Thinking About Moving to Carrollton, TX

📍 Carrollton, TX at a Glance

• Population: 139,248
• Location: 20 miles north of downtown Dallas, bordered by Plano, Farmers Branch, and Coppell
• Incorporated: 1913
• Known For: Three historic downtown squares, diverse international community, excellent public transit access

🗳️ Politics & Civic Life

Carrollton maintains a balanced political landscape with active civic engagement. The city council operates under a council-manager form of government, with residents participating in various boards and commissions. Local elections typically see competitive races with diverse candidates reflecting the community’s multicultural makeup.

🚓 Crime & Safety

Carrollton consistently ranks as one of the safer cities in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The Carrollton Police Department maintains a strong community presence with neighborhood watch programs and regular community policing initiatives. Property crime rates remain below the national average, and the city’s investment in public safety infrastructure continues to enhance resident security.

🍽️ Dining & Entertainment

The city’s dining scene reflects its cultural diversity, with authentic Korean restaurants along Old Denton Road, Vietnamese pho houses, and Tex-Mex favorites like El Rincon. Babe’s Chicken Dinner House serves up family-style Southern comfort food, while newer additions like Cane Rosso bring artisanal pizza to the area. The Historic Downtown Carrollton Square hosts regular events, farmers markets, and festivals throughout the year.

🏛️ Local Government

Carrollton operates efficiently under a council-manager system with seven council members including the mayor. The city provides comprehensive services including its own police, fire, and library systems. City Hall is known for its responsive customer service and transparent governance, with regular town halls and community input sessions.

🚍 Transportation

One of Carrollton’s biggest advantages is its exceptional transit connectivity. The city is served by three DART light rail stations on the Green Line, providing direct access to downtown Dallas. Major highways including I-35E, President George Bush Turnpike, and Sam Rayburn Tollway intersect here, making commutes throughout the metroplex convenient. DFW International Airport is just 15 minutes away.

🏘️ Housing & Real Estate

Carrollton’s housing market offers diverse options from affordable starter homes to luxury estates. The median home price hovers around $385,000, with established neighborhoods featuring mature trees and newer developments offering modern amenities. The city’s three distinct downtown areas—Old Downtown, Trinity Mills, and Furneaux Creek—each offer unique housing character and price points.

🌳 Parks & Outdoor Life

With over 1,200 acres of parkland, Carrollton provides ample outdoor recreation opportunities. The sprawling W.J. Thomas Splash Park and Rosemeade Rainforest Aquatic Complex are summer favorites. The city maintains 31 parks, numerous trails including the Green Belt Trail system, and the Indian Creek Golf Club for golf enthusiasts.

💼 Job Market

Carrollton’s economy benefits from its strategic location and business-friendly environment. Major employers include Halliburton, FASTSIGNS International, and Motel 6 corporate headquarters. The median household income of $78,000 exceeds the Texas average. The city’s proximity to major business centers in Dallas, Plano, and Irving expands employment opportunities significantly.

🧑‍🏫 Education

Education excellence draws many families to Carrollton. The city is served by three highly-rated school districts: Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD, Lewisville ISD, and Dallas ISD. Notable schools include Creekview High School and Hebron High School. Private options include Prince of Peace Catholic School and The Highlands School. Brookhaven College provides higher education opportunities within city limits.

🌞 Climate & Weather

Carrollton experiences typical North Texas weather with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures regularly reach the 90s and 100s, while winters are generally mild with occasional freezing temperatures. Spring brings beautiful wildflowers but also the possibility of severe weather. The area receives about 37 inches of rain annually, mostly in spring and fall.

💬 Community Sentiment

Residents consistently praise Carrollton’s family-friendly atmosphere, cultural diversity, and convenient location. The city’s international community, particularly its large Korean and Indian populations, adds vibrancy through cultural festivals, authentic cuisine, and diverse perspectives. Long-time residents appreciate how the city has maintained its community feel while embracing growth and modernization.

✨ Why People Are Moving to Carrollton

Carrollton continues to attract new residents with its unbeatable combination of location, diversity, and quality of life. The city offers the rare trifecta of excellent schools, convenient transit options, and a strong sense of community—all while maintaining more affordable housing than many neighboring suburbs. Whether you’re drawn by the international dining scene, the easy commute to Dallas, or the family-friendly neighborhoods, Carrollton provides a welcoming home base for exploring all that North Texas has to offer.