Best and Worst Neighborhoods in Dallas, TX

Dallas has nearly 100 distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character, price point, and safety profile. You’ve got sleek, high-end districts with top-rated schools and coffee shops on every corner — and then there are pockets where crime rates and aging infrastructure are real concerns.

If you’re considering a move to Dallas in 2025, you’ll want to know which neighborhoods locals rave about and which ones they warn you to avoid. This guide breaks it down using crime data, school ratings, and local insights to help you make a smart choice.

Violent Crime Rates Across Dallas Areas

Dallas’s crime rates can shift dramatically from one ZIP code to another. The national average for violent crime is about 22.7 incidents per 100,000 residents, but in some Dallas neighborhoods, that number spikes to over 120 per 100,000.

North Dallas and Lakewood are among the safest, with violent crime rates 45–60% below the city average. Residents here talk about walking dogs at night or letting kids bike around the block without worry.

On the flip side, South Dallas, Five Mile Creek, and South Boulevard–Park Row face much higher risks — often 200–300% above the national average. These areas struggle with persistent issues related to poverty, limited economic opportunity, and older housing stock.

In short, where you live in Dallas heavily shapes your day-to-day sense of safety. If you’re searching for a reliable company that buys homes in Dallas, give us a call at (214) 253-4544 for a no-obligation offer.

Property Crime Trends in Different Neighborhoods

Like most large cities, property crime in Dallas happens more often than violent incidents — think car break-ins, package theft, or burglary. The good news? Some neighborhoods have crime rates well below average.

Highland Park, Preston Hollow, and M Streets rank among the lowest for property crime, with rates 30–50% below the national average. Here, neighbors look out for each other, and local police patrols are consistent.

Compare that with South Dallas, Cedar Crest, and parts of Oak Cliff, where property crimes are 60–90% higher than average. Residents often rely on security cameras, motion lights, and neighborhood watch groups to help keep things in check.

If you’re moving to Dallas, it’s worth checking both violent and property crime maps — they tell very different stories across the metro.

Top-Rated Neighborhoods in Dallas

If you’re looking for great quality of life, here are Dallas’s best neighborhoods to consider!

1. Highland Park

Highland Park is Dallas’s gold standard for luxury living. This elegant, tree-lined neighborhood offers top-rated schools, quiet streets, and proximity to downtown. Crime rates stay 60–70% below the national average, and community policing keeps it secure. The average home price hovers around $1.6 million, while one-bedroom apartments rent for about $2,800 monthly. Highland Park Independent School District consistently ranks among the best in Texas, with Highland Park High (A+), McCulloch Intermediate (A+), and Bradfield Elementary (A). The area has walkable parks, boutique shopping at Highland Park Village, and upscale dining. Families and professionals love its safety and prestige.

2. Lakewood

Lakewood sits near White Rock Lake, giving residents access to scenic views, running trails, and paddleboarding. This East Dallas neighborhood blends nature and charm with beautiful Tudor-style homes. Crime here runs 45% below national averages, and it’s family-friendly with Lakewood Elementary (A), J.L. Long Middle (A-), and Woodrow Wilson High (B+). Expect home prices around $950,000, while one-bedroom rentals go for $2,000. Residents love the small-town vibe minutes from downtown. Lakewood’s lively shopping district and Sunday farmer’s markets add to the appeal.

3. Preston Hollow

Home to many of Dallas’s wealthiest residents, including former President George W. Bush, Preston Hollow delivers privacy and prestige. It’s filled with large estate lots, mature trees, and gated homes. The neighborhood’s crime rate stays around 50% below the city average, and it offers quick access to NorthPark Center and top medical facilities. Homes average about $1.3 million, and luxury rentals can run $3,000–$5,000 per month. Preston Hollow Elementary (A), Benjamin Franklin Middle (B+), and Hillcrest High (B) serve the area. It’s ideal for those who want exclusivity without losing city convenience.

4. Uptown

Uptown Dallas offers an urban-chic lifestyle with luxury apartments, walkable streets, and trendy restaurants. It’s perfect for young professionals who want entertainment and work nearby. The walk score hits 92, making it one of Dallas’s most walkable areas. Violent crime runs 40% below the city average. Average home values hover near $650,000, and one-bedroom rents average $2,200. Schools include Ben Milam Elementary (B+), Alex W. Spence Middle (B), and Booker T. Washington High School for Performing Arts (A). The Katy Trail and Klyde Warren Park are minutes away, giving residents outdoor balance.

5. Bishop Arts District / North Oak Cliff

If you want historic charm and local culture, Bishop Arts delivers. It’s full of renovated homes, local coffee shops, and independent boutiques. The crime rate has improved significantly, now about 25% below the Dallas average. Homes in Bishop Arts average $500,000–$600,000, with rentals around $1,700. The neighborhood attracts artists, young professionals, and families who value community. The area is served by Rosemont Elementary (B+), Hector P. Garcia Middle (B), and Sunset High (B). Expect vibrant street life, farmers markets, and a mix of old and new Dallas energy.

6. M Streets / Greenland Hills

The M Streets (named for streets like McCommas and Monticello) are known for charming 1920s cottages and a tight-knit community feel. Crime runs around 40% below the national average, and homes hold value well. Average home prices land near $750,000, while one-bedroom apartments rent for about $2,000. The area is in the desirable Mockingbird Elementary (A) and Woodrow Wilson High (B+) attendance zones. Residents love being close to Lower Greenville’s nightlife and restaurants while enjoying peaceful, tree-lined streets just 10 minutes from downtown.

7. Bluffview

Bluffview lives up to its name with rolling hills and scenic views — rare in Dallas. Homes sit above Bachman Creek, creating a semi-rural vibe just 15 minutes from downtown. Home prices range from $900,000 to over $2 million, while rentals average $2,400 for one-bedrooms. Crime rates stay 50% below Dallas averages, and neighbors emphasize privacy. The neighborhood is zoned for K.B. Polk Elementary (B), Medrano Middle (B+), and Jefferson High (B-). It’s a favorite among professionals who want peace without giving up accessibility.

8. University Park

Sharing boundaries with Southern Methodist University, University Park combines academia and affluence. It’s extremely safe — crime runs 65% below the national average, and the community stays active. Homes cost around $1.5 million, and rents average $2,700. The Highland Park ISD schools here are all A+ rated, including University Park Elementary, Highland Park Middle, and Highland Park High. With coffee shops, libraries, and easy access to Central Expressway, University Park feels like its own charming small town within Dallas.

9. Lower Greenville

Lower Greenville is where nightlife meets neighborhood living. You’ll find renovated craftsman homes, lively bars, and trendy brunch spots.
Crime rates are improving, running about 35% lower than the Dallas average, and home prices average $600,000–$700,000. Renters pay roughly $2,100 for a one-bedroom. The area is served by Geneva Heights Elementary (A-), J.L. Long Middle (B+), and Woodrow Wilson High (B+). It’s ideal for those who want walkability and entertainment while maintaining a homey atmosphere.

10. Kessler Park

Kessler Park sits west of downtown in Oak Cliff and offers lush greenery and historic architecture. It’s known for hilly streets, large lots, and views of the skyline. The crime rate is 55% below the city average, and it’s one of Dallas’s most established, tight-knit communities. Homes cost around $800,000–$1 million, while one-bedroom apartments rent for $1,900. Schools include Rosemont Elementary (B+), Hector P. Garcia Middle (B), and Sunset High (B). Residents enjoy Stevens Park Golf Course and easy access to Bishop Arts dining.

Worst Neighborhoods in Dallas, TX

These neighborhoods struggle with crime rates significantly above the national and city averages, plus other structural issues that can affect quality of life.

1. South Boulevard‑Park Row

This area is often cited as the most dangerous in Dallas. It reportedly has a violent crime rate around 3,255 incidents per 100,000 residents (which is roughly 277% higher than the city average) and extremely high property‐crime rates as well.

Bottom line: If you’re considering investing or living here full‐time, you should carefully research specific blocks, recent crime trends, and whether revitalization efforts are underway.

2. South Dallas

South Dallas is flagged for having crime rates that are 147% higher than the Texas state average, with a total crime rate exceeding 6,600 incidents per 100,000 residents in some reports.

Why this matters: The locale has confronted historic disinvestment, social-economics challenges and elevated violent and property crime. From a real-estate/relocation viewpoint, you’ll want to weigh cost vs. risk.

3. Cedar Crest

Cedar Crest is another neighborhood with one of the higher crime burdens in Dallas. One report lists the total crime rate at 6,475 incidents per 100,000 residents, (≈142% above the Texas average).

Insight: Potential for lower entry home prices may exist, but higher safety risk means additional cost of security, possible insurance premiums, and maybe slower appreciation.

4. Oak Cliff (certain parts)

While Oak Cliff overall includes many different sub-neighborhoods (some very desirable and improving), certain sectors are flagged as more challenging. For example, one listing shows crime rate in Oak Cliff ~88% higher than the Texas average with ~5,000+ incidents per 100,000 residents.

Note: If you choose to include Oak Cliff in your list, it’s important to clarify which zip/postal codes or sub-areas because the variation is large.

5. Urbandale‑Parkdale

This neighborhood shows up in “most dangerous” lists with crime rates around 5,126 incidents per 100,000 residents, about 90% higher than Texas average.

Key point: When writing about this area, stress the trade-off: potentially lower prices, but also elevated risk and possibly slower market momentum.

The Middle Ground: Dallas Areas with Trade-Offs

These neighborhoods don’t make the best or worst lists. They offer decent value but come with specific challenges you need to consider.

1. Lake Highlands

Lake Highlands sits in northeast Dallas and gives off a suburban vibe with quick access to downtown. Median home prices are in the mid-$400,000s to low $500,000s, depending on the area. The community’s got strong schools under Richardson ISD, and there’s a steady mix of parks, restaurants, and local coffee spots.
The trade-off? It’s a big area with some sections safer than others. Some parts are undergoing redevelopment, so expect construction and uneven pricing. But families and professionals love it because it’s still affordable compared to North Dallas. If you want good schools, mature trees, and reasonable commutes, Lake Highlands strikes a balance.

2. Vickery Meadow

Vickery Meadow is one of Dallas’s most diverse and densely populated neighborhoods. Median home prices hover around $250,000 to $300,000, with plenty of apartment options for renters. The area’s affordability is a huge plus, but safety can vary block by block.
Traffic near Skillman Street and Greenville Avenue can get busy, and parking is tight in older complexes. However, you’re near shopping centers, grocery stores, and public transportation. If you’re looking for affordability inside the loop and don’t mind a little urban grit, Vickery Meadow delivers solid value.

3. Redbird

Redbird in southern Dallas has been quietly transforming over the last few years. Median home prices sit around $300,000 to $350,000, and the area’s seeing major investment through the RedBird Mall redevelopment project. There’s a growing mix of local businesses, offices, and dining options now taking shape.
The downside is that crime rates remain above average compared to the north side of the city, though they’re trending downward. Commutes to central Dallas can be unpredictable. But if you’re betting on an up-and-coming area, Redbird could pay off in the long run as revitalization continues.

4. Old Lake Highlands

Old Lake Highlands offers a nice mix of older charm and modern remodels. Median prices hover around $575,000, with some renovated homes pushing higher. You’re close to White Rock Lake, which means trails, kayaking, and scenic walks just minutes away.
The community vibe is family-friendly, and the schools perform well. The catch? Homes move fast and property taxes are creeping up. Traffic near Northwest Highway can also be frustrating. But overall, Old Lake Highlands gives you that rare combo of nature, convenience, and suburban calm near the city.

5. Wilshire Heights

Wilshire Heights sits east of downtown Dallas and blends quiet residential streets with proximity to major shopping and entertainment areas. Median home prices are around $650,000 to $700,000, depending on the home’s age and size. It’s a safe, walkable neighborhood with good schools and strong community pride.
That said, homes here are older, and you’ll likely pay premium prices for updated ones. Commuters also deal with busy nearby routes like Abrams Road. Still, for families and professionals wanting a central location without Highland Park prices, Wilshire Heights is worth considering.

6. Greenway Parks

Greenway Parks sits near the heart of North Dallas, offering a mix of mid-century homes and new construction. Median home prices hover around $750,000, though some listings hit the million mark. The area’s tree-lined streets and proximity to Love Field and the Tollway make it convenient for commuters.
It’s quieter than Uptown but still close to all the action. The drawback is that you’re paying for location, not square footage — homes are smaller for the price. Still, Greenway Parks has that rare “in the city but feels suburban” charm that keeps demand steady.

Home Value Gaps: Comparing Dallas’s Best and Worst Neighborhoods

The price gap between Dallas’s best and worst neighborhoods is staggering. Highland Park tops out with average home values around $2.3 million, while areas like South Dallas and Five Mile Creek hover between $180,000 and $250,000. That’s nearly a tenfold difference in what people pay to live in the same city.

North Dallas, Uptown, and Lakewood average $700,000 to $1.1 million, driven by safety, access to top schools, and a refined suburban feel close to downtown. In contrast, lower-priced neighborhoods — Cedar Crest, South Boulevard–Park Row, and Pleasant Grove — run between $200,000 and $350,000, but those savings come with higher crime and fewer amenities.

You really do get what you pay for in Dallas real estate, especially when it comes to schools, walkability, and quality of life.

Where the Top Schools Are in Dallas

Education plays a major role in Dallas home values. The best schools cluster in Highland Park ISD, Richardson ISD, and Coppell ISD, all known for A-rated campuses and high college readiness scores.

Highland Park High School consistently ranks as one of Texas’s top-performing schools, serving neighborhoods like Highland Park and University Park. In Lakewood, families benefit from Woodrow Wilson High School, which combines strong academics with a robust IB program. Over in Coppell, schools like Coppell High and New Tech High pull top state ratings.

Meanwhile, schools in South Dallas, Oak Cliff, and Pleasant Grove often struggle with funding challenges and lower test scores. The school quality gap is one of the biggest contributors to the city’s housing price divide.

Getting Around: Commutes and Connectivity in Dallas

Dallas covers a lot of ground, so commute times and walkability vary dramatically. Uptown, Downtown, and Deep Ellum offer walk scores in the 80s, letting residents live car-light with easy access to DART rail, grocery stores, and nightlife. You’re also just 15 minutes from Love Field Airport and 25 from DFW.

Neighborhoods like Plano, Coppell, and Frisco offer quick highway access (Dallas North Tollway, I-635, and I-35E), but you’re driving everywhere — typical for suburban North Dallas life. Commutes into downtown range from 25 to 45 minutes depending on traffic.

For the city’s rougher neighborhoods, public transit access is decent, but walkability often means passing through less secure areas. Infrastructure upgrades are coming, but the gap between urban convenience and suburban sprawl remains wide.

Lifestyle and Amenities Across Dallas Neighborhoods

In Dallas’s best areas, lifestyle is everything. Highland Park Village, Knox-Henderson, and West Village offer designer boutiques, fine dining, and nightlife all within walking distance. Lakewood brings a laid-back, family-friendly vibe with White Rock Lake, parks, and miles of trails for biking and kayaking.

Master-planned suburbs like Frisco and Plano feature resort-style living, from golf courses and luxury gyms to massive shopping centers like Legacy West. Safety, cleanliness, and community events are the norm here.

By contrast, areas like South Dallas, Cedar Crest, and Park Row have limited amenities, older retail infrastructure, and fewer restaurants or recreational spaces. Oak Cliff offers cultural depth and history, but redevelopment is still uneven block by block. If you have questions on how to sell your house, check out our process on how we buy a house.

Dallas Real Estate Market Trends for 2025

Dallas home values keep climbing, especially in safe, high-demand areas. Highland Park and University Park saw property values jump 12–15% year over year, while Lakewood and M Streets follow closely behind. These areas combine historic charm and modern renovation, making them hot for long-term investors. As trusted cash home buyers in Bedford, we see firsthand how these neighborhoods continue to attract strong interest and retain value over time.

Frisco, Plano, and McKinney also remain strong markets thanks to corporate relocations and tech expansion. Families move there for newer homes, better schools, and predictable appreciation.

On the other end, neighborhoods like South Dallas, Five Mile Creek, and Pleasant Grove face slower growth, higher vacancy rates, and longer listing times. Investors occasionally spot opportunities in these lower-cost areas, but they come with more risk and slower ROI.

Final Thoughts: The Reality of Dallas’s Best and Worst Neighborhoods

Dallas’s neighborhood quality depends heavily on crime rates, schools, and local investment. Highland Park, University Park, Lakewood, and Uptown lead the city for safety, education, and quality of life — but expect to pay $700,000 to $2.3 million for that peace of mind.

Meanwhile, the city’s most challenging areas, including South Dallas, Cedar Crest, and Park Row, run crime rates 200–300% above the national average. Homes there are far cheaper, but residents trade affordability for security and limited amenities.

For most people, Dallas’s middle ground — neighborhoods like Lake Highlands, M Streets, or Richardson — offers the best mix of value, access, and livability.

Need to sell your home quickly and hassle-free? Whether you’re trying to avoid costly repairs, skip realtor commissions, or just want a straightforward sale, Investor Home Buyers can help. We make the process easy—reach out today to get started!