Relocation · 2026 edition
Moving to Dallas: The 2026 Relocation Guide
Hi, I'm Tee, and I moved to DFW myself. Relocating is a hundred small decisions at once: which suburb, which school zone, which commute, which budget. This guide pulls the most important pieces into one place so you can breathe and start picturing your life here.
By Tee Adewunmi, REALTOR®3 min read · Updated September 202601Why people are moving to DFW
- No state income tax in Texas.
- Big job market with corporate headquarters and campuses across Plano, Frisco, Irving and Dallas.
- DFW Airport, a major hub with direct flights almost everywhere.
- More home for the money than most coastal metros.
- Mild winters, pro sports, great food and suburbs with their own downtowns.
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02Pick your area by lifestyle
| If you want | Look at | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Top schools and amenities | Frisco, Prosper, Allen | Highly rated districts and master-planned neighborhoods |
| More land and space | Prosper, Celina | Larger lots, custom builds, a quieter feel |
| Best value on new builds | Celina, Anna, Melissa, Aubrey | Newer communities at lower entry prices |
| A historic downtown feel | McKinney | Walkable square with shops and restaurants |
| Corporate commute and walkability | Plano | Legacy West, major employers and a central location |
03The money side of moving to Texas
- Property taxes are higher than many states, often around 2% to 2.5% of value before exemptions. File your homestead exemption the year you buy.
- MUD and PID taxes apply in some newer communities. Ask about them on every home.
- HOA dues are common and range from low to premium depending on amenities.
- Insurance: North Texas gets hail. Look at roof age and your policy's wind and hail deductible.
04How to buy before you arrive
- Get pre-approved firstIt sets your budget and shows sellers you're serious, even from out of state.
- Build your short list with meI narrow suburbs and neighborhoods based on schools, commute, budget and lifestyle.
- Tour by videoI walk homes live on FaceTime or video and point out what photos hide: road noise, lot slope, storm drains, backyard views.
- Plan one focused tripIf you can visit, we pack the best homes and neighborhoods into one efficient weekend.
- Close remotely if neededTexas title companies can often arrange mobile notaries or remote options. Ask early.
05Not ready to buy yet? Rent first
Renting for 6 to 12 months is a smart way to learn a suburb before you commit. I help clients find rentals in the areas they're considering, and I'm ready when they want to buy. See my Rent Before You Buy guide.
Planning a move to DFW?
Tell me where you're moving from and when. I'll send a short list of suburbs that fit your life.
Questions? That's what I'm here for.
Text me at 469-466-6689 or book a quick call. No pressure, just answers.