The Heart of the Metroplex
One of Irving’s biggest selling points is its prime location. Is Irving, TX a good place to live? If you value convenience, then absolutely. Nestled between Dallas and Fort Worth, the city sits at the crossroads of the DFW Metroplex. Whether you’re commuting for work, catching a flight, or exploring North Texas, Irving puts you within arm’s reach of it all.- Proximity to Major Hubs: The Dallas International Airport (DFW) is practically in Irving’s backyard, making travel a breeze. Love Field Airport is also just 20 minutes away.
- Highways Galore: Highways like I-635, SH-183, and President George Bush Turnpike crisscross the city, connecting residents to Dallas, Fort Worth, and beyond in under 30 minutes.
- Public Transit: The DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) light rail and bus services make car-free commuting feasible, especially for those working in downtown Dallas.
How Far Does Your Dollar Stretch?
Is Irving, TX a good place to live? If affordability is a priority, then yes.Compared to nearby cities like Dallas or Plano, Irving offers a more budget-friendly cost of living.- Median Home Price: BestPlaces notes that the typical home in Irving costs $318,100, which is 5.9% less than the national average of $338,100.
- Median Rent: The median rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,640 per month, 14.7% higher than the national average of $1,430.
- Everyday Expenses: Groceries, utilities, and healthcare costs align closely with Texas averages, meaning your paycheck stretches further here than in pricier coastal cities.
Opportunities Beyond the Airport
Irving isn’t just a bedroom community for Dallas commuters, it's a thriving economic hub in its own right. Major employers like Verizon, ExxonMobil, and the aforementioned DFW Airport call Irving home, providing jobs in tech, energy, aviation, and healthcare.- Corporate Presence: Las Colinas, Irving’s upscale business district, hosts Fortune 500 companies and startups alike. The area’s sleek office towers and lakeside views attract professionals seeking both career growth and work-life balance.
- Growing Industries: Healthcare and education sectors are expanding, with hospitals like Baylor Scott & White and universities adding to the job pool.
Schools and Lifelong Learning
Families moving to the area often ask, Is Irving, TX a good place to live? when it comes to education. The Irving Independent School District (IISD) serves most of the city, with several schools earning state distinctions for academic performance.- Notable Schools: Lady Bird Johnson Middle School and Singley Academy are standouts for STEM and career-focused programs. IISD also partners with local businesses for internships, giving teens a head start in fields like engineering and healthcare.
- Higher Education: North Lake College (part of the Dallas College network) offers affordable associate degrees and workforce training, while nearby universities like UT Dallas and UNT are within commuting distance.
Parks, Diversity, and Community Vibes
Irving’s true charm lies in its people and neighborhoods. With a population of over 240,000, the city is a melting pot of cultures; nearly 40% of residents were born outside the U.S., creating a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere.- Parks and Recreation: From the sprawling Campion Trail to the serene Lake Carolyn, outdoor enthusiasts have plenty to explore. The city maintains over 40 parks, including dog-friendly spaces and playgrounds updated in recent years.
- Festivals and Events: The Irving Arts Center hosts year-round performances, while the Main Street Festival brings the community together with live music and food trucks. Don’t miss the Diwali celebration or Irving’s International Festival, which showcases global cuisines and traditions.
- Safety: Crime rates in Irving are slightly below the national average, with neighborhoods like Las Colinas and Valley Ranch ranking as particularly family-friendly.
Things to Do
You’ll never run out of ways to stay entertained in Irving. Highlights include:- Mandalay Canal Walk: Stroll along this Venetian-inspired waterfront, dotted with shops and restaurants. Rent a kayak or enjoy gelato while watching the sunset over the canals.
- Mustangs of Las Colinas: This iconic bronze sculpture celebrates the city’s Western roots. Snap a photo with the galloping horses, a symbol of Texas’s wild spirit.
- Sports and Entertainment: Catch a Dallas Wings WNBA game at the Comerica Center or enjoy concerts at the Toyota Music Factory, a hotspot for big-name artists and comedy acts.
Pros and Cons of Living in Irving
Before making a move, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons. Is Irving, TX a good place to live? Here’s a breakdown:Pros
- Affordable housing compared to other Texas cities
- Proximity to Dallas/Fort Worth and major airports
- Strong job market, especially in Las Colinas
- Diverse dining, entertainment, and outdoor activities
Cons
- Traffic congestion on major highways
- Limited public transit options
- Rising cost of living in some neighborhoods
- Hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 100°F