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Are you considering moving to DFW? The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex has become one of America’s fastest-growing regions, attracting families, young professionals, and businesses from across the country. With a booming economy, no state income tax, top-rated schools, and a lower cost of living than major metros like California or New York, it’s easy to see why over 100,000 people relocate to DFW every year.
But moving to Dallas Fort Worth is a big decision, and relocating to a new city requires careful planning and local expertise. Which neighborhoods offer the best schools? What’s the real cost of living? How’s the job market? What should you expect from DFW’s weather and culture?
As a real estate agent, I specialize in helping families relocate to DFW. I guide buyers through every step of a successful relocation. In this comprehensive DFW relocation guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about moving to Dallas Texas—from the best family-friendly neighborhoods and school districts to cost of living comparisons, job market insights, and a complete moving timeline checklist.
Whether you’re relocating for work, seeking better schools, or simply looking for a fresh start in a thriving metro area, this guide will help you make informed decisions and plan a smooth, successful move to DFW.
Table of Contents:
- Why Move to DFW? (Top 10 Reasons)
- Cost of Living Comparison: DFW vs. Other Major Cities
- Job Market & Economy in DFW
- Best Neighborhoods for Relocating Families
- Schools & Education in DFW
- Weather & Climate: What to Expect
- Transportation & Getting Around DFW
- Things to Do in DFW: Lifestyle & Entertainment
- Moving to DFW Timeline Checklist
- Common Mistakes to Avoid When Moving to DFW
- Ready to Make Your Move to DFW?
Why Move to DFW? (Top 10 Reasons)
Before diving into the practical details of moving to DFW, let’s explore why so many people are choosing Dallas-Fort Worth as their new home.
1. Booming Job Market & Corporate Relocations
DFW is home to 22 Fortune 500 companies—more than any metro area in the U.S. except New York. For example, major employers include American Airlines, AT&T, ExxonMobil, Toyota North America, JPMorgan Chase, and Charles Schwab. Additionally, the region continues attracting corporate relocations and expansions, creating thousands of high-paying jobs annually.
Key industries: Technology, healthcare, finance, telecommunications, logistics, energy, and aviation.
2. No State Income Tax
Texas has no state income tax, meaning you keep more of your paycheck compared to high-tax states like California (up to 13.3%) or New York (up to 10.9%). For a family earning $150,000 annually, that’s $15,000-$20,000 in annual savings.
3. Affordable Cost of Living
Compared to major metros like San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, or Seattle, DFW offers significantly lower housing costs, utilities, and everyday expenses. You’ll get more home for your money and enjoy a higher quality of life without the financial stress of coastal cities.
4. Top-Rated Schools & Education
DFW is home to some of Texas’s highest-rated school districts, including Carroll ISD (Southlake), Grapevine-Colleyville ISD, Coppell ISD, and Frisco ISD. Families relocating to DFW prioritize education, and the region delivers exceptional public and private school options.
5. Family-Friendly Communities
DFW neighborhoods are designed for families, with extensive parks, community pools, sports leagues, and family-oriented events. Communities like Southlake, Colleyville, Grapevine, Coppell, Frisco, and Flower Mound offer safe, welcoming environments where kids thrive.
6. Year-Round Activities & Entertainment
From professional sports (Cowboys, Mavericks, Rangers, Stars, FC Dallas) to world-class museums, performing arts, concerts, and festivals, DFW offers endless entertainment options. The region’s vibrant arts and culture scene rivals much larger cities.
7. Central US Location & Easy Travel
DFW’s central location makes travel convenient. DFW International Airport is one of the world’s busiest, offering direct flights to hundreds of destinations. You’re within a 3-hour flight of most major U.S. cities and close to beaches, mountains, and international destinations.
8. Diverse Culture & Food Scene
DFW’s diverse population brings incredible cultural richness and a world-class food scene. From authentic Tex-Mex and BBQ to international cuisines (Vietnamese, Indian, Ethiopian, Korean, Mediterranean), the culinary options are endless.
9. Growing Tech Hub
DFW is rapidly becoming a major tech hub, attracting startups and established tech companies. The region’s lower costs, business-friendly environment, and access to talent make it an attractive alternative to Silicon Valley.
10. Warm Weather & Outdoor Living
If you’re tired of harsh winters, DFW’s mild climate is a major draw. Winters are short and moderate, and the long warm season means year-round outdoor activities—golf, hiking, biking, lake activities, and backyard entertaining.
Pro Tip: Moving to DFW offers the perfect combination of career opportunities, affordability, excellent schools, and quality of life. It’s no wonder DFW consistently ranks among America’s fastest-growing metros.
Cost of Living Comparison: DFW vs. Other Major Cities
One of the biggest advantages of moving to DFW is the significantly lower cost of living compared to other major metros. Let’s break down the numbers:
Housing Costs
Median Home Prices:
- DFW: $425,000-$450,000
- San Francisco Bay Area: $1,200,000-$1,500,000
- Los Angeles: $900,000-$1,100,000
- New York City: $700,000-$900,000
- Seattle: $750,000-$850,000
- Chicago: $350,000-$400,000
What this means: For instance, a $1.2 million home in San Francisco gets you a modest 3-bedroom. In DFW, $450,000 buys a beautiful 4-bedroom, 3-bath home in a top-rated school district with a large yard.
Property Taxes
Important note: Texas has no state income tax, but property taxes are higher than some states (average 1.8-2.5% of home value annually). However, when you factor in the savings from no state income tax, most families still come out ahead financially.
Example: A $500,000 home in DFW with 2% property tax = $10,000/year. But a family earning $150,000 saves $15,000-$20,000 annually on state income tax compared to California or New York—a net savings of $5,000-$10,000/year.
Utilities & Transportation
- Utilities: $150-$250/month (electricity, water, gas)
- Gasoline: $2.50-$3.50/gallon (lower than national average)
- Car Insurance: $100-$200/month (required—DFW is a driving city)
Groceries & Everyday Expenses
Similarly, DFW grocery costs are 10-20% lower than coastal cities. Dining out, entertainment, and services are also significantly more affordable.
Overall Cost of Living Index
According to BestPlaces.net, DFW’s cost of living index is 95-100 (national average = 100), compared to San Francisco (180-200), Los Angeles (150-170), New York City (170-190), and Seattle (150-165).
Bottom line: Moving to DFW can save families $20,000-$50,000+ annually compared to high-cost metros, while offering equal or better quality of life.
Job Market & Economy in DFW
DFW’s economy is one of the strongest and most diverse in the nation, making it an attractive destination for professionals across industries.
Major Employers in DFW
Fortune 500 Headquarters:
- American Airlines (Fort Worth)
- AT&T (Dallas)
- ExxonMobil (Irving)
- Toyota North America (Plano)
- JPMorgan Chase (Plano)
- Charles Schwab (Westlake)
- Texas Instruments (Dallas)
- Southwest Airlines (Dallas)
Other Major Employers:
- Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, Bell Helicopter (aerospace/defense)
- Baylor Scott & White, Texas Health Resources, Medical City (healthcare)
- State Farm, Liberty Mutual, USAA (insurance/finance)
- Amazon, Facebook, Google (tech expansions)
Growing Industries
Technology: DFW is rapidly becoming a tech hub, with major expansions from Amazon, Google, Facebook, and hundreds of startups.
Healthcare: Furthermore, DFW’s healthcare sector is booming, with major hospital systems, research institutions, and biotech companies creating thousands of jobs.
Finance: In addition, major financial institutions have significant operations in DFW, offering careers in banking, investment, and fintech.
Logistics & Transportation: DFW’s central location makes it a logistics hub, with Amazon, FedEx, UPS, and countless distribution centers.
Average Salaries by Industry
- Technology: $90,000-$150,000+
- Healthcare: $70,000-$120,000+
- Finance: $80,000-$140,000+
- Engineering: $85,000-$130,000+
- Sales/Marketing: $60,000-$100,000+
Pro Tip: If you’re relocating to DFW for work, research neighborhoods near your office to minimize commute times. DFW is large, and commutes can be 30-60+ minutes depending on location.
Best DFW Neighborhoods for Relocating Families
Choosing the right neighborhood is critical when moving to DFW. Here are the top family-friendly communities:
Luxury Neighborhoods: Top Schools & Premium Lifestyle
Southlake
- Median Home Price: $850,000
- School District: Carroll ISD (10/10 rating—#1 in Texas)
- Why Families Love It: Award-winning schools, upscale Town Square, excellent parks
- Learn More: Living in Southlake TX: Complete Guide
Colleyville
- Median Home Price: $700,000
- School District: Grapevine-Colleyville ISD (9/10 rating)
- Why Families Love It: Large estate lots, mature trees, excellent schools
- Learn More: Living in Colleyville TX: Complete Guide
Best Value: Excellent Schools Without Premium Prices
Grapevine
- Median Home Price: $450,000
- School District: Grapevine-Colleyville ISD (9/10 rating)
- Why Families Love It: Best value for GCISD schools, charming downtown
- Learn More: Living in Grapevine TX: Complete Guide
Coppell
- Median Home Price: $550,000
- School District: Coppell ISD (9/10 rating)
- Why Families Love It: Excellent schools, extensive parks, strong community
Learn more about the best family-friendly neighborhoods: Best Family-Friendly Neighborhoods in DFW 2026
Pro Tip: When relocating to DFW, prioritize neighborhoods with top-rated schools (9-10/10 ratings). These communities maintain strong property values and offer the best long-term investment.
Need Help Finding the Perfect DFW Neighborhood?
Choosing the right neighborhood is one of the most important decisions when moving to DFW. With so many excellent communities to choose from, having a local expert who understands school districts, commute times, property values, and neighborhood culture makes all the difference.
As a real estate agent specializing in DFW relocations, I help families find the perfect neighborhood and home that matches their priorities, budget, and lifestyle. Whether you’re prioritizing top-rated schools, proximity to work, luxury amenities, or the best value, I’ll provide personalized guidance and support throughout your entire move.
Let’s discuss your relocation plans and find your perfect DFW neighborhood.
Collin Seaton
Real Estate Agent | Century 21 Judge Fite
Phone: 817-970-9240
Email: collinseaton@judgefite.com
Website: collinseatonhomes.com
Schools & Education in DFW
Education is a top priority for families moving to DFW. The region offers exceptional public and private school options.
Top-Rated Public School Districts
Carroll ISD (Southlake) – 10/10 GreatSchools rating
- Consistently ranked #1 in Texas
- Exceptional academics, arts, and athletics
- High college acceptance rates
Grapevine-Colleyville ISD – 9/10 rating
- Serves Grapevine and Colleyville
- Strong academics and extracurriculars
- Excellent value for top-tier education
Coppell ISD – 9/10 rating
- High-performing academics
- Strong community involvement
- Excellent facilities and programs
Frisco ISD – 9/10 rating
- Rapidly growing district
- Modern facilities and technology
- Strong STEM programs
Private School Options
Additionally, DFW offers excellent private schools for families seeking alternative education:
- Parish Episcopal School (Dallas) – College prep, K-12
- Trinity Christian Academy (Addison) – Faith-based, K-12
- Greenhill School (Addison) – Independent, K-12
- Fort Worth Country Day (Fort Worth) – College prep, K-12
Higher Education
DFW is home to major universities and colleges:
- Southern Methodist University (SMU) – Private research university
- Texas Christian University (TCU) – Private university in Fort Worth
- University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) – Public research university
- University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) – Major public university
- University of North Texas (UNT) – Large public university in Denton
Learn more: GreatSchools.org provides detailed ratings and reviews for all DFW schools.
DFW Weather & Climate: What to Expect
Understanding DFW’s weather helps you prepare for moving to Dallas Fort Worth.
Seasonal Breakdown
Spring (March-May):
- Temperatures: 60-85°F
- Beautiful weather with blooming flowers
- Occasional thunderstorms and tornado season (April-May)
- Best time for outdoor activities
Summer (June-September):
- Temperatures: 85-100°F (hot and humid)
- Long days perfect for pools and evening activities
- Air conditioning is essential
- Occasional afternoon thunderstorms
Fall (October-November):
- Temperatures: 60-80°F
- Beautiful mild weather
- Perfect for outdoor activities and festivals
- Comfortable and pleasant
Winter (December-February):
- Temperatures: 35-60°F
- Mild compared to northern states
- Occasional freezing temperatures
- Rare snow (1-2 times per year, usually light)
What to Know About DFW Weather
Hot Summers: DFW summers are hot (95-100°F common). Most activities shift to early morning, evening, or indoors during peak heat.
Tornado Season: Spring brings tornado season (April-May). However, most tornadoes are minor, and warning systems are excellent. Have a plan and safe room.
Mild Winters: Winters are short and mild. Typically, you’ll need a jacket, but heavy winter gear is rarely necessary.
Year-Round Outdoor Living: The long warm season means you’ll enjoy your backyard, patio, and outdoor spaces 8-9 months per year.
Pro Tip: If you’re relocating from a cold climate, you’ll love DFW’s mild winters. If you’re from a moderate climate, invest in good air conditioning and embrace indoor activities during peak summer heat.
Transportation & Getting Around DFW
Understanding transportation is essential when moving to DFW.
You Need a Car
DFW is a driving city. Public transportation exists but is limited compared to cities like New York or Chicago. Plan on owning a car (or two) for daily life.
DFW International Airport & Love Field
DFW International Airport:
- One of the world’s busiest airports
- Direct flights to 200+ destinations
- Located centrally between Dallas and Fort Worth
- 20-40 minutes from most suburbs
Dallas Love Field:
- Smaller airport in Dallas
- Primarily Southwest Airlines
- Convenient for domestic travel
DART Rail System
Meanwhile, Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) offers light rail connecting Dallas, suburbs, and DFW Airport. Useful for commuting to downtown Dallas or airport travel, but limited coverage in suburbs.
Traffic & Commute Times
DFW is large (9,000+ square miles), and commute times vary significantly:
- Suburb to suburb: 20-40 minutes
- Suburb to downtown Dallas/Fort Worth: 30-60 minutes
- Cross-metroplex (Dallas to Fort Worth): 45-90 minutes
Rush hour: 7-9 AM and 4-7 PM can add 15-30 minutes to commutes.
Pro Tip: When choosing a neighborhood, prioritize proximity to your workplace. A 20-minute commute vs. 60-minute commute dramatically impacts quality of life.
Things to Do in DFW: Lifestyle & Entertainment
Moving to DFW means access to world-class entertainment, dining, and activities.
Professional Sports
- Dallas Cowboys (NFL) – AT&T Stadium, Arlington
- The Dallas Mavericks (NBA) – American Airlines Center, Dallas
- Texas Rangers (MLB) – Globe Life Field, Arlington
- Dallas Stars (NHL) – American Airlines Center, Dallas
- FC Dallas (MLS) – Toyota Stadium, Frisco
Arts & Culture
- The Dallas Museum of Art – Free general admission
- Perot Museum of Nature and Science – Interactive exhibits
- Kimbell Art Museum (Fort Worth) – World-class collection
- Bass Performance Hall (Fort Worth) – Broadway shows and performances
- AT&T Performing Arts Center (Dallas) – Theater, opera, symphony
Family Attractions
- Six Flags Over Texas (Arlington) – Theme park
- Dallas Zoo – 106-acre zoo with 2,000+ animals
- Fort Worth Zoo – Top-rated zoo in the nation
- Fort Worth Stockyards – Historic district with rodeos and Western culture
- Legoland Discovery Center (Grapevine) – Indoor Lego attraction
Outdoor Activities
- White Rock Lake (Dallas) – 9-mile trail, kayaking, paddleboarding
- Grapevine Lake – Boating, fishing, camping
- Arbor Hills Nature Preserve (Plano) – Hiking and biking trails
- Trinity River Trail System – 130+ miles of trails
Dining & Nightlife
DFW offers world-class dining from Tex-Mex and BBQ to fine dining and international cuisines. Uptown Dallas, Bishop Arts District, Fort Worth Stockyards, and Grapevine’s Main Street offer vibrant dining and nightlife scenes.
Pro Tip: DFW offers big-city entertainment with suburban convenience. You’re never more than 30-40 minutes from professional sports, museums, concerts, or family attractions.
Moving to DFW Timeline Checklist
Planning your move to Dallas Fort Worth? Follow this timeline for a smooth, successful relocation.
6 Months Before Moving to DFW
- Research neighborhoods – Explore school districts, commute times, and community amenities
- Visit DFW – Tour neighborhoods, visit schools, experience the area
- Get pre-approved for mortgage – Understand your budget and buying power
- Research job market – If relocating without a job, explore opportunities and network
- Plan finances – Budget for moving costs, down payment, closing costs
3 Months Before Moving to DFW
- Hire real estate agent – Work with a local expert who understands DFW neighborhoods
- Start home search – Tour homes in target neighborhoods
- Hire moving company – Get quotes and book movers early
- Notify employers – Coordinate relocation timeline and benefits
- Research schools – Contact schools about enrollment procedures
1 Month Before Moving to DFW
- Make offer on home – Work with your agent to negotiate and close
- Transfer utilities – Set up electricity, water, gas, internet
- Update address – USPS forwarding, banks, credit cards, subscriptions
- Pack belongings – Start packing non-essentials
- Plan travel logistics – Book hotels if needed during transition
Moving Week
- Final walkthrough – Inspect home before closing
- Close on home – Sign paperwork and get keys
- Coordinate movers – Confirm arrival time and logistics
- Travel to DFW – Arrive before or with your belongings
First Month After Moving to DFW
- Register vehicles – Visit Texas DMV to register cars (30 days)
- Get Texas driver’s license – Visit DPS within 90 days
- Enroll kids in school – Complete registration and orientation
- Explore neighborhood – Find grocery stores, restaurants, parks, services
- Meet neighbors – Introduce yourself and build community connections
- Update voter registration – Register to vote in Texas
Pro Tip: Moving to DFW is a big transition. Give yourself time to adjust, explore, and settle in. Most families feel fully settled within 3-6 months.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Moving to DFW
Learn from others’ mistakes and avoid these common pitfalls when relocating to Dallas Fort Worth:
1. Not Visiting Neighborhoods Before Buying
Mistake: Buying a home based on online research without visiting the neighborhood.
Solution: Visit DFW, tour multiple neighborhoods, and experience the area before committing. In fact, each community has a unique character and feel.
2. Underestimating Commute Times
Mistake: Buying a home 45-60 minutes from work, thinking the commute is manageable.
Solution: Prioritize proximity to work. Ultimately, a long daily commute quickly becomes exhausting and impacts quality of life.
3. Ignoring School District Boundaries
Mistake: Assuming a home is in a top-rated school district without verifying exact boundaries.
Solution: Verify school assignments before buying. Boundaries can be complex, and being one street over can mean a different school.
4. Buying Too Far from Amenities
Mistake: Buying in a remote suburb to save money, then regretting the distance to shopping, dining, and activities.
Solution: Balance affordability with convenience. Consider how often you’ll drive 20-30 minutes for basic errands.
5. Not Budgeting for Property Taxes
Mistake: Focusing only on mortgage payments and forgetting Texas property taxes (1.8-2.5% annually).
Solution: Factor property taxes into your monthly budget. A $500,000 home = $10,000-$12,500/year in property taxes.
6. Underestimating Summer Heat
Mistake: Not preparing for DFW’s hot summers (95-100°F common).
Solution: Budget for higher summer electricity bills ($200-$400/month) and plan indoor activities during peak heat.
7. Not Working with a Local Real Estate Agent
Mistake: Trying to navigate DFW’s complex market without local expertise.
Solution: Work with an experienced local agent who knows neighborhoods, schools, market conditions, and can guide you through a successful purchase.
Pro Tip: The most successful relocations happen when families visit DFW, work with local experts, and prioritize neighborhoods that match their lifestyle and priorities.
Ready to Make Your Move to DFW?
Moving to DFW is an exciting opportunity for career growth, excellent schools, affordability, and quality of life. Whether you’re relocating for work, seeking better schools, or simply looking for a fresh start, the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex offers everything you need to thrive.
As a real estate agent specializing in helping families relocate to DFW, I provide personalized guidance, neighborhood expertise, and support throughout your entire move. From finding the perfect neighborhood and home to navigating the buying process and settling into your new community, I’m here to make your relocation smooth and successful.
Let’s discuss your specific situation, priorities, and timeline. I’ll help you find the perfect neighborhood and home for your family’s needs.
Collin SeatonReal Estate Agent | Century 21 Judge Fite
Phone: 817-970-9240
Email: collinseaton@judgefite.com
Website: collinseatonhomes.com
About the Author
Collin Seaton is a dedicated real estate agent with Century 21 Judge Fite, specializing in helping families relocate to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. With deep knowledge of DFW neighborhoods, school districts, and market conditions, Collin provides data-driven insights and personalized guidance to ensure relocating families find the perfect home and community.
Whether you’re moving to DFW from across the country or across the state, Collin is committed to making your relocation smooth, successful, and stress-free.
Contact Collin today: 817-970-9240 | collinseaton@judgefite.com
