Introduction: A Growing Community in the Heart of Texas
Are you contemplating a move to Arlington, Texas, and wondering if it’s the right choice? Arlington, a city rapidly gaining popularity, might just surprise you with its vibrant community and unique offerings. With a population hovering around 400,000, it has seen significant growth, making it an increasingly attractive destination for many. This article aims to provide an in-depth look into life in Arlington, exploring both its advantages and areas needing improvement.
Arlington’s Strategic Location: A Hub of Connectivity
Major Highways and Easy Access
One of Arlington’s standout features is its central location between Dallas and Fort Worth. This positioning is enhanced by several major highways crisscrossing the city, including Interstate 30, Interstate 20, Highway 360, and Highway 287. These routes provide residents with quick and easy access to various parts of the metroplex, including both Dallas and Fort Worth.
Proximity to DFW Airport
Another significant advantage is Arlington’s proximity to DFW Airport, located just to the north. Depending on where you reside in Arlington, the airport is a mere 15 to 30 minutes away, making it a convenient location for frequent travelers.
Entertainment and Leisure: A City of Fun and Excitement
Sports and Concert Venues
Arlington is a haven for sports and entertainment enthusiasts. It’s home to the famous AT&T Stadium, where the Dallas Cowboys play, and also hosts a variety of major sporting events and concerts. The Texas Rangers’ Globe Life Field is another highlight, offering baseball fans a state-of-the-art experience.
Parks and Recreational Facilities
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Arlington doesn’t disappoint. The city boasts Hurricane Harbor, a popular water park, and Six Flags Over Texas, both located in the entertainment district. Texas Live, a vibrant area featuring numerous restaurants and bars, is conveniently situated within walking distance of Globe Life Field and AT&T Stadium. Additionally, the city is proud of the eSports Stadium Arlington, the largest turnkey eSports facility in North America.
Living Costs: Affordable and Accessible
Housing: Surprisingly Economical
Arlington stands out for its affordability, especially when it comes to housing. The cost of living here is approximately 2% below the national average, with housing costs about 12% lower. As of May 2022, the average home price in Arlington was around $355,000, notably less than both the Texas and national averages.
Education: A Hub for Higher Learning
University of Texas at Arlington
The University of Texas in Arlington (UTA) is a cornerstone of the city’s educational landscape. As the largest university in North Texas and the second-largest in the University of Texas system, UTA hosts over 60,000 students, adding a vibrant, youthful energy to the city.
The Downsides: Areas for Improvement
Downtown Arlington: Potential Yet to Be Realized
Downtown Arlington, while undergoing development, hasn’t quite reached its full potential. Compared to the more vibrant downtown areas of neighboring cities like Fort Worth or Dallas, Arlington’s downtown is somewhat lacking in terms of variety and excitement. The presence of older businesses and less appealing streetscapes indicates room for growth and enhancement.
Crime and Safety: A Mixed Picture
Regarding safety, Arlington’s standing is mixed. According to CrimeGrade.org, the city is safer than 44% of other cities, indicating a need for improvement in crime prevention and community safety initiatives.
Limited Fine Dining Options
When it comes to upscale dining, Arlington offers limited choices. With just a few notable fine dining establishments like The Keg, Mercury Chop House, and Restaurant 506, residents often travel to Dallas or Fort Worth for special occasions.
Traffic Congestion: A Byproduct of Growth
Arlington’s strategic location also brings traffic challenges, especially during rush hours. The growth in the area exacerbates this issue, and ongoing construction projects can lead to even more congestion.
Roundabouts: A Controversial Traffic Solution
The city has experimented with roundabouts in some neighborhoods as an alternative to traffic lights. While intended to enhance safety, their effectiveness remains a topic of debate among residents.
Aging Housing Stock
Lastly, Arlington’s age is reflected in its housing. Many homes date back to the 1960s, with limited opportunities for new construction. Prospective buyers should consider the potential need for additional maintenance and repairs due to the older age of these properties.
Conclusion: A City with Much to Offer
Arlington, Texas, presents a mix of opportunities and challenges. Its excellent location, affordable living, vibrant entertainment options, and educational facilities make it an attractive place to live. However, areas like downtown development, crime rates, dining options, traffic, and aging infrastructure need attention. If you’re considering a move to Arlington or have questions about the area, don’t hesitate to reach out for more information. Watch our next video for further insights into living in this dynamic Texas city!