Living near Dallas offers many of the same perks people look for when moving to Dallas proper, including a strong business presence, thriving sports culture, and vibrant arts and food scenes. From the massive Dallas Arts District to major employers like AT&T and American Airlines, the city delivers the full metro experience. But living directly downtown isn’t for everyone — and that’s where the many cities near Dallas shine. These surrounding suburbs and communities offer quieter neighborhoods, more space, and access to the same great amenities just a short drive away.
With so many cities near Dallas to choose from, understanding what each area offers can make it much easier to find the right fit for your lifestyle, commute, and budget.
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11 Best Cities Near Dallas
People choose to live in cities near Dallas for all kinds of reasons: A shorter commute, better schools, more space, or just the desire for a slower pace. The Dallas-Fort Worth metro includes everything from established suburbs to historic towns and rapidly growing communities that still offer easy access to the city.
Below, you’ll find 11 of the best places to explore if you’re moving in Dallas, complete with restaurant recs and all the best attractions to explore.
| Q: Which cities are close to Dallas, Texas? A: Irving, Richardson, and Arlington are among the nearest options, each offering a lifestyle that appeals to different types of residents seeking a city close to Dallas, Texas. |
Richardson’s mix of major employers, green spaces, and established neighborhoods makes it a top choice among cities near Dallas for families and professionals alike.
(Source: CityLine DFW via Facebook)
1. Richardson, TX
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,450
- Average home value: $431,500
- Great for: Families, young professionals, dining, shopping, job opportunities, outdoor recreation
- Commute to Downtown Dallas: 35-minute drive
Richardson sits just north of Dallas and offers one of the region’s most balanced living environments. Known for its strong tech presence, consisting of tech giants like Celestica, this suburb attracts people wanting fast access to Dallas job centers without living directly in the urban core. Its parks, trails, and green spaces — including Spring Creek Nature Area — make it easy to enjoy outdoor time close to home.
With international restaurants, shopping centers, and diverse neighborhoods, Richardson continues to grow in popularity among cities near Dallas for its convenience and welcoming atmosphere.
2. Irving, TX
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,325
- Average home value: $332,700
- Great for: Families, diverse cuisines, job opportunities, cultural attractions
- Commute to Downtown Dallas: 25-minute drive
Irving has long been one of the most centrally located cities near Dallas, TX, especially for people who travel for work. Its close proximity to DFW International Airport makes last-minute flights simple, and its Las Colinas District is packed with lakeside paths, upscale dining, and entertainment.
Irving’s dining scene includes everything from Tex-Mex to Indian cuisine — with local favorites like Our Place Indian Cuisine drawing residents from across the metro. Combined with big-name employers such as Kimberly-Clark and Fluor, Irving remains a top option among Dallas’ surrounding cities.
Beyond its business appeal, living in Irving means a rich mix of cultural experiences. The Irving Arts Center hosts rotating exhibits, performances, and community events. Families also appreciate the city’s network of parks, including Campion Trail, a scenic, multi-use path that winds along the Trinity River and connects several neighborhoods. Lake Carolyn in Las Colinas adds another layer of charm with gondola rides, waterfront patios, and seasonal festivals that bring the community together.
Denton’s downtown square buzzes with restaurants, quirky boutiques, and live music venues.
(Source: Discover Denton via Facebook)
3. Denton, TX
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,225
- Average home value: $348,800
- Great for: Young professionals, culture, music, entertainment, NASCAR racing
- Commute to Downtown Dallas: 60-minute drive
Denton feels different from many cities near Dallas thanks to its college-town personality. The University of North Texas and Texas Woman’s University bring a steady stream of artists, musicians, and students, which fuels the city’s creative culture. Denton’s downtown square buzzes with restaurants, quirky boutiques, and live music venues.
It’s also close to the Texas Motor Speedway, making it appealing for racing fans who want a suburban lifestyle with unique weekend entertainment options.
| Spotlight on Fort Worth, Texas: Fort Worth neighborhoods like West 7th, Near Southside, and the Cultural District deliver walkable dining, museums, nightlife, and boutique shopping — making them ideal for anyone who wants the perks of big-city living near Dallas without the congestion of Dallas proper. |
4. Arlington, TX
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,150
- Average home value: $304,600
- Great for: Families, young professionals, entertainment, outdoor recreation
- Commute to Downtown Dallas: 30-minute drive
Arlington sits between Dallas and Fort Worth and is one of the most iconic cities 30 minutes from Dallas, TX. Home to the Dallas Cowboys, Texas Rangers, Six Flags Over Texas, and the University of Texas at Arlington, the city offers endless entertainment and a lively year-round event calendar. The Entertainment District draws visitors from across the state, yet Arlington still maintains plenty of quiet, residential neighborhoods like Vandergriff, Fielder Park, and Dalworthington Gardens, where families enjoy tree-lined streets and a slower pace.
Beyond its sports and theme parks, Arlington delivers strong day-to-day livability. River Legacy Park, a 1,000-acre green space, gives residents trails, picnic spots, and wildlife viewing in a beautiful natural setting, while Lake Arlington provides opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and waterfront relaxation. With growing job opportunities, diverse dining, and convenient access to both Dallas and Fort Worth, Arlington stands out as one of the most well-rounded cities near Dallas for families, students, and commuters alike.
| Q: What are the Mid-Cities near Dallas? A: The “Mid-Cities” describe the group of communities located between Dallas and Fort Worth along major highway corridors. In addition to Arlington and Irving, this area includes Hurst, Bedford, and Euless — suburbs known for their central location, established neighborhoods, and easy access to both sides of the metroplex. |
Plano consistently ranks as one of the best cities near Dallas, TX, offering scenic parks, strong schools, and plenty of community events.
(Source: Visit Plano via Facebook)
5. Plano, TX
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,475
- Average home value: $496,700
- Great for: Families, young professionals, local festivities, outdoor recreation
- Commute to Downtown Dallas: 45-minute drive
Plano is one of the most established cities near Dallas, offering top-rated schools, well-maintained parks, and a variety of neighborhoods. With nearly 300,000 residents, moving to Plano feels like a self-contained city, complete with shopping plazas, festivals, and strong community engagement.
Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is a local favorite, providing 200 acres of scenic trails for hiking, biking, and exploring. Residents also enjoy access to the bustling Legacy West district, where upscale restaurants, boutiques, and outdoor gathering spaces create a lively atmosphere day and night.
Family-friendly neighborhoods — like Willow Bend and Whiffletree — appeal to those seeking mature trees and spacious homes, while modern apartment communities near Legacy and Granite Park attract young professionals. With its mix of suburban comfort, economic opportunity, and year-round local events, Plano continues to be one of the most desirable places to live near Dallas.
| Q: What towns are 2 hours away from Dallas? A: Several towns fall roughly two hours from Dallas, including Tyler to the east, Waco to the south, and Glen Rose to the southwest. These towns near Dallas offer quieter living, scenic outdoor areas, and easy day-trip access while still staying connected to the larger North Texas region. |
6. Tyler, TX
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $950
- Average home value: $247,600
- Great for: Families, young professionals, affordability, arts, history, comfort food
- Commute to Downtown Dallas: 1 hour & 45-minute drive
Tyler sits farther from the metro but stands out as one of the most affordable towns near Dallas. Its strong arts presence, including the Tyler Museum of Art and the Rose Garden, gives the city a unique cultural identity without the big city price tag.
Residents enjoy historic sites, comfort food favorites, like Cotton Patch Cafe, and relaxed East Texas living. The city also hosts several annual festivals, including the famous Texas Rose Festival, which draws visitors from all over the state. With a growing job market, family-friendly neighborhoods, and plenty of parks and lakes nearby, Tyler offers a balanced lifestyle that appeals to both long-time Texans and newcomers alike.
Argyle is one of the most serene small cities near Dallas, TX.
(Source: Town of Argyle via Facebook)
7. Argyle, TX
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,400
- Average home value: $599,000
- Great for: Families, retirees, fun attractions, golfing
- Commute to Downtown Dallas: 60-minute drive
Argyle is one of the most serene small cities near Dallas, TX, known for its large lots, quiet neighborhoods, and friendly community feel. With local attractions like Old Alton Bridge and nearby golf courses (Tour 18 and Denton Country Club), the town appeals to residents wanting suburban comfort with room to breathe.
Highly rated schools and a strong sense of community make it especially popular with families. While it offers a slower pace, Argyle’s proximity to both Denton and Dallas ensures residents still have easy access to major dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
8. Forney, TX
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,325
- Average home value: $309,900
- Great for: Families, young professionals, shopping, museums, dining
- Commute to Downtown Dallas: 30-minute drive
Forney, Texas, is one of the best towns near Dallas, TX, known for its historic “Antique Row,” which once housed nearly 100 shops during its peak as the “Antique Capital of Texas.”
Today, residents enjoy local attractions like the Spellman Museum of Forney History and outdoor events at the Spellman Amphitheater. The town also offers a variety of dining spots, including favorites like Rio Lerma Mexican Restaurant and Los Hermanos.
Families appreciate the highly rated schools and quiet suburban feel, while young professionals value the convenient 30-minute commute into Dallas. Forney’s growing retail centers and new housing developments make it a popular choice for anyone seeking space without sacrificing access to city amenities. The community also hosts seasonal festivals and markets that give the town a welcoming, small-town charm.
9. Talty, TX
- Average rent: N/A
- Median home sale price: $470,000
- Great for: Families, young professionals, shopping, local events
- Commute to Downtown Dallas: 30-minute drive
Talty is another one of the best towns near Dallas, TX. It’s a quiet, semi-rural community with newer homes and plenty of open space. As one of the emerging small cities near Dallas, TX, Talty appeals to residents who want affordability, privacy, and a manageable commute.
Its location near I-20 makes it a great fit for people who want peaceful, open living while still commuting to Dallas. Residents can easily reach dining and shopping in nearby Forney — including spots like the Shoppes at Forney Crossing and City Plaza Forney — as well as attractions in Terrell’s historic downtown, known for its unique shops, murals, and family-friendly events, including Happy Days in Terrell America.
Frisco brings together universities, parks, and major sports attractions, making it one of the most dynamic cities near Dallas for students and families.
(Source: Visit Frisco, TX via Facebook)
10. Frisco, TX
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,475
- Average home value: $652,200
- Great for: Families, young professionals, sports, outdoor recreation, arts
- Commute to Downtown Dallas: 35-minute drive
Living in Frisco, TX, means being part of one of the most desirable communities near Dallas, thanks to its excellent schools, master-planned neighborhoods, and extensive recreation options. The Star, the Dallas Cowboys’ training headquarters, anchors a district full of restaurants, shops, and entertainment.
More than 1,600 acres of parks, plus galleries and cultural events, give Frisco a vibrant local identity that draws newcomers from across the country.
Frisco is also home to attractions like the National Videogame Museum and the popular Stonebriar Centre, offering family-friendly fun year-round. With a booming job market, ongoing development, and a strong sense of community, it continues to be one of the fastest-growing and most appealing places to settle near Dallas.
11. Grapevine, TX
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,575
- Average home value: $536,000
- Great for: Families, fun activities, dining
- Commute to Downtown Dallas: 30-minute drive
Grapevine sits strategically between Dallas and Fort Worth and is one of the most popular cities near Dallas. Known for wineries, seasonal festivals, and a charming downtown, the city offers endless activities. Families enjoy attractions like the Great Wolf Lodge Water Park and the LEGOLAND Discovery Center, while Lake Grapevine provides trails and waterfront recreation.
Grapevine also offers some of the most delicious eateries here that you won’t find in other cities in the Dallas area! Find a classic Tex-Mex experience at Esparza’s Restaurante Mexicano and a seafood lover's paradise at Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen.
The city’s Urban Wine Trail, holiday events like Grapevine Christmas Capital of Texas, and lively Main Street shops add even more charm. With its mix of entertainment, outdoor adventures, and vibrant dining options, Grapevine delivers a small-town feel with big-city excitement.
| Q: How many cities are in Dallas County, TX? A: According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Dallas County is made up of 31 incorporated cities, ranging from major suburbs to smaller communities throughout the region. |
Move to One of the Best Cities Near Dallas With PODS
If you're preparing to move to one of these cities near Dallas, PODS can help you transition smoothly and on your schedule. Make your move to Dallas’ nearby cities flexible with a PODS portable moving container delivered right to your driveway, where you’ll be able to load at your own pace. Need help with the heavy lifting? PODS can refer you to local packing and loading services. Since one month’s storage is included in the cost of every move, your container can stay at home or at a secure PODS Storage Center until you’re ready.
When it’s time, PODS will deliver your container to your new home — whether you're moving to Frisco, Plano, Richardson, Grapevine, or any of the other cities near Dallas that made your shortlist.
Visit PODS online for a free local moving quote or call 877-350-7637 for long-distance moving.
Editor’s note: Average rent prices were obtained from RentCafe and Zumper; average home values were obtained from Zillow; median home sale prices were obtained from Redfin. For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100.
(Source for image featured at top: Discover Denton via Facebook)
*This article was written on behalf of PODS Enterprises, LLC (“PODS”). PODS does not warrant the completeness or accuracy of any information contained in this article and disclaims any liability for reliance upon the content herein.
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