Things are bigger and better in Texas and the Dallas-Fort Worth area is a prime example! Dallas, Texas is home to 1.3 million people, and well-known features such as the The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, Dallas Museum of Art, and the Dallas Cowboys football team. Beyond its historical and athletic notoriety, Dallas is plentiful in culture, shopping, and good food. Need to get more familiar with the city? Check out our Dallas relocation guide.
| FUN FACTS ABOUT DALLAS |
|---|
| At 52-foot tall, the Tallest Cowboy of Texas, Big Tex, welcomes you to the State Fair of Texas. |
| Snow cones were invented here and introduced at the State Fair in 1919. Another icy invention attributed to this warm city is the frozen margarita machine. |
| Take in a variety of culture at the largest arts district in the nation. |
Those who want to experience Dallas in all of its glory without committing to the big city life can look into one of the many nearby suburbs. Check out this list of the top suburbs around Dallas. With so many great suburbs to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect fit for your Texas lifestyle!
10. Southlake
Population: 31,137
Median Home Value: $957,500
Mean Travel Time to Work: 29.1 minutes
School Ranking: A+
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 345
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 11
Looking for a premier Dallas suburb? Look at Southlake. Approximately 26 miles northwest of Dallas Southlake makes the #10 on our list. Often referred to as "A City Within a Park," it is a unique blend of sophistication, safety, and family-friendly amenities. Southlake is celebrated for its well-planned neighborhoods, luxurious homes, and thriving local economy, which contributes to its strong appeal.
Outdoors enthusiasts will love the multiple parks available, including the Bob Jones Nature Center and Preserve along Grapevine Lake. Days not spent jogging the trails can be spent at Southlake Town Square, which features more than 260 retail vendors and more than 130 restaurants! The Carroll Independent School District offers academic excellence and a strong emphasis on extracurricular programs, including the nationally recognized Carroll Dragons athletic teams.
Fill the calendar Residents enjoy a year-round calendar of activities, including outdoor concerts, holiday celebrations, and farmer’s markets. Utilize the perks of Grapevine Lake where boating and fishing are the norm.
Hundreds of homes are currently available in Southlake, so you’re bound to find one that matches your vision of home sweet home.
9. Keller
Population: 46,316
Median Home Value: $557,700
Mean Travel Time to Work: 30.2 minutes
School Ranking: A+
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 361
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 31
Just west of Southlake is another great suburb, Keller. There’s plenty to do in Keller; whether you’re the kind to browse the farmer’s market or catch a flick at the Moviehouse & Eatery, we guarantee you’ll be entertained. Additionally, “The City of Parks,” has 336 acres of parkland available to the public, including dedicated sports and dog parks. The suburb’s strong sense of community is further reflected in events like the annual Keller Fest, which brings neighbors together for live music, food, and entertainment.
The Keller Independent School District is another draw for families, offering highly rated schools with robust academic and extracurricular programs. Keller's dedication to education is complemented by its safe neighborhoods, low crime rate, and welcoming atmosphere. With upscale shopping and dining options at locations like Keller Town Center and entertainment venues scattered throughout, residents never run out of things to do. Proximity to Dallas also means easy access to professional sports, cultural attractions, and employment opportunities in the city.
Keller has more than 400 home communities, so look for your dream home today!
8. McKinney
Population: 213,509
Median Home Value: $439,500
Mean Travel Time to Work: 29.4 minutes
School Ranking: A+
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 1,937
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 224
Head to the north of Dallas about 30 miles to find McKinney, Texas. Residents here love the Historic Downtown, where you can walk, shop, and listen to live music. McKinney, referred to as "Unique by Nature," offers a distinctive blend of small-town atmosphere and big-city amenities.
One of the standout features of McKinney is its array of noteworthy attractions. The Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary is a favorite for families and nature lovers, offering trails, exhibits, and interactive activities. For arts and culture enthusiasts, McKinney Performing Arts Center brings live performances and events to the heart of downtown. Outdoor recreation options abound, with destinations like Towne Lake Park, Erwin Park, and nearby Lake Lavon providing spaces for hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking.
The McKinney Independent School District is known for its excellent academic programs, innovative teaching methods, and supportive environment. The allure of McKinney is its safety, affordability, and diverse housing options ranging from historic homes to new developments.
Entertainment options in McKinney cater to all interests, with seasonal festivals, live music events, and a robust food scene that includes everything from farm-to-table dining to casual eateries. Thirty builders are working on communities in McKinney, so be sure to check the listing!
7. Flower Mound
Population: 79,445
Median Home Value: $514,100
Mean Travel Time to Work: 28.9 minutes
School Ranking: A+
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 539
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 59
Come see what the fuss is about in Flower Mound. Less than 30 miles northwest of Dallas, you will find this excellent suburb along the northern shore of Grapevine Lake. Actually, nestled between Grapevine Lake and Lewisville Lake, this charming community is named for the 12.5-acre wildflower covered hill in its center.
There’s plenty of fun. As you can expect, the lakes offer ample activities for every one of all ages, ranging from hiking trails to kayaking, and boating. Can’t get enough water? Head out to the Community Activity Center, which features a water park complete with a lazy river and water slides! For those who prioritize outdoor living, the proximity to trails, lakes, and golf courses makes Flower Mound a standout choice among Dallas suburbs.
Flower Mound is also conveniently close to popular attractions like the Flower Mound River Walk and wineries in Grapevine. Top-rated schools in the Lewisville Independent School District are another perk of this suburb. Families are drawn to the area's safety, strong community involvement, and family-oriented events such as seasonal festivals and farmers' markets. Additionally, the suburb boasts a variety of shopping and dining options, from local boutiques to major retailers.
With more than 600 home communities, what are you waiting for? Find your Flower Mound home today!
6. Allen
Population: 111,620
Median Home Value: $429,900
Mean Travel Time to Work: 28.2 minutes
School Ranking: A+
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 945
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 128
Allen is one of the most-populated suburbs on our list, with over 110,000 residents calling it home. From its premium outlet malls to its event centers, there’s always something to do or see in Allen. With a motto like "A Great Place to Call Home," you can expect this suburb to deliver.
Allen offers a unique mix of suburban comfort and urban convenience. Its robust economy, low crime rate, and family-friendly atmosphere make it a highly sought-after community for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. The Allen Event Center hosts concerts, sporting events, and family-friendly activities year-round. Residents also enjoy the Allen Heritage Village, a charming historical site that preserves the city’s rich history.
From excellent schools to state-of-the-art facilities, education is a priority for this suburb. Stay active on Allen's 60+ miles of hiking and biking trails. Beautiful parks like Celebration Park, and nearby natural escapes such as Lake Lavon are ideal for fun afternoons. These spaces offer everything from sports fields to picnic areas, making it easy to enjoy the Texas sunshine. The suburb’s active community calendar, filled with festivals, concerts, and seasonal events, adds to its vibrant lifestyle.
When you are ready to be a part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, give Allen some serious consideration. Allen has houses available for every kind of budget; check out the homes today!
5. Plano
Population: 290,190
Median Home Value: $440,600
Mean Travel Time to Work: 26.9 minutes
School Ranking: A+
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 4,854
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 470
Plano comes in first place as the most-populated suburb on our list, and is one of the safest large cities in Texas. With highlights such as a nature reserve, a bustling downtown scene with plenty of shops and good eats, and even a Crayola Experience attraction, who wouldn’t want to live here? There’s even a giant, public, Texas-shaped pool named, appropriately, Texas Pool!
What sets Plano apart is its status as a business hub, home to the headquarters of major companies like Toyota North America, Frito-Lay, and J.C. Penney. This economic strength is complemented by a lively cultural scene, with attractions such as the Historic Downtown Plano Arts District offering an array of art galleries, local shops, and fine dining. The Legacy West area stands out for upscale shopping, trendy restaurants, and entertainment options that rival downtown Dallas.
Plano’s schools are part of the highly acclaimed Plano Independent School District. Rigorous academic programs and a variety of extracurricular activities await your family. Residents also enjoy a wealth of entertainment options, from annual events like the Plano Balloon Festival to numerous theaters, music venues, and recreational centers.
With over 85 parks, 70 miles of trails, and facilities for sports, picnics, and nature exploration, Plano allows you to stay active and enjoy the great outdoors. Arbor Hills Nature Preserve offers picturesque hiking trails and scenic overlooks, while Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve is perfect for kayaking, zip-lining, and birdwatching. These amenities make it easy to enjoy the Texas sunshine.
Ready to move to Plano? Explore the vast new home possibilities today!
4. Grapevine
Population: 50,928
Median Home Value: $470,400
Mean Travel Time to Work: 24.6 minutes
School Ranking: A+
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 1,263
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 93
Grapevine, Texas, often called the "Christmas Capital of Texas," has unique character stemming from a lively downtown filled with preserved 19th-century architecture, boutique shops, and a variety of dining experiences. Known for its festive atmosphere, Grapevine hosts year-round events, with the holiday season transforming the town into a dazzling display of lights and celebrations.
Looking for more fun? Why not visit LEGOLAND Discovery Center, or spend the night at Great Wolf Lodge? One of Grapevine’s defining attractions is Grapevine Lake, a hotspot for outdoor recreation, including boating, fishing, hiking, and camping. Surrounding the lake are beautiful parks and trails like the Grapevine Botanical Gardens and the Meadowmere Park, which provide scenic spots for relaxation and family outings. The suburb is also home to the Grapevine Vintage Railroad, offering nostalgic train rides, and the Gaylord Texan Resort, known for its sprawling entertainment options.
Grapevine’s robust entertainment scene includes wine tasting at its numerous wineries, live performances at the Palace Theatre, and seasonal festivals that draw visitors from across the region. From excellent schools to a warm, inviting vibe, Grapevine is sure to be a win-win.
Find your new Grapevine home today!
3. Colleyville
Population: 25,736
Median Home Value: $718,900
Mean Travel Time to Work: 27.6 minutes
School Ranking: A+
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 131
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 14
"Where Tradition Meets Tomorrow," is one of the most sought-after suburbs of Dallas. Colleyville is conveniently located just a few miles from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, making this a prime suburb to live in if you’re a frequent traveler.
Colleyville is home to several noteworthy attractions, including the Colleyville Nature Center, a serene escape featuring trails, ponds, and wildlife. For shopping and dining, Colleyville Boulevard boasts boutique stores, fine dining options, and local favorites. The suburb also hosts numerous community events and festivals that bring residents together, adding to its family-friendly appeal.
This little suburb also features multiple parks, including McPherson Park, which has play areas and historic barns. Spacious homes, highly ranked safety, and a welcoming community, Colleyville impresses with top-tier academic programs at the Grapevine-Colleyville Independent School District.
Take a look at house listings in Colleyville!
2. Coppell
Population: 41,404
Median Home Value: $525,300
Mean Travel Time to Work: 25.2 minutes
School Ranking: A+
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 419
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 31
Coppell is tucked away in the northwest corner of the Dallas area. A suburb brimming with activity, days in Coppell can be spent at the multiple parks, shopping centers, and farmers market. The quality of life in Coppell is a strong draw. The suburb is home to the Coppell Arts Center, offering cultural and artistic experiences, and a thriving farmers market that showcases local goods and produce. Residents enjoy the convenience of being near Dallas while benefiting from the peace and safety of a suburban environment.
If you’re looking for live entertainment, check out the Theatre Coppell, a black box community theater built from an old firehouse. Its strategic location near major highways and DFW Airport ensures easy access to the wider metroplex while maintaining a tranquil, family-oriented atmosphere. Coppell truly stands out as one of the best places to live near Dallas.
Additionally, the suburb’s green spaces and outdoor amenities enhance its appeal. Andrew Brown Park, a local favorite, offers trails, sports facilities, and picnic areas, while Coppell Nature Park provides opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation. For even more outdoor adventure, residents are a short drive from Lewisville Lake and nearby state parks.
Your new home is waiting for you in Coppell!
1. University Park
Population: 24,954
Median Home Value: $1,766,700
Mean Travel Time to Work: 19.8 minutes
School Ranking: A+
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 288
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 8
At the top of our list is University Park! With a notably low violent crime rate and low mean travel time to work, it’s easy to see why University Park ranks so high. University Park, often referred to as the “Heart of the Park Cities,” is one of the most desirable suburbs of Dallas. Its name reflects its close association with Southern Methodist University (SMU), giving the area a vibrant and sophisticated character. Known for its tree-lined streets, upscale neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community, University Park offers a blend of charm and convenience that sets it apart from other Dallas suburbs.
This suburb is also home. University Park is an affluent suburb. Its safe streets and beautiful parks are hard to beat. Snider Plaza, a bustling shopping and dining district, offers boutique stores and local eateries, while the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum provides a cultural and educational hub right within the area. Residents also enjoy proximity to Highland Park Village, a premier luxury shopping destination. University Park’s picturesque parks, like Goar Park and Caruth Park, provide spaces for outdoor relaxation, sports, and community events.
Highland Park Independent School District is consistently ranked among the best in Texas, known for their rigorous academics and strong extracurricular programs. University Park also offers an abundance of entertainment and activities, from college sporting events at SMU to cultural festivals and seasonal celebrations. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy trails, playgrounds, and sports facilities, with larger green spaces like Turtle Creek and White Rock Lake just a short drive away.
Trust us, you don’t want to miss out on these University Park homes!
| Suburb | Pop. | Median Home Value | Mean Travel to Work | School Rank | Property Crimes | Violent Crimes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Frisco | 225,007 | $595,400 | 30 | A+ | 3,113 | 196 |
| Murphy | 20,920 | $508,500 | 33.9 | A+ | 122 | 14 |
| Prosper | 41,660 | $694,600 | 34.5 | A+ | 468 | 18 |
| Euless | 59,686 | $294,500 | 24.1 | A+ | 1,253 | 120 |
| Richardson | 117,435 | $405,600 | 24.4 | A | 2,410 | 149 |
| Trophy Club | 13,666 | $617,000 | 27.2 | A+ | 54 | 3 |
| Carrollton | 132,918 | $353,600 | 25.4 | A | 2,026 | 227 |
| Lewisville | 133,553 | $350,200 | 25.4 | A- | 2,424 | 302 |
| Bedford | 48,370 | $322,300 | 25.7 | A | 966 | 115 |
| N. Richland Hills | 70,658 | $324,800 | 26.6 | A | 1,606 | 144 |
| Hurst | 39,304 | $287,600 | 25.2 | A | 977 | 94 |
| The Colony | 45,471 | $355,100 | 29.5 | A- | 1,132 | 83 |
| Mansfield | 78,542 | $380,000 | 30 | A | 1,150 | 95 |
| Highland Village | 16,100 | $493,400 | 31.1 | A+ | 162 | 4 |
| Celina | 43,317 | $458,000 | 32.8 | A | 277 | 28 |
| Fate | 24,626 | $361,100 | 33.3 | A | 104 | 20 |
| Rockwall | 52,918 | $382,400 | 33.6 | A+ | 746 | 59 |
| Waxahachie | 47,201 | $307,900 | 24.5 | A- | 732 | 111 |
| Denton | 158,349 | $325,700 | 23.8 | A- | 3,405 | 384 |
| Watauga | 22,934 | $233,400 | 27.4 | A- | 312 | 37 |
| Corinth | 23,707 | $351,200 | 31.5 | A | 200 | 22 |
| Midlothian | 41,352 | $369,400 | 31.7 | A- | 430 | 43 |
| Wylie | 61,078 | $350,100 | 35.1 | A | 460 | 47 |
| Forney | 35,470 | $323,500 | 35.5 | A- | 306 | 45 |
| Little Elm | 58,496 | $390,300 | 37.4 | A- | 315 | 123 |
| Irving | 254,373 | $287,300 | 24.2 | B+ | 6,256 | 772 |
| Saginaw | 25,139 | $270,300 | 27.4 | A- | 298 | 47 |
| Sachse | 32,294 | $366,100 | 31.7 | B+ | 266 | 14 |
| Burleson | 55,220 | $282,900 | 31.1 | A- | 693 | 111 |
| Rowlett | 66,813 | $342,400 | 32.8 | B+ | 915 | 148 |
| Azle | 14,562 | $263,800 | 32.7 | B+ | 222 | 47 |
| Ennis | 23,686 | $225,900 | 23.8 | A- | 337 | 34 |
| Weatherford | 38,109 | $285,000 | 24.6 | B+ | 613 | 83 |
| White Settlement | 18,005 | $176,500 | 25.1 | B | 348 | 117 |
| Grand Prairie | 202,134 | $272,200 | 28.7 | B | 3,302 | 386 |
| Arlington | 398,431 | $276,400 | 27.2 | B | 10,190 | 1,921 |
| Red Oak | 18,624 | $318,200 | 32.9 | B+ | 274 | 33 |
| Royse City | 24,138 | $288,400 | 35.6 | B+ | 342 | 46 |
| Mesquite | 147,317 | $226,500 | 31.9 | B | 5,433 | 757 |
| Farmers Branch | 36,917 | $322,000 | 22.3 | B- | 1,165 | 77 |
| Greenville | 32,717 | $197,400 | 23.8 | C+ | 425 | 72 |
| Haltom City | 45,290 | $194,600 | 25 | B | 1.057 | 146 |
| Cleburne | 36,209 | $200,900 | 26.9 | B | 404 | 92 |
| Anna | 27,501 | $312,700 | 33 | B+ | 258 | 54 |
| Mineral Wells | 15,454 | $146,100 | 19.5 | B- | 466 | 57 |
| Benbrook | 24,336 | $278,200 | 24.2 | C+ | 517 | 63 |
| Terrell | 21,480 | $190,000 | 24.6 | C | 516 | 63 |
| Forest Hill | 14,157 | $171,300 | 24.9 | C+ | 234 | 27 |
| Addison | 17,100 | $466,000 | 22.1 | B- | 1,269 | 63 |
| Fort Worth | 978,468 | $277,300 | 27.2 | C+ | 25,873 | 4,769 |
Big Things Happen Here
Everything is bigger in Texas, and that includes its cities and nearby suburbs! Take advantage of living adjacent to one of the biggest cities in Texas by checking the suburbs we have listed here. Moving to retire? We’ve got you covered with the best local retirement communities in Dallas.
NewHomeSource pulled data from the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Services and the U.S. Census Bureau. In the event exact crime data was unavailable, estimates were used. These factors were entered into an algorithm to calculate a score for each suburb.
Other Dallas Area Resources
When Should You Buy a New Home in Dallas?
Moving To Dallas? Here’s Your Relocation Guide
Best and Worst Things About Living In Dallas
Top 10 Safest Large Cities in Texas
The Top 10 Most Affordable Cities in Texas
Best Container Home Builders in Dallas-Fort Worth
Best Tiny Home Builders in Dallas-Fort Worth
Popular Master Planned Communities Around Dallas
Julie Gordey
A lifelong educator, Julie Gordey, is a retired school administrator. After years of focusing on education, this University of Texas graduate now travels and enjoys freelance writing for BDX and NewHomeSource.com.