Nestled between Dallas and Fort Worth, Arlington, Texas, offers the perfect blend of suburban charm and urban conveniences. The city is known for major attractions such as Six Flags Over Texas and AT&T Stadium, providing residents with a vibrant entertainment scene. But is Arlington a great place to live? While the city has an abundance of leisure activities, it also faces challenges, such as limited food destinations. In this Redfin article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of living in Arlington to help you decide if it’s right for you.
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Basic information about Arlington
| Median home sales price | $340,000 |
| average monthly rent | $1,260 |
| walk score | 38/100 |
| bike score | 40/100 |
1. Advantages: Close to major cities
Arlington is ideally located between Dallas and Fort Worth, making it an ideal place for those who want to enjoy the amenities of both cities without living in the hustle and bustle. This central location makes it easy for residents to get to work, play, or shop. For example, it’s just a short drive to the Dallas Arts District or the Fort Worth Stockyards, which offer a variety of cultural and recreational activities.
2. Disadvantages: Congested roads
One of the downsides to Arlington’s central location is traffic congestion. The city is crisscrossed by several major highways, including I-20, I-30 and State Route 360, which can be severely congested. This can make daily commutes longer and more stressful. Additionally, the influx of visitors to attractions such as AT&T Stadium and Six Flags Over Texas could exacerbate traffic problems, especially on weekends and during events.
3. Advantages: Entertainment and Sports Center
Arlington is home to some of Texas’ most iconic entertainment and stadiums. AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, and Globe Life Field, home of the Texas Rangers, are located here. These venues host a variety of events, from NFL games to concerts and other large events. Additionally, Six Flags Over Texas and Hurricane Harbor offer thrilling amusement park experiences. This makes Arlington an ideal place to live for sports fans and thrill seekers.
4. Disadvantages: Limited public transportation
While Arlington has a lot to offer in terms of entertainment and location, its public transportation options fall short. Unlike neighboring cities, Arlington does not have a comprehensive public transportation system. The city relies primarily on limited bus service and ride-sharing services, which can be inconvenient for people without cars.
5. Advantages: Educational Opportunities
Arlington is home to numerous educational institutions, including the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA), which is known for its research programs and diverse student body. UTA offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, making it an important educational center in the region.
6. Disadvantages: Extreme summer
One of the disadvantages of living in Arlington is the hot and humid weather in the summer. Temperatures can soar above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, making outdoor activities less enjoyable. High temperatures can also lead to higher energy bills as residents rely on air conditioning to stay cool. While the city does offer a variety of indoor attractions and water parks to beat the heat, you’ll want to insulate your home to ensure a more comfortable lifestyle.
7. Pros: Lots to do
Arlington offers a variety of activities that make it an attractive place to live. The city is home to major attractions such as Six Flags Over Texas and AT&T Stadium, where residents can enjoy thrill rides and NFL games. In addition, the Texas Rangers’ Globe Life Field and the lively Arlington Entertainment District offer ample dining, shopping and entertainment options.
8. Cons: Limited restaurant options
While Arlington offers a variety of activities, it has a limited number of food destinations, which can be a drawback for culinary enthusiasts. The city’s dining scene is often overshadowed by nearby Dallas and Fort Worth, where there are more diverse and upscale restaurant options. As a result, residents may travel outside of Arlington to satisfy their desire for unique and high-quality dining experiences.
9. Pros: Parks and Outdoor Activities
Arlington is home to numerous parks and outdoor recreation areas, providing residents with ample opportunities to enjoy nature. River Legacy Parks, for example, has more than 1,300 acres of trails, picnic areas and wildlife viewing areas. The city is also home to several golf courses, sports venues, and Lake Arlington for boating and fishing.
10. Disadvantages: Air quality issues
Arlington, like many urban areas, faces air quality challenges. The city is located in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area, which means it is affected by pollution from traffic and industrial activities. Air quality can be poor at certain times of the year, which can affect residents with respiratory conditions. Despite efforts to improve air quality, it remains a concern for some residents.
method: Median home sales price and average monthly rent data come from the Redfin Data Center. Walk Score, Transit Score, and Bike Score data are derived from Walk Score.
