Best Neighborhoods in Dallas, TX

What Defines the “Best” Dallas Neighborhoods?

The “best” neighborhood will have a different definition for everyone. For example, young professionals may seek a community with a vibrant nightlife, while families with children will seek out quieter, safer areas with good schools. 

When evaluating places to live in Dallas, several factors should be considered, including amenities, safety, schools, community vibe, and the types of properties available. 

Fortunately, Dallas is a diverse city that can accommodate a wide range of tastes. Whether you are a retiree, a newly married couple, or a recent graduate, your chances of finding the perfect neighborhood for your lifestyle are high. 

A Tour of Notable Dallas Neighborhoods

The city of Dallas covers roughly 385 square miles, making it the third-largest city in Texas. With a population of 1.3 million, Big D has many notable neighborhoods that can offer different advantages to new residents. 

Buying or selling homes in these neighborhoods can be quite competitive. Let’s look at some of Dallas’s most prominent communities to help you narrow your search for the perfect neighborhood. 

Uptown: Urban Sophistication and Vibrant Lifestyle

Living in Uptown is a great choice for young professionals, but anyone ambitious in their career can also enjoy life in this neighborhood. Uptown is known for upscale apartments, trendy restaurants, and walkability, which is a big draw for younger workers who want to avoid transit costs or vehicle expenses. 

This district also features numerous business centers. Since this community is located in central Dallas, you will have easy access to the rest of the city. 

Selling a home in Uptown can be challenging, even if there are many buyers in the market. At A-List Properties, we buy houses in Uptown fast so owners can get cash when they need it. 

Oak Lawn: Inclusive Community and Lively Entertainment

Next on our list of great neighborhoods in Dallas is Oak Lawn. This community is incredibly diverse and has a strong LGBTQ+ population. If you are interested in an active nightlife, this centrally located neighborhood is one of the best options. 

Cedar Springs Road, in particular, is a notable entertainment hub in Oak Lawn. Proximity to numerous parks can also make the area appealing to families.

Even if your home in this neighborhood could fetch a high price on the open market, you may not have the option to wait for a traditional sale. We buy houses in Oak Lawn to help property owners facing tight deadlines. 

Deep Ellum: Historic Entertainment and Arts Hub

Deep Ellum is often regarded as the heart of the live music scene in Dallas. It has a rich history with jazz and blues, but other forms of music and art also take precedence in this historic neighborhood. You can find live music venues throughout the community. Plus, if you want a great view of the city, the Reunion Tower is the perfect place to take in the sights in Deep Ellum.

Those living in Deep Ellum would likely say the community has a unique, edgy vibe. It is also a walkable and bikeable neighborhood, so you don’t always have to rely on a personal vehicle or public transit to explore the area. 

Bishop Arts District: Creative Heart of Oak Cliff

Anyone interested in the arts would love life in the Bishop Arts District. This neighborhood is the heart of Oak Cliff. It features independent boutiques, art galleries, artisan shops, and high-end restaurants. In the larger Oak Cliff community, some highlights include Lake Cliff Park, multiple golf courses, the Dallas Zoo, and the Texas Theater. 

Though this is another highly desirable neighborhood in Dallas, some sellers cannot afford to prepare their homes for traditional buyers. We buy houses in Oak Cliff in all conditions when sellers face overwhelming repairs that they would rather forget about. 

Highland Park: Prestigious Enclave and Picturesque Streets

Highland Park is known for its picturesque streets and a blend of suburban vibes with urban amenities. It is an affluent, independent township within the city, featuring beautiful homes, expansive properties, upscale shopping at Highland Park Village, and excellent schools.

One of the most impressive sights in Highland Park is its tree-lined streets. There is a strong sense of community, built on the foundation of a hard-working populace. You can even find several historic mansions in the area that reflect a different era in Dallas’ story. 

Preston Hollow: Exclusive Estates and Access to Top Public Schools

Many of the wealthiest individuals in the city have established themselves in Preston Hollow. If you want privacy, luxury living, and access to high-quality public and private schools, then Preston Hollow is one of the best neighborhoods in Dallas. 

Large, secluded estates make for a more private lifestyle. However, it is just a short drive to Downtown Dallas, so proximity to the bustling city is not a concern. 

If you are hoping for affordability with your move to Dallas, Preston Hollow may not be the best fit. This community is ideal for those seeking a luxurious lifestyle and peace within their surroundings. 

Knox Henderson: Trendy Boutiques, Dining, and Walkability

Locals have dubbed Knox Street and Henderson Avenue as Knox Henderson to ascribe a name to the area. It boasts a vibrant mix of shopping, dining, and nightlife options. 

The area is considered very pedestrian-friendly, so walkability is a key highlight of the community. Historic homes, town homes, and modern apartment buildings offer options to various categories of residents. 

Knox Henderson has become one of the most important entertainment locations in the city. You can walk or bike along the Katy Trail, which is an old railroad that runs along the western edge of this community.

North Dallas: Suburban Comforts and Family Living

Families can lead comfortable lives in North Dallas, which is just a few miles north of downtown. The area is surrounded by major highways, including I-635 and the Dallas North Tollway, allowing you to drive to other parts of the city quickly. North Dallas is primarily known for its suburban appeal, characterized by excellent schools, numerous parks, and expansive shopping centers. 

If you work in the healthcare industry, North Dallas is a great place to establish roots. Between the Medical City Children’s Hospital and the Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital, there are numerous high-quality facilities where you can pursue a career. 

Far North Dallas: Continued Growth and Modern Conveniences

 Moving further north, the next neighborhood on our list is Far North Dallas. This larger community is renowned for its upscale lifestyle, suburban ambiance, new developments, and planned communities. Although it may be less affordable than many other neighborhoods in this guide, it is an ideal living situation for professionals and families. Numerous corporate campuses offer career opportunities in many fields, and the wide range of modern amenities ensures all your living needs are met. 

In mid-2025, the average cost of a home in Far North Dallas is roughly $575,000. This can make it difficult to sell a house, especially if you are relocating for a new job in a matter of weeks. At A-List Properties, we buy houses in Far North Dallas in two weeks or less. 

East Dallas: Lakeside Charm, Community Spirit, and Diverse Housing

East Dallas is a beautiful neighborhood, but it is one of the most affordable suburban locations on this list. There is convenient access to multiple green spaces, such as White Rock Lake and Lakewood. 

The Lakewood area is especially appealing for those who want to live close to a larger lake in the city, with numerous trails and recreational events. Some of the established neighborhoods in East Dallas have diverse architectural styles that can appeal to older residents. 

Lake Highlands: Outdoor Recreation and Strong School Districts

If outdoor adventure is part of your lifestyle, then Lake Highlands is the perfect neighborhood for you. It is a family-oriented community with numerous parks and trails, including the White Rock Creek Trail. The public schools strive for excellence and provide high-quality education to the children living in Lakewood and the surrounding area, especially the Richardson ISD. 

Even an appealing area like Lakewood does not meet every seller’s needs. For example, you may have inherited a property in this community that you want to sell quickly. We buy houses in Lake Highlands fast to help out sellers with unwanted inherited properties. 

Old East Dallas: A Charming Historic District and Evolving Community

Old East Dallas is just outside the heart of downtown. It has a rich history, diverse architecture, and an ongoing spirit of revitalization. Many residents love the area because of its rich cultural diversity, which is reflected in annual events, a wide range of culinary experiences, and a strong sense of community. 

If you own an aging property in Old East Dallas, it may be tough to sell without investing in significant upgrades. We buy houses in Old East Dallas in all conditions, so you can put those repairs out of your mind. 

West Dallas: Transformation, Trendy Eateries, and Arts Scene

Currently, West Dallas is undergoing significant transformation. Many of the new developments are focused on trendy restaurants and an emerging arts scene. One of the most exciting new entertainment venues in the area is Trinity Groves. Many new restaurants have also thrilled residents and visitors alike with their innovative menus. 

Affordable living is a key highlight of West Dallas. It is considered more affordable than most other neighborhoods in the city, especially given its central location. 

Northwest Dallas: Diverse Communities and Accessibility

Northwest Dallas is a vast area, which means there is significant diversity among its various neighborhoods. It offers a mix of residential areas, commercial zones, and convenient access to major highways. It also sits just north of Dallas Love Field Airport, which features a rotating collection of artistic sculptures and paintings in the terminal. 

Oak Cliff: Rich History, Cultural Diversity, and Independent Spirit

Although we have already explored Oak Cliff due to the Bishop Arts District, it is worth mentioning as a separate community on this list. 

Oak Cliff is one of the oldest areas in Dallas, which has contributed to its rich cultural diversity and numerous independent businesses. Geographically, Oak Cliff features many hills, so you can enjoy a great workout if you are a cyclist. 

We buy houses in Oak Cliff to help many owners navigate tricky financial situations. You can choose a closing date that suits your needs, with no financing delays on our end. 

South Dallas: Deep Heritage, Community Focus, and Revitalization Efforts

South Dallas is known for many things, but its significance to the African American community is one of the most notable aspects of the community. This population has deep roots in the community and is focused on revitalization projects and community-focused initiatives. 

One of the most important spots in South Dallas is Fair Park, where the Texas State Fair has been held since its inception in the late 19th century. 

Pleasant Grove: Community Roots and Evolving Landscapes

Pleasant Grove is very aptly named. Life in this area can be peaceful and serene, especially since it is primarily a residential zone. There are numerous established communities in the area, making it an ideal location for individuals and families from all backgrounds. 

Residents in Pleasant Grove tend to focus on the neighborhood’s local identity and ongoing community development. 

FAQs About Dallas Neighborhoods

What Are Some of the Safest Dallas Neighborhoods for Families?

Families with children often seek neighborhoods with low crime and quality safety measures. Some of the safest neighborhoods in the city include University Park, Lake Highlands, Lakewood, Preston Hollow, and Highland Park.

Which Dallas Neighborhoods Are Best Known for Their Excellent Public Schools?

Public schools are an important consideration for your children’s education. If you are prioritizing your child’s future, neighborhoods like Lake Highlands and Preston Hollow may be the best fit. 

What Are Some Up-And-Coming Dallas Neighborhoods to Watch?

Many communities are recently hitting their stride in various categories, particularly in terms of appeal and affordability. Some up-and-coming neighborhoods you should consider include Oak Cliff, the Bishop Arts District, Uptown Dallas, and Deep Ellum. 

How Does the Diversity of Dallas Neighborhoods Compare to Other Texas Cities?

Dallas has a very strong record of diversity. It is often considered one of the ten most diverse cities in the country. Within the Lone Star State, only Houston can boast more diversity within its neighborhoods. 

Ready to Make a Move in Dallas?

Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or simply need to sell your home fast, A-List Properties can help. As local cash buyers, we buy houses in Dallas across all neighborhoods—no repairs or fees required. Contact us today to get your no-obligation offer.