Want to Know More About Far North Dallas?

Far North Dallas is a large, predominantly suburban area that is part of the city of Dallas, Texas, but is located north of the traditional boundaries of North Dallas. While it is officially a part of Dallas, it has a distinct feel and history that is closely tied to the surrounding, affluent suburbs of Richardson, Addison, and Plano.

A History of Northern Expansion

The story of Far North Dallas is one of rapid growth and a dramatic transformation from rural land to a modern business and residential hub.

Agricultural Roots: In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the land that is now Far North Dallas was primarily made up of farms and ranches. Major thoroughfares like Preston Road were originally simple trails used by pioneers and traders. Remnants of this agricultural past can still be seen in some of the area’s older homes and the large plots of land that have not yet been developed.
The Post-War Suburban Boom: The true catalyst for Far North Dallas’s development was the post-World War II housing boom. As Dallas’s population exploded, families sought more space and a suburban lifestyle. The construction of Interstate 635 (the LBJ Freeway) and the Dallas North Tollway provided crucial transportation links that made it possible for people to live in what was then a more rural area and still commute to jobs in downtown Dallas.
The “Golden Corridor”: The Dallas North Tollway became a “golden corridor” of development. Businesses, especially in the technology and telecommunications sectors, began to establish themselves along the highway. This created a powerful feedback loop: jobs moved north, people followed, and then retail and commercial development came to serve the new residents. The area’s growth was also boosted by the development of the “Telecom Corridor” in nearby Richardson, which attracted a highly educated workforce.
A Distinct Identity: As the area developed, it began to be seen as distinct from “North Dallas,” which was traditionally considered the area between Northwest Highway and I-635. Far North Dallas, extending north of the LBJ Freeway, became a hub of its own, with its own major attractions and a more suburban feel. The area is home to a mix of established neighborhoods from the 1970s and 80s and newer developments.

Key Characteristics of Far North Dallas Today

Affluent and Diverse: Far North Dallas is one of the most affluent and well-educated parts of the city. While it has a reputation for its large, single-family homes, it also has a significant Jewish population and a growing number of diverse communities.
Business and Technology Hub: While many major corporations have located in the neighboring suburbs of Plano and Frisco, Far North Dallas is still a major business center. It is home to corporate offices and has close ties to the “Telecom Corridor.”
Major Landmarks: The area is a retail and entertainment destination, anchored by the Galleria Dallas, a major upscale mall known for its ice-skating rink, and other large retail centers. It also has a strong network of parks and green spaces.
Transportation: The Dallas North Tollway remains the main transportation artery, and the area is also served by Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) bus routes and nearby light rail stations.