Top 13 Dallas Rich Neighborhoods for Students To Live & Explore

Dreaming of living in style while studying in Dallas? The city is home to some of the most Dallas rich neighborhoods, offering a mix of luxury, safety, and student life. From tree-lined streets and trendy cafes to elite shopping spots and green parks, these areas are perfect for students seeking both comfort and convenience. Whether you want to be close to universities, enjoy cultural hubs, or explore upscale social scenes, this guide will help you discover the top neighborhoods where student life meets the high life.

Top 13 Dallas Rich Neighborhoods for Students

From upscale shopping districts to artsy hubs, these neighborhoods blend safety, green spaces, and student-friendly amenities. Whether you want trendy cafes, jogging trails, or proximity to universities like SMU and the University of Dallas, these are the richest neighborhoods in Dallas where students can enjoy the perfect mix of study, social life, and comfort. Explore our top picks below to find your ideal student-friendly spot in Dallas!

1. Highland Park

Safety Index: 9.8/10
Student Population: 4,500 students in nearby areas
Lifestyle & Leisure: The Shops at Highland Park, Highland Park Village, Cafe Brazil, Sixty Vines, Jasper’s, boutique fitness studios
Elite Clubs & Social Spots: The Mansion on Turtle Creek (fine dining + events), private golf clubs nearby
Parks: Armstrong Park, Katy Trail for jogging, biking, and weekend hangouts
Shopping: Highland Park Village, NorthPark Center (a short drive away)
Nearby Universities: Southern Methodist University (SMU), University of Texas at Dallas (UTD)
Commute Options: DART Light Rail + local buses – ~20 mins to Downtown Dallas
Best Apartments: Park West, The Lofts at Mockingbird Station

Highland Park is one of the Dallas rich neighborhoods, offering luxury, safety, and lifestyle. Students enjoy dining at Sixty Vines and Jasper’s, socializing at The Mansion on Turtle Creek, and shopping at Highland Park Village or The Shops at Highland Park. Celebrities like Mark Cuban and Jerry Jones own homes here. Outdoor lovers can visit Armstrong Park or the Katy Trail. With proximity to SMU and UTD, Highland Park blends student convenience with the upscale charm of one of the upscale neighborhoods in Dallas TX.

2. University Park

Safety Index: 9.3/10
Student Population: ~7,500 students in nearby areas
Lifestyle & Leisure: Mi Cocina, The Grape, Café Brazil, The Mansion on Turtle Creek, boutique fitness studios
Elite Clubs & Social Spots: The Mansion on Turtle Creek (fine dining + events), private golf clubs nearby
Parks: Armstrong Park, Katy Trail for jogging, biking, and weekend hangouts
Shopping: Mockingbird Station, NorthPark Center (a short drive away)
Nearby Universities: Southern Methodist University (SMU)
Commute Options: DART Light Rail + local buses – ~20 mins to Downtown Dallas

University Park is one of the most coveted Dallas rich neighborhoods, known for its tree-lined streets, safe environment, and student-friendly vibe. Students living nearby enjoy cozy cafes like Café Brazil, fine dining at The Mansion on Turtle Creek, and casual spots such as Mi Cocina and The Grape. The area is perfect for jogging or biking along Katy Trail and unwinding in Armstrong Park. Shopping enthusiasts can visit Mockingbird Station or NorthPark Center just minutes away. With Southern Methodist University (SMU) close by, University Park combines luxury, convenience, and a lively student lifestyle, making it one of the wealthy neighborhoods in Dallas.

3. Preston Hollow

Safety Index: 9.7/10
Student Population: ~3,500 students in nearby areas
Lifestyle & Leisure: The Capital Grille, Seasons 52, Velvet Taco, boutique fitness studios, luxury spas
Elite Clubs & Social Spots: Dallas Country Club, Preston Hollow Golf Club, private events at local estates
Parks: Preston Hollow Park, White Rock Lake (jogging, biking, weekend hangouts)
Shopping: NorthPark Center, Preston Forest Shopping Center, boutique stores along Walnut Hill Lane
Nearby Universities: Southern Methodist University (SMU)
Commute Options: DART Light Rail + local buses – ~25 mins to Downtown Dallas

Preston Hollow is one of the most prestigious Dallas rich neighborhoods, featuring spacious estates, quiet streets, and a student-friendly vibe near SMU. Students can enjoy dining at The Capital Grille, Velvet Taco, and Seasons 52, and socialize at elite spots like Dallas Country Club. Outdoor enthusiasts can relax at Preston Hollow Park or White Rock Lake. With excellent safety, upscale amenities, and easy access to Downtown via DART, Preston Hollow stands out as one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in Dallas, blending luxury living with student convenience.

4. Turtle Creek

Safety Index: 9.6/10
Student Population: ~2,800 students in nearby areas
Lifestyle & Leisure: Dragonfly Bar + Kitchen, The Mansion on Turtle Creek, Al Biernat’s, boutique gyms, luxury spas
Elite Clubs & Social Spots: The Mansion on Turtle Creek (fine dining + events), Dallas Country Club, private art galleries
Parks: Reverchon Park, Turtle Creek Park – jogging, walking, weekend hangouts
Shopping: Highland Park Village, NorthPark Center, upscale boutiques along Turtle Creek Boulevard
Nearby Universities: Southern Methodist University (SMU)
Commute Options: DART Light Rail + local buses – ~15 mins to Downtown Dallas

Turtle Creek is one of the most exclusive Dallas rich neighborhoods, offering luxurious apartments, beautiful tree-lined streets, and proximity to SMU. Students can enjoy dining at Dragonfly Bar + Kitchen, Al Biernat’s, and The Mansion on Turtle Creek, or explore boutique gyms and upscale spas. Outdoor lovers have Reverchon Park and Turtle Creek Park for jogging and weekend relaxation. With top-tier safety, elite social spots, and easy access to Downtown via DART, Turtle Creek ranks among the wealthy Dallas neighborhoods perfect for students seeking luxury and convenience.

5. Bluffview

Safety Index: 9.5/10
Student Population: ~1,900 students in nearby areas
Lifestyle & Leisure: The Keeper’s Café, Olivella Bistro, Bluffview Art Walk, local yoga studios
Elite Clubs & Social Spots: Dallas Country Club, The Wine Loft, private rooftop lounges
Parks: Bluffview Park, Reverchon Park – perfect for jogging, picnics, and weekend hangouts
Shopping: Local artisan boutiques, NorthPark Center (10 mins away), specialty stores
Nearby Universities: Southern Methodist University (SMU), University of Texas at Dallas (UTD)
Commute Options: DART Light Rail + local buses – ~20 mins to Downtown Dallas
Best Apartments: The Atlantic Highland Park, The Lofts at Mockingbird Station

Bluffview is one of the Dallas rich neighborhoods offering a mix of quiet residential streets and artistic charm. Students can explore The Keeper’s Café or Olivella Bistro for cozy meals, stroll through the Bluffview Art Walk, or unwind at local yoga studios. Bluffview Park and Reverchon Park provide green spaces for jogging and outdoor activities. With easy access to SMU and Downtown Dallas, this wealthy Dallas neighborhood combines safety, convenience, and a calm yet cultured vibe, making it ideal for students who want a refined lifestyle without leaving the city.

6. Lakewood

Safety Index: 9.3/10
Student Population: ~2,300 students in nearby areas
Lifestyle & Leisure: Lakewood Coffee Company, Eddie V’s Prime Seafood, Local Coffee Roasters, boutique fitness studios
Elite Clubs & Social Spots: Lakewood Country Club, The Library Bar & Grill, private rooftop lounges
Parks: White Rock Lake Park, Lakewood Park – ideal for jogging, biking, and weekend picnics
Shopping: Lakewood Shopping District, NorthPark Center (15 mins away), specialty boutiques
Nearby Universities: Southern Methodist University (SMU), University of Texas at Dallas (UTD)
Commute Options: DART Light Rail + buses – ~25 mins to Downtown Dallas
Best Apartments: Tribeca On The Creek Apartments, The Biltmore

Lakewood is among the Dallas rich neighborhoods known for its tree-lined streets and student-friendly culture. Students can enjoy meals at Eddie V’s Prime Seafood or sip coffee at Lakewood Coffee Company, while exploring the serene trails of White Rock Lake Park. The area combines safety, accessibility, and upscale leisure, with easy access to SMU and downtown. As one of the luxury neighborhoods in Dallas, Lakewood gives students a chance to experience an elegant lifestyle while staying connected to the heart of the city.

7. Oak Lawn

Safety Index: 9.0/10
Student Population: ~3,000 students in nearby areas
Lifestyle & Leisure: Smoke, The Standard Pour, Katy Trail Ice House, boutique coffee spots
Elite Clubs & Social Spots: The Mansion on Turtle Creek events, private lounges, rooftop bars
Parks: Reverchon Park, Turtle Creek Greenbelt – perfect for jogging, biking, and weekend hangouts
Shopping: Oak Lawn boutiques, West Village shopping district, NorthPark Center (short drive)
Nearby Universities: Southern Methodist University (SMU), University of Texas at Dallas (UTD)
Commute Options: DART Light Rail + buses – ~15 mins to Downtown Dallas
Best Apartments: Tribeca On The Creek Apartments 

Oak Lawn is one of the Dallas rich neighborhoods known for its trendy restaurants, bars, and lively student-friendly atmosphere. Students can enjoy meals at Smoke or drinks at The Standard Pour, while taking advantage of outdoor activities along Reverchon Park or Turtle Creek Greenbelt. With its social scene, safe streets, and upscale yet accessible lifestyle, Oak Lawn stands out as a top luxury neighborhood in Dallas for students who want a balanced mix of fun, study, and connectivity to SMU and downtown.

8. Uptown Dallas

Safety Index: 9.1/10
Student Population: ~4,000 students in nearby areas
Lifestyle & Leisure: Katy Trail Ice House, Lawless Distilling Co., La Duni Latin Café, Starbucks Reserve
Elite Clubs & Social Spots: The Grape, The Statler Rooftop, Happiest Hour, Parliament, The Balcony Club
Parks: Katy Trail, Reverchon Park – ideal for jogging, cycling, and weekend hangouts
Shopping: West Village boutiques, Knox-Henderson shopping district, NorthPark Center nearby
Nearby Universities: Southern Methodist University (SMU), University of Texas at Dallas (UTD)
Commute Options: DART Light Rail + local buses – ~15 mins to Downtown Dallas
Best Apartments: The Atlantic Highland Park, June Homes 75214

Uptown Dallas is one of the top Dallas rich neighborhoods, perfect for students seeking a blend of social life and convenience. Enjoy walkable streets, jogging along the Katy Trail, and hangouts at cafes like La Duni Latin Café or bars such as The Statler Rooftop and Parliament. Its proximity to SMU and the downtown area makes Uptown a prime Dallas affluent neighborhood, combining safety, lifestyle, and student-friendly energy.

9. Bishop Arts District

Safety Index: 8.9/10
Student Population: ~3,500 students in nearby areas
Lifestyle & Leisure: Oddfellows, Mutts Canine Cantina, Lockhart Smokehouse, Emporium Pies, Wild Detectives Bookstore & Bar
Elite Clubs & Social Spots: The Kessler Theater, The Wild Detectives (live music and cultural events), Happiest Hour
Parks: Kiest Park, Trinity River Audubon Center – ideal for walks, weekend hangouts, and jogging
Shopping: Bishop Arts boutiques, Ten Bells Market, local art galleries
Nearby Universities: University of North Texas at Dallas (UNT Dallas), Southern Methodist University (SMU)
Commute Options: DART Light Rail + local buses – ~25 mins to Downtown Dallas

Bishop Arts District is one of the Dallas rich neighborhoods known for its artsy vibe and student-friendly atmosphere. Explore cozy cafes like Oddfellows and Mutts Canine Cantina, local boutiques, and music venues like The Kessler Theater. With parks like Kiest Park, cultural hubs, and easy access to SMU and UNT Dallas, Bishop Arts is a top choice for students looking for one of the nice neighborhoods in Dallas TX that balances creativity, leisure, and convenience.

10. Park Cities

Safety Index: 9.6/10
Student Population: ~4,000 students in nearby areas
Lifestyle & Leisure: NorthPark Center, Hillstone, Klyde Warren Park (short drive), Sixty Vines, Boulevardier
Elite Clubs & Social Spots: Dallas Country Club, Park Cities Country Club, private dining at The Mansion on Turtle Creek
Parks: Reverchon Park, Bradfield Park – ideal for jogging, biking, and weekend hangouts
Shopping: NorthPark Center, Highland Park Village, local boutiques along Lovers Lane
Nearby Universities: Southern Methodist University (SMU), University of Texas at Dallas (UTD)
Commute Options: DART Light Rail + local buses – ~20 mins to Downtown Dallas

Park Cities is one of the most affluent neighborhoods in Dallas, blending family-friendly streets, lush parks, and upscale shopping. Students can enjoy NorthPark Center for shopping, grab a coffee at Sixty Vines, or join weekend events at Reverchon Park. Close to SMU, this area offers a safe environment while still being one of the Dallas rich neighborhoods, making it perfect for students seeking comfort, convenience, and networking opportunities.

11. M Streets / Greenland Hills

Safety Index: 9.4/10
Student Population: ~3,500 students in nearby areas
Lifestyle & Leisure: Jupiter House, Oddfellows, The Grape, boutique shops along Greenville Avenue, coffee at Ascension Coffee
Elite Clubs & Social Spots: Katy Trail Ice House (bars & events), private dining at The Mansion on Turtle Creek
Parks: Mockingbird Park, Reverchon Park – perfect for jogging, weekend hangouts, and picnics
Shopping: Greenville Avenue boutiques, local artisan shops, small markets for weekend browsing
Nearby Universities: Southern Methodist University (SMU), University of Texas at Dallas (UTD)
Commute Options: DART Light Rail + local buses – ~15 mins to Downtown Dallas

M Streets / Greenland Hills is one of the richest neighborhoods in Dallas, known for its charming historic homes, tree-lined streets, and boutique shopping. Students can enjoy coffee at Ascension Coffee, brunch at Jupiter House, or explore local boutiques along Greenville Avenue. Its proximity to SMU and Downtown Dallas, combined with a safe, community-friendly vibe, makes it one of the Dallas rich neighborhoods ideal for students seeking a balanced lifestyle with both leisure and convenience.

12. Design District

Safety Index: 9.1/10
Student Population: ~2,800 students nearby
Lifestyle & Leisure: Art galleries like Conduit Gallery, Patina Gallery, trendy eateries CBD Provisions, Kenny’s Wood Fired Grill, Si Tapas
Elite Clubs & Social Spots: The Rustic, The Nines, weekend creative workshops and pop-up events
Parks: Katy Trail nearby, Trinity River Audubon Center – ideal for outdoor relaxation and jogging
Shopping: Local design shops, artisan boutiques, home decor stores
Nearby Universities: Southern Methodist University (SMU), University of North Texas at Dallas (UNT Dallas)
Commute Options: DART Light Rail + buses – ~20 mins to Downtown Dallas
Best Apartments: The Atlantic Highland Park, The Lofts at Mockingbird Station

The Design District is one of the Dallas rich neighborhoods, popular for its art galleries, creative spaces, and trendy eateries. Students can enjoy coffee at The Nines, brunch at Kenny’s Wood Fired Grill, or explore unique art at Conduit Gallery. With a safe, walkable, and welcoming atmosphere, this area blends culture, creativity, and convenience, making it one of the top upscale neighborhoods in Dallas TX for students seeking both lifestyle and inspiration.

13. Far North Dallas / Addison

Safety Index: 9.0/10
Student Population: ~3,500 students nearby
Lifestyle & Leisure: Restaurants North Italia, Seasons 52, Klyde Warren Park nearby, weekend hangouts at Addison Circle Park, The Galleria Dallas for shopping
Elite Clubs & Social Spots: The Rustic, The Ginger Man, craft beer bars and live music venues
Parks: Addison Circle Park, White Rock Lake (short drive) – jogging, cycling, and outdoor study sessions
Shopping: The Shops at Willow Bend, NorthPark Center, local boutiques
Nearby Universities: Southern Methodist University (SMU), University of Dallas
Commute Options: DART Light Rail + buses – ~25 mins to Downtown Dallas
Best Apartments: Canyon Creek, Chatham Court And Reflections

Far North Dallas / Addison is one of the Dallas rich neighborhoods, blending green spaces, modern apartments, and student-friendly dining options. With restaurants like North Italia and Seasons 52, and outdoor spaces like Addison Circle Park, students can balance study and leisure easily. Safe streets, proximity to malls like The Shops at Willow Bend, and good connectivity make it one of the richest neighborhoods in Dallas, perfect for students looking for comfort, convenience, and lifestyle opportunities.

Living in Dallas rich neighborhoods gives students the perfect balance of luxury, safety, and accessibility. From tree-lined streets and elite shopping districts to trendy cafes and green spaces, these neighborhoods offer student life alongside career and social opportunities. With amber, finding verified student apartments in Dallas is simple, helping you secure a home that fits both your lifestyle and budget while staying close to universities and local hotspots.