We often hear the debate about whether Dallas can be classified as a big city or not. 

Some people argue that it lacks that “big city feel,” while others highlight its impressive size and status as one of the largest cities in the country.

To answer this question, we need to take into account various factors such as population, economy, culture, and geography. 

In this article, we’ll explore these elements and determine whether or not Dallas truly deserves the title of a big city. 

So, let’s get started!

Is Dallas a big city? 

Yes, Dallas is a big city, ranking as one of the largest in the United States. The city has a population of over 1.3 million residents and a metropolitan area population of nearly 7 million people. 

Dallas is the third most populous city in Texas and the ninth most populous city in the United States.

Additionally, Dallas is a major economic hub, home to a diverse range of industries including technology, healthcare, and finance. 

But defining a city as “big” goes beyond just its population and geography. Factors like a city’s character, culture, and atmosphere also come into play. 

So, let’s proceed to discuss how these factors, like economy and industry, culture and entertainment, and geographic size and infrastructure affect why Dallas can be considered a big city. 

Factors That Make Dallas a Big City

Dallas is undoubtedly a big city, and it has a lot to offer to residents and visitors alike. 

Its status as one of the largest cities in the United States can be attributed to several factors, including its economy and industry, culture and entertainment, and geographic size and infrastructure. 

In this article, we’ll explore these factors in more detail and see why Dallas is a big city that’s worth exploring. 

Economy and Industry 

Like many big cities, Dallas boasts a diverse range of industries, from finance and telecommunications to transportation and energy.

But that’s not all – Dallas is also a hub of entrepreneurship and innovation, with a bustling startup scene and a growing reputation as a technology hotspot.

In fact, it is home to a significant number of Fortune 500 companies, ranking fourth in the nation with 22 headquartered right here in the city. Pretty impressive, right?

Culture and Entertainment 

Dallas has a lot to offer when it comes to culture and entertainment. It’s one of the factors that make it a big city!

It has a thriving and diverse cultural scene, with plenty of museums, theaters, and music venues that are known all around.

The Dallas Arts District is a must-visit spot, spanning 19 blocks and housing galleries, museums, and performance spaces. It’s actually the largest urban arts district in the United States.

And if you’re a sports fan, you’re in luck! 

Dallas has some pretty impressive teams, including the Dallas Cowboys (NFL), Dallas Mavericks (NBA), and Texas Rangers (MLB), along with various college teams. 

There’s always something exciting happening in Dallas!

Geographic Size and Infrastructure

When we think of a big city, we often consider its size and infrastructure, and Dallas doesn’t disappoint in that regard! 

This city covers 340 square miles, making it one of the largest in the country in terms of land area. 

And when it comes to transportation, Dallas has got it all covered with two major airports, a robust public transportation system, and an extensive network of highways and interstates.

However, some argue that the city’s sprawl and dependence on cars may make it feel less like a big city and more like a collection of suburbs.

What rank is Dallas in city size?

Dallas is the ninth-largest city in the United States based on its population, according to 2020 estimates by the U.S. Bureau. It ranks 23rd in terms of land area, with a total of 385.8 square miles (998.1 square kilometers). 

As of 2020, the city had an estimated population of 1.3 million people, which is certainly nothing to sneeze at. 

It’s worth noting, however, that the population of Dallas is just one part of the larger Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metropolitan area, which is home to nearly 7.6 million people and ranks fourth in the country behind New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. 

The metro area encompasses 13 counties in North Texas and includes several major cities such as Fort Worth, Arlington, and Plano. 

Despite its size, Dallas manages to maintain a friendly and welcoming atmosphere that sets it apart from other large cities.

What kind of city is Dallas?

Dallas is a major city that serves as an economic and cultural hub of Texas. 

As one of the largest cities in the United States, it’s home to a diverse population and a wide range of industries, including finance, technology, healthcare, and transportation. 

So, we can confidently say that this city is a vibrant and diverse metropolis with something to offer to everyone. From its world-renowned art museums to its bustling nightlife.

One of the first things that come to our mind when describing Dallas is its thriving economy. The city is home to many major corporations, including AT&T, Texas Instruments, and Southwest Airlines. 

This has created a strong job market, making it a popular destination for young professionals looking to establish themselves in their careers. 

But Dallas isn’t just about work. The city has a rich cultural scene, with many art galleries, theaters, and museums showcasing a diverse range of artistic styles and mediums. 

The Dallas Museum of Art, for example, has an impressive collection of more than 24,000 works from all over the world, spanning 5,000 years of history. 

Beyond the cultural attractions, Dallas also has a vibrant nightlife, with many trendy bars, clubs, and restaurants offering a wide range of experiences. 

The city’s food scene is particularly impressive, with everything from traditional Tex-Mex to high-end fine dining available. 

For sports fans, Dallas is a dream destination. The city is home to professional teams in football (the Dallas Cowboys), basketball (the Dallas Mavericks), baseball (the Texas Rangers), and hockey (the Dallas Stars). 

There are also many college sports teams in the area, including the Southern Methodist University Mustangs and the University of North Texas Mean Green. 

All in all, whether you’re a foodie and a partygoer, an art lover, or a business professional, Dallas is a city with a lot of personality and a lot to offer. 

It may not have the same density and urban intensity as some other major cities, but it more than makes up for it with its unique charm and character.  

Is living in Dallas City worth it?

Yes, living in Dallas is worth it because the city offers a high quality of life with plenty of opportunities for personal and professional growth. 

It has a vibrant culture, a low cost of living, a strong economy, and a welcoming community, all of which contribute to its status as a livable city. 

To explain this furthermore, there are many factors that contribute to making Dallas a great place to live. These include: 

Unique Layout with Vibrant Culture  

Dallas is a great place to live due to its unique layout and vibrant culture. The city’s downtown area is home to a mix of historic and modern buildings, creating a distinctive skyline that’s recognized around the world. 

Also, one thing that some people might find surprising is that, despite its size, Dallas doesn’t have a traditional “big city” feel. 

This is due in part to the city’s layout and architecture, which prioritize spaciousness and accessibility over density and verticality. 

As one Quora user points out, “Dallas is spread out horizontally, not vertically, and it does not have a downtown where the city truly ‘feels’ big.”

But this doesn’t mean that Dallas is lacking in urban amenities or cultural opportunities. In fact, the city has a lot to offer in terms of arts, entertainment, and cuisine. 

The Dallas Arts District, for example, is one of the largest urban arts districts in the country, with a wide range of museums, theaters, and galleries. 

The city is also home to many festivals and events throughout the year, from the State Fair of Texas to the Dallas International Film Festival.

High Quality of Life 

Dallas offers a high quality of life that makes it an attractive place to call home.

One of the main draws of Dallas is its cost of living. Compared to other major cities in the United States, such as New York or San Francisco, Dallas is relatively affordable. 

As of February 2023, Numbeo’s Cost of Living Index indicates that the cost of living in Dallas is 38% lower than in New York City and 45% lower than in San Francisco. 

Specifically, it costs $62,672 annually to live in Dallas. Rent, groceries, and transportation, are significantly more affordable in the city. 

Also, housing prices are reasonable, and there are many neighborhoods to choose from that offer a variety of housing options, from trendy apartments to spacious homes.

The average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Dallas is around $1,200 per month, while the average cost of a two-bedroom apartment is around $1,700 per month, according to RentCafe. 

In comparison, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is around $3,100 per month, and in San Francisco, it’s around $3,000 per month.

Strong Economy 

Another major draw of living in Dallas is its strong economy. The city has a diverse range of industries, including technology, finance, and healthcare, which has helped to create a robust job market. 

There are also many opportunities for entrepreneurs and small business owners, thanks to the city’s supportive business community and low taxes.

Furthermore, Dallas is home to a significant number of Fortune 500 companies, including AT&T, ExxonMobil, and American Airlines, which provide a stable employment base and contribute to the city’s overall economic growth. 

The low cost of living in Dallas also means that residents can enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank. 

With a strong economy and plenty of job opportunities, it’s no wonder that so many people are flocking to Dallas to live and work.  

A Welcoming Community 

But perhaps, above all – one of the biggest reasons why living in Dallas is worth it is the sense of community that you’ll find here. 

Despite its size, the city has a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, with many tight-knit neighborhoods and local organizations. 

Whether you’re interested in volunteering, joining a club, or just meeting new people, there are many opportunities to get involved and connect with others in Dallas.

While Dallas may not have a traditional “big city” feel, it is still a great place to live. It’s a city that is constantly growing and evolving, with new developments and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of its residents. 

All these factors we discussed combine to make Dallas an attractive and desirable place to call home and offer a high quality of life that is hard to beat.