Home to Southern Methodist University, the Bush library and the (presidents) Bush family, the Highland Park area is one of North Texas' crown jewels. But oddly, it was a Yankee from Philly (Henry Exall) who broke ground on the modern-day Highland Park. Back in the 1800s, Exall's intention was to create a development called Philadelphia Place. A bad economy caused him to abandon his plans and opened the door for Dallasite John Armstrong to snatch up some of the land and develop it as Highland Park.
Today, Highland Park, located about four miles north of downtown Dallas, has an approximate population of 8,500 people who reside within its roughly 2-square-mile boundaries, according to the last U.S. Census. Probably due to its close proximity to "Big D," the median commute time for Highland Park residents is just 16.3 minutes. Less than 4% of residents drive 45 minutes or more to work. Less time commuting equals more time enjoying life. And there's plenty to enjoy if you're fortunate to live in Highland Park.
Moving to Highland Park
Whether you are looking for pet friendly apartments, apartments with paid utilities or a Highland Park duplex for rent, there is one thing in particular that you have in your favor. Repeat after me: Southern Methodist University. Highland Park locals (a.k.a "Parkies,") debate whether SMU technically is within the official Highland Park jurisdiction. But regardless of where the official border lies, most people associate SMU with Highland Park. What this means for you is that there are tons of apartments for rent in Highland Park.
Before you think, "Why the heck would I want to look for an apartment for rent in a place dominated by students?" hold that thought. Most SMU students are not your typical starving (messy, loud, etc.) college students. SMU is a private university that is super tough to get into. And once you get in, you have to pay for it, which is for sure not cheap. So by the time most students are officially SMU Mustangs, they (or more probably their parents) have shelled out huge sums of cash to make the dream a reality. They (or more probably their parents) have got a vested interest in keeping up on their investment. So even if you land next to an apartment full of students, they'll likely not be horrible neighbors.
You Know the Drill
As is the case pretty much any time you apply for an apartment to rent, Highland Park leasing agents and landlords will want to check your credentials. They will want to know first, that you are who you say you are, second, that you work where you say you work and make what you say you make and third, that you are not a wanted felon. They'll also want more than a gentleman's (or lady's) handshake that you will not skip out on your rent and that if you damage something, you'll pay for it. So they'll ask for a security deposit to hold onto, just in case. If you have a pet and find a place that will allow it, expect to shell out more of a deposit.
Highland Park Neighborhoods
When you live in Highland Park, you're in good company. George W. and Laura Bush, for example? Well they do not technically live in Highland Park, but they live in a neighborhood very close by (Preston Hollow). Their neighbors include oil baron T. Boone Pickens and Dallas Mavericks owner (and "Shark Tank" star Mark Cuban). Read on for some representative examples of the neighborhoods of Highland Park.
Old Highland Park: This neighborhood was Highland Park's first. Featuring stunning historic homes ranging from prairie-style homes to craftsman bungalows to estates, this neighborhood is a classic example of the architectural styles and old-world charm available in this unique city.
Mount Vernon: This 110-acre area north of Mockingbird Lane is home to the Dallas Country Club and McCulloch Intermediate School, and is traversed by Turtle Creek.
West Highland Park: Full of 1940s and 1950s homes, this quaint neighborhood west of the Tollway is a gem and a favorite of those wishing to preserve original architecture.
Living in Highland Park
What is it like to live in Highland Park? Think jogging and biking trails traversing Hackberry and Turtle creeks, frequenting world-class museums like the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, and enjoying small-town charm evident in events like the Park City 4th of July parade.
Highland Park also is ground zero for amazing wining, dining and retail therapy options galore. Case in point is the posh Highland Park Village shopping center. Hanging out here is the opposite of "going to the mall." Oh Contraire. Christian Louboutin. Jimmy Choo. Chanel. Trina Turk. Dian von Furstenberg. These are the shopping bags you'll see swinging from toned, tanned wrists. "What about the food court?" you may wonder. Ummm, no, you'll find nary a pretzel joint or quickie Chinese food establishment at the Village. You will find options like Caf̩ Pacific, Mi Cocina, and Bistro 31.
Let's just say that the shopping in Highland Park is representative of the lifestyle in Highland Park. High class, high dollar, see and be seen. The living is good in Highland Park. Basically a suburb of Dallas, Highland Park residents have pretty much whatever their hearts could desire within reach. Bars, restaurants, shopping, museums, plays, concerts, churches of all denominations, festivals, universities, spas, gyms, parks, trails, lakes. The only things notably absent from Highland Park and its immediate surroundings are oceans and beaches, and mountains and skiing. However, the Love Field airport is a quick drive or cab ride away, which puts even those things just an arm's length and a few Ben Franklin's away.
