When people think of Dallas, they often picture its thriving downtown and iconic skyline, but the true essence of living in Dallas extends beyond the urban core. The suburbs of Dallas are diverse residential areas that offer a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle while still providing easy access to the city’s bustling amenities. These Dallas suburbs are spread across various parts of the metroplex, each offering its own unique charm, modern conveniences, and distinct character.
In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll explore some of the most notable Dallas suburbs—from suburban retreats with scenic parks to fast-growing communities with booming job markets—highlighting key aspects such as population, average rent, and what makes each area stand out. Whether you’re searching for the perfect apartment in Dallas or curious about the different Dallas neighborhoods, let’s discover the best parts of Dallas to call home.
Cost of living in Dallas
Before we dive into the top Dallas suburbs, let’s cover how much it costs to live in Dallas. The overall cost of living in Dallas is about 2% higher than the national average. Housing plays a significant role, with the median sale price for a home in Dallas at $390,000, which is slightly below the national median of $432,657. Rent follows a similar trend, with the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Dallas at $1,422, also lower than the national average of $1,514.
While some suburbs around Dallas offer more affordable housing options, others can be more expensive, particularly in areas with luxury developments and high demand. In this article, we’ll explore a range of top suburbs, providing different lifestyle and housing opportunities depending on your budget and preferences.
If you’re looking for more specific rental insights, check out our guides on the 13 Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Dallas, TX for Renters in 2024 and the 13 Most Expensive Neighborhoods in Dallas to Rent in 2024.
1. Plano
Known for: Excellent schools, job opportunities, and suburban conveniences
Plano, located about 20 miles north of downtown Dallas, is consistently ranked as one of the top places to live in the country. Plano boasts a thriving economy, home to major corporate headquarters like Toyota, J.C. Penney, and Frito-Lay, providing ample job opportunities for residents. The suburb is also known for its highly-rated schools, extensive parks, and trails, making it a great place for both professionals and long-term residents.
Plano’s housing market offers a variety of options, from spacious single-family homes to more affordable townhomes and apartments. Its combination of suburban comfort and urban convenience attracts a wide range of residents.
Population: 290,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,523
Median home sale price: $530,000
Plano transportation scores: Walk Score 41, Bike Score 52, Transit Score 15
Apartments for rent in Plano, TX | Houses for rent in Plano, TX | Homes for sale in Plano, TX
2. Frisco
Known for: Rapid growth, top schools, and sports facilities
Frisco, located about 25 miles north of Dallas, is one of the fastest-growing suburbs in the country. Known for its outstanding school district, vibrant shopping and dining scene, and an impressive array of sports facilities, Frisco has quickly become one of the most desirable places to live in the Dallas metro area. The city is home to The Star, the Dallas Cowboys’ headquarters and training facility, along with a number of other sports venues that host local and national events.
The housing market in Frisco ranges from affordable new developments to luxury homes, providing residents with a wide variety of living options. The city’s blend of modern amenities and small-town charm makes it an attractive location for many.
Population: 225,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,632
Median home sale price: $687,750
Frisco transportation scores: Walk Score 25, Bike Score 39
Apartments for rent in Frisco, TX | Houses for rent in Frisco, TX | Homes for sale in Frisco, TX
3. Richardson
Known for: Strong job market, cultural diversity, and easy access to Dallas
Richardson, located just north of Dallas, is known for its thriving tech industry and cultural diversity. The suburb is home to the Telecom Corridor, a business hub that hosts major technology companies like AT&T and Cisco Systems. Richardson also has a robust arts and culture scene, with the Charles W. Eisemann Center for Performing Arts offering concerts, theater performances, and exhibitions.
The suburb’s proximity to major highways and the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system makes commuting into Dallas a breeze, while Richardson itself offers plenty of parks, shopping centers, and restaurants. The housing market includes a mix of single-family homes, apartments, and townhomes, catering to a variety of budgets and lifestyles.
Population: 125,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,608
Median home sale price: $437,000
Richardson transportation scores: Walk Score 44, Bike Score 53, Transit Score 33
Apartments for rent in Richardson, TX | Houses for rent in Richardson, TX | Homes for sale in Richardson, TX
4. McKinney
Known for: Historic downtown, small-town charm, and affordability
McKinney, located 30 miles north of Dallas, offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities. The suburb’s historic downtown area is a popular destination, featuring preserved 19th-century buildings that house boutique shops, restaurants, and galleries. McKinney’s growing economy and affordable housing market make it an attractive option for those looking for suburban living with character.
The housing market in McKinney is more affordable than other Dallas suburbs, offering a range of options from historic homes near downtown to newer developments in the surrounding areas. With its strong community feel and charming ambiance, McKinney is a top choice for those seeking a slower-paced lifestyle without sacrificing convenience.
Population: 210,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,497
Median home sale price: $554,000
McKinney transportation scores: Walk Score 27, Bike Score 42
Apartments for rent in McKinney, TX | Houses for rent in McKinney, TX | Homes for sale in McKinney, TX
5. Allen
Known for: Strong community vibe, top-rated schools, and outdoor recreation
Allen, located just north of Plano, is another popular Dallas suburb that combines a strong sense of community with plenty of modern amenities. Allen is home to top-rated schools, and the city offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, including over 60 miles of hiking and biking trails, several parks, and the 7,000-seat Allen Event Center, which hosts concerts, sporting events, and more.
Housing in Allen includes both newer developments and established neighborhoods, offering something for every type of resident. With its friendly atmosphere and easy access to Dallas, Allen is a top choice for suburban living.
Population: 105,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,345
Median home sale price: $555,000
Allen transportation scores: Walk Score 35, Bike Score 58
Apartments for rent in Allen, TX | Houses for rent in Allen, TX | Homes for sale in Allen, TX
6. Southlake
Known for: Luxury living, top-tier schools, and upscale amenities
Southlake, located northwest of Dallas, is known for its luxury living, top-tier schools, and abundance of upscale shopping and dining options. Southlake Town Square is the city’s centerpiece, offering high-end retailers, restaurants, and entertainment options in a beautiful outdoor setting. The suburb’s quiet, residential streets are lined with large, luxury homes on expansive lots.
Southlake is one of the more expensive suburbs in the Dallas area, with the housing market catering to those seeking a high-end lifestyle. Despite its price tag, the suburb remains popular for its excellent quality of life, strong community ties, and proximity to both Dallas and Fort Worth.
Population: 33,000
Median home sale price: $1,255,000
Southlake transportation scores: Walk Score 15, Bike Score 28
Apartments for rent in Southlake, TX | Houses for rent in Southlake, TX | Homes for sale in Southlake, TX
7. Grapevine
Known for: Historic downtown, wineries, and proximity to DFW Airport
Grapevine, located between Dallas and Fort Worth, is a charming suburb known for its historic downtown and vibrant wine scene. Grapevine’s Main Street is lined with local shops, restaurants, and art galleries, giving the town a distinctive small-town feel. The city is also home to several wineries, making it a popular destination for wine enthusiasts. Grapevine Lake offers outdoor recreation, including boating, fishing, and hiking.
Grapevine is conveniently located near Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, making it an ideal spot for frequent travelers. The housing market in Grapevine includes a mix of historic homes, suburban developments, and new builds, catering to a variety of preferences.
Population: 55,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,687
Median home sale price: $585,000
Grapevine transportation scores: Walk Score 30, Bike Score 38
Apartments for rent in Grapevine, TX | Houses for rent in Grapevine, TX | Homes for sale in Grapevine, TX
8. Flower Mound
Known for: Scenic parks, nature trails, and growing amenities
Flower Mound, located northwest of Dallas near Grapevine Lake, offers a peaceful suburban setting with easy access to outdoor recreation. The town is known for its beautiful parks, nature trails, and lush green spaces. With its proximity to the lake, Flower Mound is ideal for those who enjoy boating, fishing, and hiking. The town has also seen significant growth in recent years, with new shopping centers, restaurants, and other amenities adding to its appeal.
The housing market in Flower Mound includes a mix of older homes and newer developments, with options ranging from affordable single-family homes to upscale properties.
Population: 80,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,640
Median home sale price: $675,000
Flower Mound transportation scores: Walk Score 26, Bike Score 32
Apartments for rent in Flower Mound, TX | Houses for rent in Flower Mound, TX | Homes for sale in Flower Mound, TX
9. Carrollton
Known for: Cultural diversity, convenience, and affordability
Carrollton, located north of Dallas, offers a blend of suburban living with easy access to urban conveniences. The town is known for its cultural diversity, and residents can enjoy a variety of international restaurants and businesses. Carrollton’s proximity to major highways makes commuting to Dallas and surrounding areas convenient, while its affordability compared to other Dallas suburbs makes it an attractive option for a wide range of residents.
The housing market in Carrollton includes a mix of established neighborhoods and newer developments, providing a variety of living options to suit different lifestyles and budgets.
Population: 140,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,505
Median home sale price: $434,900
Carrollton transportation scores: Walk Score 36, Bike Score 39, Transit Score 20
Apartments for rent in Carrollton, TX | Houses for rent in Carrollton, TX | Homes for sale in Carrollton, TX
10. Lewisville
Known for: Lakeside living, affordability, and job opportunities
Lewisville, located northwest of Dallas, offers lakeside living with easy access to both Dallas and Fort Worth. The suburb is close to Lewisville Lake, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking. Lewisville’s strong economy and job market, especially in industries like healthcare and retail, make it a popular choice for residents.
Housing in Lewisville is relatively affordable compared to nearby suburbs, with a variety of single-family homes, apartments, and townhomes available.
Population: 110,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,553
Median home sale price: $437,000
Lewisville transportation scores: Walk Score 39, Bike Score 39
Apartments for rent in Lewisville, TX | Houses for rent in Lewisville, TX | Homes for sale in Lewisville, TX
Methodology: The suburbs included in this list were selected based on their overall popularity, determined by search trends and housing demand in the Dallas area. Average rent and home sale price data were sourced from Redfin and Rent.com as of October 2024. Transportation data, including Walk Scores, Bike Scores, and Transit Scores, was sourced from Walk Score.