So you're moving to Dallas
Dallas Relocation Guide
Welcome to the Big D! Dallas is one of the best cities in the world, and you should be very excited about your move to this trendy city. Whether you cannot wait to move to Dallas, or you’re feeling unsure about it, you’ll be ready for your move after reading this guide. There’s nothing more exciting than learning more about a city you are going to be living in and all the reasons to move to Texas.
Everything you need to know before Moving to Dallas, Texas.
How many people Live in Dallas?
With over 12,000 restaurants and 4.6 million people to meet, it would take a lifetime to experience everything the Big D has to offer us all. It's the 9th largest city in the United States and home of "America's Team."
Is Dallas a good place to Live?
Cost of living In Dallas
In big cities all over the United States, the cost of living is rising substantially. Apartments are becoming almost too expensive to live in, and the struggle is most definitely real. One of the benefits of moving to Dallas is the cost of living can be significantly less than other areas of the U.S. Check out this cost of living comparison calculator from Smartasset.com. We plugged in an assumed income of $85,000, with no children at home and got the following data points. It's no wonder Dallas is such an attractive place to live, check out the savings below.
Relocating to DAllas
The economy is thriving, while the cost of living remains reasonable, so there's never been a better time to be in Dallas. To make things easier for you, Multifamily construction is thriving in Dallas. According to Dallas Morning News, developers in the Dallas area have received permits to start more than 20,000 apartments in 2017. The Dallas real estate market is booming & there are brand new luxury apartments going up all over the Metroplex.
Taxes
Texas is one of 7 states without an income tax. Texas imposes a 6.25 percent state sales and use tax on all retail sales, leases, and rentals of most goods, as well as taxable services. Local taxing jurisdictions (cities, counties, special purpose districts, and transit authorities) can also impose up to 2 percent sales and use tax for a maximum combined rate of 8.25 percent. Learn more at comptroller.texas.gov.
Texas Real Estate
Since Texas doesn't collect income taxes, property taxes in Dallas are some of the highest in the nation, which makes renting an apartment an attractive option. The ability to deduct property taxes is currently part of the national tax reform debate. Be sure to read our blog on the potential impacts of the proposed Senate & House bills.
Dallas Employment
Listen up millennials, there’s a reason that you should all be considering a Dallas move. Unlike the many other big cities where the job market is overly saturated, Dallas employers are begging for qualified employees. The economy is on fire & baby boomers are starting to leave the workplace.
Lots of companies have relocated to Dallas due to the regulatory climate, lower cost of living and it's centralized location in the U.S. Plenty of jobs came with them. Statistics show that over 75 large companies have made Dallas their home the past few years, and with them, they created over 500,000 white collar jobs. If you’re looking for a job then you are in luck. Dallas has some of the best employers in the nation.
AT&T Inc. – A giant in the telecommunications world, the headquarters are based right in downtown Dallas.
Exxon Mobil – One of the top Fortune 500 companies, Exxon Mobile’s headquarters are based in Fort Worth.
American Airlines Group – If you’ve wanted to work for an airline, don’t miss out on your chance for working at the headquarters based in the Fort Worth area.
Energy Transfer Equity – Another high ranking Fortune 500 company, their headquarters are based right in the heart of downtown.
Southwest Airlines – A familiar company that we all love, Southwest is located in Dallas Love Field. Their headquarters serve as their own airport, too.
Dr. Pepper Snapple Group – If there’s one thing Texas loves, it’s Dr. Pepper. It started right in Texas, so it’s only fitting to have the headquarters based in Plano, just a few minutes outside of Dallas.
Toyota North America – Hopping on the relocating trend, Toyota moved 4,000 jobs from California to Dallas and opened their doors in early 2017.
Companies Moving to Dallas, TX
Facebook Data Center – While they aren’t technically relocating, Facebook is building a massive, $1 billion dollar, data center in North Fort Worth.
Jamba Juice – What started in Silicon Valley is about to come to Dallas, Texas. Jamba Juice announced their relocation to Dallas in 2017.
Boeing – One of the largest and most innovative companies out there, Boeing is relocating to Dallas in hopes of attracting qualified professionals to work at their headquarters.
Living in Dallas
Best Hair Salons in Dallas
Men and women of Dallas, you need a great haircut to pair with your Instagram worthy style. Finding a new hair salon can be stressful. We’ve put together a list of the top three hair salons in Dallas that will impress the most skeptical of you.
Salon 5014 – No matter what you need done with your hair, Salon 5014 can help you. Located right in Dallas, this salon has some of the best professionals the state has to offer. Their elite stylists will do everything you need so that you leave feeling great.
Dear Clark – A salon opened by two professional stylists, they have amazing cut and color designs. They even have their own hair care line, which have rave reviews.
Charlie + Co. – Charlie has worked his charm on celebs like Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid, so having him in Dallas is a treat. There’s both a Dallas and Fort Worth location.
Workouts
- Cycling Classes Dallas
Flywheel – Located right in Highland Park, this cycle studio has the latest technology on all of their bikes. They even track your progress so you can compete with yourself each time you attend a class.
ZYN22 – With four locations across the Dallas area, these classes focus on cardio and weight training while cycling for the best workout.
Soul Cycle – Two locations in Dallas boast candlelit studios where you ride together with the rest of the attendees. It’s a full experience you have to try at least once.
- Barre Classes Dallas
Pure Barre – Pure Barre has four locations in Dallas, and their workouts are highly effective and low impact.
Barre Code – In Highland Park and the Design District, Barre Code has three different options, which are cardio, strength training, or a calm restoration class.
Barre Method – The Barre Method is a new approach to barre classes that involves your own body weight to sculpt and tone your muscles. There are two locations conveniently located in Dallas.
- Yoga Dallas
Uptown Yoga – With free yoga mats and accessories available to use, this studio has some of the best instructors in Dallas. They are committed to studying yoga, and there are classes for all ages and levels.
Sunstone – Sunstone has yoga, barre, pilates, and general fitness classes. With classes like hot yoga and restorative flow yoga, there is something for everyone.
- Katy Trail
Running through Uptown, Katy Trail is a running, walking, and bicycling path that was built on an old railroad track. It’s 3.5 miles long and 12 feet long. Including beautiful native plants lining the trail, it’s the perfect place to jog or walk.
Shopping in Dallas
If you like to shop you are in luck! There are way too many good locations to shop in or near Dallas. From the malls to high-end stores, you have to see it to believe it.
Highland Park Village - This shopping mall is a high-end chain of stores that is featured right in the heart of Highland Park. With stores like Valentino and Hermes, you’ll find the most expensive and highest quality of goods when you shop here.
The Shops at Park Lane – This shopping mall is mostly outdoors, and it might just be the most upscale option in Dallas. Located just downtown, this is the place to go if you want to browse through nice shops like Neiman Marcus. Spend a day outside when the weather is warm and walk around to see all the shops that are available. There are nice restaurants that you can stop in and eat at, and delicious food trucks come there during lunch or dinner hours on occasion.
West Village – Uptown Dallas has never been so great. West Village is full of some of the cutest shops around. From Banana Republic to Kendra Scott, you’ll find anything you need with the many shops here. It makes a fun day spent out shopping, and the stores are always stocked full. Parking can be a bit busy if you go during the evening or on the weekends, but the experience is far worth it!
Galleria Dallas – This mall is the biggest and largest mall you will ever need in Dallas. It has every store you can dream of, and they often hold fun events during the day. With an indoor skating rink and multiple levels, you’ll never leave unsatisfied. It really is a one-stop shop, and you can eat and find some new clothes while you’re at it. It’s a pretty busy place, but the huge parking garage ensures you’ll always find a spot.
Spas in Dallas
The Joule Spa – This spa is located at the Joule hotel in downtown Dallas, but their spa is open to all residents. They feature unique packages like three-hour massage packages and hour-long manicures.
Halcyon Days Salon & Spa – Located in the Neiman Marcus in Dallas, this spa is perfect to go to on your lunch break. They have manicures, pedicures, and massages that will make going back to work much easier.
Bliss Spa – Bliss is located in the W Dallas, and their spa features lots of treatments like a triple oxygen treatment, amazing massages, and to die for facials.
Dog Walkers, Pet Sitters & Boarding
Whether you want your furry friend to be walked while you’re at work, or you need someone to watch them while you go on a business trip, we have you covered. It can be nerve-wracking to put your dog somewhere new, but these places have the best reviews in Dallas.
Good Day Pet Sitters – Located right in Uptown, this pet sitter will come to you. They offer walking rates and staying rates, so whether you need your pet walked or taken care of, they have you covered. Their prices are affordable, and they’ll even bring in your mail.
Uptown Dog – These caring individuals offer everything you need for your pet at an affordable price. They’ll walk your dog while you’re at work, groom your dog, or you can board them at their facility. They have rave reviews and treat dogs amazing.
Dallas Young ProfessionaLs
Junior League of Dallas – This group is aimed at promoting voluntarism among professional women in Dallas. They require 60 hours of volunteer work each year.
The One Society – If you want to get involved with children, this one works with Children’s Medical Center to foster young kids and educate them to become leaders.
Wilkinson Center Young Friends – Work with the local communities to help poverty rescue and help those in need get back on their feet with resources job applications. It is a great cause to support.
Who to follow on Instagram in Dallas
@dallaslovelist
Need to find a bit of love for your new city? Moving somewhere new can be overwhelming, but it isn’t hard to see just how great Dallas is. Follow one of our favorite local bloggers on Instagram @dallaslovelist & fall in love with Dallas one frame at a time. They showcase the best of the best in Dallas, and you’ll want to screenshot every picture they post.
@deepfriedfit
Don’t let the name fool you, this feed isn’t all deep-fried goodies. Considered to be the ultimate foodie, Mai Lyn posts some of the most delicious food you’ll find in Dallas. In addition to food, she posts awesome community fitness events and places to workout in Dallas on her blog.
Best places for your first Instagram pics
Don’t forget to show off the amazing city by posting your Instagram worthy pictures. For the most amazing and picturesque spots, check out the places below.
The Eye at Joule Dallas – Yes, there is a giant eyeball in Dallas. Standing at over 30 feet tall, this eye is the perfect piece of art to take a photo in front of. It’s unique and chic.
Urban Taco – Perhaps the funniest place to take a selfie, this mural replaced the “you” in I love you so much with “tacos.” Isn’t it true? It’s the perfect spot for a photo.
Poplove Mural, Bishop Arts District – This cute mural has blank spaces between a plus sign and an equal sign so you and your bffs or partner can step up and show that you two equal love.
NYLO Dallas South Side – A beautiful pool leads to an amazing picturesque view of downtown Dallas. You won’t want to miss this one.
Colorful Symmetry Wall – Located next to High Fives, this colorful symmetry wall is full of bright colors that perfectly complement whatever you’re wearing that day.
RewardStyle Wall (outside Standard Pour) – Take your Instagram to the next level by posing in front of these geometric shaped colorful hearts. You’ll look like a professional traveler or fashion blogger.
Graphic Colorful Pentagons/Diamonds - (West Village) Pentagons the color of the rainbow is the perfect spot to make all of your friends not living in Dallas jealous. It’s out of this world cool.
Dallas Parks & Outdoor
Sometimes, you just need some outdoor time to get grounded. Even though you’re living in one of the largest cities, you can still find some green space that can connect you to nature. Dallas has some of the most beautiful parks in the United States, and all of the ones listed below should be visited often. If you are a park fanatic, get ready to view some amazing and beautifully built parks.
White Rock Lake Park – One of the most beautiful lakes in Dallas, this park has walking trails that you can catch the sunrise or sunset from, and you can take your dog with you. It’s the perfect spot to hang out.
Turtle Creek Parkway Park – With a pretty bridge and gorgeous creek fountain, you won’t believe that you’re still in Dallas when you come to this park. It’s relaxing and so serene that you’ll instantly feel connected to nature.
Klyde Warren Park – If you’re looking for a park that is close to downtown, this one is about as close as you’re going to get. Located right over the Woodall Rogers Freeway, this park is 5.2 acres and opened up in 2012. It connects both uptown Dallas and the art district, and it creates a green space that is almost near impossible to find in Dallas. It is the most picturesque park you’ll find right in a large city.
Main Street Garden Park – This park is perfect to go to during your lunch break. It is located downtown, and it’s just under two acres. Most consider it to be a gathering place for employees or friends, which makes it the perfect spot to meet someone new. If you work downtown, check out this beautiful park during your lunch break.
Fair Park – While this park is a must-see during the fair in Dallas, you also can go to the other 1,200 activities it has during the year. Fair Park is located just outside of downtown Dallas, but it boasts more than 200 acres of land. There are lots of concerts and other conventions held there, so there’s always something to visit. The land itself is beautiful, and it is a very fun experience if you haven’t been there before.
Pioneer Plaza – Many might consider this to be a touristy spot, but if you have not been there before, you have to go. It is absolutely beautiful, and it is located right inside of Dallas city limits. Filled with large sculptures and beautiful land, there’s nothing about this public park that you won’t love. You have to visit this park at least once, but many make it a park that they frequent often.
Texas Relocation Experts
If you’re looking to relocate to the greatest city, or you just need to find a new spot to live in Dallas, look no further than Legacy Locators. We make it our mission to find the perfect apartments for our clients here in Dallas, and we don’t stop until you’re satisfied. Forget the endless searching for a mediocre apartment and leave the hard work to us.
Where to live in Dallas
Everywhere in Dallas is great, but if you’re searching for the best places to live in Dallas, then you need to check out the neighborhoods below. Depending on your lifestyle and price range, different parts of Dallas may be better than some. Regardless, you’re bound to find the perfect place for you if you follow the guide below. One of our Dallas real estate agents would also love to help you!
Best Neighborhoods in Dallas
Uptown Dallas – If you just came from a big city that you walked through a lot, then Uptown will wow you. This is the perfect spot for those who want the downtown feel with the ability to walk to some of the best food and bars.
Downtown Dallas – Nothing beats living downtown in one of the large high rises and catching public transport to your job. You get to avoid any traffic that Dallas has, and it cuts down your transportation costs.
Bishop Arts District | Oak Cliff – History meets hipster in the arts district. The neighborhood is full of charm, and it’s home to some of the most popular Dallas restaurants and bars. It’s perfect for foodies.
Addison | North Dallas – A small town feel in a big city is what Addison provides. Full of amazing restaurants and venues, Addison gives you small town Dallas without sacrificing amenities.
Plano | Frisco – Some of the largest companies are relocating to this Dallas city, and luxury apartments are popping up everywhere. This is the perfect location for those who work at a company that is based here, like Toyota, Dell, and Frito-Lay.
Deep Ellum – The music and nightlife district that is an up and coming neighborhood. If you want to save on rent but still live in one of the coolest and youngest places in Dallas, you’ll want to check out apartments here.
Directory
Relocating our whole life to Dallas can be stressful, but we want to make it easier on you. When it comes to moving, changing your utilities, finding TV and internet providers, you can feel a bit overwhelmed and lost. We took the liberty of weeding out the unprofessional companies and left you with the best providers to choose from. You’ll find everything you need to know down below. Keep reading below for our directory on how to seamlessly move your life to Dallas.
Dallas Moving Companies
Relocating to a new place in Dallas can be exciting, but the process of actually getting all of your belongings from point A to point B? Not so much. All that packing and organizing and transporting – not to mention lugging all those boxes and heavy furniture back and forth. No one gets excited about packing and moving all the boxes. It is tedious work, and let’s be honest, it’s a waste of your time. Hiring movers can be stressful. You want them to be honest and work hard. Thankfully, we have some movers that can easily help move your belongings without worry. Here are two local moving companies we and our clients have used in the past.
Made Clean Co.
At Made Clean Co., we are a family owned and operated business. Our goal is to provide a clean, sanitary, and chemical free environment for any space. We only use Eco friendly products.
Our staff specializes in tidying your space and making organization conventional for your lifestyle. We realize that each customer is different. And because of this, we tailor each cleaning experience based on our customer needs. This creates a cleaning experience like no other. Our staff members are trained to provide exceptional service. We are professional and efficient. Give us the opportunity to take over the task of keeping your home or office space clean.
469-263-5535
Uptown Cleaners
Uptown Cleaning provides superior residential cleaning service in Uptown Dallas and surrounding areas. We are extremely thorough, completely reliable, and quite affordable. For your security and protection, we are both bonded and insured. Your satisfaction is guaranteed.
Our unique approach to residential cleaning is that we send just one member of our trained and trusted professional staff to meticulously clean your home. No 'team cleaning' so you get an individual, personal touch each and every time. Every staffer brings everything she needs to clean - we provide all supplies and equipment.
214-733-2975
magazines
D Magazine is your one-stop shop for all things Dallas. Stay in the know on local lifestyle, politics, and all the best spots to eat and drink. It often ranks local restaurants and tells you all about upcoming activities, so make sure to subscribe to this one if you’re new here in Dallas!
Texas Monthly is another great magazine that tells you all the different happenings around Texas. While this is not specific to Dallas, it does have a lot of Dallas activities and news mentioned throughout it.
NewsPapers
Dallas Business Journal - If you want the best business news, this is the perfect magazine. It is filled with great entrepreneurs, different news of opening businesses, and even has a long list of the best places to frequent.
The Dallas Morning News - A trustworthy newspaper for everything that is happening in Dallas, this focuses on the greater Dallas area. Online and in print, this newspaper is one of the best.
Dallas Observer - For a larger view of what is happening in Texas and the United States, this newspaper has you covered. All important news, the good and the bad, is delivered here.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram - If you are living closer to Fort Worth than Dallas, this is the best newspaper for you. Focusing more on the greater Fort Worth area, this is the perfect place to get local news as well as the important U.S. news.
Electric Providers
85% of Texans can choose their electricity service from a variety of retail electric providers (REPs). The utility company in the area still owns and maintains the local power lines and is the company to call in the event of a power outage. Click the link below or call 888-877-7157 to turn your lights on!
Cable & High Speed Internet Providers
There are lots of different options in Dallas for cable and internet. Whether you transfer your service from your old city, or you’re looking for a new company, here is a list of everyone that provides internet and cable in the Dallas area.
Direct TV
Dish
AT&T Uverse
Spectrum Cable
Frontier FiOS
Voter Registration
Everyone should be register to vote, and relocating yourself to Dallas is not an excuse to put off your registration! You might think that registering to vote in Dallas could be a handful, but you couldn’t be more wrong. Registering to vote in your new city is important to be a part of the community, and you should always exercise your right to vote. To register to vote, go to www.dallascountyvotes.org to find your precinct. You can ask for a registration packet online, or you can register to vote in person at the precinct closest to you.