Living in Highland Park, TX
An affluent, tree lined enclave entirely surrounded by Dallas known for its top rated schools, stately homes, and walkable village atmosphere.
Ask Your Advocate About Highland ParkHighland Park at a Glance
County
Dallas County
Population
Approx. 9,000
To Downtown Dallas
You are within Dallas city limits (surrounded by Dallas)
To Downtown Fort Worth
Approx. 35–45 min via I-30
To DFW Airport
Approx. 25–35 min via Dallas North Tollway or I-35E
To Love Field
Approx. 10–15 min via Lemmon Ave or Northwest Hwy
Median Home Price
Approx. $1.5M–$3M+ (varies significantly by street and size)
Avg. Property Tax Rate
Approx. 1.8–2.1% (HPISD + Town of Highland Park + Dallas County)
Year Incorporated
1913
ZIP Codes
75205
Welcome to Highland Park
Highland Park is one of the most sought after addresses in the entire DFW Metroplex. An independent municipality entirely surrounded by the City of Dallas, Highland Park covers just 2.2 square miles but packs in some of the most valuable real estate in Texas. The town is defined by its mature tree canopy, wide boulevards, meticulously maintained homes, and the Highland Park Village the oldest shopping center in the United States still operating in its original form. Buyers drawn to Highland Park are typically seeking the combination of top rated Highland Park ISD schools, proximity to downtown Dallas, and a neighborhood character that is quiet, established, and deeply residential. Inventory is limited and competition is consistent this is a market where preparation and local expertise matter.
Housing in Highland Park
Highland Park's housing stock is predominantly single family homes on established lots, ranging from Tudor and Colonial Revival estates to Mediterranean villas and updated mid century homes. The town has very little undeveloped land most transactions involve existing homes, with teardown-and-rebuild activity common on larger lots.
Price points start around $1 million for smaller or dated homes and climb well above $5 million for larger estates on premium streets. The market is driven by demand from buyers who prioritize HPISD schools and the town's walkable, village like character.
New construction in Highland Park is almost exclusively custom or semi custom, built on lots cleared of older structures. Buyers seeking new construction should work with an agent who tracks permit activity and off market opportunities.
Lifestyle in Highland Park
Life in Highland Park centers on the town's walkable village core. Highland Park Village a National Historic Landmark and the oldest operating shopping center in the U.S. anchors the retail and dining scene with boutiques, restaurants, and a beloved movie theater. Mockingbird Lane and Preston Road offer additional dining and retail options.
The town has a strong sense of community, with active civic organizations, well attended school events, and a neighborhood character that is quiet and residential. Residents are close to the energy of Dallas Uptown, the Arts District, and downtown are all within a 10-minute drive while living in a setting that feels distinctly removed from urban density.
Outdoor life revolves around Exall Park, Goar Park, and the Katy Trail, which runs along the town's eastern edge and connects to Uptown and beyond.
Things to Do
Highland Park Village is the social and retail hub of the town dining, boutique shopping, and the Highland Park Theatre make it a daily destination for residents. The Village hosts seasonal events including outdoor movie screenings and holiday programming.
The Katy Trail, accessible from multiple points along the town's eastern boundary, is one of Dallas's most popular urban trails a 3.5-mile paved path connecting Highland Park to Uptown and the American Airlines Center area.
Proximity to Dallas means residents have immediate access to the city's full cultural calendar the Dallas Museum of Art, Nasher Sculpture Center, Winspear Opera House, and the city's restaurant and nightlife scene are all within a short drive.
Education
Highland Park is served by Highland Park ISD (HPISD), a separate independent school district entirely distinct from Dallas ISD. HPISD consistently ranks among the top school districts in Texas and the country. The district includes Highland Park High School, Highland Park Middle School, and four elementary schools.
Private school options nearby include St. Mark's School of Texas, Hockaday School, Ursuline Academy, and Jesuit College Preparatory all within a short drive.
Southern Methodist University (SMU) is located immediately adjacent to Highland Park, providing access to continuing education, cultural programming, and the Meadows Museum.
Major Employers
Highland Park itself is a residential community with limited commercial employment. Most residents commute to employment centers in Dallas the downtown financial district, the Uptown/Turtle Creek corridor, the Medical District (UT Southwestern, Parkland, Children's Medical Center), and the Las Colinas/Irving employment hub.
Southern Methodist University, located adjacent to Highland Park, is a significant employer in the immediate area.
The town's proximity to US-75 (Central Expressway) and the Dallas North Tollway provides efficient access to employment centers throughout the Metroplex.
Transportation and Commuting
Highland Park is a car dependent community, though its compact size and walkable village core make it more pedestrian friendly than most DFW suburbs. Most residents drive to work, with downtown Dallas approximately 10–15 minutes away via US-75 or Lemmon Avenue.
The Katy Trail provides a car free connection to Uptown and the DART rail network at the Victory Park station. DART bus service runs along several corridors adjacent to the town.
Dallas Love Field Airport is approximately 10–15 minutes away, and DFW International Airport is approximately 25–35 minutes via the Dallas North Tollway.
Parks and Outdoor Recreation
Highland Park maintains several well kept parks within its 2.2 square miles. Exall Park, along Turtle Creek, offers green space, a pond, and walking paths in a serene setting. Goar Park provides athletic fields and picnic areas.
The Katy Trail runs along the town's eastern edge a 3.5-mile paved urban trail connecting to Uptown, the American Airlines Center, and the broader Dallas trail network.
Turtle Creek Boulevard, which runs through the heart of the town, is one of the most scenic drives and walks in Dallas lined with mature trees, manicured medians, and historic homes.
Annual Events
Highland Park Village hosts seasonal events throughout the year, including outdoor movie screenings, holiday tree lighting, and special retail events. The Village's programming draws residents from across the Metroplex.
Highland Park ISD events athletics, performing arts, and community gatherings are central to the town's social calendar and reflect the strong school community.
The town's proximity to Dallas means residents have access to the full calendar of city events the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and the Dallas Arts District's programming are all within easy reach.
Homeownership in Highland Park
Highland Park homeowners benefit from one of the most stable and appreciating markets in the entire Metroplex. The combination of limited inventory, consistent demand, and the HPISD school district creates a market with strong long term value retention.
Property taxes in Highland Park reflect multiple taxing entities the Town of Highland Park, Highland Park ISD, and Dallas County. The combined effective rate is typically 1.8–2.1% of assessed value. File for the homestead exemption with the Dallas Central Appraisal District (dallascad.org).
Buyers should be prepared for competitive conditions well priced homes in Highland Park often receive multiple offers. Working with an agent who has specific experience in this market is essential.
Utilities and Services
Everything you need to set up before your move date in Highland Park.
Internet Providers
Common providers in Highland Park. Availability varies by address. Always verify before committing.
| Provider | Type | Customer Service | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T Fiber | Fiber | 800-288-2020 | Visit site |
| Spectrum | Cable | 833-949-0036 | Visit site |
| Frontier Fiber | Fiber | 800-921-8101 | Visit site |
| Google Fiber | Fiber | 866-777-7550 | Visit site |
| T-Mobile Home Internet | 5G Wireless | 800-937-8997 | Visit site |
Electricity
Deregulated market choose your provider at PowerToChoose.org
| Provider | Customer Service | Website |
|---|---|---|
| TXU Energy | 800-818-6132 | Visit site |
| Reliant Energy | 866-222-7100 | Visit site |
| Direct Energy | 866-968-8065 | Visit site |
| Gexa Energy | 866-961-9399 | Visit site |
| Green Mountain Energy | 866-785-4668 | Visit site |
| Rhythm Energy | 888-774-9846 | Visit site |
Natural Gas
Atmos Energy serves most of North Texas. Set up service at least one to two weeks before your move date.
| Provider | Customer Service | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Atmos Energy | 888-286-6700 | Visit site |
| CoServ Gas | 940-321-7800 | Visit site |
Water and Sewer
Water service in Highland Park is provided by the city or a Municipal Utility District (MUD) depending on your development.
| Provider | Customer Service | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Town of Highland Park Public Works | 214-521-4161 | Visit site |
Trash and Recycling
| Provider | Customer Service | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Town of Highland Park Sanitation | 214-521-4161 | Visit site |
Home Security
| Provider | Customer Service | Website |
|---|---|---|
| ADT | 800-238-2727 | Visit site |
| Vivint | 800-216-5232 | Visit site |
| Brinks Home | 800-447-9239 | Visit site |
| SimpliSafe | 800-548-0526 | Visit site |
Mobile Phone Providers
| Provider | Customer Service | Website |
|---|---|---|
| AT&T | 800-331-0500 | Visit site |
| Verizon | 800-922-0204 | Visit site |
| T-Mobile | 800-937-8997 | Visit site |
TV and Streaming
| Provider | Customer Service | Website |
|---|---|---|
| DIRECTV | 800-531-5000 | Visit site |
| Spectrum TV | 833-949-0036 | Visit site |
| YouTube TV | Online support | Visit site |
| Hulu + Live TV | Online support | Visit site |
| Sling TV | Online support | Visit site |
Postal Services
| Service | Contact | Website |
|---|---|---|
| USPS Customer Service | 800-275-8777 | Visit site |
| Change of Address | Online | Visit site |
| Hold Mail | Online | Visit site |
Texas Driver License & Vehicle Registration
| Service | Contact | Website |
|---|---|---|
| TX Dept of Public Safety (Driver License) | 512-424-2600 | Visit site |
| TX Dept of Motor Vehicles (Registration) | 888-368-4689 | Visit site |
Homestead Exemption
File your homestead exemption with your county appraisal district to reduce your property tax bill. You must own and occupy the home as your primary residence as of January 1.
| County | Appraisal District | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Dallas County | Dallas Central Appraisal District | Visit site |
Need more detail? See the full DFW Internet & Utilities guide →
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Highland Park its own city or part of Dallas?
Highland Park is an independent incorporated municipality it has its own town government, police department, and school district (HPISD). However, it is entirely surrounded by the City of Dallas and shares a Dallas mailing address (75205 ZIP code). It is legally and administratively separate from Dallas.
What school district serves Highland Park?
Highland Park is served by Highland Park ISD (HPISD), a separate district from Dallas ISD. HPISD consistently ranks among the top school districts in Texas. The district includes Highland Park High School, Highland Park Middle School, and four elementary schools.
What is the typical home price in Highland Park?
Median home prices in Highland Park typically range from approximately $1.5 million to $3 million or more, depending on size, condition, and street. Entry level homes (smaller or dated) start around $1 million; larger estates on premium streets can exceed $5 million.
How far is Highland Park from downtown Dallas?
Highland Park is approximately 3–5 miles north of downtown Dallas typically a 10–15 minute drive via US-75 (Central Expressway) or Lemmon Avenue, depending on traffic.
Is Highland Park walkable?
Highland Park is more walkable than most DFW communities. Highland Park Village, the town's retail and dining hub, is within walking distance for many residents. The Katy Trail runs along the eastern edge of town. That said, most daily errands and commutes still require a car.
Nearby Communities
Thinking About Moving to Highland Park?
Nichelle Boyland is a DFW REALTOR® who specializes in helping buyers find the right community. Get personalized guidance, no pressure, just answers.
Get in Touch