Selecting between Highland Park, TX and University Park, TX is a major choice for anyone thinking about resettlement or real estate investment in the Dallas metro area. Both cities offer affluent communities with inviting lifestyles, top-tier schools, and robust amenities. This thorough comparison will help you review key factors such as housing markets, community profiles, education systems, safety, and local economies to make an well-considered choice aligned to your lifestyle and investment goals.
Overview of Highland Park and University Park
Highland Park and University Park are close cities situated in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area, often called the Park Cities. Each offers a distinctive blend of historic charm and modern luxury, underpinned by distinct demographic profiles and urban layouts. Highland Park, established earlier, is known for its spacious estates, tree-lined streets, and strong preservation of historical architecture. University Park, originally developed to support the University of Texas at Dallas faculty and students, displays a slightly denser population with a younger demographic and vibrant community activities.
Both cities have proximity to downtown Dallas, providing residents with superb access to metropolitan amenities while maintaining peaceful residential atmospheres. The population density sets them apart slightly; Highland Park tends to have bigger lot sizes contributing to lower density, whereas University Park has more compact residential zones. Demographically, both communities reflect high median incomes and educational attainment levels, welcoming families, professionals, and retirees seeking a premium quality of life.
Real Estate Market Comparison
Housing Market Trends and Home Values
The real estate scenes in Highland Park and University Park are highly competitive, showing steady appreciation and limited housing inventory. Highland Park generally commands a higher median home price, because of its larger properties and prestigious reputation. Luxury estates, combined with low turnover rates, boost demand and preserve property values over time. University Park features a broader mix of housing options, comprising smaller single-family homes and upscale condominiums, thus making it slightly more accessible while still upholding exclusivity.
Property market trends in each city demonstrate endurance in the face of market variations, underpinned by steady buyer demand and controlled growth due to zoning regulations. Parcel dimensions differ greatly, with Highland Park favoring spacious lots that enhance privacy, whereas University Park includes more eclectic architectural layouts that attract different purchaser tastes.
Residential Areas and Architectural Styles
Highland Park is renowned for its grand timeless dwellings, highlighting Tudor, Colonial Revival, and Mediterranean styles. This city places a strong emphasis on historical protection, reflected in zoning laws that govern facade alterations to maintain neighborhood appearance. University Park, while retaining some of these traditional styles, presents a greater amount of contemporary and mid-century modern houses, merging functional design with aesthetic modernity. Neighborhoods in these areas are strategically developed, with established zoning that harmonizes residential tranquility and community development projects.
Property Taxes and Tax Rates
When assessing property taxes, both Highland Park and University Park have comparable tax rates common in affluent municipalities in Texas, although minor differences occur due to varied municipal budgets and services. Homeowners should keep in mind that higher property values in Highland Park may mean larger tax liabilities despite equivalent rates. Both municipalities allocate funds efficiently toward public safety, education support, and infrastructure maintenance, making certain residents get benefits.
Demographics and Community Profile
The two cities feature wealthy populations with median household earnings well above national norms. There is a predominance of married couples with children in family makeup, highlighting the attraction of top-rated schools and child-friendly communities. Community diversity is limited, primarily composed of white-collar professionals, though cultural events and community programs foster inclusive engagement. Population density differences cause varying social dynamics; Highland Park’s roomy communities promote secluded outdoor lifestyles, while University Park’s somewhat crowded zones generate active neighborhood street life.
Schools and Education Opportunities
Public School Districts and Ratings
Education is among the highest priorities for families relocating to these cities. Highland Park Independent School District covers both cities, noted statewide for excellent scholastic results, advanced coursework, and extracurricular excellence. Schools consistently rank among the top in Texas, with noteworthy institutions such as Highland Park High School providing superior results and post-secondary readiness signs.
- Highland Park High School – noted for STEM and arts programsLloyd V. Berkner High School (serving University Park) – solid focus on college preparatory curriculumElementary and middle schools in both cities preserve superior standardized test scores and student-teacher ratios
Private Schools and Educational Facilities
In addition to notable public school options, both cities feature prestigious private schools with wide-ranging educational philosophies and specialized programs. These serve families seeking alternative curricula or religious affiliations. Nearness to higher education institutions and specialized technical academies further expands educational opportunities, facilitating lifelong learning and advanced studies.
Safety and Crime Rates
Safety stays a pivotal concern for prospective residents. Highland Park and University Park are both known for low crime rates compared to national averages, reinforced by well-funded police departments and community crime prevention initiatives. Neighborhood safety is reinforced through active resident associations, frequent patrols, and sophisticated surveillance systems. Statistics show that violent and property crimes are rare, promoting secure environments suitable for families and retirees alike.
Local Amenities and Lifestyle
Parks, Recreation Centers, and Sports Facilities
Outdoor recreation is a key feature in both cities, with various parks, walking trails, and sports complexes adding to an active lifestyle. Highland Park includes expansive green spaces like the Highland Park Village greenbelt and Armstrong Park, including tennis courts, playgrounds, and picnic areas. University Park complements this with facilities such as McCullough Park and the Beverly Cannon Park recreation center, offering community sports leagues and cultural gatherings.
- Armstrong Park (Highland Park) – favored for jogging and community eventsBeverly Cannon Park (University Park) – includes tennis courts and swimming poolsWalking and bike-friendly paths throughout both cities improving connectivity and fitness
Shopping, Dining, and Entertainment
The retail and culinary scenes in Highland Park and University Park demonstrate their affluent demographics. Highland Park Village features a premier shopping destination with designer boutiques, upscale restaurants, and frequent cultural events. University Park provides charming commercial districts with a mix of modern cafes, family-owned restaurants, and seasonal festivals showcasing local art and music. Both cities maintain calendars full of community events that enhance social bonds and offer entertainment year-round.
Healthcare and Public Services
Residents benefit from superior healthcare facilities within close proximity, including specialty clinics and hospitals famous for patient care. Each city maintains public libraries, well-managed utility services, and efficient public transit connections to the greater Dallas area. These services boost convenience and quality of life while showing civic commitment to sustainability and health.
Economy, Job Opportunities, and Commute
While chiefly residential, both cities are supported by close proximity to Dallas’ thriving job market, especially in finance, technology, healthcare, and education sectors. Commute times are generally manageable, with several major roadways and public transit routes facilitating access to business hubs. Highland Park and University Park’s local economies are strengthened by thriving small businesses serving affluent consumers, creating active commercial zones and employment opportunities in retail, services, and hospitality.
- DART Light Rail stations servicing both cities enhancing public transit accessibilityMajor highways providing direct routes to downtown Dallas and surrounding employment centersStrong local business environment promoting entrepreneurship and community engagement
Local Government, Community Development & Urban Planning
The municipal governments of Highland Park and University Park prioritize thoughtful urban planning to retain their distinctive characters while allowing for growth responsibly. City councils consistently collaborate with residents through neighborhood associations, facilitating grassroots participation in zoning decisions, infrastructure projects, and budget allocations. Both cities dedicate resources to maintaining roads, parks, and public facilities, with sustainability initiatives rising significance in recent years.
Environmental Quality and Climate
Green quality stays a priority, with both municipalities supporting parks and environmental initiatives to mitigate urban warmth and increase air quality. The environment includes high-temperature summers and mild winters characteristic of North Texas, encouraging outdoor pursuits almost for most of the year. Initiatives to expand tree canopy coverage, encourage recycling, and apply water conservation indicate community commitments to long-term environmental stewardship and livability.
FAQs
What are the major differences between Highland Park and University Park in terms of real estate?
Highland Park generally has higher median home prices and expanded property sizes emphasizing historic luxury homes, while University Park features more a variety of housing types at somewhat more affordable price points.
Which city provides better public school options?
The two cities are within the jurisdiction of the Highland Park Independent School District, known for exceptional academic performance, resulting in their public schools equally excellent choices.
How do property taxes contrast between Highland Park and University Park?
Property tax rates are comparable but greater property values in Highland Park can cause higher tax bills compared to University Park.
What is the safety record like in each city?
The two cities have remarkably low crime rates supported by Visit this page active community policing and neighborhood watch programs.
Are there more recreational activities available in Highland Park or University Park?
Each city provide plentiful recreational amenities, including parks, sports facilities, and community events, with slight variation in venue types and event calendars.
How accessible is public transportation in both cities?
Public transit access is readily available, with Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) routes serving both cities and providing access for residents to the broader Dallas metro area.
What are the median home prices and affordability in each city?
Median home prices are greater in Highland Park due to more expansive estates, while University Park has relatively more affordable options without reducing quality.
How do the local economies differ between Highland Park and University Park?
Both enjoy proximity to Dallas’ economy, but local commerce changes with Highland Park offering luxury retail and University Park emphasizing community-centered businesses.
Which city has stronger community engagement and neighborhood associations?
The two cities have active neighborhood associations and robust community involvement, with numerous events and initiatives that foster resident participation.