Homes for Sale in Top-Rated School Districts In The Dallas, TX 

If you’re a parent or a parent-to-be searching for a home in Dallas, one of your major concerns would be finding homes for sale in quality school districts.  

Great schools won’t just be a direct positive influence on your children, but they will also indirectly be a great advantage for your home in terms of value over time.  

We will cover every bit of information that you should know regarding homes for sale in top-rated school districts in Dallas, Texas, in this guide.  

We have information starting from school ratings to district boundaries, budget-friendly options to family-friendly neighborhoods. 

Being a first-time homebuyer, planning a move to Dallas from another state, or simply looking for homes in the area with the best schools in Dallas, TX, this guide will lead you to make an informed, confident decision. 

Understanding School Performance in Dallas 

Understanding the criteria of education “TOP-RATED” before entering into detailed neighborhood listings is always a good idea.  

Dallas education standards are mostly evaluated through the lens of performance indicators such as students’ standardized tests, graduation rates, student growth, and college readiness. 

• The Texas Education Agency (TEA) furnishes detailed report cards about all public schools.  

• Report cards evaluate schools on learning, student growth, and services, for instance:  

• Extracurricular activities, STEM, Arts, and Special education services. 

So, it is really the case that when you see a property advertisement stating, “Zoned to a highly rated school,” that it is not just a trick – it is zoning that really matters. 

Knowing GreatSchools Ratings for Dallas Schools 

GreatSchools.org is considered one of the top reference platforms parents use to find the best educational districts when buying a home. 

Those small “8/10” or “10/10” marks on Zillow or Redfin listings you might have come across, but what do these points represent? 

What are GreatSchools Ratings? 

The GreatSchools Rating is a 1–10 score that compares a school’s performance with that of others in the same state. Here is the explanation: 

• 1–4: Below average performance 

• 5–6: Average performance 

• 7–10: Above average or top-performing 

These include test scores, student growth, college readiness, and equity (which also indicates how well a school serves students from various backgrounds). 

How Does The Key Metrics Work?  

Test Scores: Reflect students’ proficiency in core subjects such as math, reading, and science.  

For example, schools such as William B Travis Vanguard Academy and School for the Talented and Gifted continue to post proficiency rates of over 95%. 

Student Progress: Measures how much academically students progress yearly, irrespective of where they come from. This metric rewards schools that help students build momentum over the years. 

College Readiness: For high schools, this analyzes graduation rates, SAT/ACT scores, and the availability of advanced programs such as AP or IB courses.  

Trinidad Garza Early College High School and School of Science and Engineering are top schools in this area. 

How Ratings Apply To Dallas Schools 

Among the most sought-after districts in the Dallas area are Dallas ISD, Highland Park ISD, Plano ISD, and Frisco ISD. 

• Frisco ISD is an A-rated district (score: 90) with a reputation for a high academic environment and culturally diverse student population. 

• Dallas ISD has improved dramatically in recent years and currently enjoys a B rating (score: 83). 

• Highland Park ISD is consistently among the top districts in Texas, offering elite college placement and advanced courses. 

When comparing homes for sale in highly rated school districts, here are good places to start. 

Here are some of the top schools to look at: 

• William B Travis Vanguard Academy (10/10) 

• School for the Talented and Gifted (10/10) 

• School of Science and Engineering (10/10) 

• Lakewood Elementary School (10/10) 

• Sudie L Williams Talented and Gifted Academy (10/10) 

Not only are these schools fantastic academically, but they also offer in-depth extracurricular activities, ranging from robotics to fine arts, to round out students’ education. 

Best Dallas Neighborhoods Near Top School Districts 

Here are some of the trendiest neighborhoods with the homes for sale in top-rated school districts in Dallas. 

1. Highland Park 

District: Highland Park ISD 

Why It’s Great: Renowned for excellent academics, personalized learning, and excellent college prep courses. 

Neighborhood spotlights: Highland Park boasts upscale homes. You can find parkway greenery and a tight-knit neighborhood.  

Southern Methodist University (SMU) is close to this location. It also contributes to a vibrant intellectual and cultural setting. Besides, it is one of the most luxurious and may be ranked among the top five residential areas in Dallas. 

2. University Park 

District: Highland Park ISD  

Why It’s Great: It possesses the same very well-respected schools as Highland Park. Simply, there is less activity and a more calm-oriented lifestyle.  

Neighborhood spotlights: Expensive houses, mostly residential streets, Close access to parks, museums, and restaurants.  

One can easily find a good balance between the city hustle and suburban calm here. Thus, the place suits perfectly those families who desire the best education and the advantages of a community lifestyle. 

3. Lakewood 

District: Dallas ISD  

Why It’s Great: It provides the likes of Lakewood Elementary and Woodrow Wilson High schools, which have been achieving academic excellence.  

Neighborhood Spotlights: With its charming vintage homes and the nearby White Rock Lake, Lakewood is loved for its Nature, Outdoor activities, and Community spirit.  

It’s a place where nature-loving families with a keen interest in culture and neighborhood spirit will feel perfectly at home. 

4. Preston Hollow 

District: Dallas ISD (close to top private schools) 

Why It’s So Great: Positioned near the best private schools like St. Mark’s, Hockaday, and Ursuline Academy, it offers endless educational opportunities.  

Neighborhood spotlights: Preston Hollow is known for its vast, stately homes, peaceful vibe, and lovely tree-lined streets.  

It is the place of the families who are into privacy, luxury, and closeness to public and private schools of the highest standards. 

5. Lake Highlands 

District: Richardson ISD 

Why It’s great: Offers affordability combined with great public school options, ideal for young families. 

Neighborhood spotlights: There are plenty of parks, green parks, and bike trails within Lake Highlands.  

Strong community ties and proximity to White Rock Lake make it a vibrant yet peaceful area in which to raise a family without being too far removed from city living. 

6. Frisco 

District: Frisco ISD 

Why It’s Great: One of Texas’s best and fastest-growing school districts with exceptional academics, athletics, and extracurriculars. 

Neighborhood Spotlights: Frisco features master-planned neighborhoods that offer current, family-friendly amenities and many parks.  

With a strong economy, a secure neighborhood, and limitless recreation, it’s a thriving hub for family life where top-notch schools and convenient livability reign supreme. 

7. West Plano 

District: Plano ISD 

Why It’s Great: Famous for excellent academic programs, high school graduation rates, and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs. 

Neighborhood Spotslights: West Plano blends suburban serenity with modern convenience.  

Its family-friendly neighborhoods, upscale malls, and superb resale value make it one of the best places for homeowners seeking long-term stability and quality education. 

8. Coppell 

School District: Coppell ISD 

Why It’s Great: A small but highly regarded district that offers outstanding education and strong student support systems. 

Neighborhood Amenities: Coppell is proud of its secure and desirable neighborhoods, excellent parks, and vibrant community atmosphere.  

Coppell is popular with families for its unique blend of suburban living, easy access to top business hubs, and highly rated schools that equip students for academic success. 

Neighborhood Lifestyle and School Accessibility 

Dallas leads in having a harmonious blend of neighborhood lifestyle and school quality. Family-friendly neighborhoods like Highland Park, Frisco, and Plano are designed on the foundations of education, convenience, and community.  

Highland Park’s walkable streets, tree-shaded parks, and neighborhood play spaces create an active, safe environment for kids.  

Frisco and Plano master-planned communities are located just minutes from schools, libraries, and shopping centers.  

Those cities also offer easy access to commercial hubs like Legacy West, downtown Dallas, and the Dallas Arts District.  

Safety remains a primary concern; areas like Coppell, Lakewood, and McKinney consistently rank high for safety, thanks to active neighborhood watch programs.  

Proximity to schools and recreational centers also enhances day-to-day living, helping families balance school drop-offs, extracurricular activities, and work schedules.  

Dallas neighborhoods’ delicate balance of education and day-to-day living is what makes them ideal for families who require quality education as well as an active, convenient lifestyle. 

Buyer Personas: Who’s Looking for Homes by High-Achieving Schools? 

Every homebuyer targeting a house within Dallas ‘ high-achieving schools has different motivations and dreams. 

Typically, first-time buyers with children in school consider affordability and long-term value as their main priorities. For example, Richardson ISD or Frisco ISD offer excellent academic achievement under $500K, and at the same time, you get suburban living and urban convenience. 

Relocating families are likely to choose stable, community-oriented neighborhoods such as Plano or Coppell, thus balancing the closeness to the employment hubs with the quality of the schools. 

Among luxury buyers are professionals and executives who purchase in upscale neighborhoods like Highland Park and Preston Hollow. 

While top schools are still being balanced with status and seclusion, investors add another factor to the consideration: purchasing in areas like Frisco and Carroll ISD. That is where homes have a steady rental demand from education-oriented families. 

Within every district, the common thread is an intense emphasis on school-driven appreciation and long-term stability. This is proof that education continues to be a more significant factor in Dallas real estate than ever. 

Addressing School District Boundaries 

Dallas’s growing neighborhoods may make it difficult to determine school district boundaries.  

Neighborhoods often shift as districts expand—particularly in thriving areas like Frisco, Prosper, and McKinney, so it is imperative to verify a home’s assigned school before buying.  

Some neighborhoods are split along district lines, such as students between Plano ISD and Frisco ISD, and one street may culminate at various schools.  

Open enrollment is also available in the region, where families can apply to attend schools outside their district as seats become available.  

Dallas ISD also offers flexibility with specialized magnet and charter schools focused on STEM, the performing arts, and early college readiness.  

By examining the Texas Education Agency’s updated 2025 boundary maps and school report cards, homebuyers can verify that their home of choice meets their educational requirements.  

Familiarity with these details can also uncover hidden gems—homes on the outskirts of top zones but offering similar academic advantages. 

The Price Trends In Excellent School Districts 

In the Dallas–Fort Worth market, highly rated school districts remain strong indicators of home value and appreciation.  

From 2020 to 2025, top-rated ISDs like Highland Park, Carroll, Frisco, and Plano have consistently outpaced overall market growth, with average annual appreciation of 5–8% even during sluggish markets.  

Median home values in those districts remain robust, with Highland Park ISD homes priced at over $1.5 million, while Frisco and Plano are at nearly $43–$500K.  

According to 2025 data, homes in these neighborhoods sell around twice as fast as comparable homes in other areas outside A-rated locations, due to greater family demand.  

Seasonal increases every spring and summer, coinciding with school enrollment times, create ideal times to sell and competitive times to purchase.  

The takeaway is easy: purchasing within an elite Dallas neighborhood is an intellectual and financial victory, offering long-term security, resale dividend, and generational appeal in a shifting real estate market. 

Affordability vs. Quality Schools 

You don’t need to shell out millions to live near quality schools. There are a number of communities with homes priced under $500K and A-rated schools. 

So, where to Buy Homes Near A-Rated Schools in Dallas, TX (< $500K) 

Area	School District	Why It’s Great	Home Prices	Perks
Lake Highlands	Richardson ISD	Proximity to schools such as Lake Highlands High and Wallace Elementary	$300K–$500K	Parks, DART proximity, and White Rock Lake are within walking distance
East Dallas (Casa Linda, Little Forest Hills)	Dallas ISD	Near Lakewood Elementary and Woodrow Wilson High School	Around $400K–$500K	Eclectic atmosphere, artsy neighborhood, and lake access
Lakewood	Dallas ISD	Birthplace of the city’s top-rated public elementary school	$400K–$500K	Historic homes and festivals
Richardson	Richardson ISD	Standout schools such as JJ Pearce High and Mohawk Elementary	$350K–$500K	Suburban quiet life with urban convenience
Frisco (Select Areas)	Frisco ISD	Superb academics and new schools	Low $400Ks	Family-friendly master-planned neighborhoods and community events
McKinney (Trinity Falls)	McKinney ISD	Superb academics and hometown feel	Mid $400Ks	Small-town charm and nature trails
Northlake / Argyle	Argyle ISD	Superb academics in a rapidly growing district	Low $400Ks	Quiet community and convenient access to big-city amenities

10 Current Homes for Sale Near Top Schools in the Dallas Area (Under $500K)  

As of October 2025, these are the top 10 current home sales near top schools in the Dallas area which comes under $500k.  

1. 2828 Coteau Way, Dallas, TX 75227 

Property: A lovely 4-bedroom home is the highlight of a gated community where you can experience ultimate security and thus peace of mind. The well-kept estate is a great way for a family to grow in a quiet environment. 

School: The property is well serviced by Seagoville North Elementary, providing the best education for those who want to give their children a top-notch learning experience. 

Key features: 

Security and privacy are guaranteed in a gated community—spacious four-bedroom layout, perfect for a growing family. Proximity to a top-notch elementary school makes daily school runs convenient and easy. 

2. 5106 Stoneleigh Ave, Dallas, TX 75235 

Property: A stylishly updated 2-bedroom house, this home exudes fresh and welcoming vibes with its modern interiors.  

With the renovation aspect taken care of, this move-in-ready home would be a perfect choice for a working professional or a small family who’s looking for a convenient and sophisticated lifestyle. 

School: Locals have the privilege to be part of the Maple Lawn Elementary school community, a neighborhood school that has a lot of spirit and unity among the members. 

Key features: 

Rejuvenated interiors bring a contemporary look to the house. Minimalistic, trendy living is perfect for those who lead a hectic life, an excellent dwelling option for those who place top-quality location and school district as their priority. 

3. 6407 Laurel Valley Rd, Dallas, TX 75248 

Property: 5-bedroom magnificent home for living in and entertaining the family at its finest.  

Your very own private backyard oasis, with a pool, is a great way to escape the hot Texas afternoons and for outdoor entertaining. An open floor plan works very well for an extended family wanting the extra space. 

School: Brentfield Elementary, a high-performing school, is in the district where the property is located.  

Key features: 

The expansive five-bedroom, open-concept floor plan provides a lot of room on a lot. Private pool, perfect for relaxing and hosting friends and family during summer get-togethers.Great location in an excellent school district. 

4. 8927 Groveland Dr, Dallas, TX 75218 

Property: This artist-culture-inspired 3-bedroom home is not only unique but also shows a very well-thought-out and comfortable living for the people living there.  

The property’s original designer charm sets it apart, with a creative, quite unique lifestyle experience awaiting the new owners. 

School: Hexter Elementary is the local school, an award-winning school that supports the home’s long-term value and the attractiveness of the neighborhood. 

Key features: 

The artistic design is unique, thus the personal residence will be unique as well. The floor plan with three bedrooms is smartly designed,  close to a well-regarded and highly-rated public school. 

5. 6402 Nueces Bay Dr, Rowlett, TX 75089 

Property: Escape to your own refuge with this warm 4-bedroom home, featuring an amazing saltwater pool.  

The property provides an excellent mix of comfy indoor living and resort-style outdoor recreation.  

The location in Rowlett is perfect for a quiet, suburban lifestyle that is away from the city’s hustle and bustle. 

School: Being a part of well-rated schools in Garland ISD offers access to quality education. 

Key highlights: 

Saltwater pool for privacy and relaxation. Additionally, the Four-bedroom floor plan is suitable for a family. The area is great for the highly-rated Garland ISD schools. 

6. 9742 Amberley Dr, Dallas, TX 75243 

Property: Living in style is what this 3-bedroom home is all about, with its modern, sleek interior that was designed with both style and practicality in mind.  

The open floor plan and the smooth lines make this a great, already personalized, or ready-to-be-personalized living space. 

School: The property is located in Richardson ISD, a school district well known for its excellent schools. 

Key features: 

Trendy and chic interior design. The 3-bedroom layout is functional in the respected Richardson ISD community. 

7. 2834 Sunny Hill Ln, Dallas, TX 75234 

Property: This property boasts a spacious floor plan with three bedrooms, providing plenty of room for entertaining and family living.  

The extra-large floor plan provides a flowing layout where the space can be used in more ways than one, and the possibilities of this house are a blank canvas for your design ideas. 

School: Proximity to Chapel Hill Prep, an outstandingly rated school that provides an excellent learning atmosphere. 

Key features:  

The spacious open floor plan features a comfortable 3-bedroom configuration. These can be customized to suit your lifestyle. It can also provide you with the convenience of a nearby good school for quality education. 

8. 3200 Ross Ave #22, Dallas, TX 75204 

Property: Urban living at its finest, this modern 3-bedroom townhouse offers a trendy and low-maintenance lifestyle in a vibrant Dallas community.  

With multiple levels of living space, this residence is ideal for those who like current style and city convenience. 

School: Served by Ignacio Zaragoza Elementary, providing a respected educational option in a highly sought-after urban setting. 

Key features: 

• Modern townhome with multi-level living. 

• Proximity to urban locations of amenities, restaurants, and entertainment. 

• Proximity to a strong elementary school. 

9. 4877 Fallon Pl, Dallas, TX 75227 

Property: 3-bedroom new-build home to move into a completely new, never-lived-in property.  

The modern look and brand-new features mean zero maintenance issues, allowing you to make your home from day one. 

School: Served by S.S. Conner Elementary School, which is part of the community. 

Key features: Brand-new build with all the benefits of up-to-date building standards. You can find a low-maintenance, hassle-free 3-bedroom plan for a great lifestyle. 

10. 12218 Treeview Ln, Dallas, TX 75234 

Property: This property sits on a large, open lot, giving a rare opportunity for spacious outdoor living in the city.  

The expansive piece of land offers unlimited possibilities for landscaping, outdoor amenities, or future expansion. 

School: Zoned to the highly rated community school, Farmers Branch Elementary. 

Key features: 

The Large lot is perfect for outdoor play and expansion opportunities. You can find a Classic 3-bedroom floor plan with potential to modernize. On top of that, the commuter-friendly neighborhood is served by Farmers Branch Elementary.