also close to Prestonwood Country Club, offering its members golf, tennis, and other amenities. Plus, with nearby shopping centers like The Shops at Willow Bend, everything you need is just a short drive away.

  • Population: 20,259
  • Average House Rent: $1,584
  • Median Home Value: $355,000
  • Median Household Income: $522,049
  • Best For: Retirees and Families

 

3. Carruth Terrace

Urban areas indeed come with many city disruptions, but Carruth Terrace is a small, cozy neighborhood located near the heart of Dallas. 

Although an urban area, it’s known for its charming mid-century homes and a sense of community, elevating its status as one of the nicest neighborhoods in Dallas.

Typical of its urban nature, Carruth Terrace is a great spot for professionals who want to be close to downtown without sacrificing comfort. Another plus is that it is relatively affordable, with a range of housing options that won’t break the bank. 

The neighborhood is conveniently located near several shopping centers, restaurants, and parks, including the popular Ridgewood Park. 

Moreover, with its proximity to White Rock Lake and the Dallas Arboretum, residents can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities and scenic views.

  • Population: 12,334
  • Average House Rent: $1,497
  • Median Home Value: $381,293
  • Median Household Income: $107,552
  • Best For: Young professionals

 

4. Lower Greenville

Think of it like this: Lower Greenville is one of Dallas’ most vibrant neighborhoods — known for its lively bar scene, diverse dining options, and historic homes. 

It’s a favorite among young professionals and anyone who loves to get high-spirited now and then. You could grab a craft cocktail or enjoy live music, the choice is yours!

Lower Greenville will surely entertain with its several events, including the popular St. Patrick’s Day parade. Since the neighborhood is close to downtown, you’re never far from the centerpiece action.

  • Population: 7,843
  • Average House Rent: $2,317
  • Median Home Value: $759,900
  • Median Household Income: $157,101
  • Best For: Young professionals and nightlife lovers

 

5. Old Lake Highlands

Imagine a charming, historic neighborhood near White Rock Lake, also known for its mid-century homes and large, tree-lined lots — that’s Old Lake Highlands!

As one of the best neighborhoods in Dallas, its proximity to White Rock Lake is a major draw. Residents have easy access to boating, fishing, and miles of hiking and biking trails. 

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is also nearby, providing a beautiful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

Plus, with its strong schools and family-friendly atmosphere, Old Lake Highlands is a great place for anyone to call home.

  • Population: 4,321
  • Average House Rent: $1,388
  • Median Home Value: $739,00
  • Median Household Income: $156,408
  • Best For: Nature lovers and history buffs

 

6. Oaktree

The best part of Dallas to live in for a quiet, residential neighborhood located in Dallas County is Oaktree. 

Known for its spacious homes, well-maintained streets, and excellent public schools, Oaktree is a popular choice for artists, families, and professionals looking for a suburban lifestyle with easy access to the city. 

The neighborhood is home to several parks, including Oaktree Park, which offers playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails. Then there’s the nearby Bent Tree Country Club which provides additional recreational opportunities, including golf and tennis. 

Know this: with easy access to major highways and shopping centers, Oaktree offers the best amenities to make for a convenient city life.

  • Population: 21,445
  • Average House Rent: $1,169
  • Median Home Value: $629,817
  • Median Household Income: $75,977
  • Best For: Young professionals and artists

 

7. Lakeview Heights

While not as budget-friendly as some other Dallas neighborhoods, Lakeview Heights in Dallas County offers excellent value for your money. 

What you get here is worth considering: charming homes with character and plenty of space are available. The neighborhood itself has a residential feel and is a dense suburban area. 

Moreover, if you fancy a bit of outdoor experience, it’s conveniently located near shopping, dining, and entertainment options in nearby areas like Lakewood. 

  • Population: 2,586
  • Average House Rent: $2,006
  • Median Home Value: $849,900
  • Median Household Income: $214,765
  • Best For: Nightlife lovers and shoppers

 

8. Uptown

If you’re all about the activity of city life, Uptown is among the best neighborhoods in Dallas and the perfect place to be. 

Known for its vibrant nightlife, chic boutiques, and trendy eateries, Uptown is a favorite among young professionals and urbanites who crave excitement. 

The area is also highly walkable. What this means is you can stroll from your luxury apartment to a rooftop bar or art gallery without ever needing a car. 

Expect to pay a premium for high-rise condos and modern apartments with skyline views, but it gets slightly cheaper while in downtown.

  • Population: 39,791
  • Average House Rent: $2,255
  • Median Home Value: $730,00
  • Median Household Income: $112,841
  • Best For: Young professionals and high-end shoppers

 

Recap — Best Neighborhoods in Dallas

You can scope out some of the best neighborhoods in Dallas at any time, as each offers something unique to its residents. 

For an authentic taste of Dallas, you can look in the family-friendly plains of Preston Highlands or head towards the affordable homes of Prestonwood for that relatively easy claim to home ownership.

But if the nightlife of Lower Greenville and the historic streets of Old Lake Highlands are more your lifestyle, bank on Dallas to deliver. 

While you may need to get your money up to live in Uptown and Lakeview Heights, you’re assured of a high quality of life. Plus, for that chunk of culture and diverse communities, Oaktree is your go-to spot that feels like home.