Moving to Dallas: A complete relocation guide

All you need to know about the Big D before calling it home.

Kevin Crain

By Kevin Crain

Dallas skyline, bridge, and Texas state flag

So much is bigger and better in Texas. That includes all of the possible places to call home in the Lone Star State. Thinking about moving to Dallas? It’s a sprawling city where the spirit of the Wild West mixes with the lightning-fast pace of a modern-day metropolis.

Dallas has a reputation as an economic powerhouse, drawing job seekers and visionaries from all corners of the globe. With a thriving job market and a diverse cultural tapestry, it’s no wonder that living in Dallas is so appealing. Especially when there are fully furnished Dallas apartments that take the stress out of moving.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll open your eyes to the many benefits of relocating to Dallas. Whether you’re a professional growing in your career or an individual looking to embrace the Texas way of life, let’s explore what it’s like living in Dallas. 

What’s the deal with Dallas?

Dallas skyline at night

Nestled in North Texas, Dallas enjoys a prime location. The city’s climate offers residents the best of both worlds, with hot summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Dallas features many safe neighborhoods, from the trendy streets of Uptown to the historic charm of the Bishop Arts District and the upscale allure of Highland Park.

Moving to Dallas for a job? The city’s thriving economy attracts thousands of professionals each year, particularly in industries like finance, technology, healthcare, and energy. 

Dallas is a cultural hub, offering a myriad of entertainment options and recreational activities. Explore world-class museums, savor mouthwatering Tex-Mex cuisine, or catch a live performance at the historic Majestic Theatre. For outdoor enthusiasts, the city’s parks and trails are an open invitation to adventure, with everything from hiking and biking to boating and golf.

Where should you stay?

Finding the perfect accommodation in Dallas is essential. Luckily, it’s easy since the Dallas housing market offers a wide array of options. Simply decide if you’d prefer a turnkey Blueground one-bedroom apartment in the heart of downtown or spacious two-bedroom home in a popular suburb like Arlington or Plano.

As you pack your bags and evaluate potential spots to live in Dallas, remember to take some things into account, like your daily commute and the proximity to your workplace. After all, Dallas traffic can be brutal during rush hour. 

Relocating with your family? Be sure to check out the quality of local schools and nearby parks, too. And look to see how close you’ll be to grocery stores, healthcare facilities, and entertainment options. This can really impact your daily life.

Navigating the Dallas job market

Texas state flags hanging on a line in Dallas

Job hunting before moving to Dallas? Or just looking to find a better place to work? The Dallas job market, known for its dynamic and diverse industries, has endless opportunities. Prominent companies like AT&T, Texas Instruments, and Southwest Airlines call Dallas home, offering a plethora of career prospects.

To navigate this bustling job market successfully, job seekers should harness the power of networking and online resources. Try attending local meetups and events to get plugged in socially. This can open doors to valuable connections and job openings you may not have otherwise heard about. Of course, online platforms like LinkedIn and job search engines are go-to destinations for searching through available jobs.

However, make sure that before you apply, you’ve created a compelling resume and cover letter. These are crucial if you want to get an employers’ attention. And depending on the job you’d like to land, highlight your relevant skills and experiences to stand out from the crowd. 

Cost of living & budgeting

Dallas offers a cost of living that’s generally lower than the national average. In other words, living in Dallas is affordable! This low cost of living touch different parts of daily life, from housing and utilities to groceries and transportation.

If you’re budgeting for your move, consider both the big and small expenses. Try your best to estimate the cost of rent for your apartment, insurance, groceries, dining out, and more. While public transportation in Dallas is decent thanks to the DART rail system, most residents drive since the city is so spread out. Keep that in mind when deciding how you’ll get around Dallas. 

Putting together a comprehensive budget ensures that you take full advantage of the city’s affordability.

Settling in & getting around

Dart rail in Dallas

Ready to make Dallas feel like home? It’s a friendly city, but the best way to make connections is to take part in local events, explore popular spots like Trinity Groves and Klyde Warren Park, and participate in community activities like the annual St. Patrick’s Day parade. Making new friends and embracing the diverse social tapestry of Dallas just takes a willingness to try new things.

Also, navigating the Big D isn’t as daunting as it seems because there are a few different transportation options. Dallas boasts a robust public transit system, including DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit), which covers various neighborhoods and suburbs. Plus, ridesharing services are available, so you have options for your daily commute.

For the eco-conscious, Dallas offers numerous biking lanes and trails, making it a cyclist’s haven. Furthermore, to make the most of your Dallas stay, consider using local apps and resources like Yelp, Dallas Love Field Airport’s convenient location, and bike-sharing programs to enjoy a smooth experience in this dynamic Texas city.

Education & family services

Dallas is a city that values education. Families will find high-quality public schools and private institutions, giving you confidence in your children’s education. Dallas is also home to several higher education institutions, such as SMU and UTD, opening doors to academic excellence for aspiring college students.

For parents moving to Dallas, enrolling children in schools is a relatively straightforward process. Even better, the Dallas Independent School District (DISD) is one of the largest public school districts in the country. That means your school-age children will have plenty of education and extracurricular opportunities!  

Obviously, living in Dallas is about more than just schools. Boasting numerous recreational programs, family services, and support networks, parents can rest easy knowing their kiddos can expand their horizons. From exploring White Rock Lake and public libraries to annual family events and top-notch childcare services, Dallas has everything needed to help every member of your family thrive. 

Exploring culture & entertainment

Ferris wheel at the Texas state fair in Dallas

Want to boost your brainpower? Museums like the Dallas Museum of Art and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science offer captivating insights into art, science, and history. Feel like catching a show or concert? Theaters like the AT&T Performing Arts Center host a spectrum of world-class performances while venues like the House of Blues and the iconic Granada Theater, offer live shows from top artists in just about every genre.

If you’re not sure where to go first for entertainment, don’t miss Deep Ellum and the Bishop Arts District. There’s an eclectic mix of cuisine that you’ll never get tired of! You can also make it tradition to visit the State Fair of Texas or the Dallas International Film Festival each year. Whether you’re exploring museums, taking in a live show, or indulging in diverse culinary delights, living in Dallas promises a never-ending cultural adventure.

Make your move to Dallas ASAP

Fully furnished apartment in Dallas

We hope this guide to living in Dallas makes your relocation easy. This Texas city has so much to offer residents, from a reasonable cost of living and its thriving job market to lots of educational opportunities and entertainment options.

Just don’t forget the importance of planning ahead and researching the best neighborhoods in the area, so your time in the Big D will as enjoyable as possible. 

Want to make things really easy? Consider staying for a month or longer in a fully equipped Blueground apartment. These move-in-ready homes let you effortlessly book and move in as soon as tomorrow. 

Kevin Crain

Kevin Crain

Kevin Crain is a writer from Dallas, Texas. He’s dedicated to helping every Blueground guest live like a local and make their apartment feel like home. His favorite topics include active experiences, bucket list essentials, and hidden gems in cities around the world.