Moving to Irving

Nestled in the heart of the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex, Irving showcases a tapestry of cultural diversity, unique attractions and a lifestyle that balances urban sophistication with the warmth of community living. The city’s strategic location between Dallas and Fort Worth and its proximity to the DFW International Airport make Irving an ideal hub for exploration and connectivity. Closer to home, Irving’s more than 80 parks and multitude of recreational activities invite everyone to enjoy its natural beauty.

Irving’s appeal extends beyond its beauty to a rich cultural mix of residents. Home to over 240,000 people from various backgrounds, the city boasts an impressive array of languages and cultures, and it is home to some of the most ethnically diverse areas in the United States.

Cost of living in Irving

The cost of living in Irving paints a complex financial landscape. While the median home value in Irving sits comfortably below the national average, a significant portion of Irving’s housing is occupied by renters, suggesting a dynamic realty market. The historical charm of older homes contrasts with the modern luxury of newly built residences, with a range of options for every taste and budget.

With median household incomes significantly outpacing home values, residents generally enjoy a favourable salary-to-housing cost ratio. This financial comfort is enhanced by Texas’s lack of state income tax, presenting a unique advantage for those residing in Irving.

When it comes to day-to-day essentials, costs are around the national average. Groceries are on the more affordable side, but healthcare expenses are on the higher end. Transport presents a silver lining, with costs notably lower than are seen across the country, easing the commute for Irving’s workforce.

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• Cost of living in Dallas – Expat Arrivals
• Cost of Living Calculator for Irving, Texas – PayScale
• Cost of Living in Irving, Texas – BestPlaces

Travel in Irving

Irving boasts myriad transport options, with the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) Light Rail and Bus Service seamlessly connecting Irving with the bustling Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex through the DART Orange Line, which extends from downtown Dallas to the DFW Airport through Irving.

The innovative Area Personal Transit (APT) System is a climate-controlled, on-demand people mover that provides a unique transit solution within the Las Colinas Urban Centre, with four passenger stations and a DART Rail Orange Line connection. The Trinity Railway Express (TRE) is another crucial link between Irving, Dallas and Fort Worth.

Beyond traditional public transport, Irving embraces the flexibility of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft alongside reliable taxi services. For those favouring greener alternatives, bike and scooter rentals present an eco-friendly way to explore the city. Irving’s walkable districts, particularly around the Las Colinas Urban Center, provide a pedestrian-friendly environment.

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• Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART)
• Irving, Texas Transportation Guide
• Public Transportation in Irving – City of Irving Official Website

Healthcare in Irving

Residents of Irving are supported by a comprehensive healthcare system that includes an array of primary care clinics, hospitals and specialised care centres. Notable facilities such as Healthcare Associates of Texas – Irving North, Rapid City Healthcare, Sanitas Medical Center and Health One Family Medicine offer quality medical services catering to various health needs.

Health insurance in Irving mirrors the national landscape, with various coverage options available to individuals and families, from Affordable Care Act (ACA) health insurance plans to Medicare and Medicaid, employer-provided and private insurance.

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• Healthcare in Dallas

Schools in Irving

The schooling system in Irving provides families with a comprehensive range of options. The Irving Independent School District (ISD) is at the heart of this educational community, with over 33,000 students benefiting from its more than 35 educational facilities.

Irving’s dedication to accommodating various educational preferences and needs is evident in its array of private and charter schools, including those focusing on college prep and honours programmes. Irving ISD’s notable schools of choice, such as Singley Academy, Singley Collegiate Academy, and South Irving Collegiate at Nimitz, exemplify the district’s emphasis on specialised programmes.

Residents of Irving can access several distinguished international schools, offering diverse educational programmes catering to a global student body. Redeemer Montessori School provides the esteemed Montessori curriculum to children aged 18 months to 12 years. The Universal Academy – Irving Campus is renowned for its Cambridge International programme. Slightly further afield, Dallas is home to numerous top-tier international schools.

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• City of Irving – Education
• Irving ISD – Schools of Choice Applications
• Redeemer Montessori School
• Universal Academy – Irving Campus

Weather in Irving

The weather in Irving is typified by a humid subtropical climate that moves sharply between hot summers and cold winters. Average temperatures range from a brisk 38°F (3°C) in the coldest months to a scorching 96°F (36°C) during the summer. Irving has an annual rainfall average of 37 inches (940mm), with rare and sparse snowfall.

The city’s position in DFW opens up a range of opportunities for outdoor pursuits, from exploring the scenic Campion Trail to enjoying an open-air concert at the Toyota Music Factory. The population often adapts their activities to the cooler mornings and evenings to beat the challenging summer heat.

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• Weather in Dallas – Expat Arrivals
• Trip Report: Texas Climate
• Outdoor Activities in Irving – Irving, Texas Official Tourism Website

Working in Irving

Irving is known for its vibrant mix of industries and employment opportunities across various sectors, including technology, logistics and distribution, life sciences and healthcare, aerospace and aviation, and manufacturing. Esteemed corporations such as Citi, Verizon and Allstate Insurance, and significant entities like DFW Airport and Pioneer Natural Resources anchor the city’s employment landscape.

The work culture in Irving emphasises fostering innovation, collaboration and employee satisfaction. Reflecting a broader trend across the region, many of Irving’s employers have started to offer flexible work arrangements, including the increasingly popular option of remote work. According to one recent study, nearly 40 percent of people in nearby Frisco work remotely.

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• Working in Dallas
• Irving Chamber of Commerce – Industries
• City of Irving Job Descriptions

Accommodation in Irving

Irving has various accommodation options, from modern apartments and cosy condos to spacious townhouses and detached houses. New residents and long-term locals alike are sure to find the perfect place to call home in one of the city’s welcoming neighbourhoods.

Accommodation in Irving can be found using online platforms like Redfin, Point2 Homes, Apartment List and Zumper. For a more tailored approach, prospective renters and buyers can also engage local real estate agents, attend open houses or explore social media for roommate or subletting opportunities.

Irving’s various neighbourhoods each offer unique flair and lifestyle offerings. Valley Ranch, celebrated for its dedication to green living and outdoor activities, has a picturesque setting with beautiful canals and walkways. The master-planned community of Las Colinas boasts a testament to Irving’s visionary spirit, with its high-rise buildings framing Lake Carolyn, Fortune 500 headquarters, and the scenic Mandalay Canal reminiscent of Venetian elegance.

The Hospital District is home to top healthcare facilities and harbours a tranquil environment characterised by traditional houses nestled along tree-lined streets. It’s a favourite among families looking for a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere and the convenience of nearby amenities and services. The Heritage District, the historic heart of Irving, mixes the charm of the past with modern conveniences, creating a lively, walkable community close to transit options that connect to the broader DFW area.

Hackberry Creek provides a gated community lifestyle centred around golf and family-centric amenities on the more exclusive end. Irving Heights presents an affordable yet centrally located neighbourhood, offering mid-sized homes and apartments that appeal to those seeking value without compromising on location.

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• Accommodation in Dallas
• Irving, TX Rent Research – Zumper
• Great Neighbourhoods in Irving – Irving Chamber of Commerce

Lifestyle in Irving

Irving’s dynamic lifestyle boasts countless leisure activities, shopping experiences, dining options and cultural opportunities. The culinary scene in Irving features an impressive selection of restaurants serving local and regional flavours, from sizzling Tex-Mex and succulent barbecue to the fine art of Japanese cuisine and rich, authentic Mexican flavours.

Shopping in Irving is a delight, with Irving Mall standing out as a prime destination. The local farmer's markets, including the Southwest Farmers Market and Irving Farmers Market, are vital hubs where patrons can engage with local entrepreneurs, foodies and artists.

Irving’s commitment to culture and history is evident in its museums, such as the Irving Archives and Museum, the Ruth Paine House Museum and the Jackie Townsell Bear Creek Heritage Center. The Irving Arts Center and the picturesque Mandalay Canals offer spaces for reflection and appreciation of art and nature.

The annual calendar is dotted with events like the Canal Fest, Irving Concert Series, and Taste of Irving. The Toyota Music Factory stands out as a premier entertainment complex, offering regular live music and performances.

Irving’s sports scene is characterised by a fierce loyalty to its local teams and its hosting of significant events that draw crowds from across the DFW area and beyond. The city celebrates the achievements of professional teams such as the Dallas Cowboys and Dallas Mavericks alongside its collegiate and amateur sports teams. Nearby annual highlights include the AT&T Byron Nelson golf tournament and exhilarating NASCAR races at Texas Motor Speedway.

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• Irving Events – Official Tourism Site
• Recreation in Irving, Texas
• Irving Archives and Museum