What Should I Know Before Moving From Long Island to Dallas, Texas?

Moving from Long Island to Dallas means trading dense suburbs, older housing stock, and high taxes for a sprawling metro known for space, business growth, and a lower cost structure. Dallas offers strong job opportunities, no state income tax, and newer housing—but heat, sprawl, and car dependency require a mindset shift for many Long Islanders.

Cost of Living & Lifestyle Comparison

Dallas is significantly more affordable than Long Island, especially when it comes to housing.

Here’s how the shift typically looks:

  • Home prices are far lower than most Nassau County neighborhoods, with more new construction

  • No state income tax, which is a major change from New York

  • Property taxes are higher in percentage terms, but often offset by lower home prices

  • Utilities are higher in summer due to air conditioning

  • Dining, parking, and everyday expenses are more affordable

Lifestyle differences are immediate:

  • More space and larger homes

  • A car-centric lifestyle with longer distances

  • Faster pace than many Southern cities, but less commuter stress than NYC

  • Business-oriented culture with suburban convenience

  • Hot summers and mild winters

For many movers, Dallas represents financial efficiency paired with career opportunity.

Employment & Opportunities

Dallas–Fort Worth has one of the strongest and most diversified job markets in the country, appealing to Long Islanders leaving finance, corporate, or professional roles.

Key industries include:

  • Corporate headquarters and professional services

  • Finance, banking, and insurance

  • Technology and telecom

  • Healthcare

  • Logistics and transportation

Major employers and anchors include AT&T, Texas Instruments, JPMorgan Chase, Toyota Motor North America, and Baylor Scott & White Health.

Dallas is also highly attractive to remote and hybrid workers who want tax advantages without sacrificing infrastructure.

Education & Schools

School quality varies widely by suburb, making location choice especially important for families relocating from Long Island.

Well-regarded districts and areas include:

  • Plano Independent School District

  • Frisco Independent School District

  • Highland Park Independent School District

  • Coppell Independent School District

Private schools are common and often factor into housing decisions.

Higher education institutions across the metro support a strong professional talent pipeline.

Real Estate Practices: What’s Different?

Texas real estate practices feel more standardized and faster than New York’s.

Key differences include:

  • Attorneys are not typically involved in residential transactions

  • Faster contract-to-close timelines

  • Newer housing stock and master-planned communities

  • HOA neighborhoods are very common

  • Larger homes with modern layouts

  • Competitive markets in top school districts

Homes often emphasize square footage, home offices, and open layouts rather than older architectural character.

Eric Berman REALTOR® can connect you with trusted Dallas-area agents who understand relocation needs and local micro-markets.

Logistics of the Move

Relocating from Long Island to Dallas is a full cross-country move.

Be prepared for:

  • A car-dependent lifestyle

  • Wide highways and predictable traffic patterns

  • Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) with nonstop NYC flights

  • Hot summers and occasional severe weather

  • Minimal winter weather disruptions

Many New Yorkers find daily logistics simpler once settled.

Community & Quality of Life

Dallas is best understood as a collection of cities and suburbs rather than a single urban experience.

Popular areas include:

  • Plano: Corporate hubs and strong schools

  • Frisco: Rapid growth and new construction

  • Highland Park: Established, upscale, and central

  • Uptown Dallas: Walkable, urban, and professional

  • Southlake: Suburban, family-oriented, and highly ranked schools

Lifestyle highlights include:

  • Strong dining and entertainment scene

  • Family-friendly suburban communities

  • Lower cost of living supporting lifestyle flexibility

  • Proximity to major airports for easy travel

  • A business-forward, opportunity-driven culture

Dallas appeals to buyers who value space, efficiency, and career growth.

Tips for a Smooth Transition

  • Learn how property taxes impact monthly costs

  • Explore suburbs carefully—school districts matter

  • Budget for summer cooling expenses

  • Understand HOA rules before buying

  • Work with Eric Berman REALTOR® to connect with vetted local professionals

Your Move to Dallas

Relocating from Long Island to Dallas offers a shift toward affordability, opportunity, and space. While heat and sprawl take adjustment, many Long Islanders find Dallas’s job market and tax structure compelling.

With Eric Berman REALTOR® guiding your relocation, you gain trusted insight, strong connections, and a clear plan to move with confidence.

FAQs

Is Dallas more affordable than Long Island?
Yes. Housing and daily expenses are significantly lower, though property taxes should be planned for. For a personalized comparison, visit 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

Which Dallas suburbs are best for families moving from New York?
Plano, Frisco, Coppell, and Southlake are popular for schools and community. Learn more at 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

How does buying a home in Texas differ from New York?
Closings are faster and typically handled without attorneys. Get guidance at 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

What is the biggest adjustment for Long Islanders moving to Dallas?
Summer heat and car dependency are the biggest changes. For relocation prep, reach out via 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

Is Dallas a good long-term place to buy a home?
Yes. Corporate expansion and population growth continue to support housing demand. For market insight, contact 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

Eric Berman, REALTOR®
Compass Greater NY
917-225-8596
eric@ericbermanre.com
www.theericbermanteam.com