Arlington, TX, nestled between Dallas and Fort Worth, offers a dynamic blend of suburban charm and urban amenities. Known for its major attractions like Six Flags Over Texas and AT&T Stadium, the city provides residents with a vibrant entertainment scene. But is Arlington a good place to live? While the city boasts plentiful recreational activities, it also faces challenges, such as limited foodie destinations. In this Redfin article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of living in Arlington to help you decide if it’s the right place for you.
Arlington is strategically located between Dallas and Fort Worth, making it an ideal place for those who want to enjoy the amenities of both cities without living in the hustle and bustle. This central location allows residents to easily commute for work, entertainment, or shopping. For instance, a short drive can take you to the Dallas Arts District or the Fort Worth Stockyards, offering a variety of cultural and recreational activities.
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One downside of Arlington’s central location is the traffic congestion. The city is crisscrossed by several major highways, including I-20, I-30, and State Highway 360, which can become heavily congested. This can make daily commutes longer and more stressful. Additionally, the influx of visitors to attractions like AT&T Stadium and Six Flags Over Texas can exacerbate traffic issues, particularly on weekends and during events.
3. Pro: Entertainment and sports hub
Arlington is home to some of the most iconic entertainment and sports venues in Texas. AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, and Globe Life Field, home of the Texas Rangers, are both located here. These venues host a variety of events, from NFL games to concerts and other large-scale events. Additionally, Six Flags Over Texas and Hurricane Harbor offer thrilling amusement park experiences. This makes Arlington a good place to live for sports fans and thrill-seekers.
4. Con: Limited Public transportation
While Arlington offers a lot in terms of entertainment and location, it falls short in public transportation options. Unlike its neighboring cities, Arlington does not have a comprehensive public transit system. The city relies primarily on a limited bus service and ride-sharing options, which can be inconvenient for those without a car.
5. Pro: Educational opportunities
Arlington boasts a range of educational institutions, including the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA), which is known for its research programs and diverse student body. UTA offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, making it a significant educational hub in the region.
6. Con: Extreme summers
One of the drawbacks of living in Arlington is the hot and humid summer weather. Temperatures can soar above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, making outdoor activities less enjoyable. The heat can also lead to higher energy bills as residents rely on air conditioning to stay cool. While the city does offer various indoor attractions and water parks to beat the heat, you’ll want to heat proof your home to ensure a more comfortable lifestyle.
7. Pro: Plenty of things to do
Arlington provides various things to do, making it an attractive place to live. The city is home to major attractions such as Six Flags Over Texas and AT&T Stadium, where residents can enjoy thrilling rides and NFL games. Additionally, the Texas Rangers’ Globe Life Field and the lively Arlington Entertainment District provide ample opportunities for dining, shopping, and entertainment.
8. Con: Limited restaurant options
While Arlington provides various activities, it has a limited number of foodie destinations, which can be a drawback for culinary enthusiasts. The city’s dining scene is often overshadowed by nearby Dallas and Fort Worth, where more diverse and upscale restaurant options are available. As a result, residents may find themselves traveling outside of Arlington to satisfy their cravings for unique and high-quality dining experiences.
9. Pro: Parks and outdoor activities
Arlington is home to numerous parks and outdoor recreational areas, providing ample opportunities for residents to enjoy nature. River Legacy Parks, for example, offers over 1,300 acres of trails, picnic areas, and wildlife viewing. The city also has several golf courses, sports complexes, and Lake Arlington for boating and fishing.
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Arlington, like many urban areas, faces challenges with air quality. The city’s location in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex means it is affected by pollution from traffic and industrial activities. During certain times of the year, air quality can be poor, which may impact residents with respiratory issues. While efforts are being made to improve air quality, it remains a concern for some residents.
Methodology: The median home sale price and average monthly rental data is from the Redfin Data Center. The Walk Score, Transit Score and Bike Score data is from Walk Score.
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Ana is a Marketing Specialist on the Content Marketing team at Redfin, where she has spent the past two years writing about real estate, home improvement, and localized content. Living in the Greater Seattle area, she enjoys traveling and spending time outdoors. Her ideal home is a charming cottage-style residence in the countryside.
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