Long to live in the Lone Star state? These four Dallas suburbs give you access to the major metroplex without the hefty price tag.
By Natalia Pérez-Gonzalez on January 16, 2024
iStock/f11photoIn the heart of North Texas, the sprawling Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex is renowned for its vibrant culture, thriving economy and unmistakable Texan spirit. However, beyond the city limits lie hidden treasures — exceptional suburbs of Dallas with diverse communities, each with unique charm and appeal.
This list, compiled with data from our annual Top 100 Best Places to Live list, explores the four best Dallas suburbs, where Southern hospitality meets modern living, creating a perfect blend for those seeking an escape. And, as they say, everything is bigger in Texas.
In This Article
1. Frisco, TX
Picture this: Endless blue skies, warm Texan hospitality, and a community that feels like family — yes, the residents of Frisco are living the good life. Situated just 25 minutes north of Dallas, Frisco — known by locals as Sports City USA — is one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S. This Dallas suburb offers a taste of everything for everyone: a vibrant culture and arts scene, stunning green spaces for the outdoor enthusiasts and a thriving sports culture with plenty to cheer for.
Renowned for its outstanding public schools, Frisco’s commitment to quality education makes it one of the best Dallas suburbs for families. Its booming job market and proximity to significant corporations provide ample career opportunities. Their forward-thinking approach fosters a culture of innovation, with young professionals thinking outside the box to drive entrepreneurship (like this woman-owned coffee shop).
Outside of providing a solid foundation for success, Frisco also knows how to have a good time. The city is home to the National Videogame Museum and is generally a hub of entertainment — from thrilling sports events with FC Dallas and the Frisco RoughRiders to lively festivals and concerts at the Arts in the Square festival. A few can’t-miss attractions? The Star, the Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters, features 20+ restaurants, shops and hosts countless events; and KidZania, an interactive city for children that combines inspiration, fun, and role-play through realistic role-play.
2. Allen, TX
The thriving, welcoming atmosphere of Allen offers its more-than-106,000 residents a dense suburban feel (in 2020, about 73% of residents owned their homes). As in most family-oriented Texas suburbs, education is important to Allen’s residents. The city is home to some of the best public schools in Texas, placing it among the best Dallas suburbs for families, and for those pursuing higher education, Collin College’s Allen Campus offers accessible learning opportunities.
It’s no mystery why young professionals are drawn to living in Allen. This Dallas suburb recently ranked second for best real estate market and the second best place to launch a career in 2018 by Wallethub and Money. It also boasts a slew of coffee shops and parks, and it takes pride in its cultural scene, with events like the Allen Arts Festival showcasing local talent and the Arts of Collin County at the Collin County Courtyard Theater hosting various performances and events.
Things to do outdoors in Allen, TX, includes many parks, hiking trails and green spaces for outdoor recreation or relaxation. And for sports, this city is a winner with the Allen Event Center, home to the Allen Americans hockey team, and witness the city’s passionate sports culture.