Is Arlington Texas A Good Place to Live? Pros and Cons

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Is Arlington Texas A Good Place to Live – With its rich blend of sports, entertainment, educational opportunities, and thriving community, Arlington has emerged as a compelling choice for you and families seeking an exceptional place to call home.

Arlington, Texas, located in Tarrant County, is a vibrant city that beckons residents with its diverse array of attractions and amenities. Boasting a population of over 400,000, Arlington is the seventh-largest city in the state and a thriving part of the bustling Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area.

One of the key factors that make Arlington an appealing city to live in is its robust sports scene. With iconic venues such as AT&T Stadium, home of the renowned Dallas Cowboys, and the impressive Globe Life Field, where the Texas Rangers play baseball, sports enthusiasts find themselves in a haven of exciting events.

Beyond the thrill of sports, Arlington also shines in the realm of education. The city is home to the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA), the largest university in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. UTA provides a comprehensive range of academic programs and fosters a vibrant campus atmosphere.

Arlington’s entertainment district is yet another magnet for residents and visitors alike. Anchored by the renowned Six Flags Over Texas theme park, this district offers a thrilling array of rides, attractions, and family-friendly entertainment options.

When considering the livability of a city, factors such as housing, amenities, and community engagement play a pivotal role. Arlington impresses in this regard with its diverse neighborhoods, affordable housing options, and a strong sense of community spirit.

Let’s dig deeper into the various aspects that make Arlington, Texas an attractive place to live.

Pros and Cons of Living in Arlington, Texas

As with any place, Arlington has its own set of pros and cons that potential residents should consider before making the decision to call it home.

Find out the various aspects that make living in Arlington enticing, along with the challenges one might encounter.

From its abundance of outdoor activities and vibrant sports culture to its prime real estate and stable economy, we will explore the pros and cons of living in Arlington, Texas, to help you make an informed choice.

Pros of Living in Arlington, Texas:

1. The abundance of Outdoor Activities

Living in Arlington means having access to a plethora of outdoor activities. The city boasts an impressive number of parks, green spaces, and recreational areas where residents can enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, jogging, and picnicking.

Whether it’s a leisurely stroll along the Trinity River or an adrenaline-fueled adventure at River Legacy Parks, Arlington offers ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to stay active and enjoy nature.

2. Live Vicariously through Professional Athletes

Arlington is a city that embraces its sports culture. With iconic venues like AT&T Stadium, home to the Dallas Cowboys, and Globe Life Field, the stadium for the Texas Rangers, residents have the opportunity to witness professional sports events up close.

This proximity to top-tier sports teams allows residents to immerse themselves in the excitement and energy of the games, creating a unique sense of community pride.

3. Prime Real Estate

Arlington offers a range of housing options, from cozy suburban neighborhoods to upscale developments. The city’s real estate market is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in Texas, making it an attractive choice for those looking to purchase a home.

With a diverse selection of properties and favorable market conditions, finding a suitable residence in Arlington is a feasible and rewarding endeavor.

4. It’s Impossible to Get Bored

Living in Arlington, Texas ensures that boredom is a foreign concept. The city is a hub of entertainment, boasting attractions like Six Flags Over Texas, an exhilarating theme park with thrilling rides and family-friendly entertainment.

Additionally, Arlington is home to numerous museums, art galleries, theaters, and music venues, offering residents a wide array of cultural experiences to explore and enjoy.

5. Stable Economy

Arlington has a stable and diverse economy that provides residents with ample employment opportunities. The city is home to major companies, including General Motors and the University of Texas at Arlington, which contribute to the local economy and job market.

This stability helps create a sense of security and offers a favorable environment for professional growth and career advancement.

6. No Income Tax

One significant financial advantage of living in Arlington, Texas, is the absence of state income tax. This means that residents can enjoy higher take-home pay and potentially save more money compared to individuals living in states with income tax.

The lack of this tax burden is undoubtedly appealing to those seeking to maximize their income and financial resources.

Cons of Living in Arlington, Texas:

1. Traffic

One of the major downsides of living in Arlington is the heavy traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.

The city’s growing population, coupled with its proximity to major metropolitan areas like Dallas and Fort Worth, results in frequent traffic congestion on major highways and roadways.

Commuters often find themselves spending significant amounts of time in traffic, which can be frustrating and impact daily schedules.

2. Great Attention has to be given to B.O

While Arlington offers a warm and sunny climate for most of the year, the scorching summer months can be challenging due to the intense heat and humidity.

Residents need to be mindful of personal hygiene and give great attention to combating body odor (B.O.) during these hotter periods.

Staying hydrated, wearing appropriate clothing, and using antiperspirants are essential for staying fresh and comfortable.

3. Mediocre Food Scene

Compared to other major cities in Texas, Arlington’s food scene might be considered somewhat mediocre. While the city offers a range of dining options, including chain restaurants and local eateries, it may not boast the same level of culinary diversity and renowned gastronomic experiences as larger cities like Austin or Houston.

However, neighboring cities provide access to a wider variety of dining options for those seeking more culinary adventures.

4. You Can’t Carry Cash (It’s a Bad Idea)

As with any urban area, Arlington, Texas, has its share of safety concerns. While it is generally a safe city, there are instances of theft and other crimes.

It is advisable to exercise caution and avoid carrying large amounts of cash to minimize the risk of theft or loss.

Utilizing electronic payment methods and keeping personal belongings secure can help mitigate potential security issues.

5. Lack of Public Transportation

Arlington has limited public transportation options, which can pose challenges for those who prefer or rely on alternative modes of transportation.

While the city has bus services, they may not be as extensive or convenient as in larger metropolitan areas.

Residents without private vehicles may find it more difficult to navigate the city and commute to different destinations, potentially leading to a reliance on private transportation or ride-sharing services.

Living in Arlington, Texas, presents a wide range of advantages and challenges.

By understanding and weighing the pros and cons of living in Arlington, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and priorities. Arlington’s unique blend of opportunities and challenges contributes to its vibrant character and makes it a city worth exploring as a potential place to call home.

What is the safest neighborhood in Arlington Texas?

Arlington Ridge is often regarded as one of the safest neighborhoods in the area. With its well-maintained streets, peaceful atmosphere, and active community engagement, Arlington Ridge provides a sense of security for its residents.

The neighborhood consists of a mix of single-family homes and townhouses, creating a close-knit community.

Its proximity to Arlington National Cemetery also adds to the overall safety and desirability of Arlington Ridge as a residential area in Arlington, Texas.

Is Arlington, Texas a safe place to live?

While Arlington has a higher crime rate than the national average, the rate is falling, and most areas of Arlington are safe to live in. In 2021, reports estimated that Arlington had a crime rate 1.4 times higher than the national average at 567.44 per 100,000 individuals.

While this might seem concerning, it’s important to note that crime rates can vary within different neighborhoods and communities.

What is the best area to live in Arlington, TX?

A couple of notable areas to consider when looking for the best place to live in Arlington, Texas, are Summerwood and Southland Acres. These neighborhoods offer a desirable combination of family-friendly amenities, such as spacious homes, good schools, and proximity to parks and athletic fields.

Both areas also tend to have lower crime rates, contributing to a sense of safety and security.

Additionally, their convenient location provides easy access to downtown Arlington, allowing residents to enjoy the city’s attractions and amenities.

Is Arlington, Texas expensive to live in?

The cost of living in Arlington, Texas, is generally considered to be in the middle range compared to other cities in the United States. While it may not be the most affordable city, it is also not among the most expensive.

The average cost of living in Arlington is $1685, which places it in the top 25% of the most expensive cities in the world, ranked 2320th out of 9294 globally, 1983rd out of 2202 in the United States, and 114th out of 130 in the state of Texas.

Final Thoughts: Is Arlington Texas A Good Place to Live?

After considering the pros and cons of living in Arlington, Texas, it becomes evident that the city has much to offer.

From its abundance of outdoor activities and vibrant sports culture to its prime real estate and stable economy, Arlington presents a compelling case as a desirable place to call home.

The city’s diverse neighborhoods, affordable housing options, and a strong sense of community contribute to its livability and appeal.

However, it’s essential to acknowledge the challenges that come with living in Arlington, such as traffic congestion, the need to combat the intense summer heat, and limitations in public transportation.

These factors may impact certain aspects of daily life and require residents to adapt and find alternative solutions.

In conclusion, Arlington, Texas offers a vibrant and dynamic living experience, with its mix of outdoor activities, sports culture, stable economy, and prime real estate.

By weighing the pros and cons, individuals can determine if Arlington aligns with their lifestyle and aspirations. So, is Arlington, Texas a good place to live? The answer lies in the unique needs and preferences of each people or family seeking a place to call home.

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