Is having one car for a family of four doable in Dallas, USA?

Expert Info

Posted by

on 13 Mar 2020

Hi all,

My husband and I will be moving to Dallas, Texas by mid-year. It will be the two of us and our two young children. We are planning on buying a car that will mostly be used by my husband for work. Our friends are now saying that we would need two cars as public transport isn't very good.

Will we be able to manage with a single car while living in Dallas? Are there public transport options in case I need to go out while not having the car?

Hope someone can help!

Anonymous (not verified) on 16 Mar 2020 - 07:51

Hi GlobalNomad,

There is an extensive public transport network in Dallas with trains and buses that are quite easy to use. Although this is underutilised and people often prefer to drive. How comfortable are you taking public transport? Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber are another alternative that is frequently used. For some more tips on transport, see our Getting Around in Dallas page.

Getting another car may depend on where you live, how often you would need to go out, and where your children will go to school. Will you also be working in Dallas?

All the best,

Claire

Anonymous (not verified) on 16 Mar 2020 - 12:32

Hi Claire,

Thank you so much for your feedback. If it were just me I would be fine taking public transport; however, with two little ones, it isn't always as easy. Using a taxi may be a great option in the beginning until we've figured things out. I will be staying at home for the foreseeable future while my husband will be going to work.

Can you tell me about the quality of schooling in Dallas? I have one toddler who is just about the age to go to preschool and my other child is 10 years old and has been diagnosed with Autism recently. Are there special needs education options in the city? Is Dallas special needs friendly? At the moment I'm thinking of homeschooling but would like to consider all options before making a choice.

Thanks for your help!
Rose

Anonymous (not verified) on 17 Mar 2020 - 06:29

Hi Rose,

I'm glad we could help. That makes a lot of sense. Once you are there you can see which means of transport would work best for you and your family.

The schooling in Dallas is excellent there are lots of options, including public, private, international schools and schools that specifically cater for those with special needs. Hopefully this can ease your mind about the move and settling your children into school. Homeschooling is a good option. There are certain rules that parents must follow while homeschooling. Read our page on education and schools in Dallas for more insights on special needs education, homeschooling and education in Dallas.

We also advise you to contact the Texas Department of Education for specific information and help choosing the right schooling options.

Where are you and your family moving from?

All the best,

Claire

BrockR on 22 Nov 2021 - 14:13

Good Morning,

If you find that 1 car simply won't suffice for your families needs reach out to me as I am working with Toyota for a vehicle subscription service that only has a 60 day commitment rather than renting or leasing.

We have found Expats coming for work have been one of the best beneficiaries of this program so far.

Just contact me at my email and we can setup some time to discuss. [email protected]

Have a great day and welcome to Texas!

Brock

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