People who decide to relocate to Dallas will be buying a home or renting a home in a major metropolitan area where real estate values have remained stable. Both the cost of living and the unemployment rate are well below the national averages.

** Major Population Center in North Texas **

With a population of 1,240,499 in 2009, Dallas ranks as the ninth largest city in the United States and the third largest in Texas. Although separated from neighboring Fort Worth by 32 miles, the two cities, forming the DFW Metroplex, comprise the 12th largest metro economy in the world with the fourth largest labor force in the United States.

Fort Worth has a population of 600,000 and is the 19th largest city in the nation and one of "America's Most Livable Communities." Whereas Fort Worth cherishes its western tradition and "Cow Town" image, Dallas fully embraces its role as a modern, 21st century, urban leader, proudly designated as one of the country's "Most Ethnically Diverse Communities."

** Diverse Population, Stable Economy, Strong Real Estate **

Together Dallas and Fort Worth form one of most vibrant and compelling population centers in the United States. The area's healthy economy is a significant draw for young professionals and families seeking to relocate to Dallas.

The cost of living index in the city is 7.06% lower than the rest of the nation (aided in part by the fact that Texas has no state income tax.) Dallas has grown at a rate of 3.73% since 2000 with a population of 50.4% males to 49.6% females. The median age is 30.5 years.

In May 2010, unemployment in Dallas stands at roughly 8% compared to the national average of around 10%. In recent years tech industries have made strong inroads in the metroplex. The city now has more than 233,000 tech workers, more than Austin and Houston combined, and is home to major companies including Research in Motion (the maker of BlackBerry smartphones), AT&T, Raytheon, and Lockheed Martin.

Real estate values in Dallas have weathered the recession well, remaining relatively stable with fewer of the wild price swings that have plagued other parts of the country. Currently median home prices stand at approximately $115,850, although they vary widely by neighborhoods within the city.

Anyone who is going to relocate to Dallas should work with a knowledgeable real estate professional who can apprise them of all the implications of any location in the immediate city or surrounding suburbs. Dallas is a diverse urban area providing a wide variety of choices for anyone buying or renting a home.

** Education, Health Care, Culture, Access **

The region is especially strong in the terms of education and health care:

• The Dallas Independent School District serves more than 160,000 students.

• Overall, the DFW Metroplex is home to 17 two-year technical/trade colleges.

• There are 7 private colleges and universities, and six public four-year colleges and universities.

In the arena of health care:

• There are more than 100 hospitals across the metroplex with some 17,000 beds.

• These facilities are staffed by 12,800 physicians that practice in more than 175 specialties.

Culturally, the region is home to more than 25 art museums and countless galleries. There are nine museums in Dallas itself, which boasts one of the largest urban arts districts in America including 115 public works of art in the city. The Morton H. Myerson Center is the headquarters for the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and features a full calendar of events throughout the year.

** Good Weather, Easy Access **

For the most part relocating to Dallas means a move to a moderate climate with seasonal summer highs in July and August. During those months temperatures can and do climb above 100 degrees, but fortunately there are enough indoor attractions and activities to offset the heat. Generally late January and February are the coldest months, with some light icing occurring routinely.

Travel into the metroplex centers on DFW International Airport, located midway between Dallas and Fort Worth. The facility ranks third in the world in the scope of its operations and seventh in terms of passenger volume.

The decision to relocate to Dallas will bring you and your family to the major population center in North Texas, a region with a growing tech-based economy, and a low cost of living counter-balanced by a high standard of living.

With low unemployment, no state income tax, excellent real estate values, and extensive educational and health care resources, the DFW Metroplex and Dallas in particular is an excellent choice for young professionals and families seeking to establish a new life in a growing, upscale, modern community.