In this guide, we’re looking at the top colleges in Dallas, exploring why the city is such a strong destination for students, and breaking down what makes each school stand out. We’ll cover affordability, campus life, career opportunities, and how living in Dallas shapes the student experience.
Dallas is a big deal. We’re talking about a city of nearly 1.3 million people, and it consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in the U.S. Now, here’s something that surprises a lot of people: the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex has more than 41 colleges and universities. That’s more than any other metro area in Texas. So if you’re looking for options, you’re in the right place.
On top of that, living here won’t drain your wallet. Dallas has a cost-of-living score of 98 on the national index, with 100 being the U.S. average. You get the perks of a major city without the sky-high costs. That’s especially good news for students and fresh grads who are just starting in their careers while still managing student loans.
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Whether you’re local or planning to move here, you’ll want to know: Where should I go to college in Dallas?
That’s what we’re diving into. We’ll break it down by types of colleges in Dallas, costs, opportunities, and even what it’s like to live here as a student. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of what Dallas offers, and maybe even which campus you’ll be calling home.
Why Dallas Is a Great Place for College
Before we zoom into colleges in Dallas, let’s answer the big “why Dallas” question.
Strong Job Prospects After Graduation
One of the main reasons you go to college is to land a good job. Dallas delivers. With dozens of Fortune 500 companies headquartered here and a thriving business environment, the job market is one of the strongest in the nation. Unemployment is low, and opportunities span industries like tech, finance, healthcare, defense, and communications.
For students, that means internships are plentiful. And for grads, the city is full of first-job opportunities.
A Diverse, Thriving Economy
Backing that strong job market is Dallas’s wide-ranging economy. It’s not a one-industry town. Instead, agriculture, aircraft, technology, manufacturing, defense, and finance all power the city.
Why does that matter to you? Because no matter what major you choose, there’s probably a professional pathway waiting here.
Affordable Living in a Big City
Now, let’s talk about the cost of living.
According to PayScale, the cost of living in Dallas is 1% higher than the national average. So, it is not dirt cheap. But for a city of its size, it’s impressively affordable. Students and entry-level grads especially feel the difference when rent, groceries, and everyday expenses don’t drain every paycheck. You get the perks of a big metro without the crushing costs of places like New York or San Francisco.
A Path to Homeownership
Thinking ahead? Dallas is one of the rare big cities where owning a home is realistic. The median home price sits around $306,602, compared to the national average of $363,505. That means once you’ve got a steady job, you don’t have to move to the suburbs or another state to afford a place of your own.
Easy to Get Around
Dallas is a sprawling metroplex, but it’s well-connected. Between highways, the DART train system, buses, and even the downtown trolley, you’ve got options to get around. Some neighborhoods are even walkable or bike-friendly, which makes student life a little easier.
Fun, Food, and Life Outside the Classroom
Life in Dallas goes way beyond lectures and exams. With 21,000 acres of parks and trails, you can stay active or relax outdoors anytime. The food scene is just as exciting—barbecue, Tex-Mex, and global cuisines are everywhere, alongside museums, festivals, and art spots. At night, the city comes alive with music, bars, and student hangouts like Deep Ellum. And if you’re into sports, Dallas has it all—five pro teams plus a spirited college game culture.
Types of Colleges in Dallas
Dallas is home to a wide range of colleges, each with its own personality, strengths, and opportunities. Let’s break down Dallas universities and community colleges.
Major Universities
Dallas is home to several well-known universities that attract students nationwide. These schools typically offer larger campuses, nationally ranked programs, and strong alumni networks. For example,
- Southern Methodist University (SMU) is a private and prestigious
- University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) is modern and research-driven, with a STEM focus
- University of North Texas at Dallas (UNT Dallas) provides an affordable, community-centered option.
Each gives you a different flavor of the “university experience.”
Community Colleges
For students who want a more affordable start, Dallas has one of the country’s largest community college systems. Dallas College, with its seven campuses across the metro area, offers low tuition, flexible class schedules, and straightforward transfer pathways into four-year universities.
It’s a practical option for saving money on your first two years of college or balancing school with work.
Private & Specialized Colleges
Alongside the bigger institutions, Dallas has smaller colleges that focus on specific missions or career paths.
- Paul Quinn College, a historic HBCU, emphasizes service and community impact.
- Parker University is well-regarded in health sciences and chiropractic programs.
- The Art Institute of Dallas caters to students pursuing creative careers in design, culinary arts, and media.
These schools may be smaller, but they offer closer mentorship and highly targeted training.
Best Value and Affordable Options
“Best value” is all about weighing cost against opportunity. Here are the best value colleges in Dallas:
Major Universities
Southern Methodist University (SMU)
SMU is a private, prestigious university with deep ties to Dallas’s business and social networks.
- Strengths: Business (the Cox School of Business is nationally ranked), law, engineering, and the arts.
- Pros: Beautiful campus, strong alumni network, and national recognition.
- Cons: Tuition is steep (over $65,000 per year), but generous scholarships and aid are available.
- Student Life: Known for traditions like “Boulevarding” on game days and a vibrant mix of student organizations.
University of Texas at Dallas (UTD)
UTD is modern, research-driven, and especially strong in STEM.
- Strengths: Computer science, engineering, natural sciences, and business (the Naveen Jindal School of Management is highly regarded).
- Pros: Affordable in-state tuition and strong career outcomes in tech and science fields.
- Cons: It doesn’t have the classic “college town” atmosphere—campus life feels more urban and commuter-oriented.
- Student Life: Athletics are growing, the student body is highly diverse, and the school is closely connected to the nearby tech corridor.
University of North Texas at Dallas (UNT Dallas)
UNT Dallas is newer, smaller, and rooted in community-focused education.
- Strengths: Education, business, criminal justice, and public service.
- Pros: One of the most affordable four-year universities in the region.
- Cons: Still building its reputation compared to larger schools like SMU or UTD.
- Student Life: A close-knit environment with a large population of first-generation college students.
Community Colleges
Dallas College (formerly DCCCD)
Dallas College is a massive system with seven campuses: Brookhaven, Cedar Valley, Eastfield, El Centro, Mountain View, North Lake, and Richland. If you’re looking for the most affordable colleges in Dallas, consider Dallas College.
- Tuition: Around $1,200–$1,500 per semester for in-district students.
- Why Choose It: Affordable, flexible schedules, and smooth transfer pathways to universities like UNT and UTD.
- Best For: Students wanting to save money on their first two years, working adults, or those exploring college before committing to a four-year degree.
Private & Specialized Colleges
- Paul Quinn College – A historic HBCU with a mission-driven focus, affordable tuition, and innovative programs like its campus farm.
- Parker University – Specializes in health sciences, chiropractic, and wellness careers.
- Art Institute of Dallas – Offers creative programs in design, culinary arts, fashion, and digital media.
These smaller colleges in Dallas offer specialized training, closer mentorship, and a strong sense of purpose.
Pro Tip: If money is a huge factor, start with Dallas College or UNT Dallas. If you can stretch for value, UTD balances affordability and outcomes really well. SMU is expensive, but with scholarships for Dallas students, it can still be accessible.
Moving to Dallas for College
If you’re moving to Dallas for college, here’s what to expect.
Neighborhoods
- For SMU students: University Park/Highland Park are closest but pricey. Many students live in East Dallas or Uptown.
- For UTD students: Richardson is the main spot, with affordable apartments and student-friendly complexes.
- For UNT Dallas students: Southern Dallas neighborhoods are closest; some students also commute from the suburbs.
Housing
- Dorms: Great for first-year students who want to meet people.
- Apartments: Rent with roommates to keep costs down—Dallas is full of student-friendly apartment complexes.
Transportation
Dallas isn’t as walkable as smaller college towns, but it does have DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) with buses and light rail. Most schools offer discounted passes. A car helps, but it’s not mandatory if you live near a DART line.
How to Pay for College in Dallas
College isn’t cheap, no matter where you go. Here are a few tips for how to pay for college in Dallas:
Scholarships For Dallas Students
- Dallas County Promise – Covers tuition at Dallas College for eligible high school graduates.
- Terry Foundation Scholarship – Full ride for outstanding Texas students at schools like UNT and UTD.
- SMU Hunt Leadership Scholarship – Covers full tuition and fees for student leaders.
- UTD Academic Excellence Scholarships – Automatically awarded based on GPA/test scores.
Financial Aid Tips
- Always file your FAFSA early—many financial aid Dallas colleges, such as scholarships and grants, are first-come, first-served.
- Don’t overlook state aid like Texas Grants.
- Private scholarships from Dallas-based companies, nonprofits, and foundations can also help.
Work Opportunities
- On-campus jobs: libraries, dining halls, tutoring centers.
- Off-campus: Dallas has tons of part-time work opportunities, especially in retail, food service, and office work.
- Internships: Major Dallas companies love hiring local students for internships, especially in business and tech.
Living in Dallas as a College Student
So, what does day-to-day life really look like for a college student in Dallas? It’s a mix of juggling classes, exploring the city, and figuring out how to stretch your budget while still enjoying everything the area has to offer.
Here’s a glimpse of what it’s like living in Dallas as a college student.
Cost of Living
- Rent: $600–$900 per person in shared apartments near campuses.
- Groceries: Affordable, especially if you shop at Walmart, Aldi, or Fiesta Mart.
- Eating out: Tacos and BBQ won’t break the bank, though fancy spots can.
Student Discounts
Always carry your student ID! You’ll find discounts on:
- Public transit passes
- Museums and cultural attractions
- Movie theaters, gyms, and local businesses
- Free activities: Explore the Arts District, attend cultural festivals, and enjoy free days at museums.
- College traditions: SMU has Boulevarding, UTD has Homecoming celebrations, and Dallas College has campus festivals.
- Hangouts: Klyde Warren Park, Bishop Arts District, Deep Ellum for live music.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Right Fit in Dallas
- If prestige and connections matter most: SMU.
- If you want affordable STEM/business degrees with strong job outcomes: UT Dallas.
- If you want to start cheap and transfer later, Dallas College.
- If you’re first-gen or want smaller, community-centered learning, consider UNT Dallas or Paul Quinn College.
Dallas is unique because it offers the full spectrum: elite universities, budget-friendly colleges, and specialized schools. The best choice comes down to your budget, goals, and lifestyle preferences.
Your college years are about more than just getting a diploma. They’re about building connections, exploring new opportunities, and setting yourself up for life after graduation. Dallas gives you the chance to do all of that without draining your bank account or limiting your choices.
So ask yourself: Do you want prestige, affordability, a community vibe, or a big-city career launchpad? Because whatever your answer, Dallas has a college for you.