If you’re moving to the Dallas-Fort Worth area and want to be close to downtown Dallas while also finding a family-friendly community, here are some of the best places to raise a family near downtown Dallas:
1. Lakewood (10-15 minutes from downtown)
Why It’s Great for Families:
Top-rated Lakewood Elementary (DISD)
Close to White Rock Lake for outdoor activities
Charming historic homes & new builds in a walkable neighborhood
Strong sense of community with family-friendly events
2. University Park (10-15 minutes from downtown)
Why It’s Great for Families:
Part of the Highland Park ISD, one of the best school districts in Texas
Safe, upscale community with beautiful parks and tree-lined streets
Home to Southern Methodist University (SMU), adding to its prestige
Luxury homes, excellent public services, and top-tier amenities
3. Highland Park (5-10 minutes from downtown)
Why It’s Great for Families:
Also in the highly ranked Highland Park ISD
Exclusive, well-maintained community with parks, shops, and country clubs
Easy access to Highland Park Village, an upscale shopping & dining destination
Low crime rates and strong property value appreciation
4. Preston Hollow (15-20 minutes from downtown)
Why It’s Great for Families:
Home to many of Dallas’ wealthiest residents, including former President George W. Bush
Large estate homes and luxury new constructions
Access to top private schools, including St. Mark’s, Hockaday, and Jesuit Dallas
Quiet, secluded streets with parks and green spaces
5. Bluffview (10-15 minutes from downtown)
Why It’s Great for Families:
A peaceful, hilly neighborhood with beautiful homes
Close to downtown while still offering a suburban feel
Access to private schools and top-rated public schools in nearby areas
Known for its unique, luxury estates and scenic surroundings
6. M-Streets / Greenland Hills (5-10 minutes from downtown)
Why It’s Great for Families:
Charming Tudor-style homes in a tight-knit, walkable neighborhood
Zoned for the highly rated Stonewall Jackson Elementary
Close to Knox-Henderson and Lower Greenville, offering shopping and dining options
A good mix of historic homes and modern renovations
7. Northaven Park (Royal Oaks/Janmar Area) (15-20 minutes from downtown)
Why It’s Great for Families:
Larger mid-century homes on spacious lots
Near Northaven Trail, great for biking and walking with kids
Close to Private & Magnet Schools, including St. Mark’s and Dealey Montessori
A quiet, established neighborhood with a suburban feel
8. Kessler Park / Stevens Park (Oak Cliff) (5-10 minutes from downtown)
Why It’s Great for Families:
One of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Dallas with rolling hills and historic homes
Located near Bishop Arts District, a trendy area with shops & restaurants
More affordable luxury homes compared to Highland Park & University Park
Great access to Trinity Groves, Downtown, and Uptown
9. Devonshire (10-15 minutes from downtown)
Why It’s Great for Families:
Quiet, luxury community near the shops of Inwood Village
Large lots, tree-lined streets, and high-end custom homes
Convenient access to the Dallas North Tollway for commuting
Private school options nearby, including Ursuline Academy and ESD
10. The Colony at Turtle Creek (5-10 minutes from downtown)
Why It’s Great for Families:
A gated community offering privacy and security
Walking distance to Klyde Warren Park and Uptown Dallas
Perfect for families looking for an urban lifestyle with suburban comforts
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a family-friendly area near downtown Dallas, these neighborhoods offer a mix of top schools, safety, luxury homes, and great amenities. University Park, Highland Park, and Preston Hollow are the top choices for elite schools and luxury living, while Lakewood, M-Streets, and Kessler Park offer charm, outdoor spaces, and excellent value.
Interested in buying or selling in University Park? Let’s connect at 469-269-6541 and explore the best opportunities in this premier neighborhood!
About us: University Park Expert Real Estate Agent
As a Top Real Estate Professional in University Park, I understand the challenges that arise when buying a luxury home in University Park.
As a holder of top real estate industry certifications and designations like CRS, ABR & GRI, I can offer my clients experience as a Buyer's Agent and REALTOR®, top Industry Customer Service, in-depth, up-to-the-minute and comprehensive market knowledge; honesty, integrity, dedication, and professionalism in my business.
Whether you are a first time buyer in University Park looking to buy a home in University Park or whether you are relocating to University Park from California or moving your entire family from areas like San Francisco, Fremont, Palo Alto, Los Angeles, San Diego in California due to job transfer with your company, I can help you find a luxury home in University Park. Our relocation team eases the transition - whether you are moving across town or across the globe. We will work with you to find an area that best suits your professional, family and lifestyle needs. We have all the tools you need to help your home search. Whether it is video previews of homes, extended work hours, digital signatures for documents or more, we can make this process as comfortable as possible no matter where you are located.
What is most important to you in your new home in University Park? Send us an email at info@NitinGuptaDFW.com or give us a call at (469) 269-6541 to schedule a no obligation consultation. We’ll give you honest advice about University Park that you can use to help make your home buying decision.
