Take a Closer Look at the Best Neighborhoods for Families Moving to Highland Park

Highland Park, Texas stands as one of the most prestigious addresses in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. This affluent enclave, completely surrounded by the city of Dallas yet maintaining its independence as a separate municipality, has long attracted families seeking exceptional schools, beautiful homes, and a strong sense of community. With tree-lined streets, meticulously maintained properties, and a small-town atmosphere just minutes from downtown Dallas, Highland Park offers a unique blend of exclusivity and convenience.

For families considering a move to Highland Park, understanding the nuances of different neighborhoods within this compact but diverse community is essential. While Highland Park spans only about 2.26 square miles, the area contains distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character, architectural styles, and appeal. This comprehensive guide explores the best neighborhoods for families, helping you make an informed decision about where to call home in this exceptional community.

Understanding Highland Park: An Overview

Before diving into specific neighborhoods, it’s important to understand what makes Highland Park special. Incorporated in 1913, Highland Park predates much of Dallas’s suburban development and was designed as a planned community with deed restrictions that maintain its character to this day.

The town is part of the Highland Park Independent School District (HPISD), consistently ranked among the best school districts in Texas and the nation. This educational excellence is the primary draw for most families moving to the area. The district’s reputation for academic achievement, extensive extracurricular programs, and college preparation is unmatched in the region.

Highland Park’s location provides exceptional convenience. Situated just north of downtown Dallas, residents enjoy easy access to major employment centers, cultural attractions, and entertainment while returning home to quiet, tree-shaded streets. The Dallas North Tollway and Central Expressway (US-75) provide quick connections throughout the metroplex.

Property values in Highland Park reflect its desirability. The median home price typically exceeds $2 million, with many properties selling for significantly more. The real estate market remains strong even during economic downturns, as the combination of limited supply, excellent schools, and prestigious address maintains consistent demand.

According to Niche’s neighborhood rankings, Highland Park consistently receives top ratings for public schools, family-friendliness, and overall quality of life, making it one of the most sought-after communities in Texas.

The Old Highland Park Neighborhood

Old Highland Park represents the town’s historic core, featuring some of the most architecturally significant homes in the area. This neighborhood, roughly bounded by Mockingbird Lane to the south, Preston Road to the east, and extending north toward University Boulevard, showcases the classic Highland Park aesthetic.

Architectural Character: Old Highland Park features predominantly Tudor, Colonial Revival, and Mediterranean-style homes built primarily between the 1920s and 1950s. These properties sit on generous lots with mature oak trees creating dense canopy coverage over streets. Many homes have been meticulously maintained or sensitively renovated, preserving their historic character while incorporating modern amenities.

Family Appeal: The neighborhood’s walkability stands out as a major advantage for families. Highland Park Village, the nation’s first shopping center, sits at the southern edge, providing upscale shopping and dining within walking distance. The proximity to Bradfield Elementary School makes morning routines easier for families with young children.

Community Atmosphere: Old Highland Park maintains a strong neighborhood identity. Residents take pride in their historic homes and often participate in the town’s annual home tours. The streets are safe for children to bike and play, with many families knowing their neighbors well—a rarity in modern suburban developments.

Considerations: Properties in Old Highland Park command premium prices, often starting around $2.5 million and extending well beyond $10 million for exceptional estates. Lot sizes tend to be smaller than in newer sections of town, though still substantial by urban standards. Some homes may require updates or renovations to meet contemporary expectations.

Armstrong Parkway Area

Armstrong Parkway runs through the heart of Highland Park, creating one of the town’s most iconic addresses. The neighborhoods along and near Armstrong Parkway represent some of Highland Park’s most desirable real estate.

The Parkway Itself: Armstrong Parkway features a landscaped median that creates a boulevard effect, with grand homes on either side. The tree-lined street provides a scenic route through town and has become synonymous with Highland Park’s elegance. Homes directly on Armstrong Parkway represent peak prestige within the community.

Architectural Diversity: The Armstrong area showcases a mix of architectural styles, from classic 1930s estates to contemporary new construction. Families can choose between historic properties with original details or newly built homes with modern floor plans and smart home technology. The neighborhood successfully blends preservation and progress.

Family-Friendly Features: The area’s central location provides easy access to all three elementary schools in HPISD—Bradfield, University Park, and Hyer. Families can often walk or bike to school, parks, and Highland Park Village. The flat terrain and quiet streets make the neighborhood ideal for active families who enjoy outdoor activities.

Real Estate Market: Properties along Armstrong Parkway itself command the highest prices, often exceeding $5 million. Streets immediately adjacent to the parkway offer slightly more accessible price points while maintaining the prestigious address and convenient location. New construction in the area typically starts around $3-4 million.

Lakeside Drive and Turtle Creek Area

The eastern edge of Highland Park borders Turtle Creek and Lakeside Drive, creating a unique neighborhood with distinct character and natural beauty. This area appeals to families seeking natural surroundings while maintaining the Highland Park address.

Natural Setting: Turtle Creek Boulevard’s parkway and the creek itself provide green space and natural beauty uncommon in urban settings. Families appreciate the jogging and cycling paths along the creek, creating opportunities for outdoor recreation without leaving the neighborhood. The area feels more spacious and less densely developed than other parts of Highland Park.

Property Characteristics: Homes in this area range from mid-century modern designs to traditional estates. Lots tend to be larger than in central Highland Park, providing more yard space for children and pets. The neighborhood attracts families who prioritize outdoor space and natural surroundings.

Proximity Considerations: While still within Highland Park, this eastern edge sits slightly farther from Highland Park Village and some community amenities. However, the location provides quick access to the Katy Trail, one of Dallas’s premier recreational trails, and easy connectivity to downtown Dallas via Turtle Creek Boulevard.

School Access: Families in this area typically attend either University Park or Hyer Elementary Schools, both excellent options within HPISD. The slightly longer walk to school compared to more central locations is offset by the neighborhood’s natural beauty and larger properties.

Hackberry Avenue Corridor

Hackberry Avenue runs north-south through Highland Park, creating another desirable corridor with distinct neighborhoods on either side. This area attracts families seeking a balance between central location and residential tranquility.

Neighborhood Character: The Hackberry corridor features primarily residential streets with minimal through-traffic, creating a quiet, family-friendly environment. Homes here represent various eras and styles, from 1930s traditional homes to contemporary new builds. The mix creates visual interest while maintaining overall neighborhood cohesion.

Proximity to Parks: Armstrong Park, one of Highland Park’s main recreational facilities, sits near the Hackberry corridor. The park features playgrounds, sports fields, and open space where families gather for recreation and community events. This proximity to park amenities makes the area particularly attractive to families with active children.

School Attendance Zones: The Hackberry area provides access to multiple HPISD elementary schools depending on your specific location. This flexibility allows families to choose properties based on their preferred school while remaining in a desirable neighborhood. When choosing the best moving companies for your Highland Park relocation, consider working with movers familiar with the area’s narrow streets and parking considerations.

Real Estate Values: Properties along the Hackberry corridor typically offer slightly better value than the most prestigious addresses like Armstrong Parkway, while still providing all the benefits of Highland Park living. Families can find well-maintained homes starting around $1.8-2.5 million, making this area more accessible for families entering the Highland Park market.

University Park Border Area

The northern sections of Highland Park, particularly areas bordering University Park (Highland Park’s sister town), offer family-friendly neighborhoods with excellent connectivity and community resources.

Shared Resources: Families in this area enjoy easy access to amenities in both Highland Park and University Park, including Snider Plaza’s shops and restaurants. The location provides more dining and shopping options within walking distance than some other Highland Park neighborhoods.

Architectural Mix: This area features a blend of older established homes and newer construction. Families can choose between renovated classic homes with character or modern new builds with contemporary floor plans. The variety ensures families can find properties matching their aesthetic preferences and functional needs.

Community Connection: The border area benefits from close-knit community ties that extend across the Highland Park/University Park boundary. Many families have friends and neighbors in both towns, and children from both communities attend the same schools, creating an extended sense of community.

Practical Advantages: Properties in this northern section often provide larger lots than central Highland Park, giving families more outdoor space. The location also offers convenient access to major thoroughfares, making commutes to various parts of the metroplex manageable.

Factors All Highland Park Neighborhoods Share

While distinct neighborhoods offer different characteristics, all Highland Park addresses share common features that make the town exceptional for families.

Educational Excellence: Regardless of which neighborhood you choose, your children will attend Highland Park ISD schools. The district’s reputation extends beyond academics to include strong arts programs, competitive athletics, and extensive extracurricular activities. Highland Park High School consistently ranks among Texas’s top public high schools, with exceptional college placement rates and National Merit Scholar production.

Safety and Security: Highland Park maintains its own police and fire departments, providing responsive emergency services. Crime rates are exceptionally low, allowing children to play outside, walk to friends’ houses, and move freely through the community with minimal safety concerns—a quality increasingly rare in urban and suburban areas.

Community Engagement: Highland Park residents demonstrate high levels of civic engagement. Strong parent organizations support schools through fundraising and volunteer work. Community events like the Fourth of July parade, Halloween celebrations, and holiday festivities create traditions that bind the community together across neighborhoods.

Property Maintenance Standards: Deed restrictions and community standards ensure properties throughout Highland Park maintain high aesthetic standards. This consistent quality of property maintenance protects real estate values and creates the beautiful streetscapes the town is known for.

Walkability and Accessibility: Unlike many suburban communities, Highland Park offers genuine walkability. Children can walk or bike to school safely. Families can reach parks, shops, and restaurants on foot. This pedestrian-friendly environment promotes active lifestyles and reduces car dependency.

School Attendance Zones: A Critical Consideration

For most families moving to Highland Park, school attendance zones represent a critical factor in neighborhood selection. Understanding how HPISD attendance zones work helps you choose the right neighborhood for your family.

Elementary School Zones: Highland Park ISD includes three elementary schools—Bradfield, University Park, and Hyer. Each has its own attendance zone, though all three provide excellent education. Some families have strong preferences based on location, school culture, or specific programs. Research each school’s zone carefully before purchasing property if you have a strong elementary school preference.

Middle and High School: All Highland Park residents attend Highland Park Middle School and Highland Park High School regardless of which elementary school they attended. This common pathway means children from all neighborhoods eventually come together, creating community cohesion.

Private School Options: While HPISD’s excellence satisfies most families, the area also provides access to premier private schools including Hockaday, St. Mark’s, Greenhill, and Episcopal School of Dallas. Families choosing private education still value Highland Park for its safety, location, and community character.

Understanding how much do movers cost when relocating to Highland Park helps you budget appropriately, as moving into this exclusive community often requires professional services capable of handling high-value properties with care.

Real Estate Considerations for Families

Highland Park’s real estate market operates differently than typical suburban markets. Understanding these dynamics helps families make informed decisions.

Limited Inventory: With only 2.26 square miles and most properties already developed, available homes are limited. Families often wait months or years for the right property in their preferred neighborhood. Working with experienced real estate agents who specialize in Highland Park is essential.

Teardown and Rebuild Market: Many older homes in Highland Park are purchased, demolished, and replaced with new custom construction. This trend provides opportunities for families to build their dream home in a desirable location but requires understanding zoning restrictions, setback requirements, and deed restrictions that govern new construction.

Property Taxes: Texas property taxes are substantial, and Highland Park is no exception. Annual property taxes typically run 2.5-3% of assessed value. For a $3 million home, expect annual property taxes around $75,000-90,000. While this seems high, remember that Texas has no state income tax, offsetting some of the property tax burden.

Competitive Market: Desirable properties in Highland Park receive multiple offers, often selling above asking price. Families should be financially prepared to move quickly and compete aggressively when the right property becomes available. Cash offers or minimal contingencies strengthen your position significantly.

Long-Term Value: Despite high entry costs, Highland Park real estate historically holds value exceptionally well. The combination of limited supply, excellent schools, and prestigious address creates consistent demand. Families often view Highland Park homes as generational investments.

Lifestyle and Amenities

Beyond schools and real estate, Highland Park offers lifestyle advantages that enhance family life.

Highland Park Village: This historic shopping center provides high-end retail and dining within walking distance for most residents. While luxury-focused, the Village also includes everyday conveniences like a drugstore and casual dining options. The pedestrian-friendly layout makes it a gathering place for the community.

Parks and Recreation: Highland Park Town Hall houses the community’s recreation center with programs for all ages. Multiple parks throughout the town provide playgrounds, sports fields, and open space. The town also operates a pool club offering summer recreation for families.

Country Club Access: Highland Park Country Club sits within the town boundaries, though membership is separate from residence. Many Highland Park families belong to the club, which offers golf, tennis, swimming, and dining facilities. The club serves as an important social hub for many residents.

Cultural Access: Highland Park’s proximity to Dallas’s Arts District, museums, theaters, and cultural institutions provides families with easy access to world-class cultural experiences. The location allows children to attend performances, visit museums, and participate in cultural programs without lengthy commutes.

According to D Magazine’s neighborhood guide, Highland Park consistently ranks as one of Dallas’s most desirable communities for families, combining excellent schools with exceptional quality of life.

Making the Move to Highland Park

Once you’ve decided Highland Park is right for your family and identified your preferred neighborhood, proper planning ensures a smooth transition.

Work with Specialists: Real estate agents, mortgage brokers, and other professionals with Highland Park expertise provide invaluable guidance. The market’s unique characteristics require specialized knowledge that general practitioners may lack.

Plan for School Registration: Contact HPISD early to understand enrollment procedures, required documentation, and important dates. The district is welcoming to new families but has specific processes that should be completed promptly.

Join Community Groups: Highland Park has active parent groups, neighborhood associations, and community organizations. Connecting with these groups before or immediately after your move helps you integrate into the community and build social networks.

Understand Deed Restrictions: Highland Park properties include deed restrictions governing everything from property use to architectural changes. Review these carefully before purchase and ensure any planned modifications comply with restrictions.

When planning to move across state lines to Highland Park, allow extra time for the transition as the competitive real estate market and specific community requirements add complexity to the relocation process.

Is Highland Park Right for Your Family?

Highland Park offers exceptional advantages for families, but the community isn’t for everyone. Consider these factors when deciding if Highland Park matches your family’s needs and values.

Choose Highland Park if:

• Exceptional public schools are your top priority
• You value safety, walkability, and community engagement
• You can afford the high cost of entry and ongoing expenses
• You prefer a well-established community with strong traditions
• Location and convenience to Dallas matter significantly

Consider alternatives if:

• Budget constraints make Highland Park financially stressful
• You prefer newer suburban developments with modern amenities
• You want larger properties with more land
• You prioritize diversity over homogeneity
• Private schools are already your plan and the premium for HPISD seems unnecessary

Final Thoughts

Highland Park represents the pinnacle of family-oriented living in the Dallas metroplex. The combination of exceptional schools, beautiful neighborhoods, strong community engagement, and convenient location creates an environment where families can thrive. While the financial investment is substantial, families who can afford Highland Park typically find the benefits—particularly educational excellence and quality of life—justify the cost.

Each neighborhood within Highland Park offers distinct character while sharing the fundamental advantages that make the town special. Whether you’re drawn to Old Highland Park’s historic charm, Armstrong Parkway’s prestige, Lakeside’s natural beauty, or Hackberry’s balanced lifestyle, you’ll find strong schools, safe streets, and engaged neighbors.

For families considering a move to Highland Park, thorough research and planning are essential. Visit different neighborhoods at various times of day. Talk to current residents about their experiences. Work with professionals who know the market intimately. Most importantly, ensure Highland Park aligns with your family’s values, priorities, and long-term goals.

The decision to move to Highland Park represents more than choosing a home—it’s choosing a lifestyle, a community, and an educational environment that will shape your family’s experience for years to come. For families seeking the best schools, safest streets, and strongest community in North Texas, Highland Park stands alone. The investment required to call Highland Park home reflects the exceptional value this unique community provides to the families fortunate enough to live there.