Home to over 1.3 million residents, Dallas has a rich history and thriving culture. Whether it’s the affordable living and diverse culinary scene or the sports and nightlife, there are tons of reasons people flock to Dallas. But, is it a good idea to move to Dallas, Texas? We delve into the pros and cons of moving to Dallas, Texas, to help you make an informed decision.
Is it worth moving to Dallas, Texas?
Before you pack your bags for Dallas, Texas, it's important to learn what this city is all about, its hidden gems, and the limitations you might face. Luckily, we've got you covered with the most important things, such as costs of living, geography, energy plans, and education, to get you familiar with the city before making the final move.
Costs of living
The first thought on everyone's mind when considering a move to Dallas is the cost of living. The city offers a favorable cost of living compared to many other major U.S. cities. For example, Dallas has real estate prices 49% lower and food costs over 26% more affordable compared to New York. But, what salary do you need to live comfortably in Dallas, Texas? To provide a comfortable living in this city, you would need around $64,742 a year.
Taxes
When it comes to taxes, you should know a few things. Like anywhere in Texas, you don't pay state income tax in Dallas (woohoo!). Moreover, companies moving to Dallas, Texas, enjoy the advantage of 0% corporate income tax, making it an attractive business destination. Texas is ranked among the top 5 states for business and it offers an excellent environment for companies to grow. However, it's important to be aware of the high property taxes in the area. But that can be said about most metropolis cities in the nation.
Energy market
One of the first things to know about Dallas, Texas, before moving is the deregulated energy market. Simply, this means residents of Dallas have the freedom to choose their energy providers. Rhythm Energy plans are the perfect solution for those looking for a reliable and affordable energy provider offering different pricing plans and serving customers' unique needs.
Get outside
People moving to Dallas, Texas, from California, are usually concerned about the lack of coastal areas. While Dallas may not have the ocean, it offers parks, trails, and green areas to frolic about outside (just be sure to hydrate; it’s usually hot out there). The city has beautiful parks, like the Dallas Arboretum, White Rock Lake Park, and Great Trinity Forest, providing various options to enjoy nature and outdoor activities, such as hiking, jogging, and kayaking.
Weather
Dallas experiences a warm and sunny climate, with frequent heat waves and dry winds. This might be one of the reasons why many people wouldn't choose Dallas as their hometown. Although summer days require the usage of AC, there are so many other ways to cool off.
Also, this weather enables the advantage for those interested in solar energy. The big number of sunny days makes Dallas an ideal location for solar power systems, offering homeowners an opportunity of utilizing the best solar energy plans in Texas and reduce their carbon footprint.
Education
If you're moving to Dallas with children, you'll be glad to hear that the city has an excellent school system prioritizing quality education. Moreover, the city offers great colleges and universities, providing numerous opportunities for academic growth. There are many reputable institutions, such as the University of Texas at Dallas Dallas Baptist University, and Southern Methodist University.
Arts and Culture
Dallas offers a vibrant cultural scene, which makes it the perfect place to live for art lovers. The city has many museums, such as the Dallas Museum of Art, the Crow Museum of Asian Art, and the Nasher Sculpture Center. Dallas' music scene is lively and rich, offering a wide array of genres and venues. From trendy music festivals and concerts to local live music at intimate bars, there's something for every music taste.
Traffic
Traffic in Dallas can be challenging. It's a big city with less-than-ideal public transportation, which is why you'll definitely need a car to get around. While having a car can overwhelm your budget, an electric vehicle might even help you save some money. If you are disciplined enough, you can easily benefit from the time of use rate, reducing environmental impact, navigating the city's traffic, and saving some money on electrical bills.
Restaurants
Dallas residents’ taste buds are lucky, as the city's culinary scene is a true delight. With a rich and versatile cuisine, there's something to satisfy everyone's taste. From delicious barbecue joints to posh restaurants serving international delicacies, Dallas offers diverse cuisine. With their delectable offerings and pleasant atmosphere, popular spots like Pecan Lodge, Off the Bone Barbeque, and Trinity Groves attract locals and visitors alike.
Sports
If you are wondering what Dallas is known for, many residents would tell you that, undoubtedly, it is a sports town. Regardless of which sport you prefer, once you settle in Dallas, you'll find yourself passionately cheering for all home teams. Whether it’s the Dallas Cowboys, Texas Rangers, Dallas Stars, or a collegiate program, there’s never a shortage of sporting events to kick back and enjoy.
Is it worth moving to Dallas, Texas?
The advantages of moving to Dallas, Texas are plentiful, but the final decision depends on your needs. The city offers an affordable cost of living, a rich cultural scene, and tons of activities to do outdoors. Dallas's warm and sunny climate can be attractive to those who enjoy hot weather. On the other hand, frequent heatwaves and occasional tornadoes might be a challenge, as well as heavy traffic.
As you can see, there are many things to discuss before moving to Dallas and many of them depend on your personal preferences. If you want to answer the question: "What are the pros and cons of living in Dallas, Texas?" our blog is the perfect way to start.
