If you are living in Dallas but planning to move out to a quieter, smaller place, there are several charming cities nearby. Whether you’re looking to raise a family, find a peaceful neighborhood, or simply commute to Dallas for work, there are many great towns to choose from. Thanks to excellent roads and highways, commuting to Dallas from these towns is very convenient.
The job market in Dallas is thriving, with an unemployment rate of just 5.1%, which is lower than the national average of 6.3%. Major industries like financial services, IT services, and telecommunications are driving this growth. Naturally, nearby cities are also benefiting, providing jobs and housing for people working in Dallas. Let’s take a look at some of the top small cities around Dallas, TX.
1. Terrell: Traditional Charm with Growing Job Opportunities
Located east of Dallas on Highway 80, Terrell is one of the oldest and most traditional towns in Texas. Originally an agricultural hub, Terrell still retains its small-town vibe, making it a favorite for families and retirees.
It sits at the junction of Interstate-20 and Highway 20, making it ideal for distribution centers. In fact, major companies like Walmart and AutoZone have centers here. More distribution hubs are expected in the future, boosting employment.
- Unemployment rate: 4.9% (lower than Dallas)
- Median home price: $91,600
- Affordable homes with land available
- Only 20% of households earn over $75,000 annually
If you’re looking for a peaceful place with job prospects and affordable housing, Terrell is a solid choice.
2. Cedar Hill: Perfect Blend of Nature and City Life
Cedar Hill is often praised for offering the best of both worlds. Residents enjoy country living while being close to Dallas, just a 30-minute commute away. The town is known for:
- Good schools
- Proximity to Joe Pool Lake
- Major companies like American Airlines, Texas Instruments, and Bank of America providing jobs
Unemployment is around 5.6%, and housing is more affordable than Dallas. The median home price is under $130,000. However, as more Dallasites move in and newer, pricier homes are built, this number is expected to rise. Cedar Hill is ideal for families who want quality schools and easy access to outdoor activities without breaking the bank.
3. Frisco: The Fast-Growing, Family-Friendly Hub
Frisco is one of the most vibrant, growing cities around Dallas. It was developed with a strict master plan as Dallas expanded northwards. The city is well-known for:
- Family-oriented community (70% married residents)
- Median age: 34.3 years
- Strong retail and tech job market
- Companies like Exxon/Mobil operating here
Frisco’s unemployment rate is just 3.8%, one of the lowest in the country. However, the cost of living is slightly higher:
- Median home price: Over $429,000
- Median household income: Over $116,000
If you can afford a higher cost of living, Frisco offers excellent schools, booming industries, and a youthful, family-friendly environment.
4. McKinney: Historic Charm Meets Modern Convenience
McKinney is a city with roots tracing back to the mid-1800s, and it has successfully blended its historic charm with modern growth. Many people living here commute to Dallas, but McKinney has also attracted big employers:
- AT&T
- Bank of America
- Johnson & Johnson
Unemployment stands at 4.4%, almost 2 points lower than Dallas. Residents enjoy:
- Median household income: $79,000
- Median home price: $325,000
Though the median home price has climbed, there are still affordable options available. McKinney is perfect for those who want a small-town feel without losing access to modern amenities and job opportunities.
5. Rockwall: Lakeside Living with a Booming Economy
Rockwall is located northeast of Dallas on Interstate-30, right by Lake Ray Hubbard. This area experienced significant growth in the 1980s and 1990s, transforming from a rural town to a thriving city while keeping its small-town charm intact.
Highlights of Rockwall include:
- Top-ranked schools
- Superb medical facilities
- Lakeside attractions: fishing, boating, and retirement communities
Rockwall has an excellent job market:
- Ratio: 0.8 unemployed people per job opening
- 500+ open jobs as of December 2015
- Main industries: Travel, hospitality, tourism, telecom companies like ARAMARK
Around 70% of households in Rockwall earn between $30,000 to $150,000, making it an affluent area. The town’s balanced growth has led to new shopping centers, restaurants, and improved quality of life, attracting both families and retirees.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re searching for affordable homes, top schools, lakeside relaxation, or job opportunities, there’s no shortage of small towns near Dallas offering the best mix of convenience and lifestyle. With Dallas continuing to thrive economically, these cities are great options for those who want easy access to Dallas without living in the hustle and bustle of the big city.
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