Moving to Dallas: Renting First
Most people moving to Dallas rent first and learn the city before they buy. Here is how to do it from out of town.
When to start
Buildings price and hold units close to the move in date, so the real search usually starts about four to six weeks before you move. Earlier than that, the units you see may be gone by the time you are ready.
Touring from out of town
Many buildings offer video tours of the actual unit, not just a model. Ask for a video of the unit you would get, including the view from the windows and the walk from parking.
Picking an area
Start with where you will work and how you will get there. Dallas is large and traffic shapes daily life. Downtown, Deep Ellum, Uptown and Las Colinas are on DART light rail. Frisco is not a DART member city, so most people there drive. Our area pages list the buildings in each part of town.
Setting up in Texas
- Driver license. The Texas Department of Public Safety asks new residents to get a Texas license within 90 days of moving.
- Car registration. Texas asks new residents to register their vehicle within 30 days.
- Electricity. In most of Dallas you pick your own provider. See apartment costs beyond rent.
- Tolls. Many North Texas highways are toll roads run by the NTTA. A TollTag or other toll tag usually costs less than paying by mail.
Moving soon?
Text us your move date, budget and where you will work. We send units in the areas that fit your commute.
Questions people ask
How early should I look for a Dallas apartment?
About four to six weeks before you move. Buildings price and hold units close to the move in date.
Can I rent a Dallas apartment without touring in person?
Yes. Many buildings offer video tours of the actual unit, and applications are usually online.
General information. Each building sets its own rules and prices, and we confirm them with the leasing office.