A Local Expert’s Guide To Where to Live in Dallas: 10 Budget-Friendly Neighborhoods to Call Home

Dallas is a vibrant, dynamic city that offers no shortage of opportunities and a high quality of living for young professionals, families, and retirees. Along with its thriving business scene, the city of Dallas also has a rich cultural landscape with world-class museums, performing arts centers, professional sporting events, and a plethora of outdoor spaces. But what about the cost of living? At ApartmentHomeLiving.com, we know that budget plays a big role in deciding where to live. Living in Dallas can cost a lot of money. However, the good news is that there are several affordable neighborhoods in Dallas and the surrounding area. I’m Tiff, your ApartmentHomeLiving.com local expert for Dallas, Texas, and the DFW Metroplex. I’ve lived and worked all over this vast Texas city, so I know all of these neighborhoods inside and out. This article will serve as a comprehensive guide to some of Dallas’s most budget-friendly areas for singles and families to call home.

1. Vickery

Nestled in the heart of North Dallas, Vickery is a dynamic community with seamless access to dining, shopping, and entertainment. Vickery is just 20 minutes from Downtown Dallas and has proximity to major freeways such as US-75.

Vickery is one of the city's leading hubs for single professionals and families with children. Roughly 63% of the population are single adults, while 36% are families with an average size of 3.24. As of 2024, the median age in Vickery is 32. In Vickery, 83% of the homes are occupied by renters, with an average of 2.2 members living in the household.

Major Points of Interest

Southern Methodist University is minutes away from Vickery, so this is the ideal neighborhood for SMU students. In fact, my son is in his first year of law school at SMU’s Dedman School of Law, and he will soon be looking at rentals with his fiance. Vickery is near the top of his list for trendy young-adult living on a student’s budget.

The Vickery area has abundant shopping opportunities, including The Shops at Park Lane, NorthPark Center, and quaint boutiques. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a quick jaunt to the Caruth Creek Greenbelt, White Rock Lake, and many area parks.

Transportation

In Vickery, healthcare professionals will enjoy the walking distance to multiple hospitals and medical offices. Bus lines and the DART Rail are conveniently located, a bonus for commuters. Dallas Love Field airport is less than half an hour away from most Vickery addresses.

• Walk score: 60
• Transit score: 51
•  Bike score: 57

Schools

Vickery's public schools score between 3 and 7 at GreatSchools.org. The elementary schools in Vickery score higher than the middle schools and high schools.

My Ratings

Ratings on a scale of 1-5

• Parks: In Vickery, residents who enjoy the outdoors can take advantage of Harry S. Moss Park, which features trails for mountain biking. Vickery is also near other green spaces, such as White Rock Lake. Rating: 3
• Entertainment: The Shops at Park Lane have great options for shopping and dining. The area also has a few neighborhood bars and taverns. Rating: 3
• Local Vibes: Vickery has an urban-suburban vibe, with a diverse and multicultural atmosphere. The mix is both long-time residents and newcomers. Rating: 3
• Restaurants: For dining, Vickery has both casual eateries and more upscale restaurants. The various cuisines include American comfort food and international flavors. Rating: 3
• Location: Conveniently located about 10 miles northeast of Downtown Dallas, Vickery has access to abundant public transportation and major highways. Rating: 4
• Traffic: Expect congestion during peak hours because of the proximity to freeways. However, traffic is generally manageable in Vickery. Rating: 3
• Public Transportation: DART bus lines service the Vickery neighborhood, and there are light rail stations nearby as well. Rating: 3
• Outdoor Access: Caruth Creek Greenbelt, White Rock Lake, and many area parks offer plenty of spaces to get outside and enjoy nature. Caruth Creek Greenbelt and White Rock Lake are particularly well-suited to biking, hiking, jogging, and picnicking. Rating: 3
• Cost of Living: Compared to other Dallas neighborhoods, the cost of living in Vickery is relatively affordable. There is a mix of ownership and rental options. Rating: 4

2. Oak Cliff

When I worked in Dallas workforce development programs, my team had small offices in communities all over the city of Dallas, in addition to our workforce centers. It was important for us to have offices in the communities where our clients lived. Our main workforce center is in Oak Cliff, so this area is like home to me. If you ask Dallas-ites about Oak Cliff living, they may suggest that it’s not a safe place to live or work. However, I worked there for years and never had a bad experience. In the last 20 years, the area has evolved and become a growing cultural hub in the Dallas area.

Oak Cliff is rich in culture and diversity, with area renovations in recent years giving the neighborhood the vibe of an artist's colony. Characterized by an undeniable charm, this neighborhood has tree-lined streets and is strategically located near Downtown Dallas for convenience.

Single-parent families make up 57% of this neighborhood, with the median age being 33. In Oak Cliff, 53% of the households are homeowners.

Major Points of Interest

If you live in Oak Cliff, you don't have to go to Downtown Dallas to find cultural activities and entertainment. The revived Bishop Arts District is full of trendy shops, eclectic bars, venues for live performances, and art galleries. Residents or visitors to this area take part in cultural wine walks, family-friendly events, and lively street fairs. Also, one of the most popular Dallas attractions is near Oak Cliff: the award-winning Dallas Zoo.

Image: Zang Flats Apartments in Oak Cliff

Transportation

With a high walk score of 80, Oak Cliff is a blessing for people who like to get around on foot. Public transportation via Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) is available, with 10 bus stops in the neighborhood. Nearby interstates are I-30 and I-35E. Dallas Union Station is also useful for easy commuting.

• Walk score: 80
•  Transit score: 43
• Bike score: 72

Schools

GreatSchools.org gives some Oak Cliff schools high ratings, ranging from 3 up to 9. Middle schools and elementary schools make up the higher-rated schools.

My Ratings

Ratings on a scale of 1-5

• Parks: Oak Cliff has several parks, including the popular Oak Cliff Founders Park. At this park, residents can play disc golf and enjoy picnics. Rating: 4
• Entertainment: This neighborhood has a vibrant entertainment scene. The Bishop Arts District has an abundance of art galleries, along with local festivals and cultural events. Rating: 4
• Local Vibes: In Oak Cliff, there is a strong sense of community and a diverse population. Oak Cliff is known for having an eclectic mix of historic and modern elements. Rating: 4
• Restaurants: The dining scene in Oak Cliff is constantly evolving, with everything from authentic taquerias to trendy bistros. Rating: 4
• Location: Located just southwest of Downtown Dallas, Oak Cliff's proximity to the city center makes it convenient for commuters. Rating: 4
• Traffic: Because Oak Cliff is near major freeways, expect congestion during peak hours. Rating: 3
• Public Transportation: Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) provides 10 bus stops in Oak Cliff. Dallas Union Station is also useful for easy commuting. Rating: 3
• Outdoor Access: Oak Cliff has several parks and green spaces where residents can enjoy hiking, biking, and picnics. Rating: 4
• Cost of Living: The cost of living in Oak Cliff is moderate compared to other Dallas neighborhoods, with a mix of rental and home ownership options. Rating: 3

3. Lake West

Lake West has a reputation for having a rich cultural scene and a wide variety of entertainment options. In this neighborhood, you can be close to the buzz of Uptown Dallas while being close to the city's stellar Medical District, with Children's Medical Center, Parkland Hospital, and UT Southwestern Medical School. Just a short skip away is the Oak Lawn area, with lots of fun cultural activities and restaurants galore.

With a median age of 31, Lake West is a young neighborhood. Single-parent households make up about 60% of the families in the area. More than half of the households in Lake West are homeowners.

Major Points of Interest

Lake West is strategically located near Trinity Groves, where residents of the neighborhood go for trendy and eclectic dining and nightlife. There are plenty of outdoor activities to attract nature enthusiasts, with Pointer Park trails and the Trinity Levee Trail nearby. This neighborhood isn't far from the Bishop Arts District, which is a fun place to shop and browse art galleries. I used to make the short drive from downtown to go to a favorite Thai restaurant in the Bishop Arts District.

Transportation

The easiest way to get around in Lake West is via an automobile, with convenience to I-35 and I-30, which can take you from Dallas all the way to Fort Worth. Equally important, Lake West has 47 DART bus stops, so public transportation is widely available. The nearest airport is 25 minutes away at Dallas Love Field. Downtown Dallas is about half an hour away by car.

• Walk score: 35
• Transit score: 45
• Bike score: 45

Schools

Schools in Lake West have an average rating, with GreatSchools.org scores ranging from 2 to 9.

My Ratings

Ratings on a scale of 1-5

• Parks: There are not a lot of parks in Lake West. However, Tipton Park is just outside the boundaries of the neighborhood. Pointer Park trails and the Trinity Levee Trail are also nearby. Rating: 2
• Entertainment: In Lake West, entertainment options are somewhat limited. However, residents can find abundant fun places to go in nearby West Dallas, Trinity Groves, and the Bishop Arts District. Rating: 2
• Local Vibes: The community is Lake West is diverse, with a working-class vibe. However, the area is currently undergoing changes because of gentrification and development. Rating: 3
• Restaurants: While there are only a few dining options in Lake West, the nearby Trinity Groves area is well-known for having diverse culinary offerings. Rating: 2
• Location: Lake West is strategically located in West Dallas, with convenient access to Downtown Dallas. The neighborhood has Canada Drive on the north, Hampton Road on the east, with Westmoreland Road on the west. Rating: 3
• Traffic: Hampton Road and Canada Drive are busy streets that are used by commuters. During peak traffic hours, congestion can occur. Rating: 3
• Public Transportation: Lake West has 47 DART bus stops, so public transportation is widely available. Rating: 4
• Outdoor Access: Although Lake West doesn't have a lot of outdoor spaces, its proximity to the Trinity River corridor is being developed for green spaces and outdoor activities. Rating: 2
• Cost of Living: Historically, Lake West has been a working-class neighborhood, and the affordable housing prices reflect this. Rating: 4

4. Highland Hills

Located in the Dallas area's Southern Sector, Highland Hills is an established neighborhood nestled in the heart of Dallas. Highland Hills is known for having a close-knit community with an air of country living. Residents love the quiet living in this neighborhood, citing a privacy that feels rural.

In 2024, 48% of the neighborhood was made up of families, with the majority of those being single-parent households. The area's median age is 34. However, Highland Hills has a high percentage of homeowners at 61%.

Image: Texas State Fair from Pixabay

Major Points of Interest

Downtown Dallas is only 15 minutes away from Highland Hills, making this a popular neighborhood for people who work downtown. For a family fun day on the weekends, the many museums at Dallas's Fair Park are nearby, along with the Dallas Zoo. Something the internet doesn’t know is that the Dallas Zoo has one of the most renowned primate habitations in the U.S.

Higher learning institutions in this area include Paul Quinn College and the University of North Texas Dallas.

Transportation

You can catch a DART bus at one of 63 bus stops in Highland Hills, and Dallas Love Field Airport is about 25 minutes away. Nearby freeways include I-20, I-35E, and I-45.

• Walk score: 50
• Transit score: 34
• Bike score: 54

Schools

Schools in Highland Hills run the gamut in terms of ranking from GreatSchools.org. Scores for the high schools are low, while independent schools like the Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy and the Maceo Smith New Tech High School ranked high. Elementary schools and middle schools have average ratings, with scores between 3 and 5.

My Ratings

Ratings on a scale of 1-5

• Parks: Highland Hills has abundant parks and outdoor spaces for residents. This neighborhood is also near Joppa Preserve and McCommas Bluff. Rating: 4
• Entertainment: Entertainment options in Highland Hills are limited. Most residents head to other areas of the city for activities. The many museums at Dallas's Fair Park are nearby, along with the Dallas Zoo. Rating: 2
• Local Vibes: Highland Hills has a suburban feel with an air of country living. Residents enjoy the quiet living in this neighborhood, citing a privacy that feels almost rural. Rating: 4
• Restaurants: There are limited dining options in Highlight Hills. Most residents go into the city for a variety of restaurants. Rating: 2
• Location: Located less than 10 miles from Downtown Dallas, Highland Hills residents have easy access to urban amenities. Rating: 4
• Traffic: Traffic in Highland Hills is moderate, and you can expect congestion near I-20, I-35E, and I-45. Rating: 3
• Public Transportation: You can catch a DART bus at one of 63 bus stops in Highland Hills. Rating: 4
• Outdoor Access: Highland Hills has a close proximity to nature and green spaces. The Tommie M. Allen Recreation Center has a playground with family-friendly outdoor spaces. Rating: 4
• Cost of Living: The cost of living in Highland Hills is moderate compared to other Dallas neighborhoods in this area. Rating: 3

5. Southeast Dallas

Southeast Dallas is a fast-growing neighborhood for young families who are looking for affordable housing options but still want the convenience of being located near the Dallas business district. This area is also located near Deep Ellum with its myriad mix of eclectic bars and restaurants.

Fair Park is an easy ride away, with world-class museums that are open year-round. My family and I have made tons of memories spending all day going through the museums at Fair Park. In fact, the museums at Fair Park are open year-round, not just when the State Fair of Texas is happening in the fall.

Renters make up just 39% of the households in South East Dallas, and the median age of the residents is 34. As of 2024, 31% of the households in this neighborhood have children.

Major Points of Interest

In Southeast Dallas, residents are near White Rock Lake, where you can participate in activities that include biking, hiking, sailing, golfing, and kayaking. This area also has the Dallas Arboretum, which is always blooming with something green and gorgeous. I first visited the Arboretum in the springtime, and it’s so easy to fall in love with this place when tulips, roses, and more are blooming everywhere you look. However, the Arboretum has activities all year long, and native plants bloom throughout the seasons.

Image: Dallas Arboretum from Pixabay

Transportation

You need a car to get around in Southeast Dallas unless you use public transportation. It's not one of the more walkable neighborhoods in Dallas. If you need public transportation, you can find it at 38 DART bus stops in this neighborhood.

•  Walk score: 5
• Transit score: 33
• Bike score: 34

Schools

GreatSchools.org rankings for schools in Southeast Dallas vary widely, ranging from 1 to 9.

My Ratings

Ratings on a scale of 1-5

• Parks: Southeast Dallas has several community parks, and it's relatively close to White Rock Lake, which has extensive opportunities for outdoor fun. Rating: 4
• Entertainment: Southeast Dallas is close to Deep Ellum with its many eclectic bars and restaurants. Fair Park is an easy ride away, with world-class museums that are open year-round. Rating: 3
• Local Vibes: This neighborhood is diverse and is currently undergoing gentrification and development efforts. Rating: 3
• Restaurants: Other than neighborhood eateries and fast food, Southeast Dallas has limited dining choices. Rating: 2
• Location: Freeways passing through Southeast Dallas include I-30 and I-45, so there is fast access to Downtown Dallas and other parts of the Metroplex. Rating: 3
• Traffic: Because it's close to I-30 and I-45, congestion is a problem during peak hours on the major roads. Rating: 3
• Public Transportation: There are 38 DART bus stops in Southeast Dallas Rating: 3
• Outdoor Access: For outdoor living, most residents take advantage of nearby White Rock Lake. Rating: 3
• Cost of Living: Home and rent costs in Southeast Dallas are less expensive than other Dallas neighborhoods. Rating: 4

6. White Rock Valley

In White Rock Valley, you can enjoy the ambiance of a serene oasis while also being close to the vibrancy of city living. This tranquil neighborhood is surrounded by verdant greenery, and parks and jogging trails abound. Compared to other Dallas neighborhoods, White Rock Valley is considered to be relatively safe.

In the Lake Highlands neighborhood, 54% of the residents are renters, while homeowners make up 46% of the households. The median age of the residents is 35 years old. More than half (51%) of the households in this area are families.

Major Points of Interest

Nearby, shopping is available at NorthPark Center and Lake Highlands Town Center. After shopping at NorthPark Center, my daughter and I love to drive a couple of blocks to indulge in a thick slice of cheesecake at Cheesecake Factory. To immerse themselves in big city life, residents can take Loop 12 to Downtown Dallas in about 25 minutes in good traffic.

Transportation

White Rock Valley is near major routes, including I-75, I-635, and Northwest Highway (Loop 12), so it's easy to hop on the freeway to get to other Metroplex locations. For public transportation, there are 22 DART bus stops in this area. For air travel, Dallas Love Field Airport is about 30 minutes away by car.

• Walk score: 12
• Transit score: 36
• Bike score: 24

Schools

GreatSchools.org ranks school ratings for White Rock Valley between 4 and 7, with elementary schools receiving the highest scores.

My Ratings

Ratings on a scale of 1-5

• Parks: In White Rock Valley, residents can spend time at several local parks. White Rock Lake is also conveniently located. Rating: 4
• Entertainment: White Rock Valley isn't known for being an entertainment hub. Most residents head into the city for more entertainment options. Rating: 2
• Local Vibes: White Rock Valley has a family-friendly atmosphere and a strong sense of community. Rating: 4
• Restaurants: Dining options in this area are limited mostly to fast food. However, NorthPark Center and Lake Highlands Town Center are nearby, and you can find any type of cuisine you want in those areas. Rating: 3
• Location: This neighborhood is in East Dallas near White Rock Lake. Residents can take Loop 12 to Downtown Dallas in about 25 minutes in good traffic. Rating: 4
• Traffic: Traffic is moderate in White Rock Valley. Because of its proximity to some I-75, Loop 12, and I-635, it can get slightly congested during peak times. Rating: 3
• Public Transportation: There are 22 DART bus stops in White Rock Valley. Rating: 3
• Outdoor Access: White Rock Lake gives residents opportunities for water sports, biking, hiking, and countless picnic areas. Rating: 4
• Cost of Living: White Rock Valley is more costly than many of the affordable neighborhoods in Dallas, with a median home value of about $600,000. Rating: 2

Image: The Nash Apartments near the White Rock Valley area

7. University Terrace

Located in the heart of lively East Dallas, University Terrace is a charming neighborhood that is well known for its natural beauty. The streets are shaded with mature bald cypress and ash trees, and the community has a lot of the vibe that carries over from the nearby White Rock Lake area. I lived in East Dallas as a young mother, and we loved how quiet these neighborhoods were.

With a median age of 37, University Terrace has a slightly older demographic than some of the other neighborhoods on this list. More than half of the households are homeowners, with 44% being renters.

Major Points of Interest

University Terrace is a quiet community, and most residents head to other parts of the city for entertainment. However, this neighborhood is home to the Ridgewood Park Recreation Center, which boasts a gym, sports courts, playground, and a vital community hub. The DART Rail can carry residents to areas all over the DFW Metroplex.

Transportation

Most University Terrace errands will be easier if you have a vehicle. With a bike score of 55, biking is also a viable option. University Terrace has a DART Rail Station, which offers easy access to many of Dallas's best attractions, including Downtown Dallas. Love Field Airport is half an hour away.

• Walk score: 31
• Transit score: 42
• Bike score: 55

Schools

There are three schools in the University Terrace neighborhood: an elementary school, a middle school, and a high school. The notable Lakewood Elementary School has a GreatSchools.org rating of 9 out of 10. The middle school has a rating of 4, while the local high school scores a 5.

My Ratings

Ratings on a scale of 1-5

• Parks: The popular Ridgewood Park has a large playground for children, along with a tennis court, splash park, basketball court, and walking trails. Rating: 4
• Entertainment: University Terrace doesn't offer much in terms of entertainment opportunities because it's more of a quiet neighborhood. Residents go into the city for their entertainment. Rating: 2
• Local Vibes: This neighborhood is quaint and charming, with a strong sense of community. The active neighborhood association organizes events. Rating: 4
• Restaurants: Lower Greenville has a diverse collection of restaurants, and Lakewood Shopping Center also offers specialty restaurants and bars. Rating: 3
• Location: Located along the south side of Northwest Highway, University Terrace provides easy access to many parts of Dallas. Rating: 4
• Traffic: Northwest Highway is a major east-west thoroughfare with good connectivity to the city. Because of this, expect more traffic during peak hours. The streets are wide, which helps to manage traffic flow. Rating: 3
• Public Transportation: University Terrace has a DART Rail Station, which offers easy access to many of Dallas's best attractions, including Downtown Dallas. Rating: 4
• Outdoor Access: Most residents go to Ridgewood Park when they want to use walking trails and have picnics. White Rock Lake is also nearby. Rating: 4
• Cost of Living: The location and amenities near University Terrace make this area slightly more expensive than some of the other affordable Dallas neighborhoods. Rating: 2

8. Travis Ranch

For the last 25 years, my family and I have lived in Terrell, Texas, which is just a few miles down Highway 80 from Forney. Also, my parents lived in nearby Rockwall for decades, so this area is very familiar to me. What I know about the Travis Ranch area is that residents enjoy small-town charm within driving distance of a major metropolitan area. Out here, we have all of the convenience of living near a metropolitan city while also still enjoying country living.

When I lived in Rockwall in the 1990s, it was still a small town. Not so anymore. Nearly any type of dining you want can be found there now, along with a plethora of shopping opportunities. The same goes for Forney. When I first moved to this area east of Dallas, it was still very much a rural community. But the last five years have seen tremendous growth, so residents no longer have to go into the city for the things they need.

A whopping 91% of the households in Travis Ranch are homeowners, and the median age for this neighborhood is 31. Also attractive to residents with children, 80% of Travis Ranch is occupied by families.

Image: Parc at Windmill Farms Apartments in Forney

Major Points of Interest

For people who love lakeside living, the expansive Lake Ray Hubbard is home to watersports, fishing, and more. Lake Ray Hubbard is the hub of recreational activities in Travis Ranch. Besides being an attraction for water sports enthusiasts, residents also enjoy having a tranquil retreat for quiet afternoons and outside dining. Rockwall is a booming small town, and there is enough to do there that going into the city is optional.

Transportation

Public transportation doesn't service the Travis Ranch area, so having a car is a must. The walk score is low, but depending on where you live, you may have access to the things you need, even if you're on foot. To get to Downtown Dallas, I-30 is a straight shot and about half an hour away. If you're flying, allow yourself at least 45 minutes to get to Love Field Airport.

• Walk score: 2
• Transit score: 0
• Bike score: 26

Schools

Travis Ranch is in the highly-rated Forney and Rockwall school districts. GreatSchools.org rates the schools in the Travis Ranch area between 4 and 7, with Rockwall-Heath High School leading with a score of 7.

My Ratings

Ratings on a scale of 1-5

• Parks: Travis Ranch has several parks with playgrounds, including a playground and splash park designed for toddlers. The community also has a covered pavilion for family events, completely with seating areas and outdoor grilling options. Rating: 4
• Entertainment: There are limited entertainment options in Travis Ranch, although an active community association organizes occasional events. Nearby Rockwall is a booming small town with some options, but most residents go to Dallas for entertainment. Rating: 2
• Local Vibes: Travis Ranch has small-town charm and a serene atmosphere with family-friendly living. Rating: 4
• Restaurants: There aren't a lot of dining options in Travis Ranch. However, Rockwall and Forney are nearby, and they offer a wide variety of restaurants. Rating: 2
• Location: Travis Ranch is located in Forney, Texas, about 22 miles east of Dallas. People can head into the city from Highway 80 or I-20. Rating: 3
• Traffic: Traffic in Travis Ranch used to be a breeze, but development in Forney in recent years has made traffic a little more troublesome during peak hours. Nevertheless, traffic is much milder than it is in Dallas. Rating: 4
• Public Transportation: Public transportation doesn't service the Travis Ranch area, so having a car is a must. Rating: 1
• Outdoor Access: Because it's located near Lake Ray Hubbard, there are ample opportunities for fishing and boating. Rating: 4
• Cost of Living: The cost of living in Travis Ranch is more moderate than in some of the other affordable Dallas-area neighborhoods and suburbs. Rating: 3

9. Merriman Park/University Manor

The Merriman Park/University Manor neighborhood is known for its blend of outdoor beauty, a deep sense of community, and convenience. Many of the quiet streets are lined with ancient Chinquapin oak and magnolia trees, and residents love the combination of city chic and old-world charm. Some of my son’s SMU classmates live in this neighborhood, and they love the youthful feel of the community.

The Merriman Park/University Manor area has just slightly more singles than families, with 43% of the households having families. The median age of residents here is 32. In this neighborhood, renters are in the majority. Only 17% of the households are homeowners.

Major Points of Interest

This area is near Southern Methodist University, so it's a haven for students who need affordable housing options. White Rock Lake is a short drive away, and people in the area enjoy outdoor activities that include picnicking and bird-watching. At Flag Pole Hill Trails, active individuals take part in cycling and running. For shopping and dining, Lower Greenville offers countless options.

Transportation

The Merriman Park/University Manor neighborhood has nine DART bus stops. Located near I-75, this neighborhood is convenient to downtown, which is just over 20 minutes away. Love Field Airport can be reached in about half an hour.

• Walk score: 59
• Transit score: 48
• Bike score: 65

Schools

There are only three schools in the Merriman Park/University Manor neighborhood. The elementary school, middle school, and high school all have low scores of between 3 and 4 at GreatSchools.org.

My Ratings

Ratings on a scale of 1-5

• Parks: Ridgeway Park has a large playground for children, and the park has a splash park, tennis court, and basketball court. Rating: 4
• Entertainment: For dining and nightlife, residents in the Merriman Park/University Manor neighborhood head to Lower Greenville. Rating: 3
• Local Vibes: Merriman Park/University Manor offers a combination of city chic and old-world charm. Many parts of the neighborhood have mature trees, lush lawns, and ornate landscaping. Rating: 4
• Restaurants: For dining, the Lakewood Shopping Center and Lower Greenville are nearby. Rating: 3
• Location: Located near I-75, this neighborhood is convenient to downtown, which is just over 20 minutes away. Northwest Highway provides easy access to other areas of the city. Rating: 4
• Traffic: Streets are wide in the Merriman Park/University Manor neighborhood, so traffic isn't too bad. Expect some congestion during busy times of the day. Rating: 3
• Public Transportation: The Merriman Park/University Manor neighborhood has nine DART bus stops and a nearby DART Rail station. Rating: 3
• Outdoor Access: At Flag Pole Hill Trails, active individuals enjoy cycling and running. White Rock Lake is nearby also. Rating: 4
• Cost of Living: Because of its desirable location, this neighborhood is more expensive than some of the other affordable living options in Dallas. Rating: 2

10. Vickery Meadows

Located in Midtown, Vickery Meadows has sometimes been referred to as a "melting pot" because it has such a diverse population. This neighborhood was originally designed to be an area for adult single people, and it's still a popular residential area for this demographic.

Vickery Meadow is a haven for renters, with 83% of the households opting to rent. This isn't surprising considering that the neighborhood is nearly exclusively apartment complexes. The median age for this area is 32.

Major Points of Interest

This neighborhood is near NorthPark Center, and the enormous Half Price Book Flagship store is close enough to walk to. My children and I have spent countless hours at this Half Price Books location, and we love that it has a cafe where we can sit and relax while we thumb through a book and enjoy a slice of Black Forest cake. There is also a Starbucks right across the street.

At NorthPark and its surroundings, visitors can eat almost any type of food they want, and shopping opportunities are endless. My sister lived in a rental house on a quiet street in this neighborhood, and she loved the area’s vibe.

Transportation

Image: Dart Rail from wikimedia commons

Vickery Meadow has the convenient DART Rail option for zipping all over Dallas in minutes. There are also five DART bus stops in this neighborhood. Located right off of I-75 and Loop 12 (Northwest Highway), this neighborhood has easy access for driving to either North Dallas or downtown.

• Walk score: 31
• Transit score: 52
• Bike score: 64

Schools

This neighborhood is home to some of the Dallas area's highest-rated schools. The lowest-rated school scored a 4, and some of the schools are rated as high as 8.

My Ratings

Ratings on a scale of 1-5

• Parks: Vickery Meadow is right off of the busy Central Expressway (I-75), and there are limited parks in this area. However, Harry S. Moss Park is nearby, offering a nice green space for the neighborhood. Rating: 2
• Entertainment: There are limited entertainment options in Vickery Meadow. Residents go to Lower Greenville or Downtown Dallas for entertainment. Rating: 2
• Local Vibes: Vickery Meadow is well-known for its multicultural community and a strong sense of neighborhood identity. The atmosphere is dynamic and vibrant. Rating: 4
• Restaurants: The proximity to NorthPark Center and Lower Greenville provides a wide variety of dining options for Vickery Meadow. Rating: 4
• Location: Located right off of I-75 and Loop 12 (Northwest Highway), this neighborhood has easy access for driving to either North Dallas or downtown. Rating: 4
• Traffic: Traffic from Central Expressway and the busy Northwest Highway can be heavy at most times of the day. Rating: 2
• Public Transportation: Vickery Meadow has the convenient DART Rail option for zipping all over Dallas in minutes. There are also five DART bus stops in this neighborhood. Rating: 4
• Outdoor Access: Nearby, Harry S. Moss Park features a trail for mountain biking and hiking. Rating: 3
• Cost of Living: Vickery Meadow has been known historically for its lower cost of living. It's an affordable neighborhood for renters. Rating: 4