Moving to University Park, TX

Imagine living in a neighborhood where children still ride bikes to the local plaza, neighbors know each other by name, and you’re just minutes from downtown Dallas. Welcome to University Park, Texas—a prestigious community that somehow manages to feel like a small town despite sitting in the heart of one of America’s largest metropolitan areas.

University Park isn’t just another upscale Dallas suburb. It’s an independent city with its own governance, top-ranked schools, and a distinctive character that attracts successful professionals, young families, and academics seeking the perfect balance between urban convenience and residential tranquility. Whether you’re relocating from across the country or simply exploring Dallas’s best family-friendly neighborhoods, University Park deserves your serious consideration.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about moving to University Park in 2025—from real estate and schools to lifestyle amenities and practical moving logistics. By the end, you’ll understand whether this community is the right fit for your family and exactly what it takes to make your transition seamless.

About University Park: An Overview

Location and Context

University Park is an independent municipality completely surrounded by the city of Dallas, located approximately 5 miles north of downtown. Spanning 3.7 square miles, this enclave sits in the heart of Dallas County and forms the northern half of what locals call “the Park Cities”—alongside its southern neighbor, Highland Park.

The city is bounded by Northwest Highway to the north, Mockingbird Lane to the south, US Highway 75 (Central Expressway) to the east, and the Dallas North Tollway to the west. This central positioning provides exceptional access to Dallas’s major employment centers, from downtown’s corporate towers to North Dallas’s corporate corridors.

A Brief History

University Park’s story began with Southern Methodist University. When SMU was founded in 1915 on what was then rural Dallas County land, homes quickly sprouted around the campus. By 1924, the growing neighborhood had outgrown the university’s utility capacity and sought annexation by Highland Park, which declined due to the cost of providing services. Dallas similarly refused the annexation request.

Determined to establish basic municipal services, area residents voted to incorporate on April 24, 1924, by a 5:1 margin. The new city quickly issued $150,000 in bonds (passing by near-unanimous vote) to fund a water system, street paving, and construction of a city hall and fire station. From its origins encompassing 515 acres, 380 homes, and 1,200 residents, University Park has grown to roughly 2,350 acres (3.7 square miles) with approximately 25,000 residents.

Originally a middle-class community, University Park transformed dramatically in the 1970s when property values skyrocketed due to its inclusion in the Highland Park Independent School District. Smaller homes were replaced with larger estates, and the demographic shifted to become one of the most affluent communities in Texas.

What Makes University Park Distinct

While University Park shares many similarities with Highland Park—including school district and upscale character—it maintains its own distinct personality:

More Accessible: With a larger footprint and more homes, University Park typically offers more housing inventory and slightly lower median prices than Highland Park, making it more accessible to families entering the Park Cities market.

Academic Atmosphere: The presence of SMU gives University Park a unique intellectual character. You’ll find university faculty, administrators, and graduate students living alongside business executives and professionals, creating a slightly more diverse professional community.

Community-Oriented: Snider Plaza serves as University Park’s de facto town square—a walkable, neighborly shopping district where you’re likely to run into fellow residents. This creates a stronger sense of community gathering space than what you’ll find in Highland Park.

Slightly More Relaxed: While maintaining the same high standards and prestige as Highland Park, University Park feels marginally less formal and exclusive. The atmosphere is upscale but approachable.

Why People Move to University Park

World-Class Schools Through HPISD

Let’s start with what matters most to families: University Park is served by Highland Park Independent School District (HPISD), which ranked #1 among all 5A/6A public school districts in Texas in the 2025 TEA ratings, scoring an impressive 96 out of 100.

This isn’t a fluke. HPISD consistently delivers exceptional results:

• 97% of Highland Park High School graduates pursue college degrees
• Average SAT score of 1300 and ACT score of 27.9
• 84% of seniors score 3 or higher on at least one AP exam
• Top-tier faculty with an average of 13.6 years of experience
• Low student-to-teacher ratios enabling personalized attention

For many families, access to HPISD is the primary driver for moving to University Park. You’re getting public school education that rivals the best private schools in Texas—without the tuition bills.

Safety and Security

University Park maintains its own police department, fire department, and emergency medical services. The result is exceptional public safety with rapid response times. Crime rates are remarkably low, and the community’s emphasis on neighborhood watch programs and strong municipal services creates an environment where children walk to school and families feel comfortable leaving their front doors unlocked (though we don’t recommend it!).

The city’s independent status means dedicated resources focused solely on University Park’s 3.7 square miles, rather than competing for attention within a larger municipality.

Prime Location and Walkability

University Park offers a rare combination of urban access and suburban character:

• 5-15 minute drive to downtown Dallas (traffic dependent)
• Immediate access to US-75 and Dallas North Tollway for commutes throughout the metroplex
• Walkable neighborhoods with tree-lined sidewalks
• Bikeable streets with access to nearby trails
• Proximity to Dallas’s best dining and entertainment in Uptown, Knox-Henderson, and beyond

You’re not sacrificing urban convenience for suburban tranquility—you’re getting both.

Strong Property Values

Real estate in University Park has shown consistent appreciation over decades. While all markets fluctuate, University Park’s combination of limited inventory, exceptional schools, and desirable location creates strong fundamentals for long-term property value stability. When you buy here, you’re making a sound investment alongside providing your family with an outstanding place to live.

Vibrant Community Atmosphere

Unlike many affluent neighborhoods that feel insular or isolated, University Park maintains an active community life. Annual traditions like the Fourth of July parade and festival, Boulevarding before SMU football games, and Snider Plaza’s “Miracle Mile” holiday shopping create shared experiences that bring neighbors together. The community genuinely feels like a community—not just a collection of expensive houses.

University Park Neighborhoods & Housing Areas

University Park doesn’t have formally designated neighborhood names like some planned communities, but different sections of the city have distinct characteristics:

Near Snider Plaza (The Heart of UP)

The blocks surrounding Snider Plaza—particularly along Hillcrest Avenue and the streets branching off Daniel and Rankin—form University Park’s commercial and social center. Homes here range from charming 1920s-1940s cottages that have been extensively renovated to modern new construction. Lot sizes typically run .15 to .25 acres.

This area is highly walkable, with residents able to stroll to restaurants, coffee shops, and retail. Properties here command premiums for their location and lifestyle convenience. Expect to see traditional architecture mixed with contemporary builds, tree-lined streets, and strong neighborhood cohesion.

North of Snider Plaza

The neighborhoods north of Snider Plaza toward Northwest Highway feature slightly larger lots and more recent construction. Many homes date from the 1970s-2000s, with a steady stream of teardowns replaced by modern estates. This section offers excellent access to Northwest Highway for commutes to North Dallas suburbs and the Dallas North Tollway.

Streets like Lovers Lane, Rankin, and Amherst feature substantial single-family homes, many with pools and mature landscaping. This area attracts families wanting more square footage and lot size while maintaining University Park’s walkability and community feel.

Near SMU (University Heights and Adjacent Areas)

The eastern portion of University Park, closest to SMU’s campus, includes some of the city’s oldest housing stock alongside newer construction. This area has particular appeal for SMU faculty and staff who value the short commute, though plenty of non-university-affiliated professionals live here as well.

Architectural styles range from traditional Colonial and Tudor designs to transitional and contemporary builds. The proximity to SMU means easy access to the university’s cultural offerings, including the Meadows Museum, athletic events, and academic programming.

Caruth Park Area

Neighborhoods surrounding Caruth Park benefit from proximity to one of University Park’s most beloved green spaces. This central location offers easy access to both Snider Plaza and Highland Park Village, making it highly desirable. Homes here typically sit on well-maintained lots with substantial landscaping, and the area maintains a quieter residential character compared to streets closer to commercial districts.

Architectural Character Throughout

Across University Park, you’ll find:

• Traditional designs: Colonial Revival, Tudor, Georgian, and Mediterranean styles, many from the 1920s-1950s
• Transitional homes: Blending traditional and contemporary elements, popular from the 1990s-2010s
• Modern construction: Clean-lined contemporary estates on teardown lots, representing current luxury trends
• Lot sizes: Typically .15 to .5 acres, with larger estates on premium lots
• Square footage: Ranging from 2,500 sq ft updated cottages to 8,000+ sq ft estate homes

The unifying characteristics are impeccable maintenance, mature trees, and thoughtful landscaping. University Park takes pride in its appearance, and it shows.

Cost of Living & Real Estate in University Park

Current Home Prices (2025)

University Park represents one of the most expensive real estate markets in Texas, though it’s more accessible than neighboring Highland Park:

• Median home prices: $2.1-2.7 million depending on location and condition
• Entry-level homes: Starting around $1.3-1.5 million for smaller or older properties needing updates
• Mid-range properties: $2-3.5 million for well-updated homes in desirable locations
• Luxury estates: $4-8+ million for exceptional properties with premium lots and finishes
• Price per square foot: Typically $600-850, with new construction commanding higher premiums

The market remains competitive, with desirable properties often receiving multiple offers. Homes typically spend 40-60 days on the market, though exceptional properties in premium locations may sell faster.

Property Taxes

Property taxes in University Park run approximately 2.1% of assessed value annually. For a $2.5 million home, that translates to roughly $52,500 per year in property taxes. While this seems steep, remember that Texas has no state income tax, and the property tax funds exceptional municipal services and top-ranked schools.

The effective tax rate includes:

• Highland Park ISD (the largest component)
• City of University Park services
• Dallas County
• Dallas College

HOA Considerations

Unlike many planned communities, University Park itself doesn’t have a city-wide HOA. However, some specific subdivisions, condominiums, and townhome communities within University Park do maintain their own HOAs with varying fees and restrictions. Always investigate HOA requirements for any specific property you’re considering.

The city itself maintains strict building codes and zoning regulations that serve a similar function to HOA rules, ensuring consistent property maintenance standards throughout University Park.

Rental Market

While most University Park residents own their homes (approximately 74% ownership rate), a rental market exists primarily for:

• SMU faculty on temporary assignments
• Professionals on temporary Dallas assignments
• Families in transition while searching for their permanent home

Single-family home rentals typically range from $5,000-12,000+ per month depending on size and location. Condos and townhomes may rent for $3,000-6,000 monthly. Rental inventory is limited, as most homeowners in this price range prefer to sell rather than rent.

Comparison to Other Dallas Neighborhoods

To put University Park in context, median home prices in other desirable Dallas areas include:

• Highland Park: $2.5-4+ million (more expensive than University Park)
• Preston Hollow: $1.5-3 million (comparable to University Park)
• Lakewood: $600,000-1.2 million (more affordable)
• Uptown Dallas: $400,000-1.5 million for condos (mixed pricing)
• North Dallas suburbs (Plano, Frisco): $400,000-800,000 (significantly more affordable)

University Park’s premium pricing reflects its unique combination of HPISD schools, convenient location, independent municipal services, and established community character. For those who can afford it, many residents consider it worth every dollar.

Schools & Education: A Deeper Dive into HPISD

Elementary Schools Serving University Park

University Park residents attend one of five HPISD elementary schools depending on their address:

Hyer Elementary School (located in University Park): Serving central and eastern University Park, Hyer exemplifies HPISD’s commitment to academic excellence with strong test scores, active parent involvement, and a focus on preparing students for long-term success.

University Park Elementary School (located in University Park): Serving portions of northwestern University Park, this school maintains the district’s high standards while offering a warm, community-focused environment.

Armstrong Elementary, Bradfield Elementary, and Michael M. Boone Elementary: Some University Park addresses fall into these school zones. All three maintain the same exceptional HPISD standards, though they’re physically located outside University Park proper (in Highland Park or Dallas).

The specific elementary school for any address can be confirmed through HPISD’s website. All five schools consistently rank among the top elementary schools in Texas.

Middle School Years

All HPISD students attend McCulloch Intermediate School (grades 5-6) and Highland Park Middle School (grades 7-8), which share a campus located partially in Highland Park and partially in University Park. Recent improvements in math and English Language Arts scores at these schools contributed to HPISD’s #1 ranking in 2025.

The middle school years benefit from HPISD’s commitment to preparing students for the rigorous academic program at Highland Park High School, with strong emphasis on Advanced Placement preparation and college readiness.

Highland Park High School

Highland Park High School, located in University Park, represents the culmination of the HPISD experience. The school consistently ranks among the top open-enrollment high schools in Texas and the nation:

• Ranked #1 comprehensive public high school in Texas by various metrics
• Top 250 high schools nationally according to U.S. News & World Report
• Exceptional AP program with 84% of graduates scoring 3+ on at least one AP exam
• Strong athletic programs competing at the 5A/6A level
• Notable alumni in business, politics, entertainment, and athletics
• College acceptance to top-tier universities nationwide

The school offers extensive extracurricular opportunities beyond academics, from competitive athletics to arts programs to student organizations. For many families moving to University Park, ensuring their children graduate from Highland Park High School is a primary motivator.

Private School Options

While most University Park residents utilize HPISD’s exceptional public schools, several elite private schools operate nearby for families preferring private education:

• St. Mark’s School of Texas (boys, grades 1-12) – located in Dallas
• Hockaday School (girls, PreK-12) – located in Dallas
• The Greenhill School (coed, PreK-12) – located in Addison
• Alcuin School (coed, PreK-6) – located in Dallas

Access to these options provides flexibility, though the vast majority of University Park families choose HPISD.

Lifestyle & Amenities in University Park

Shopping: Snider Plaza and Beyond

Snider Plaza serves as University Park’s commercial and social heart. This charming shopping district along Hillcrest Avenue has been a community fixture for nearly a century, offering a curated mix of local boutiques, service businesses, and specialty shops.

You’ll find:

• Unique clothing boutiques like Mal Malouf and For Heaven’s Sake
• Specialty gift shops including The Ivy House (since 1971)
• Home décor stores and local retailers
• Service businesses from salons to wellness clinics
• Convenience shopping for daily needs

The plaza is undergoing significant infrastructure improvements through 2025, enhancing pedestrian amenities, parking, and streetscaping while preserving its historic character. When complete, Snider Plaza will be even more walkable and inviting.

Highland Park Village, while technically in Highland Park, sits just minutes from University Park and offers luxury retail including Hermès, Dior, Chanel, and high-end dining options.

Preston Center, on University Park’s western edge, provides additional shopping and dining options with major retailers and service providers.

Dining: A Culinary Destination

University Park’s dining scene has exploded in recent years, particularly around Snider Plaza:

Established Favorites:

• Kuby’s Sausage House – German deli and market, a decades-long institution
• Burger House – Classic Texas burgers since 1951
• Bubba’s Cooks Country – Comfort food staple

Recent Additions:

• Jack & Harry’s – New Orleans-inspired cuisine and craft cocktails
• Bar Sardine – French bistro from Vandelay Hospitality
• Sweet Paris Crêperie & Café – Approachable all-day dining
• il Bracco – Italian dining
• Dive Coastal Cuisine – Fresh seafood
• DL Mack’s – Chicago-style pizza and bar
• El Molino – High-end Mexican concept
• Sueño – Mexico City-inspired dining (opening 2026)

Café Culture:

• Zest Café – Upscale neighborhood restaurant and coffee bar
• East Hampton Sandwich Co. – Casual lunch spot

The density of excellent dining within walking distance makes University Park increasingly attractive to food-focused residents. You’ll never run out of options for date nights or casual family dinners.

Parks & Recreation

University Park operates ten city parks offering residents beautiful green spaces and recreational facilities:

Caruth Park – One of the most beloved parks, featuring a pond, open fields, walking paths, and a peaceful atmosphere that feels almost countryside despite the urban setting.

Curtis Park – Home to the impressive Holmes Aquatic Center, featuring a 50-meter pool, diving boards, water slide, and sprayground. The aquatic center is available to University Park residents and HPISD residents.

Burleson Park, Coffee Park, Elena’s Children’s Park, Germany Park, Goar Park, Linear Park, Smith Park, and Williams Park – Various neighborhood parks offering playgrounds, tennis courts (six locations throughout the city), and green space for family activities.

The parks provide safe, well-maintained spaces for children to play, families to gather, and residents to exercise. Six tennis court locations serve the tennis-playing community.

Fitness & Wellness

The Moody Family YMCA, located in University Park, serves residents of both Park Cities with extensive fitness facilities, programming, and community activities.

Snider Plaza hosts numerous fitness and wellness businesses including boutique studios, personal training facilities, chiropractic offices, and med spas. The walkable nature of the neighborhood means many residents incorporate daily walks to local destinations into their fitness routines.

Cultural Amenities

University Park’s proximity to SMU provides exceptional cultural access:

George W. Bush Presidential Center – World-class museum and research facility located on SMU’s campus

Meadows Museum – Outstanding collection of Spanish art, often called the “Prado on the Prairie”

SMU Performing Arts – Theater, music, and dance performances throughout the academic year

SMU Athletics – Mustangs football games and Boulevarding (the pre-game tradition of parking along the Boulevard and socializing before kickoff)

Downtown Dallas’s Arts District, with its museums, theaters, and cultural institutions, sits just 10 minutes away.

Living in University Park: Day-to-Day Life

Walkability and Neighborhood Character

One of University Park’s most distinctive features is its walkability—remarkable for a Texas suburb. Tree-lined sidewalks throughout the city make walking safe and pleasant. You’ll regularly see:

• Children walking or biking to school
• Residents strolling to Snider Plaza for coffee or errands
• Families walking dogs through neighborhood streets
• Neighbors chatting on sidewalks and at local gathering spots

The walkable character creates organic community connections that would be impossible in car-dependent suburbs. This small-town feel within a big city is precisely what many residents love most about University Park.

Commute Times

University Park’s central location provides excellent commute access:

• Downtown Dallas: 10-15 minutes (traffic dependent)
• Uptown Dallas: 5-10 minutes
• North Dallas suburbs (Plano, Frisco): 25-40 minutes
• DFW Airport: 25-35 minutes
• Love Field Airport: 10-15 minutes

The average commute time for University Park residents is approximately 18 minutes, among the shortest in the Dallas area. Easy access to US-75, the Dallas North Tollway, and Northwest Highway makes reaching most Metroplex destinations efficient.

Community Events and Traditions

University Park maintains several beloved annual traditions:

Fourth of July Parade and Festival – The biggest community event of the year, featuring free ice cream, watermelon eating contests, and opportunities to connect with neighbors. This all-day celebration exemplifies University Park’s small-town community spirit.

Boulevarding – Before SMU home football games, fans park along University Boulevard for tailgating and socializing—a tradition that brings together SMU alumni, current students, and neighborhood residents.

Miracle Mile Holiday Passports – A holiday shopping promotion at Snider Plaza businesses that encourages community members to support local shops while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

Santa’s Neighborhood Tour – Each December, Santa tours University Park neighborhoods, delighting children and families throughout the city.

Town Governance and Services

As an independent municipality, University Park provides its own:

• Police Department – Dedicated law enforcement with excellent response times and community policing focus
• Fire Department – Professional fire and emergency medical services
• Public Works – Street maintenance, utilities, and infrastructure
• Parks Department – Management of city parks and recreational facilities
• Building Inspection – Permitting and code enforcement

The city operates under a council-manager form of government with an elected mayor and city council. The small scale means residents have meaningful input into local governance, and city services are responsive to community needs.

Public Safety

Crime in University Park is exceptionally low. The dedicated police department maintains a visible presence, and the community’s affluence, strong neighborhood cohesion, and excellent municipal services all contribute to safety. Residents report feeling secure walking at night, children playing outside unsupervised, and generally experiencing the kind of safety that seems increasingly rare in major metropolitan areas.

What to Know Before Moving to University Park

Municipal Regulations and Standards

University Park maintains strict standards to preserve the community’s character:

Building Codes: Any construction, renovation, or exterior modification requires permits through the city’s Building Inspection Department. The process involves plan review to ensure compliance with zoning ordinances and building codes.

Zoning Restrictions: Accessory buildings cannot contain kitchens, be rented separately, or be used for commercial purposes. These restrictions maintain the residential character of the neighborhood.

Construction Hours: Building and remodeling work is permitted Monday through Saturday, 7 AM to 6 PM. No construction is allowed on Sundays or major holidays.

Property Maintenance: While there’s no city-wide HOA, the city enforces property maintenance standards through code enforcement. Properties must be well-maintained with proper landscaping and upkeep.

Parking Considerations

University Park has established resident parking districts in areas near SMU, Highland Park High School, and the Park Cities YMCA. These zones require special parking stickers during restricted hours (typically 7 AM-5 PM on school days or 8 AM-5 PM weekdays year-round).

Residents in these zones receive free parking stickers (up to two per address) plus temporary permits. The system ensures that neighborhood residents can park on their own streets despite nearby institutional traffic.

For moving day, these parking restrictions can complicate logistics, making it essential to work with experienced University Park movers who understand the permitting requirements.

Narrow Streets and Tree Canopies

Many University Park streets were designed in the 1920s-1940s with narrower widths than modern suburban roads. Combined with mature tree canopies that create natural archways over streets, this creates logistical considerations for large moving trucks.

Professional movers familiar with University Park know:

• Which streets can accommodate large trucks
• How to navigate low-hanging branches
• When to use smaller shuttle trucks for final delivery
• How to coordinate with neighbors when trucks temporarily block narrow streets

HOA Requirements (Where Applicable)

For properties within specific subdivisions or condominium communities with HOAs:

• Review CC&Rs carefully before purchasing
• Understand architectural review processes for any exterior changes
• Confirm move-in requirements such as elevator reservations, insurance requirements, or specific moving hours
• Budget for HOA fees which can range from minimal to several thousand dollars annually

Most single-family homes in University Park are not part of HOAs, but always verify for your specific property.

Best Times to Move

Summer (June-August): Popular for families wanting to move between school years. Book movers 6-8 weeks in advance. Be prepared for Texas heat—hydration and climate-controlled transport for valuables are essential.

Spring/Fall (April-May, September-October): Ideal weather and slightly less demand than summer. Still advisable to book movers 4-6 weeks ahead.

Winter (November-March): Lowest moving demand and best availability. Holiday periods (Thanksgiving, Christmas) should be avoided, but January-March offers excellent moving conditions.

Avoid if possible: The weeks immediately before HPISD school starts (late August) when traffic congestion peaks with school preparation activities.

Moving to University Park: Professional Tips

Why Luxury Moving Services Matter

University Park homes often contain valuable items requiring specialized handling:

• High-value art and antiques needing custom crating and climate control
• Grand pianos and specialty instruments requiring expert disassembly and transport
• Designer furniture and custom pieces that don’t fit through standard doorways
• Extensive wine collections needing temperature-controlled transport
• Home theater and smart home systems requiring careful disconnection and reinstallation

Professional movers who specialize in luxury relocations bring expertise, proper equipment, and adequate insurance coverage for these high-value items.

Navigating University Park’s Logistics

The unique characteristics of University Park require moving expertise:

Narrow Street Navigation: Experienced movers know which streets can accommodate large trucks and when smaller shuttle vehicles are needed for final delivery.

Parking Permits: Professional movers understand the resident parking district requirements and can handle permit applications or temporary exceptions for moving day.

HOA Coordination: For properties with HOAs, professional movers manage required paperwork, insurance certificates, elevator reservations, and compliance with move-in restrictions.

Timing Considerations: Avoiding school traffic (7:30-8:30 AM and 2:30-4 PM on school days) makes moves more efficient. Professional movers schedule appropriately.

Neighbor Relations: University Park’s close-knit community means being considerate during your move matters. Professional movers minimize disruption while maintaining good neighbor relations from day one.

Protecting High-Value Items

Element Moving & Storage’s approach to protecting items during moves becomes particularly important in luxury relocations:

• Custom crating for artwork, antiques, and fragile items
• Climate-controlled trucks for temperature-sensitive belongings
• White-glove service with careful handling at every stage
• Comprehensive insurance covering the full value of luxury items
• Professional packing materials designed for high-end belongings

Timeline Recommendations

For a smooth University Park move:

8-12 weeks before: Select and book your moving company, especially for summer moves

6-8 weeks before: Begin decluttering and planning what to move vs. donate/sell

4-6 weeks before: Start packing non-essential items; confirm any HOA requirements; arrange utilities transfer

2-3 weeks before: Finalize parking permits if needed; notify schools of upcoming enrollment; confirm moving day logistics

1 week before: Pack remaining items; prepare appliances for transport; conduct final walk-through of current home

Moving day: Professional movers handle the heavy lifting while you focus on final details

After arrival: Unpack systematically; make your new University Park home feel like home with personal touches

Working with Element Moving & Storage

Element Moving & Storage specializes in University Park relocations, bringing local expertise and luxury moving capabilities to every transition. Our team understands:

• The specific challenges of University Park’s narrow, tree-lined streets
• Parking permit requirements and resident parking districts
• HOA procedures for buildings and communities requiring coordination
• The importance of discretion and professionalism in this prestigious community
• How to protect the high-value items typical of University Park homes

Whether you’re moving from across the country or across town, our experience with Park Cities relocations ensures a smooth transition into your new University Park home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between University Park and Highland Park?

University Park and Highland Park are separate independent municipalities that together form “the Park Cities.” Both are served by HPISD and share many characteristics, but University Park is larger (3.7 sq mi vs. 2.2 sq mi), has more residents (25,000 vs. 8,900), and typically offers slightly lower median home prices ($2.1-2.7M vs. $2.5-4M+). Highland Park carries slightly more prestige and has more estate properties, while University Park has a more community-oriented feel centered around Snider Plaza and SMU.

How hard is it to get into HPISD schools?

If you live within HPISD boundaries—which includes all of University Park and Highland Park—your children are automatically enrolled in HPISD. There’s no application process or lottery system. This guaranteed access to top-ranked schools is a primary reason families pay the premium for University Park real estate. A small portion of University Park west of Central Expressway falls into Dallas ISD, so verify the school district for any specific address you’re considering.

Is University Park actually walkable, or is that marketing speak?

University Park is genuinely walkable by Texas standards. Tree-lined sidewalks throughout the city make walking safe and pleasant, and the compact nature of the community means many residents can walk to Snider Plaza for coffee, dining, or errands. You’ll regularly see children walking to school, residents walking dogs, and neighbors strolling to local destinations. That said, you’ll still want a car for shopping trips, commuting to work, and reaching destinations outside University Park. Think of it as walkable for daily neighborhood activities rather than car-free living.

What about diversity in University Park?

University Park’s demographic makeup is approximately 87% White, 5% Asian, 6.5% Hispanic, and 1% Black. This reflects the community’s history and high cost of entry, which limits demographic diversity. However, the community is socioeconomically diverse within its affluent bounds—you’ll find entrepreneurs, corporate executives, medical professionals, attorneys, academics, and creative professionals. If demographic diversity is a priority, it’s worth visiting and evaluating whether the community feels welcoming to your family.

Can I find a home under $2 million in University Park?

Yes, though inventory is limited. Smaller homes needing updates, older properties, or condos/townhomes occasionally list under $2 million. Some areas closer to University Park’s borders may offer better value than prime central locations. However, most single-family homes in desirable locations start around $1.5-2 million minimum. When buying a house in this market, be prepared for competition and potentially bidding above asking price for exceptional properties.

What if I’m moving with children? How do I minimize disruption?

Preparing children for changing schools after a move requires thoughtful planning. For University Park specifically:

• Schedule a visit to your children’s new HPISD school before the move
• Connect with the PTA to identify families in your grade for potential friendships
• Arrive early enough before school starts to explore the neighborhood and get comfortable
• Maintain familiar routines as much as possible during the transition
• Emphasize the exciting aspects of University Park (parks, pools, walkability)

The strong community bonds in University Park actually make transitions easier—neighbors are welcoming, and the excellent schools facilitate social integration.

How does the Texas heat affect living in University Park?

Texas summers are hot (regularly exceeding 100°F from July-August), but University Park’s mature tree canopy provides significant shade, making outdoor activities more tolerable than in newer suburbs. Most homes have excellent air conditioning, and the Holmes Aquatic Center provides relief during summer months. The Holmes Aquatic Center, private pools, and proximity to indoor entertainment options help residents manage the heat. Spring and fall weather is exceptional, and winters are mild compared to northern states. Most residents find the trade-offs (no state income tax, lower cost of living than comparable communities in other states, and year-round outdoor activities) worth occasional summer discomfort.

Making Your Move to University Park

University Park represents a rare combination: the prestige and excellence of an exclusive community with the warmth and accessibility of a genuine neighborhood. From the top-ranked HPISD schools to the tree-lined streets and walkable Snider Plaza, from the safety and security of independent municipal services to the convenience of central Dallas location, University Park delivers on multiple fronts.

Is it expensive? Absolutely. Property values here reflect decades of consistent excellence, limited inventory, and extraordinary demand. But for families who can afford it, the investment often proves worthwhile—not just financially, but in terms of quality of life, educational opportunities, and community experience.

As you consider moving to Dallas in 2025 and evaluating the wealthiest neighborhoods in Dallas-Fort Worth, take time to visit University Park multiple times. Walk through Snider Plaza on a weekend morning. Drive through neighborhoods you’re considering on a weekday evening. Attend an SMU football game and experience Boulevarding. Talk to residents about their experience living here.

You’ll quickly understand whether University Park aligns with your family’s priorities and lifestyle. For those who find their fit, moving to University Park often feels less like relocating and more like finally coming home.

When you’re ready to make the move, working with professional movers who understand University Park’s unique characteristics ensures your transition is smooth, efficient, and stress-free. Welcome to University Park—we think you’re going to love it here.