Relocating to Dallas
 

We are thinking of relocating to Dallas TX. It seems like a very well managed area that has a lot of positive things for families. I was wondering though what the natives or adopted natives thought of living there and what part of Dallas do they recommend for families. Are there a lot of green spaces/natural areas to visit around or outside the metroplex area? This is your chance to sound off good and bad. Thanks!

What a great opportunity for you! I've lived here most of my life, and I must say I think it's a wonderful place to live. The job market here is amazing- currently 3% unemployment- so most of the area's employers are needing good people. What sort of employment are you looking for? <BR> <BR>It's difficult to specify an area of town that is better for families. There are good and bad areas of town, of course, but there really isn't any one area that is "better for families." I recommend living as close as possible to your workplace so you minimize your commute. Sure, folks do drive across town every day, but why do it if you don't have to? If you're going to put your children in public schools, then you'll most likely want to be in a suburb with good schools. And of course, you'll want to avoid the hig-crime areas in southwest Dallas. I live in east Dallas, in a historic neighborhood with big trees and a lake, and I love it! (Sure, lots of people like to live in Plano, but you couldn't get me to live there if you GAVE me a house! The people are too materialistic and snobby!) <BR> <BR>Green places in Texas in September? Well, maybe if you kept up watering your yard all summer- ha ha! Sure, there are lots of nice State and local parks, plus this is a HUGE state, so the "country" isn't far away. Texas has lots of lovely lakes, and Texans like to go out to the lakes on weekends. You'd be surprised how much there is to do without leaving Texas! <BR> <BR>Email if you'd like more specific info, and good luck!!

Where are you moving from???? <BR>I moved here from outside of Los ANgeles, CA about 9 years ago. You couldn't pay me enough money to move back! The people here are friendly and there are a lot of different things to do. Although, I do miss the beach and the mountains. <BR> <BR>One thing I found is Dallas and Fort Worth have VERY different styles and this something to thing about when deciding where to live. Fort Worth is more laid back and casual. Dallas reminds me of LA. We live in Arlington and it's in the middle - lots of fun things close by - Tx Rangers, Six Flags, Hurricane Harbor etc. <BR> <BR>To check out the schools - try this web site to check TAAS ratings dfwrelocation.com/schools. <BR> <BR>Feel free to email if any ?'s. <BR>Lisa

Dallas is a great place for people with young families. The job market is good. But, my two cents, it is a big, tacky city lacking in character. The nicer communities are all gated and the houses all look exactly alike. Not saying it's bad, just not my cup o' tea. It is very much like L.A. in that you have to drive EVERYWHERE. One of the highlights, however, is the Galleria Mall.

Yes, all of the communities in PLANO are gated, and all of the houses there look the same! <BR> <BR>However, there are many really nice areas of town (specifically: University Park, Lakewood, M Streets and Forest Hills) that are older and don't all look the same. That's why I live there and I don't live in Plano! :-)

Thanks for your help! Plano may be a possiblity because that is where the job is and it would be great to finally have a small commute to work. I don't won't to try to keep up with the Jones, I just want nice parks, schools and libraries which Plano has. Thanks for letting me know of other areas. I am sure Dallas isn't perfect for all people but it does have a nice cost of living, lots to do and nice people from what I've read. I just was wondering if there were a lot of nice natural areas or parks to go to. Have you heard of Burgers Lake? Are the trails/parks nice along the rivers? It is hard to get a feel for that because the books only emphasis the booming business/entertainment/shopping part (which of course is what Dallas is rightly famous for!) I just wanted a feel for what is like to live there, not just visit. Thanks for all your help.

Burgers Lake is on the west side of Fort Worth and was/is a nice place to take a family for picnic (I haven't been there in over 10 years). Dallas has White Rock Lake which I believe has trails around it for biking/riding, as well as Bachman Lake (near Love Field Airport), and FW had the Trinity River Trail which is over 20miles of paved path along the river and through the parks and goes through downtown to the stockyards. <BR>

We were transfered here in 1979, and I retired in 1981. We live in Farmers Branch (northwest) and would recommend it. <BR> <BR>However, if you will be working in Plano, I'd suggest Richardson where we have a daughter living. We also have two daughters in Plano, and they like it. <BR> <BR>We never go to downtown Dallas even if there are many attractions. The advantage for us is the 20-30 minute drive to the airport and excellent service to any part of the country. <BR> <BR>We had the worst summer in history our first year. Survived it. And don't mind the heat at all. <BR> <BR>Come on down (down?)! <BR> <BR>

I was born in Fort Worth, grew up in the "HEB" area (between Dallas and Fort worth), left for 8 years, and now I've been living in Dallas for 5 years, and soon moving to Plano. Whew! Was that a run-on sentence or what? Anyway, I must admit that Dallas is not the place that I dream of spending the rest of my life in. Dallas life is solely based on business. Meaning that there are big buildings, concrete, and more concrete. Truely large and relaxing parks are really nonexistent here unless youre rich and you can go to the "Country Club". I have to agree that Dallas has no character. Because Dallas is so "business" and "service" oriented, you are limited in the things you do outside of the home after work go to a happy hour at the bar, play sports, or eat out at a restaurant (there are millions of them), Or on a weekend- go shopping, go to a bar, a nightclub, play sports, or a restaurant. When people come to visit from out of state I have a hard time finding things for them to do and things for them to see. Dallas also has a racial problem. The city council as well as the school board are both drastically divided along racial lines. The city government tries to please the wealthy and big business and sometimes pushes the regular citizens concerns aside. The school district is in shambles. NEVER go by those damn TAAS scores. Dallas isn't the same as it use to be 15 years ago, and thats why we plan to leave in a few years (probably to San Diego). As far as Plano is concerned, just as any large area with all levels of income you have the snobby areas, and you have the normal areas. I would not recommend anyone moving here unless a job is the the most important thing to you.

Thanks to everyone who has taken the time to write. I would love to hear from more people who do love it and why. I've gotten some info through books and the internet on the metroplex area and it does seem like a pretty good place when you factor in all things such as climate, cost of living, niceness of people, and things to do. From the things I've read there would seem to be lots of green spaces around with the lakes and greenbelt trails. Do the people actually bike and run/walk the trails? Again, thanks for all the comments and opinions - it is all helpful!!

Does Dallas have 4 visible seasons?

Re: Seasons in Dallas <BR> <BR>Sort of. It's difficult to tell in the city because there aren't a whole lot of trees or open spaces. But if you get out to the country, it's really obvious! <BR>You definitely know when summer is- it's really hot! Spring brings lots of wildflowers, especially the bluebonnets. Fall is not as gloriuos as up north, but we do get some brightly colored trees. Texas gets a lot of rain in the wintertime, and the cold wind plus humidity often make a really biting wind chill. <BR>I hope that's a good enough answer! :-)

We live in an area called Preston Hollow and we love it. Dallas is a great place and I would say do Plano if you like the suburb feel and the new to 10 year old house style. Our children are in private school, but we love being so close in to all the fun places. I would also suggest, if you like the new suburb feel, maybe Southlake or Coppell. Plano, in my opinion feels a little dated. <BR>Good luck, <BR>Jenn <BR> <BR>Also, Lakewood and Forest Hills in East Dallas are pretty.

Thanks for all your info and response. We ARE moving to Dallas so it is appreciated. Because the position is in Plano we want to be in a short commute time to it. That was a factor in deciding to come here. Are any of the master planned communities good? (Suncreek, Twin Creeks, Stonebridge, Trails of West Frisco, Heather Ridge Estates,Castle Hills, Westfalls Village)??? We did go but only had one day to look around (got tickets from priceline.com - couldn't pick departure time) and just saw alittle of Plano (nice homes, small yards) and Stonebridge Ranch (nice, lots of families but also a lot of homes for sale?). Are there any builders to watch out for or roads to be avoided. Thanks again for all feedback.

I was just wondering how Cathy's relocation went. I'm also considering a move to the Dallas area. I'm more interested in the smaller towns outside the metro area. I have a question about the hot summers, though. Does it get really humid like it does in Chicago?

What can you tell us about Frisco & Keller areas? Good living,good schools?Thank you -

Humid? heck no! Not dry heat like PHX, but not humid like the midwest either. Coppell, Grapevine, Southlake, Highland Village, Flower Mound are all great places for families. The schools are all top notch ..lots of at home moms. Nice parks...clean and new attractions in these areas. <BR><BR>Frisco? Used to be WAY out in the sticks..not anymore. That is a HOT spot (not to mention good shopping , schools and hospitals close by). It is near Plano. Nice if you can afford it ..really!

Sister,which of the places:Coppell,Grapvine,South lake,Highland Village or Frisco would you reccomend? I'm looking for excellent school system,strong economy,kind people.Can you point me in the right direction? Thanks,Sally

Christie, I've read your responses on the AOL travel board also.Sincerely, you should be nominated for the most informative,helpful & the kindest.You're a great source of fabulous information. Thank you!

Nan: Dallas is all about image..it REALLY is and it is real important where you live. Highland village /Flower MOund are great family spots, but do not carry the clout of saying "Frisco". Coppell..Grapevine and Southlake are close 2nds to Frisco. <BR><BR>DO you have kids? Heroin is real bad in Plano (next to Frisco) and is sneaking it's way into Frisco, Allen and McKinney. You'll have lots of CEO's kids (JC PEnney, EDS, Frito Lay, Pepsi all close by). Grapevine is nice--it isn't Dallas and it isn't Ft. Worth--good location in between. It is in Tarrant County..Coppell is in Dallas County. Got to watch the tax base, too. No state income tax in TX, so you're gigged on property taxes. Tarrant is getting out of control, I hear. Flower Mound and Highland Village are in Denton County..reasonable rates. <BR><BR>Kind people..don't know about Frisco--lots of $$ there...and I mean lots. Coppell, HV, FLower MOund, Grapevine, Southlake--all yes yes yes. You will find no one in that area is a "native"...many transplants so they become your friend. <BR><BR>Does that help you?! Write again!<BR><BR><BR>As far as schools---all of the above have "blue ribbon" schools. Most people send their kids to private HS..Ursuline for girls, Jesuit for boys..and Greenhill, Hockaday also. <BR><BR>

ttt

No, most people here do NOT send their kids to private high school! Where did you ever get that idea?

Hi Sally I am a Native Dallasite so maybe I can help you. Dallas is growing so fast. I am 35 and believe me it is NOTHING like it was when I was little. First of all the traffic has gotten a lot worse, for me I am used to it but many people complain. I do not know what you are wanting to spend for a house etc..<BR>Within the loop (635) the houses are appreciating at quite a substantial rate depending on what area. I see though that you are looking for schools. Dallas Independent School district you can forget about except for certain elementary schools which are exceptional due to parental involvement. There are the towns of Highland Park and University Park (collectively called the Park Cities).<BR>A cheap house would set you back at around 500,000. The location is perfect as Dallas surrounds it. HP and UP are separate cities with their own police and fire, they share the same school system. I went thru the HP school system. Most of my classmates went off to major universities and many Ivy League Universities. The houses are old and charming but the major drawback is that it has gotten so expensive to live in the Park Cities that many people are looking at either private schools or looking at the burbs. Plano was the first city to really boom in the late 70's and 80's. It is just North of Dallas so the location is more ideal. The school system is good. The more expensive houses are toward the North Dallas Tollway the more you move toward I75 it gets cheaper. Plano is nothing but what I would call a mix of custom homes and semi-custom homes. If you like older homes forget about it. <BR>Plano is now built up that Frisco is the big booming place. It is north of Plano. They have good schools as well. The area is mostly semi-custom homes. There are a lot of young families moving in. Allen and McKinney are further to the North and East. They both are great places with great schools. But Frisco,Allen and McKinney are just too far north for me. If you are commuting to Dallas expect a rather long one. Definitely you do need to maybe visit and take some time to visit the various areas. There are many nuances to each area.<BR>Southlake is rather expensive. It is a newer area with big semi-custom homes and custom homes. The school system (Carroll Independent School District) is highly rated but the homes start at I think in the 400,000 range. Southlake to me is far to remote. They do have a town square with shopping but it is still very limited. Keller is just west of Southlake and has excellent schools. The cost of living is cheaper and the schools are nice.<BR>Keep posting but you really need to visit so that you can see for yourself. What I might like you might not like. Good luck.

Sally,<BR>Keller and Frisco are pretty far apart distance wise. My wife and I have lived in Keller for 6 years. Really good schools, nice parks and trails and nice variety of price ranges for homes. It is on the Fort Worth side of town, NE Tarrant County, and we love it. E-mail me if you would like some specifics.<BR><BR>Dean

Toppers

Cathy, one thing to watch out for is a type of house called the "North Dallas Special".<BR><BR>This usually is a large, new house on a small lot, with plenty of ornate embellishments such as 6 or 7 gables, huge windows, etc. If you look more closely, however, everything is made of the cheapest grade of materials. In short, the place will fall apart around you.<BR><BR>This kind of a house is built to accommodate status-hungry transferees who will move away in a couple of years to another duty post for their company, so the long-term durability of the house is not an issue.<BR><BR>Obviously, you should avoid a house that looks too ornate for the price.

There is such wonderful info in this thread! I'm going to the DFW area this summer to see if we want to move there. I'm not worried about jobs yet, just towns. I'd like to visit some of the smaller towns to get a feel for them.<BR><BR>Could you recommend some nice places for a family with young children that is a little more rural? I'd like to be able to drive to the city in an hour or less, but I want to live in the country, a small town that has it's own downtown area. The more hills, trees, and water, the better. Also, is the area to the North of the metroplex any better than the South (same for East vs. West)? I would love more info. Thanks!<BR><BR>

Topping

The aforementioned stereotyping of Plano is unfair - and inaccurate.<BR><BR>I lived in Plano for 6 years and loved it. Had a great house across the street from a creek and bike/jogging trail. Virtually everyone on our cul-de-sac was from somewhere else (California, Washington, Iowa, New York, Alabama and even France), all had similar-aged kids going to the same schools (public - where none of them ever did any heroin). Great schools. Nice people with very diverse backgrounds but similar interests (their families). We had cookouts and swim parties virtually every weekend in the warm months. We used to put a "road closed" barricade at the top of the street and sit out in the street and talk and watch the kids play and fish in the creek - right in the middle of the city! I knew my neighbors in Plano better than anywhere else I've lived. <BR><BR>The New Yorkers and Californians couldn't believe how friendly everyone else was, how reasonable housing is and good the schools are compared to what they had to endure. Also, if you are working in the Plano/area, you don't want to live in East Dallas or Lakewood, unless you like spending half a day in your car on LBJ getting to/from work. Plano was great - we still have great frinds we made here. If someone labels Plano as snobby or materialistic, then they haven't taken the time to get to know some of the very nice poeple who live there.

This post is THREE YEARS OLD, for Pete's sake!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<BR><BR><BR>I think Cathy's made her decision by now, people.

Dave, It sounds as if we might have been neighbors...we too lived on a cul de sac across the street from a creek and jogging/bike trail. Forest Creek Estates. We loved it and still miss the area, and that house, tremendously! Plano is the most family oriented area we've ever lived, and fortunately it was the one point in my husband's career where we could stay put for a while, so the kids spent K-12 in Plano schools, then went on to UT, A&M, and TT. Their preparation for college was so far and above my husband's and mine!!<BR><BR>The unfortunate characterization of Plano as a snobbish town has existed for ages and perpetuated here, perhaps by those who rarely, if ever, set foot north of the Richarson/Plano line. It is predominantly upper middle class, but that hardly equates with snobbism. It is far from being a town with all gated communities, and homes look no more alike there than they do in other new Dallas suburbs--how does this differ from Carrollton, Flower Mound, Frisco, Las Colinas, McKinney or the like? I'm not quite sure why these towns don't fall under the same cloud?<BR><BR>Hope Cathy found a great area and is as happy there as we were. I certainly raised my eyebrows when I heard we were headed to Texas (from MA), but it was an absolutely terrific time in our lives and a great place to raise our kids.

Old as dirt - so what are YOU doing reading and responding to 3 year-old posts???? Are you some self-appointed message board Nazi? Relax.<BR><BR>Personally, I find a lot of value in reading all posts, even the older ones, as they can often offer great insight into various places to vist and live. Obviously, so do alot of other people.

Yes, there is nothing wrong with reading old posts. The beauty of this one is that I am guessing Cathy not only made a decision by now, but has moved away from the Dallas area.<BR><BR>Can you give us some insight as to why you might have moved away? The heat? Urban sprawl? Lack of culture?

Quit guessing(previous poster) and either read the post or find another topic you like better.So what if 30 people responded and Cathy "has already made her mind up"...Dear God...you're gonna have a heart attack if you don't let somebody "Pop' that pimple of an "edge" you have!!!It is an open forum that people with valuable and non-valuable info respond to ...not your personal internet S.A.T. test...Come on get a grip!!! I lived in Dallas and Plano respectively and both were fine..Live in Atlanta,Ga(now)..can't say enough about how much I miss Texas.(True Texans no what I'm talkin' bout')Georgia has beautiful scenery (trees galore and nice hills) but has not planned well for its enormous growth...Atlanta has a million less people but feels a lot more "crowded"..as far as any big city...who does'nt have traffic...Dallas overall is a good place to live...Decent income,cost of living,racially diverse,lots of restaurants,malls,even some area lakes...and a fairly decent sports town...Cowboys,Mavs,Stars,TCU,SMU,and Rangers!!!Good luck....And as far as the internet "gestapo"...shut up and read(evidently you have nothing else to do but...sit around and whine!!!)

There is a great biking/hiking trail at Rowlett Creek park and at Grapevine Lake (dirt trails through the woods). White Rock Lake in Dallas has a wonderful cement trail. Physical activity is a no no among Dallasites unless it involves a shopping mall.