The Best Dallas Neighborhoods for Every Lifestyle in 2025

Dallas’s best neighborhoods include Uptown for nightlife and walkability (85 Walk Score), Highland Park for families and schools (A+ Crime Grade), and Lake Highlands for affordability and suburban calm. Here’s how to choose based on your lifestyle, commute, and rent budget.

We’ve ranked 15 of the best places to live in Dallas based on livability, safety, transit, and amenities, from the urban buzz of Deep Ellum to the quiet charm of Redbird and Casa Linda. You’ll also find insider tips from local Dallas renter Kenzie Elizabeth, who shares what it’s really like to live in these neighborhoods.

What are the most walkable Dallas neighborhoods?

Downtown Dallas

• Best For: Renters who want a walkable, car-free lifestyle close to major employers and nightlife
• Walk Score: 92
• Bike Score: 85
• Transit Score: 75
• Diversity Rating: A+
• Average rent: $2,217
• Crime Grade: Below Average

Downtown Dallas offers unmatched walkability and a true live-work-play environment. With a Transit Score of 88 and a Walk Score of 95, this area is ideal for renters who want to ditch the car and walk to work, restaurants, bars, and events. It’s home to major employers, luxury high-rises, and attractions like Klyde Warren Park, the Dallas World Aquarium, and the Arts District.

Commuting is a breeze with access to DART light rail and bus lines that connect you to the rest of the metro. The area’s rising skyline is matched by its expanding dining scene, from happy hour at The Exchange to weekend brunch at CBD Provisions.

While the crime grade is average for a downtown core, many apartment buildings offer secure access, on-site concierge services, and controlled entry for peace of mind.

Uptown

• Best For: Young professionals who want nightlife, restaurants, and walkable trails
• Walk Score: 96
• Bike Score: 68
• Transit Score: 79
• Diversity Rating: A
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $2,748
• Crime Grade: Below Average

Uptown Dallas is a top pick for young professionals who crave a walkable, energetic lifestyle. With a Walk Score of 85 and an eclectic mix of dining, shopping, and nightlife along McKinney Avenue and the West Village, this neighborhood buzzes day and night.

The area is also home to the scenic Katy Trail, a tree-lined urban path perfect for jogging, biking, or walking your pup. Apartment buildings often come with rooftop pools, fitness centers, and high-end amenities.

Uptown is minutes from Downtown and Highland Park, offering a central location with all the urban perks. While the nightlife brings some weekend noise, the area’s safety and access make it a standout for professionals and social renters alike.

Deep Ellum

• Best For: Creatives and music lovers who want an edgy, artistic district
• Walk Score: 76
• Bike Score: 76
• Transit Score: 80
• Diversity Rating: A-
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $1,874
• Crime Grade: Average

Deep Ellum has grit, murals, and music for days. If you’re into warehouse lofts and late-night sets, you’ll fit right in. With vibrant street murals, indie music venues, and warehouse lofts, it’s the place to be if you value expression over polish.

Renters enjoy a high Walk Score and easy DART rail access to Downtown and Baylor Medical Center. Coffee shops, vintage boutiques, and dive bars give the neighborhood a raw, authentic feel that’s hard to replicate elsewhere in the city.

Nightlife is a major draw, but so are community events like art walks and maker markets. It’s not the quietest neighborhood, but it wasn’t meant to be, either.

Oak Lawn

• Best For: LGBTQ+ renters and nightlife lovers looking for community and connection
• Walk Score: 86
• Bike Score: 60
• Transit Score: 76
• Diversity Rating: A
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $2,303
• Crime Grade: Below Average

Oak Lawn welcomes everyone and celebrates them as Dallas’s premier LGBTQ+ community. With a strong nightlife scene, local bars, and walkable blocks along Cedar Springs Road, it’s both a cultural hub and a comfortable place to call home.

The area hosts annual events like Dallas Pride and the Halloween Block Party and offers access to popular spots like Station 4, Round-Up Saloon, and Sue Ellen’s. During the day, residents stroll through Turtle Creek or grab brunch at neighborhood gems like Lucky’s Cafe.

It’s also close to Uptown, Downtown, and the Medical District, making it an ideal spot for renters who want culture, connection, and convenience in one of Dallas’s most socially active areas.

What are the best Dallas neighborhoods for families?

University Park

• Best For: Parents who want suburban comfort with access to SMU and top schools
• Walk Score: 61
• Bike Score: 38
• Transit Score: 59
• Diversity Rating: B+
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $3,036
• Crime Grade: Excellent

Home to Southern Methodist University, University Park is ideal for families who want proximity to campus events, top-rated schools, and well-maintained parks. The neighborhood’s walkable layout includes Snider Plaza for shopping and dining, plus easy access to North Central Expressway for commuting.

University Park is zoned to Highland Park ISD, giving residents access to elite K–12 education. Locals love the small-town vibe, tree-lined streets, and access to the Holmes Aquatic Center in summer. For renters who want high livability and a strong school system, this is one of Dallas’s most reliable family-friendly areas.

Lake Highlands

• Best For: Budget-conscious families looking for space, parks, and good schools
• Walk Score: 44
• Bike Score: 41
• Transit Score: 46
• Diversity Rating: A
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $1,066
• Crime Grade: Above Average

Located in Northeast Dallas, Lake Highlands offers a family-friendly atmosphere without the steep price tag. Lake Highlands puts you close to top schools and trails like White Rock Creek—great for bike rides, dog walks, and post-dinner strolls.

The area blends suburban space with urban access; many renters can reach Downtown within 20 minutes via DART. With parks, splash pads, and a mix of housing options, Lake Highlands is ideal for growing families who want room to roam without breaking the bank.

What are the best Dallas neighborhoods for young professionals?

Henderson (M Streets)

• Best For: Trendy renters who want bars, shops, and walkability without chaos
• Walk Score: 87
• Transit Score: 43
• Bike Score: 66
• Diversity Rating: A
• Average rent: $1,748
• Crime Grade: Above Average

This stretch mixes Henderson buzz with M Street's character that’s walkable, social, yet never chaotic. Renters love being able to walk from historic homes to wine bars, taco spots, and indie boutiques. It's ideal for young adults who want access to nightlife and retail without the noise of Deep Ellum or Uptown.

Locals jog the Katy Trail, browse the Knox District’s high-end shops, or brunch at spots like The Porch and Taverna. With a blend of character-rich architecture and modern amenities, it’s a sweet spot for young professionals who want balance.

Old East Dallas

• Best For: Young professionals who want history, murals, and bikeable streets
• Walk Score: 73
• Transit Score: 45
• Bike Score: 70
• Diversity Rating: A
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $1,966
• Crime Grade: Average

Old East Dallas blends urban grit and historic beauty, offering everything from 1920s mansions to modern apartments. Swiss Avenue showcases stunning architecture, while areas closer to Deep Ellum and Lower Greenville give renters easy access to nightlife and dining.

This neighborhood attracts artists, freelancers, and digital nomads who value aesthetics and access. You’ll find murals, breweries, and co-working spaces all within bike distance. It’s less polished than Uptown but offers more personality per square foot.

Preston Hollow

• Best For: Quiet professionals who want upscale living near shopping and parks
• Walk Score: 28
• Transit Score: 24
• Bike Score: 44
• Diversity Rating: B+
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $2,845
• Crime Grade: Excellent

Preston Hollow offers elegance and ease just minutes from North Dallas’s best retail and green spaces. Known for its estate homes and notable residents (think Mark Cuban and former President George W. Bush), it also has upscale apartment options for renters.

The area is close to Preston Center, NorthPark Center, and the Northaven Trail. It's ideal for professionals who prefer a quiet, refined environment without sacrificing access to restaurants or employers. With low crime and spacious living, it’s Dallas luxury without the flashiness of Downtown.

What are the best Dallas neighborhoods for students?

Redbird

• Best For: Families and professionals seeking quiet, affordable living
• Walk Score: 33
• Transit Score: 36
• Bike Score: 38
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $1,191
• Crime Grade: Average

Redbird, located in South Dallas near Oak Cliff, is a residential community offering affordability and space. Renters can find mid-century apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes with large yards. While it’s not transit-rich, the tradeoff is privacy, room to grow, and quiet streets. Parks and golf courses dot the area, making it ideal for those who want to stay active and avoid the hustle.

Vickery

• Best For: Renters looking for value near shopping, transit, and parks
• Walk Score: 60
• Transit Score: 51
• Bike Score: 57
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $1,316
• Crime Grade: Average

Vickery offers one of the best affordability-to-access ratios in Dallas. Located near NorthPark Center and Fair Oaks Park, it’s close to shopping, jobs, and the DART system. Apartment complexes here range from vintage to newly renovated, with many offering community amenities like pools, BBQ areas, and playgrounds. It’s a practical pick for renters who want connectivity without premium prices.

Downtown

• Best For: Students and interns who want car-free access to transit, culture, and major campuses
• Walk Score: 92
• Bike Score: 85
• Transit Score: 75
• Diversity Rating: A+
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $2,217
• Crime Grade: Below Average

Downtown Dallas is a smart pick for students who thrive on movement, connection, and access. With a high Walk Score and multiple DART rail stations nearby, getting to campuses like El Centro College, UT Southwestern, or Baylor is quick and easy with no car required. The neighborhood is packed with high-rises, coworking cafes, and local landmarks like Klyde Warren Park and the Arts District, giving students a lively backdrop for both study and downtime.

Many apartment buildings include amenities like fitness centers, study lounges, and secure entry, helping offset the hustle of urban life. While crime rates reflect its central location, enhanced building security and active pedestrian traffic help make Downtown feel navigable and convenient for student renters.

Find Your Perfect Dallas Apartment

Dallas has a neighborhood for every lifestyle. Whether you’re a student seeking transit access, a family prioritizing schools, or a young professional chasing culture and connection, there’s a spot here for you.

• Best for Families: University Park and Lake Highlands: Excellent schools, parks, and a mix of affordability and safety.
• Best for Budget Renters: Redbird and Vickery: Lower rents with good access to green space and shopping.
• Best for Students: Downtown: High walkability and direct access to major campuses via DART.
• Best for Young Professionals: Henderson (M Streets): Walkable, social, and stylish without the chaos of Uptown.

If you’re ready to find your next apartment, define your priorities, whether it’s a short commute, amenities, or budget, to find the right Dallas neighborhood for you.

Ready to get started? Take our Apartment List quiz to match with your ideal Dallas neighborhood.

Best Dallas Neighborhood FAQs

What is the safest neighborhood in Dallas?

Neighborhoods like Preston Hollow and University Park consistently earn high safety grades. Preston Hollow holds an Excellent crime rating, while University Park offers top-tier schools and a safe, suburban feel.

What are the most walkable areas in Dallas?

Uptown, Downtown, and Henderson (M Streets) rank highest in walkability, offering dense amenities, nightlife, and easy access to DART stations.

Where do creatives live in Dallas?

Creatives tend to cluster in Deep Ellum and Old East Dallas, where you’ll find murals, lofts, music venues, and indie cafes in bikeable, culturally rich surroundings.

Is Dallas affordable for renters?

Yes, especially in neighborhoods like Redbird (average rent: $1,191) and Vickery ($1,316), where rents fall well below the city’s median two-bedroom rent of $2,463 (as of July 2025).

How do I choose between living in the city or the suburbs of Dallas?

Urban neighborhoods like Uptown and Downtown offer nightlife, restaurants, and shorter commutes. Suburban-style areas like Lake Highlands and Preston Hollow deliver quieter streets, larger homes, and parks, ideal for families or renters seeking more space.

What neighborhood has the best access to public transit in Dallas?

Downtown leads in transit access with a Transit Score of 75, followed closely by Deep Ellum (80) and Uptown (79), all served by multiple DART lines.

What’s the cost of living like in Dallas compared to other major cities?

Dallas is significantly more affordable than New York or Los Angeles and slightly cheaper than Austin. Housing, in particular, remains a relative bargain in neighborhoods like Redbird, Vickery, and Lake Highlands.

Is Dallas a good city for remote workers?

Yes, many neighborhoods like Old East Dallas, Henderson (M Streets), and Uptown offer coworking spots, strong Wi-Fi, and a good blend of quiet blocks and social outlets.

How is the traffic in Dallas?

Traffic can get heavy during peak hours, especially on I-35 and US-75. Living in Downtown, Lake Highlands, or Uptown can reduce drive times thanks to central locations and DART access.

What are the quietest neighborhoods in Dallas?

Suburban-style neighborhoods like Preston Hollow, Lake Highlands, and Redbird offer peaceful, residential settings with low traffic and a slower pace of life.

Where do young professionals live in Dallas?

Young professionals often gravitate to Uptown, Henderson (M Streets), and Old East Dallas for a mix of walkability, nightlife, and access to top employers.

Which part of Dallas is the best?

It depends on your lifestyle:

• Uptown for walkability and nightlife
• Preston Hollow for safety and upscale homes
• Old East Dallas for artsy energy and bikeable blocks
• Lake Highlands for budget-friendly family living
• Downtown for students and car-free convenience