Are you thinking about moving to Dallas?
I might be able to help.
I ended up relocating to Dallas 8 years ago for a job and havent looked back since.
Pros & Cons of Living in Dallas (Shutterstock/dibrova)
Its notallsunshine and barbecues in the Big D (yeah, unfortunately thats our official nickname).
If so,heres my favorite hotel in town.
Enjoy the finer things in life?Youll love this option(pinkies up!).
Dallas Skyline | Life in Dallas, Texas (Shutterstock/kintermedia1)
Pros of Moving to Dallas
#1.
I dont want to mislead you though.
It requires a lot of effort and legwork.
Dallas Suburb | Dallas Living (Shutterstock/Trong Nguyen)
#2.
But look at me getting ahead of myself, Ill cover taxes in depth shortly.
#3.
Living in Dallas (Shutterstock/Nate Hovee)
Year-Round Sunshine + Mild Winters
Have you ever heard someone complain about too much sunshine?
Winters in Texas are mild, warm and (very) sunny.
That sunshine is a blessing for the bones.
Dallas Home in the Evening (Shutterstock/Allison-J-Hahn)
As you know, pleasant winters typically mean super-hot summers and theres no need to sugarcoat that fact.
Texas summers are blistering very hot and oppressively humid (well cover this shortly, too).
But Id still happily sacrifice 3 months of hot temperatures for 9 months of sunny bliss.
Pros & Cons of Living in Dallas (Shutterstock/kintermedia1)
Heres a quick roundup of average daily temperatures in Dallas during every month of the year (highs/lows).
#4.
Reasonable Cost of Living
Now, before I start hearing the sarcastic laughs, allow me to elaborate.
Dallas at Sunset (Shutterstock/Sean Pavone)
The cost of living in the United States is becoming astronomical regardless of the state you call home.
In fact, affordability was the biggest reason I ended up moving to Dallas.
Ive been priced out of every other major US city, so Dallas was a welcome change of pace.
A Dallas Neighborhood (Shutterstock/Trong Nguyen)
Prior to moving to Dallas I considered the pros and cons seriously.
Which means you dont need to work two jobsorhave roommates to enjoy living in Dallas.
Overall, my life feels more enjoyable simply because I can afford to live well.
Dallas, Texas at Sunset (Shutterstock/Kevin Ruck)
#5.
Healthy Job Economy
Millennials are moving to Dallas in hordes for many reasons.
Youll be able to find jobs in transportation, technology, healthcare, manufacturing and finance.
#6.
In fact, 43.1% of residents speak a non-English language at home.
With a population inching close to 1.3 million, thats an incredible stat to consider!
Expect to come across folks from all walks of life while living in Dallas.
Some folks have reached out and asked about the benefits of diversity so I did some more digging.
#7.
As mentioned earlier, buying a home is not attainable for most Americans anymore.
Its possible to live near (or even within) the metro area because home prices arent absurd.
Cons of Living in Dallas
#1.
Can you get by without a car?
But if youre moving to the suburbs, owning a car while living in Dallas will make lifewayeasier.
Texas has some of thelowest gas prices in the country.
#2.
Some lifelong locals get defensive while most recent transplants seem to agree.
#3.
Its not uncommon for summer highs to exceed 100F and thunderstorms are all but guaranteed come spring.
Whats more, Dallas is prone to droughts, floods, hail, tornadoes and residual storms from hurricanes.
Needless to say, youll need to have proper home insurance while living in Dallas.
#4.
#5.
The downside of urban sprawl is the lack of walk-ability.
Its inevitable that folks would prefer hopping in the car over tying up their walking shoes.
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#6.
And since Texas doesnt have a state income tax, that money has to come from somewhere.
#7.
But thats not all.
Texas is one of thebuggiest statesin America, to boot.
Other Factors to Consider Before Moving to Dallas
#1.
Expect to see republican-themed apparel and flags in every town, practically every storefront and every restaurant.
Those that sway with Republican policies will feel comfortable and welcomed while living in Texas.
Liberals will also be welcomed, but it may be harder to find your footing for a while.
However, its definitely possible and Texans are a kind bunch.
#2.
Gun Culture
As you probably know, Texas is a loud and proud gun carrying state.
Its not uncommon to see people openly carrying firearms while running errands.
Its not uncommon to get invited to gun ranges by friends and coworkers.
#3.
Football is a Way of Life
Texas has two religions: Religion and football.
Everyone and their dog roots for one team or another so you better be prepared.
Texas has some pretty awesome professional sports teams and the Dallas Cowboys are a fun team to watch.
The passion isnt reserved just for professional teams though.
Youll need to pick a favorite college team and maybe a high school team for good measure.
The exhilarating sports scene is alive and well in Texas, make no mistake about it.
It makes living in Texas very fun (especially during football season).
Visit one of the local sports bars and see what all the fuss is about.
FAQ Life in Dallas
Is Dallas a good place to live?
Dallas might be your perfect fit if youre an aspiring professional in booming fields like healthcare or tech.
The tax-free environment sweetens the pot, while families can rejoice in sunshine and affordable housing.
Culture vultures wont be bored either, with diverse communities and a vibrant arts scene waiting to be explored.
And for sports fans?
Cheering on the Cowboys, Mavericks, or Stars will become your new weekend ritual.
Is Dallas a good place to retire?
Retirement in Dallas is a two-sided coin.
Consider your preferred level of activity and temperature tolerance before making the move.
What is Dallas known for?
Football is life here, with the Cowboys reigning supreme and college rivalries running deep.
But beyond the gridiron, youll find world-class museums, vibrant neighborhoods, and Tex-Mex heaven.
Dont forget the friendly locals, buzzing nightlife, and hidden green spaces Dallas packs a surprising punch!
Where is Dallas?
(Map)
Summary of the Pros & Cons of Living in Dallas
Cheers!