When considering a move to the Dallas-Fort Worth area, two popular locations often come up for those looking for a blend of excellent schools, family-friendly amenities, and convenient access to major city hubs: University Park and Frisco. Each area offers unique benefits, and choosing the right one for you depends on your lifestyle preferences, work-life balance, and, of course, the educational needs of your family. Here’s a comprehensive comparison of schools and amenities in University Park and Frisco to help you make an informed decision about where you should move.
Schools in University Park vs. Frisco
University ParkUniversity Park is part of the prestigious Highland Park Independent School District (HPISD), which is consistently ranked as one of the top districts in Texas and nationwide. The schools in this area are known for their academic excellence, rigorous programs, and commitment to preparing students for success at the highest level. Highland Park High School, for example, is frequently ranked among the top high schools in the state and boasts a highly competitive atmosphere. Additionally, the district offers specialized programs, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses, STEM initiatives, and college readiness resources.
Top-rated schools: Highland Park High School, Highland Park Middle School
Academic performance: High SAT/ACT scores, consistently ranked in the top 5% of Texas public schools
Specialized programs: Arts, STEM, AP courses, Advanced Studies Programs
FriscoFrisco, located further north, has rapidly grown into a family-friendly, suburban community and offers an array of schools within the Frisco Independent School District (FISD). With a diverse selection of elementary, middle, and high schools, FISD is known for providing a strong academic foundation and a variety of extracurricular activities. While Frisco schools may not have the same long-standing reputation as HPISD, they consistently perform well in state rankings and have seen rapid improvements in academic achievement over the years.
Frisco is also home to a number of specialized programs in areas such as STEM, fine arts, athletics, and leadership. Frisco ISD also places a strong emphasis on preparing students for higher education, with many of its high schools offering AP classes, college readiness programs, and partnerships with local universities.
Top-rated schools: Frisco High School, Liberty High School, Wakeland High School
Academic performance: Strong academic rankings, though slightly behind Highland Park in state comparison
Specialized programs: STEM programs, fine arts, AP courses, leadership training, college partnerships
Amenities in University Park vs. Frisco
University ParkUniversity Park is a central, upscale neighborhood that’s known for its lush, tree-lined streets, historic homes, and proximity to Dallas' vibrant cultural and entertainment districts. While it is more urban in nature, it offers access to a variety of amenities that cater to those seeking a convenient and luxurious lifestyle. The amenities in University Park include:
Parks & Green Spaces: University Park is home to multiple parks, including the popular Caruth Park, which features walking trails, athletic fields, and an abundance of green space for outdoor activities.
Proximity to Dallas: Residents enjoy the convenience of being close to major attractions such as the Dallas Arts District, Museum of Art, and high-end shopping in areas like Highland Park Village.
Dining and Shopping: University Park offers a range of boutique shops, trendy cafes, and upscale dining options. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual outing or fine dining, you’ll find a variety of choices.
Public Transportation & Access: With its close proximity to major roads and public transportation options, getting around Dallas and the surrounding areas is a breeze.
FriscoFrisco, in contrast, is a rapidly growing suburb with a more expansive, suburban feel. It offers an array of modern amenities designed for families, sports enthusiasts, and outdoor lovers. Here’s what you can expect from the amenities in Frisco:
Parks & Recreation: Frisco boasts a wide range of parks, green spaces, and recreational facilities. With over 30 parks, the city is a haven for families who enjoy outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and playing sports.
Sports & Entertainment: Frisco is well-known as a sports city. It is home to the Dallas Cowboys’ headquarters, The Star, and the Frisco RoughRiders, a minor league baseball team. Sports fans will appreciate the state-of-the-art facilities and frequent events hosted in Frisco.
Shopping & Dining: The Shops at Legacy and Stonebriar Centre offer excellent shopping experiences, while the city has a growing selection of diverse dining options that cater to every palate. Frisco also has numerous family-friendly restaurants and entertainment venues.
Family-Centric Lifestyle: Frisco has a strong sense of community, with frequent events such as family festivals, farmers markets, and seasonal celebrations that make it a welcoming environment for young families.
Cost of Living and Real Estate
University ParkAs one of the most prestigious neighborhoods in the Dallas area, University Park comes with a higher cost of living. Home prices are on the expensive side, especially for larger, historic homes. This area is ideal for those looking for a more luxurious lifestyle, and with it, the price tag to match. However, with its central location, highly-rated schools, and upscale amenities, it’s a prime area for families seeking an exclusive, urban-suburban lifestyle.
FriscoFrisco, being further north, offers more affordable housing options compared to University Park. While it’s seen significant growth in recent years and property prices have risen, it still offers more space and newer homes for the price. The cost of living in Frisco is lower, which may appeal to those seeking a larger home or more affordable real estate options, especially for families who want to prioritize space and amenities.
Conclusion: Where Should You Move?
The decision between University Park and Frisco depends largely on what you value most in a community. If you are seeking a prestigious, centrally located area with top-ranked schools and upscale amenities, University Park may be the right fit. However, if you prefer a more suburban lifestyle with plenty of green space, family-friendly amenities, and a more affordable cost of living, Frisco could be a great option.
Both communities offer excellent schools, but University Park stands out for its longstanding reputation and academic achievements. On the other hand, Frisco has grown into an increasingly attractive option for families looking for modern amenities, recreational activities, and a sense of community.
Ultimately, whether you choose University Park or Frisco, you can be confident that you’ll find a thriving neighborhood that offers everything you need for a fulfilling lifestyle.
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About us: University Park Expert Real Estate Agent
As a Top Real Estate Professional in University Park, I understand the challenges that arise when buying a luxury home in University Park.
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Whether you are a first time buyer in University Park looking to buy a home in University Park or whether you are relocating to University Park from California or moving your entire family from areas like San Francisco, Fremont, Palo Alto, Los Angeles, San Diego in California due to job transfer with your company, I can help you find a luxury home in University Park. Our relocation team eases the transition - whether you are moving across town or across the globe. We will work with you to find an area that best suits your professional, family and lifestyle needs. We have all the tools you need to help your home search. Whether it is video previews of homes, extended work hours, digital signatures for documents or more, we can make this process as comfortable as possible no matter where you are located.
What is most important to you in your new home in University Park? Send us an email at info@NitinGuptaDFW.com or give us a call at (469) 269-6541 to schedule a no obligation consultation. We’ll give you honest advice about University Park that you can use to help make your home buying decision.
