Making the Move: What You Should Know About Relocating to Dallas, TX for Grad School

When you decide you want to pursue a graduate degree, the first step is research. There are countless graduate programs in the United States, and many of them are located in Dallas, Texas. Students flock to Dallas as a destination for their graduate education, as it has a rich academic and cultural landscape. 

There’s plenty to explore in Dallas, and the educational legacy is perfect for graduate students looking to engage in unique research. We’ve unpacked some helpful advice for you as you consider moving to Dallas for graduate school.

Researching Universities and Graduate Programs in Dallas, Texas 

Discerning which program is right for you comes down to your goals after the program and what matters to you in your program experience. Essential factors to consider include:

Faculty expertise: What experiences have the faculty had to enrich your education? Where can their research niches help you develop your professional skills, and what connections do they have in your industry? 

Program curriculum: What courses are unique to this university’s program? How are real-world experiences built into the graduate degree? 

Research opportunities: Does this program allow you unique research privileges? How can those impact your career goals?

Available funding: What funding does the program receive? What sorts of financial support are offered to graduate students? 

It’s important to keep the above in mind as you sort through available graduate programs in Dallas so that you can take full advantage of the city’s cultural experiences and perspectives. 

Financial Considerations of Moving to Dallas, Texas

Relocating for graduate school will inevitably incur some costs. Moving to Dallas, in particular, comes with its own financial considerations. Here are some things to consider as you plan your move to the Lone Star State: 

Tuition and Fees: Depending on the program you choose and the university you attend, your tuition and fees will differ. Some financial assistance is available to out-of-state students, but some scholarships may be reserved for Texas natives. 

Cost of Living: The cost of living in Dallas is slightly higher (4%) than the average U.S. city, but notably more affordable than other comparable large cities nationwide. For many students and professionals, the cost of living is worth it for the unique education and job opportunities.

Housing Options and Affordability: In May 2024, the overall median rent in Dallas was $1,354 a month. Renting may save you money, as the median home value in Dallas is around $270,700, with about $2,068 spent a month by homeowners. Utilities are a consideration as well, but living in the heart of such a vibrant city is worth it for many. 

Scholarships, Grants, and Financial Aid Opportunities: Many schools offer graduate school fellowships, which allow students to subsidize their tuition fees and gain relevant professional experience during their program. Another option for students is to look into specific scholarships and apply for as many grants and financial aid opportunities as possible. 

Relocating for Grad School in Dallas, TX: Managing the Process

Like moving to any new city, moving to Dallas includes some logistical steps. Here are some steps to manage the relocation process, especially when you’re entering a busy new season of graduate school. 

Research Housing Options in Dallas 

Understanding the best place to live in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex for your needs requires researching your program and its requirements. How often will you need to be on campus? What parts of your current community and routine do you want to replicate throughout your time in Dallas? What kinds of stores do you want to be near? All of these questions should be answered as you narrow down your housing options, along with pricing out different living spaces to fit your budget. 

Using resources like ApartmentList and Zillow can help you navigate the housing market in Texas and make the best choice for your priorities. Additionally, depending on your graduate program and school, you may have access to a student housing portal like VeryApt, where you can access guides, reviews, and advice from current students. 

Navigating the Moving Process

To prepare for your move, ensure you have all the necessary start dates. This will affect your lease dates, mail forwarding, and utility services. Setting up your utilities will vary based on where you decide to live, but it’s a good idea to schedule when they’re turned on, so you can have electricity as you settle in. 

Another key step in the moving process is understanding your transportation options. While some residents prefer to drive, especially given the city’s extensive highway system, Dallas also offers reliable public transit. The Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system provides bus and light rail services throughout the metro area, making it a convenient alternative for commuting or exploring the city without a car.

Getting to Know the Dallas Lifestyle 

Whether you’re a newcomer to all that Dallas has to offer or you’re moving back after some time away, here are some things you must witness in the city. 

Dallas is more culturally diverse than ever. New transplants can enjoy themed weekend recommendations from the city’s travel page, or wander around and experience culture and pride around every corner. Check out local Facebook groups or other forums for the best restaurant and event recommendations, and don’t forget to ask your university what they recommend for recreational activities. Visit Dallas is an excellent resource for must-see events and can’t-miss restaurants, so you can make the most of your time in the city. 

Using local transportation is a great way to see more of the city, as the routes you take through different neighborhoods will show you more than if you drove from point A to point B yourself. Once you’re settled in your program, see if anyone from your cohort wants to go explore the city and local events with you; it’s a great way to connect with those in your community and your courses.

Establishing a Support System for Your Dallas Master’s or Ph.D. 

When embarking on any significant life change, establishing a support system is vital to your flourishing. This is no different when you start a graduate program, as your schedule will shift and being in a new place will require you to adjust your routine. It’s wise to establish a support system soon after your move to Dallas, so that you can let others in as you learn what your life will look like in your program. 

Community and support can be found by connecting with other graduate students in your cohort to form study groups or reaching out to advisors and faculty members for mentorship and guidance. Another great way to communicate with those in your community is through social media and online platforms. Through these connections, you can meet more members of the local academic community and share your experiences with others who are going through a similar transition. 

Master’s and Ph.D. Programs in Dallas Worth Considering: SMU 

Relocating to a new place can be a complex process, but it’s also one filled with exciting opportunities and the potential to make new connections. Making the most of your academic and personal growth when moving for graduate school requires some preparation and courage, and Dallas is a great place to get out of your comfort zone. We hope you take full advantage of all that Dallas has to offer, especially as a graduate student. 

The Moody School of Graduate and Advanced Studies in Dallas, Texas, is listed among the top 50 graduate schools by U.S. News & World Report. If you’re considering relocating to Dallas for graduate school, we encourage you to consider SMU. From Accounting to Religious Studies, we have graduate programs to help you enhance your skills in many fields. 

Want to learn more about what living in Dallas looks like? Get our guide, The Graduate Student’s Guide to Living in Texas. If you’d like to connect with us directly, request more information. Ready to start the process of moving to Dallas for graduate school? Apply to SMU Moody today!