5 Best Cities to Raise a Family in Dallas, Texas

Moving to Dallas with a family often raises the question of which city within the area is the best choice for settling down. Several suburbs stand out for their excellent schools, low crime rates, and family-friendly amenities. Below is an in-depth look at five of the top cities to consider, based on factors like location, education, safety, and housing options.

Murphy, Texas

Murphy, Texas, is a small but growing city located north of Dallas and east of Plano. With a size of just six square miles and a population of around 21,000, Murphy offers a tight-knit community feel. Its proximity to major transportation hubs like the President George Bush Turnpike and Highway 75 makes commuting convenient. Residents can reach Dallas Fort Worth International Airport in about 35 minutes and downtown Dallas in approximately 40 minutes.

Families in Murphy benefit from access to two highly rated school districts: Wylie Independent School District and Plano Independent School District. Wylie ISD boasts an A rating with a 96 out of 100 score from the Texas Education Agency, while Plano ISD holds a strong reputation with an accountability rating of B (89 out of 100). These districts are known for their high educational standards and a variety of schooling options.

Murphy also scores high in terms of safety, receiving an overall crime rating of A according to CrimGrade.org. Housing costs are on the higher side, with the median home price around $639,000 as of May 2024, driven by the availability of new construction. Despite the cost, Murphy’s excellent schools, safe environment, and convenient location make it an appealing choice for families.

Flower Mound, Texas

Flower Mound is a larger city located northwest of Dallas, encompassing 44 square miles with a population of about 78,000. Situated in Denton County, it provides easy access to major highways such as Highway 121, Interstate 35, and Highway 377. The city is strategically positioned just 15 minutes from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, making it a great option for families who travel frequently. Commuting to downtown Dallas or Fort Worth takes approximately 35 to 40 minutes.

Flower Mound’s educational opportunities are another significant draw. Most residents are served by Lewisville Independent School District, which has a strong track record of academic performance, earning a B (89 out of 100) rating from the Texas Education Agency. A portion of the city also feeds into the Argyle Independent School District, which has an even higher accountability rating of A (97 out of 100). With small student-teacher ratios and high educational standards, both districts cater well to families.

Flower Mound offers a mix of housing options, including beautiful single-family homes and upscale neighborhoods. The median home price as of May 2024 is $777,500, reflecting the city’s desirability. While not as much new construction is available compared to other suburbs, Flower Mound is known for its well-established communities and scenic surroundings, making it a top choice for families.

Frisco, Texas

Frisco has grown rapidly over the years to become a favorite destination for families moving to the Dallas area. With a population of approximately 223,000, this vibrant city is located about 16 miles north of Dallas. Frisco is well-connected, with major highways like the Dallas North Tollway and Highway 380 providing easy access to other parts of the Metroplex. Residents enjoy a 25- to 30-minute drive to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport and downtown Dallas.

Education is a cornerstone of Frisco’s appeal. The Frisco Independent School District is one of the highest-rated districts in Texas, earning an A (95 out of 100) from the Texas Education Agency. The district serves around 65,000 students across 72 schools, offering top-tier facilities and a strong focus on academic excellence.

Safety is another standout feature of Frisco. A recent analysis of FBI crime data ranked it as the fourth safest city in America. The city also provides residents with tools to monitor crime trends, adding to its appeal for safety-conscious families. The median home price in Frisco is $678,000 as of May 2024, reflecting the variety of housing options, from new builds to established neighborhoods. Frisco’s family-friendly environment, coupled with its excellent schools and amenities, make it a highly desirable location.

University Park, Texas

University Park is a small, affluent city located just north of downtown Dallas. Spanning only 3.73 square miles, it has a population of approximately 25,000. The city is well-known for its exclusive residential neighborhoods and proximity to Southern Methodist University, giving it a vibrant and intellectual atmosphere.

University Park’s location is one of its greatest assets. Residents are just 15 minutes from Dallas Love Field Airport and less than 30 minutes from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. The city also offers easy access to major thoroughfares like the Dallas North Tollway and Highway 75, making it convenient for both work and leisure.

Education in University Park is top-notch, with schools in the area consistently receiving high marks for academic performance. The community is also known for its low crime rates and exceptional public services, making it one of the safest places to raise a family in the Dallas area. However, the cost of living is significantly higher here, with median home prices reflecting the area’s affluence. Despite the expense, University Park’s prestigious schools, safety, and luxurious lifestyle make it a standout choice for families seeking a premium living experience.

Southlake, Texas

Southlake is another excellent option for families moving to the Dallas area. Located northwest of Dallas, this city combines suburban charm with urban convenience. With a population of about 31,000, Southlake offers a close-knit community feel while still providing easy access to major highways, including Highway 114. The city is approximately 15 minutes from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport and about 30 minutes from downtown Dallas or Fort Worth.

Southlake is renowned for its high-performing schools, which are part of the Carroll Independent School District. This district consistently ranks among the best in the state, offering rigorous academic programs and a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities. The city also boasts low crime rates and a variety of recreational amenities, including parks, shopping centers, and community events.

Housing in Southlake is on the higher end, with median home prices reflecting its upscale market. However, the combination of excellent schools, a safe environment, and a strong sense of community makes Southlake a top choice for families looking to settle near Dallas.

These five cities each offer unique benefits for families considering a move to the Dallas area. From excellent schools to safe neighborhoods and convenient locations, they represent some of the best options for raising a family in the Metroplex.

Post written by Kim Mendoza, Living Local Texas