Moving to Dallas-Fort Worth from out of state is disorienting at first — it’s less one city than a dozen distinct ones stitched together across four counties. Here’s a starting map.
If you want urban and walkable
Look at Uptown, Victory Park or the Arts District in Dallas proper — high-rise condos, restaurants and nightlife in walking distance. See our Dallas County guide and our condo-specific guides for Uptown, Victory Park, Turtle Creek and the Arts District.
If you want top schools and new construction
Collin County’s Plano, Frisco and McKinney are the default answer for relocating families prioritizing school ratings. See our Collin County guide.
If you want character and relative affordability
Fort Worth’s Cultural District and historic neighborhoods offer a different, less corporate feel than the Dallas side of the metro, often at a lower price point. See our Tarrant County guide.
If you want a slower pace and water access
Rockwall County, built around Lake Ray Hubbard, is the choice for buyers who want weekends on a boat without leaving the metro. See our Rockwall County guide.
A few things every transplant asks about
- No state income tax, offset by property taxes that vary by county, city and school district.
- Summers are genuinely hot — check AC age and ductwork condition on any home you tour June through September.
- Everything is a drive. DFW is enormous; pick your area based on where you’ll actually spend time, not just the job address.
New to the area and not sure where to start? Contact us — tell us your must-haves and we’ll point you at the right part of the metro.