University Park
Data updated
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Each dot is one of the 84 cities we score — brighter means a higher score. Boundaries, highways and lakes: US Census TIGER.
- Prosperity100
- Schools82
- Safety77
- Lifestyle89
- Market72
- Affordability30
- Commute82
- Growth69
Comparevs Dallasvs Highland Parkvs Irvingvs Richardsonvs Carrollton
University Park
Snapshot
✓ Pros
- Excellent schools – Major draw for families prioritizing education
- High property values & prestige
- Safe, well-maintained neighborhoods – Low crime and pristine public spaces
- Cultural & recreational opportunities – SMU events, local arts, and nearby country clubs
✗ Cons
- Extremely high cost of living – Among the priciest suburbs in DFW
- Mostly large single-family homes; few townhomes or apartments
- Competitive real estate market – Homes sell quickly, making purchasing challenging
- Traffic during peak hours – Adjacent major roads can be busy, especially near SMU
Demographics
Population
Mobility & Migration
Age Distribution
Households
Education Level
Connectivity & Remote Work
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Real Estate
💡 Market Insights
Home Prices
Market Trends
Market Health
Market Insights
Typical Home
Property Mix
Common Features
Costs & Ownership
Investment Indicators
Lifestyle
Explore University Park on Google Maps
Lifestyle Scores
Nearby Amenities (within 5 miles)
Getting Around
Averaged across University Park, weighted by where people live. #2 of 84 cities. Its most walkable areas reach 82, and 61% of residents live somewhere walkable (50+).
Local life in University Park
University Park has no traditional downtown. Its main shopping street is Snider Plaza, a 1920s strip of storefronts along Snider Plaza and Hillcrest Avenue, a few blocks from SMU.
Day-to-day University Park2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,11,19,20,23,24,25,30,31,33,34,35,36,37,39,41,44,45
- 1Sueño
- 2Kilo Coffee
- 3Kuby's Sausage House
- 4Bubba's Cooks Country
- 5El Molino
- 6Gelato La Boca
- 7Tom Thumb (Snider Plaza)
- 8Tom Thumb (Villanova)
- 9Central Market
- 10Whole Foods Market Highland Park
- 11CVS
- 12Baylor Scott & White Urgent Care - Lovers Lane
- 13Curtis Park & Holmes Aquatic Center
- 14Caruth Park
- 15Centennial (formerly Goar) Park
- 16Williams Park
- 17Germany Park
- 18Smith Park
- 19Davis Park
- 20Walt Humann Park
- 21Burleson Park
- 22Hyer Elementary
- 23University Park Elementary
- 24Boone Elementary
- 25McCulloch Intermediate / Highland Park Middle School
- 26Highland Park High School
- 27City Hall, Police, Fire & 911 Center
- 28University Park Public Library
Many University Park addresses carry a 'Dallas, TX' mailing city. Parkland's ZIP (75235) is not from a fetched source; confirm. Shaddock Park, Elena's Children's Park, Coffee Park and Baylor University Medical Center were left off to stay at 30 points. Off the map (farther out): Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas, Parkland Memorial Hospital.
University Park's year, month by month (2026 dates)14
| Month | Event | Where |
|---|---|---|
| Feb 28 | Children's Fishing Derby (ages 6-12) | Caruth Park |
| Mar 28 | Eggstravaganza | Centennial Park |
| May 8 | Movies in Centennial Park | Centennial Park |
| Jun 6 | Children's Fishing Derby | Caruth Park |
| Jul 4 | Park Cities 4th of July Parade + post-parade activities | HP/UP route; Centennial Park |
| Summer Fridays | Dive-In Movies | Holmes Aquatic Center |
| Oct 25 | Eggtober (yard egg drop; register Oct 13-20) | Residents' yards |
| Nov 6 | Arbor Day tree planting | A city park |
| Nov 29 | Holiday Tree Lighting | Snider Plaza |
| Dec 1 | Elena's Children's Park Tree Lighting (remembrance) | Boedeker & Hanover |
From the city's Special Events page. Doggie Splash Day at Holmes Aquatic Center is listed with a date to be determined.
Drive times from central University Park51
- Central Market (Lovers Ln.)1.8 mi5 min
- Whole Foods (Lomo Alto Dr.)2.6 mi7 min
- Texas Health Presbyterian Dallas4.2 mi9 min
- Downtown Dallas5.8 mi11 min
- Dallas Love Field4.6 mi12 min
- Baylor University Medical Center5.8 mi12 min
- Richardson Telecom Corridor12.0 mi18 min
- Las Colinas11.8 mi20 min
- Legacy West (Plano)17.8 mi25 min
- DFW Airport20.8 mi34 min
Realust calculation with the OSRM open routing engine from 32.8465, -96.7930. Destinations are approximate center points. Free-flow times; weekday rush hour adds time.
What's in town vs. nearby13,15,19,20,22,24,25,30,31,33,34,35,36,37,39,40,41,42,51
| Need | In University Park | Nearest outside the city |
|---|---|---|
| Full grocery | Tom Thumb, 7000 Snider Plaza; Tom Thumb, 4001 Villanova St. | Central Market, 5750 E. Lovers Ln. (~5 min); Whole Foods, 4100 Lomo Alto Dr. (~7 min) |
| Pharmacy | Tom Thumb Pharmacy and CVS, both in Snider Plaza | - |
| Urgent care | None confirmed | BSW Urgent Care, 5800 E. Lovers Ln. |
| Hospital / ER | None | Texas Health Presbyterian Dallas (~9 min); Baylor University Medical Center and Parkland (~12 min); all Level I trauma |
| Library | 8383 Preston Center Plaza, Suite 200 | - |
| Public pool | Holmes Aquatic Center (UP and HPISD residents) | - |
| Coffee | Kilo Coffee (Snider Plaza) | - |
| Sit-down dining | Sueño, El Molino, Kuby's, Bubba's (Snider Plaza / Hillcrest) | - |
| Rail transit | None | SMU/Mockingbird and Lovers Lane DART stations, across US 75 |
| Fire / EMS | University Park Fire Department (career, paramedic EMS, ISO Class 1) | - |
In-town businesses confirmed from listings and news dated 2025-2026.
Read the full local life guide
Snider Plaza is the town center
University Park has no traditional downtown. Its main shopping street is Snider Plaza, a 1920s strip of storefronts along Snider Plaza and Hillcrest Avenue, a few blocks from SMU. A new light-up "Snider Plaza 1927" sign went up at Hillcrest and Daniel in August 2026.
The city finished a Phase 1 rebuild of the plaza's streets, sidewalks, parking, lighting and fountain, covering the 6600 to 6800 blocks. It added a surface lot at Rankin and Hursey. The northern end was left out because the city could not get all the easements, and later phases are planned. In March 2025 the council tabled a proposal for paid parking.
Food is the main draw. Kuby's Sausage House (6601 Snider Plaza) has been a restaurant and German meat market since 1961. Bubba's Cooks Country (6617 Hillcrest Ave.) has served fried chicken from a former gas station since 1981. El Molino, a fajita restaurant, opened at 6818 Snider Plaza in October 2025, and Gelato La Boca is at 3406 Rosedale Ave. In 2026, Sueño, a Mexican restaurant with a tequila lounge, opened on June 10 at 6600 Snider Plaza. Kilo Coffee opened next door in Suite 110 by September.
The city calendar
Most city events happen in parks. In 2026 the city ran children's fishing derbies at Caruth Park (Feb. 28 and June 6), Eggstravaganza at Centennial Park (March 28) and an outdoor movie night there (May 8). The Park Cities Fourth of July Parade, sponsored by the Park Cities Rotary Club, runs through Highland Park and University Park and ends with activities at Centennial Park. On summer Fridays, Holmes Aquatic Center shows Dive-In Movies in the pool.
The fall and winter run starts with Eggtober (Oct. 25, 2026), when parks staff hide Halloween eggs in registered residents' front yards. Arbor Day is Nov. 6, the Snider Plaza Holiday Tree Lighting is Sunday, Nov. 29, and a remembrance tree lighting at Elena's Children's Park follows on Dec. 1.
Parks, pools and trails
The Parks & Recreation page lists 13 named parks, and says the department runs eight major ones. Most are small neighborhood parks. The city does not publish acreage for most of them. Walt Humann Park (2611 Rosedale Ave.), at about 2.4 acres, is the only one with a listed size.
Curtis Park (3500 Lovers Lane) is the busiest. It holds Holmes Aquatic Center, which has a 50-meter pool, diving boards, a water slide and a splash pad. It is open to University Park and Highland Park ISD residents, and a 2026 resident season pass costs $70. Caruth Park (7801 Hillcrest) has ball fields, a fishing lake and a trail. Williams Park (6400 Park St.) has six lighted pickleball courts and the Turtle Creek pond. Germany Park (6401 Lomo Alto Dr.) has a rubberized running track and outdoor fitness equipment. Five parks have lighted tennis courts. Field and court use is tied to residency.
Walking loops in Caruth, Curtis, Centennial, Davis and Williams parks open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. where hours are posted. The 3.5-mile Katy Trail starts at Mockingbird Station, just across US 75. White Rock Lake is about 13 minutes east.
Errands and health care
University Park has two full-service Tom Thumb supermarkets: one at 7000 Snider Plaza, which includes a pharmacy, and one at 4001 Villanova St. near Preston Road. Central Market on Lovers Lane is about 5 minutes away, and Whole Foods on Lomo Alto Drive is about 7. A CVS sits at 6832 Snider Plaza.
The city has no hospital. Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas (8200 Walnut Hill Lane), an 875-bed Level I trauma center, is about 9 minutes away. Baylor University Medical Center and Parkland, both Level I trauma centers, are about 12 minutes away. For walk-in care, Baylor Scott & White's Lovers Lane urgent care (5800 E. Lovers Ln.) is open seven days.
City Hall, the police department, the 911 center and the fire department all share one building at 3800 University Blvd. The public library is on the second floor of Preston Center Plaza (8383 Preston Center Plaza, Suite 200).
Schools
Highland Park ISD serves the city's homes. TEA rated the district an A (96) for 2025. In 2026 it had 6,238 students on eight campuses. Two elementary schools are in University Park: Hyer (3920 Caruth Blvd.) and University Park Elementary (3505 Amherst Ave.). All students attend McCulloch Intermediate (grades 5-6) and Highland Park Middle School (grades 7-8), which share a campus at 3555 Granada Dr., and then Highland Park High School (4220 Emerson Ave.). A small, non-residential piece of the city west of US 75 is in Dallas ISD. SMU's campus is inside University Park.
Getting around and public safety
Off-peak, downtown Dallas is about 11 minutes away, Love Field 12, Las Colinas 20, Legacy West in Plano 25 and DFW Airport 34. Rush hour adds time. In May 2026, 54% of voters chose to keep the city in DART, while Highland Park voted to leave. Service includes one fixed bus route on Preston Road, SMU shuttles and GoLink on-demand rides. The nearest rail is at Mockingbird and Lovers Lane stations, just across US 75.
The fire department is a career department with one station. It provides paramedic-level EMS and holds an ISO Class 1 rating. The police department is CALEA-accredited, and its 911 center on the first floor of City Hall takes walk-in contacts after hours.
Not confirmed yet
- Acreage for every park except Walt Humann (about 2.4 acres). The city does not list it.
- Why the Parks page lists 13 parks but says eight 'major' parks. Wikipedia lists ten, including a 'Linear' park.
- Elementary attendance zones: which University Park streets go to Hyer, University Park Elementary, Boone and Bradfield.
- Whether Boone Elementary (8385 Durham St.) is inside University Park city limits. Wikipedia places it in Dallas, but the city created school zones on Durham, Southwestern and Airline in 2020.
- Campus-level 2025 TEA ratings and any 2026 ratings.
- Police sworn headcount and fire department staffing/apparatus.
- 2026 Holmes Aquatic Center season dates.
- Whether Snarf's (6630 Snider Plaza) and Sweet Paris (6632 Snider Plaza) are open.
- Trail mileage within the city.
Questions people ask
Is there a grocery store in University Park?
Yes. There are two Tom Thumb supermarkets, one at 7000 Snider Plaza (with a pharmacy) and one at 4001 Villanova St. near Preston Road. Central Market on Lovers Lane and Whole Foods on Lomo Alto Drive are each under 10 minutes away.
What is the closest hospital to University Park?
Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas, at 8200 Walnut Hill Lane, is about 9 minutes away off-peak. It is a Level I trauma center with 875 beds. Baylor University Medical Center and Parkland, also Level I trauma centers, are about 12 minutes away.
How long is the drive from University Park to downtown Dallas and the airports?
Off-peak, downtown Dallas is about 11 minutes away (5.8 miles), Love Field about 12 minutes and DFW Airport about 34 minutes. These are Realust routing estimates, and rush hour adds time.
Which schools serve University Park?
Highland Park ISD. Hyer and University Park elementaries are in the city. Students then attend McCulloch Intermediate (5-6), Highland Park Middle School (7-8) and Highland Park High School (9-12). TEA rated the district an A (96) for 2025.
Can non-residents use the University Park pool?
Holmes Aquatic Center in Curtis Park is open to University Park residents and Highland Park ISD residents. A 2026 resident season pass is $70, and a day pass is $8.
Is University Park still in DART?
Yes. In May 2026, 54% of voters chose to stay. Service includes a bus route on Preston Road, SMU shuttles, GoLink on-demand rides and paratransit. The nearest rail stations are just across US 75. Neighboring Highland Park voted to leave.
What events does University Park hold?
The city's calendar includes fishing derbies at Caruth Park, an Easter egg hunt, the Park Cities Fourth of July Parade, Dive-In Movies at the pool, Eggtober, Arbor Day and the Snider Plaza Holiday Tree Lighting the Sunday after Thanksgiving (Nov. 29 in 2026).
Does University Park have its own fire department and ambulance service?
Yes. The University Park Fire Department is a career department with one station at City Hall. It provides paramedic-level emergency medical care and holds an ISO Class 1 rating.
Sources (52) · checked Oct 28, 2026
- City of University Park, Parks & Recreation
- City of University Park, Facilities directory
- City of University Park, Curtis Park
- City of University Park, Williams Park
- City of University Park, Germany Park
- City of University Park, Caruth Park
- City of University Park, Centennial (formerly Goar) Park
- City of University Park, Smith Park
- City of University Park, Walt Humann Park
- City of University Park, Elena's Children's Park
- City of University Park, Davis Park
- City of University Park, Shaddock Park
- City of University Park, Holmes Aquatic Center
- City of University Park, Special Events (2026)
- Wikipedia, University Park, Texas
- City of University Park, Snider Plaza Improvements
- People Newspapers, Standout Signage (Aug. 12, 2026)
- People Newspapers, Snider Plaza tag archive (incl. Mar. 2025 paid-parking item)
- CraveDFW, Sueño opens in Snider Plaza on June 10 (June 2, 2026)
- PaperCity, Dallas restaurant news incl. Kilo Coffee opening (Sept. 7, 2026)
- Hoodline, Kilo plans Snider Plaza cafe (Apr. 2026)
- CraveDFW, Kuby's Sausage House (Mar. 18, 2026)
- Dallas Observer, At Kuby's, Every Day Is a Sausage Party
- CraveDFW, Bubba's Cooks Country (Mar. 20, 2026)
- People Newspapers, Comings and Goings (Nov. 13, 2025)
- Dallas Observer, Popular Elevated Mexican Spot to Expand to Snider Plaza (2025)
- TDLR TABS2025020838, Snarf's Snider Plaza
- Dallas Morning News via Snarf's (Dec. 12, 2025)
- WhatNow Dallas, Sweet Paris coming to Snider Plaza (Mar. 7, 2025)
- Tom Thumb, Snider Plaza store page
- Tom Thumb, Villanova St. store page
- TDLR TABS2022009166, Tom Thumb #2503, 4001 Villanova Dr., University Park
- CVS, 6832 Snider Plaza store page
- Whole Foods Market, Highland Park store
- D Magazine directory, Central Market
- Baylor Scott & White, Urgent Care Lovers Lane
- Texas Health Resources careers, Texas Health Dallas location
- Texas Health, Texas Health Dallas designated Level I trauma (2022)
- Wikipedia, Parkland Memorial Hospital
- Wikipedia, Baylor University Medical Center
- City of University Park, UP Public Library
- City of University Park, Fire Department
- NERIS (FSRI), University Park Fire Department FD48113879
- City of University Park, Police Department
- Highland Park ISD, Our Schools
- Texas Tribune Public Schools Explorer, Highland Park ISD (2026 enrollment)
- Highland Park ISD, #1 Rated 5A/6A Public School District in Texas (May 27, 2026)
- Wikipedia, Highland Park Independent School District
- Texas Tribune, DART elections in Addison, Highland Park, University Park (May 3, 2026)
- Wikipedia, Katy Trail (Dallas)
- OSRM open routing engine (Realust drive-time calculation, Oct. 2026)
- People Newspapers, New School Zone for Boone Elementary (Sept. 2020)
Seasonal Temperatures
Annual Conditions
Crime & Safety
Safety Overview
Violent Crime
Property Crime
Job Market
Income
Employment
Income Distribution
Education
School District
Schools
Academic Info
📈 Graduation Rates (Class of 2024)
🎯 College Readiness (Class of 2023)
Transportation
Mobility Scores
Commute
Distance To
⚡ EV Charging
Drive to major employers from University Park
Rush-hour drive times from the center of University Park, weekday at 8:00 AM.
| Workplace | 8 AM rush | No traffic | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMUUniversity Park | 5 min | 5 min | 1.1 mi |
| Dallas Love FieldDallas | 12 min | 12 min | 4.3 mi |
| UT Southwestern / Medical DistrictDallas | 15 min | 13 min | 4.7 mi |
| AT&TDowntown Dallas | 16 min | 15 min | 6.4 mi |
| Southwest AirlinesLove Field | 16 min | 15 min | 5.4 mi |
| Texas InstrumentsDallas | 17 min | 13 min | 6.6 mi |
| Uptown DallasDallas | 19 min | 12 min | 6.5 mi |
| Baylor University Medical CenterDallas | 20 min | 15 min | 7 mi |
Show all 36 workplaces
| Workplace | 8 AM rush | No traffic | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown DallasDallas | 20 min | 15 min | 6.9 mi |
| Galleria / LBJDallas | 21 min | 15 min | 7.8 mi |
| Telecom CorridorRichardson | 21 min | 17 min | 12.1 mi |
| State Farm CityLineRichardson | 23 min | 19 min | 13.5 mi |
| Las Colinas Urban CenterIrving | 26 min | 19 min | 14.1 mi |
| UT DallasRichardson | 27 min | 23 min | 13.2 mi |
| Kimberly-ClarkIrving | 28 min | 21 min | 14.7 mi |
| Medical City PlanoPlano | 30 min | 25 min | 18.3 mi |
| American AirlinesFort Worth | 31 min | 26 min | 21.4 mi |
| Legacy WestPlano | 31 min | 22 min | 17.4 mi |
| McKessonLas Colinas | 31 min | 21 min | 16 mi |
| Arlington Entertainment DistrictArlington | 33 min | 31 min | 24.4 mi |
| Tyler TechnologiesPlano | 33 min | 25 min | 18.2 mi |
| Capital OnePlano | 34 min | 25 min | 20 mi |
| JPMorgan Chase Legacy WestPlano | 34 min | 24 min | 18 mi |
| Toyota North America HQPlano | 34 min | 26 min | 19.1 mi |
| Keurig Dr PepperFrisco | 35 min | 27 min | 20.1 mi |
| Frito-Lay / PepsiCoPlano | 35 min | 26 min | 18.7 mi |
| The StarFrisco | 35 min | 26 min | 20.5 mi |
| DFW AirportDFW | 37 min | 30 min | 23.9 mi |
| RaytheonMcKinney | 41 min | 35 min | 29.8 mi |
| Fidelity InvestmentsWestlake | 42 min | 36 min | 32.8 mi |
| Charles SchwabWestlake | 43 min | 36 min | 33.8 mi |
| Downtown Fort WorthFort Worth | 49 min | 41 min | 37.7 mi |
| AllianceTexasFort Worth | 52 min | 46 min | 41.6 mi |
| University of North TexasDenton | 55 min | 45 min | 38.5 mi |
| Lockheed MartinFort Worth | 57 min | 49 min | 46.7 mi |
| Texas Woman's UniversityDenton | 57 min | 46 min | 38.5 mi |
Source: Google Routes forecast, updated October 2026. Find where to live near your work →
Cost of Living
Cost Index (100 = National Average)
Monthly Utilities
Everyday Costs
Taxes
Hidden costs in University Park
Every University Park address pays the same five taxing units: Highland Park ISD at 0.8347, the city at 0.2186, Dallas County at 0.2155, Parkland Hospital at 0.2120 and Dallas College at 0.1066, all per $100 of value. That adds up to about 1.59% before exemptions, one of the lowest totals in Dallas County.
Where a median University Park homestead tax bill goes (2025)1,4
- Highland Park ISD$12,807/yr
- City of University Park$3,660/yr
- Dallas County$3,608/yr
- Parkland Hospital$3,550/yr
- Dallas College$1,784/yr
Market value $2,092,930 (city median taxable $1,674,344 ÷ 0.8), owner under 65, 2025 rates. No MUD or PID.
Base 2025 tax rate: University Park vs. nearby Dallas County cities1
- Dallas (Dallas ISD)2.23%
- Richardson (Richardson ISD)2.18%
- Irving (Irving ISD)2.14%
- Addison (Dallas ISD)2.14%
- Farmers Branch (CFB ISD)2.03%
- Coppell (Coppell ISD)1.96%
- University Park (HPISD)1.59%
- Highland Park (HPISD)1.57%
All Dallas County portions. Each city also grants different homestead exemptions: University Park and HPISD each take 20% off, which lowers the effective rate further.
Monthly cost beyond the mortgage (sourced parts only)1,4,12,14,15,19,20
- Property tax (median homestead)$2,117/mo
- Electric (avg. plan, 1,000 kWh)$152/mo
- Water + sewer (10,000 gal; 6,000 winter avg.)$126/mo
- Garbage$34/mo
- Stormwater (SF-2)$32/mo
- Internet (AT&T 1 Gig)$70/mo
Usage levels are Realust assumptions. Leaves out homeowners insurance, gas and recycling, which were not sourced.
Utility providers in University Park12,13,14,15,19,20,21
| Service | Provider | Price basis | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electric | Oncor lines; choose a retail provider | Avg. 15.2¢/kWh at 1,000 kWh (Oct. 2026) | Retail choice citywide |
| Water | City of University Park (water bought from Dallas County Park Cities MUD) | $6.00 min + $7.30 per 1,000 gal | +$2.71 per 1,000 gal over 30,000 gal |
| Sewer | City (treatment by Dallas Water Utilities) | $11.00 + $6.03 per 1,000 gal of winter average | Set by Nov.–Feb. use |
| Garbage | City sanitation | $34.17/mo | Twice weekly, alley cans |
| Stormwater | City | $24.98–$100.73/mo by single-family zoning class | SF-2: $31.94 |
| Natural gas | Atmos Energy | Tariff not retrieved | |
| Internet | AT&T Fiber (parts), Spectrum cable, T-Mobile 5G | AT&T 1 Gig $70 | Check by address |
Read the full hidden costs guide
Low rate, high values
Every University Park address pays the same five taxing units: Highland Park ISD at 0.8347, the city at 0.2186, Dallas County at 0.2155, Parkland Hospital at 0.2120 and Dallas College at 0.1066, all per $100 of value. That adds up to about 1.59% before exemptions, one of the lowest totals in Dallas County. Dallas proper runs about 2.23%.
Exemptions cut the bill further. The city, the county, Parkland and the college each take 20% off a homestead's value. Highland Park ISD takes 20% plus the state's $140,000. No MUD, PID or special district adds a levy here.
The catch is the size of the base. The city's median homestead had a taxable value of $1,674,344 in 2025, which points to a market value near $2.09 million. On that home the 2025 bill is about $25,400 a year, or $2,117 a month, an effective rate of about 1.21%. The same house as a rental with no exemptions would owe about $33,200.
What changes for 2026
Highland Park ISD cut its rate to 0.8128 for 2026. Dallas County raised its rate from 0.2155 to 0.24865. The city's rate depends on a Nov. 3, 2026 tax rate election: 0.220055 if voters approve added police officers, firefighters, pension changes and parking enforcement, or 0.21039 if they do not. The city estimates the measure at about $193 a year for its median homeowner.
Values keep rising too. The city projects the median homestead's taxable value at $1,836,496 for 2026, up from $1,674,344.
Owners 65 and older
University Park's over-65 and disabled exemption is $706,000 for 2025. The city sets it each year at about a quarter of the average single-family home's value. Dallas County, Parkland and Dallas College give $100,000, and Highland Park ISD gives $60,000 plus a school tax ceiling.
City utilities: water, sewer, trash and stormwater
The city bills water, sewer, garbage and stormwater together. Water is a $6 minimum for a standard meter plus $7.30 per 1,000 gallons, with a $2.71 surcharge above 30,000 gallons a month. Sewer is $11 plus $6.03 per 1,000 gallons, based on your winter water use, so summer irrigation does not raise it.
Garbage is $34.17 a month from Oct. 1, 2026, for twice-weekly pickup from cans along the alley. Stormwater is a flat fee by zoning class: $24.98 to $31.94 for most single-family classes, and $100.73 for Single Family 1. That fee rose 50% for FY2026.
At 10,000 gallons a month, water and sewer come to about $126. A new owner pays a $75 meter deposit and a renter pays $100.
Electric, gas and internet
Oncor delivers power and residents choose a retail provider. On Oct. 28, 2026, the average plan priced at 1,000 kWh worked out to 15.2¢ per kWh, about $152 a month, with roughly $64 of that going to Oncor's delivery charge. Atmos Energy supplies natural gas.
AT&T Fiber reaches parts of the city, with 1 Gig at $70 a month on autopay. Spectrum cable and T-Mobile 5G home internet are also offered. Check each address.
Flood, commute and HOA
The city says areas along Turtle Creek fall in the 100-year floodplain. Check a lot against the city's flood map before you buy, and price flood insurance if it is in the zone.
Commutes are short: the mean travel time to work is about 17 minutes. Downtown Dallas is about five miles south via US 75. The Dallas North Tollway charges 22¢ a mile with a TollTag.
Condos and townhomes carry HOA dues. No dues figure for single-family streets was found.
Not confirmed yet
- What is the ACS median gross rent in University Park?
- What does homeowners insurance cost for a $2 million home here?
- How many parcels sit in the Turtle Creek 100-year floodplain?
- Which single-family zoning class covers most homes, for the stormwater fee?
- What will the 2026 total tax bill be once Parkland and Dallas College rates and the election result are known?
Questions people ask
What is the property tax rate in University Park, TX?
The 2025 total is about 1.59% before exemptions: Highland Park ISD 0.8347, city 0.2186, Dallas County 0.2155, Parkland 0.2120 and Dallas College 0.1066 per $100.
How much are property taxes on a typical University Park home?
About $25,400 a year ($2,117 a month) on a homestead worth about $2.09 million, the market value implied by the city's 2025 median taxable value. That is an effective rate of about 1.21%.
What homestead exemptions does University Park offer?
The city, Dallas County, Parkland and Dallas College each exempt 20% of a homestead's value. Highland Park ISD exempts 20% plus $140,000. Owners 65 and older get $706,000 off city value for 2025.
Is University Park in a MUD or PID?
No. The Dallas CAD 2025 rate sheet lists no MUD, PID or special district for University Park.
What is the University Park tax rate election?
On Nov. 3, 2026, voters decide whether the city sets a 22.0055¢ rate to pay for added police, firefighters, pension changes and parking enforcement. If it fails, the rate is 21.039¢.
How much is trash pickup in University Park?
$34.17 a month from Oct. 1, 2026, for twice-weekly alley pickup, billed on the city utility bill.
Who provides electricity in University Park?
Oncor delivers the power, and residents choose a retail electric provider. Atmos Energy supplies natural gas.
Sources (26) · checked Oct 28, 2026
- Dallas Central Appraisal District, 2025 Tax Rates and Exemptions (revised Nov. 5, 2025)
- City of University Park, Tax Information
- City of University Park, Taxpayer Impact Statement (tax year 2025)
- City of University Park, FY2027 Taxpayer Impact Statement
- City of University Park, Budget (FY2027 proposed)
- People Newspapers, UP City Council Calls Nov. 3 Tax Rate Election (Aug. 20, 2026)
- People Newspapers, HPISD Trustees OK 2026-2027 Tax Rate (Aug. 19, 2026)
- Dallas County, Court Order 2026-0878 adopting TY2026 tax rate
- Dallas County, Notice of Adopted TY2026 Tax Rate
- Dallas College, Notice of Adopted Tax Rate (updated Sept. 10, 2026)
- Census Reporter, University Park, TX profile (ACS 2024 5-year)
- City of University Park, Utility Rates
- City of University Park, Utility Services
- City of University Park, Residential Collection
- City of University Park, Stormwater Utility Fee FAQ
- City of University Park, Ordinance 23-021 (FY2024 fee schedule)
- City of University Park, Resolution 23-022 (water deposits, reconnection)
- People Newspapers, UP City Council Approves $72 Million Budget (Sept. 30, 2025)
- ElectricChoice, University Park electricity rates (Oct. 28, 2026)
- AT&T, AT&T Fiber in University Park, TX
- CableTV.com, Internet providers in University Park, TX
- City of University Park, Floodplain Management
- SMU, Directions to SMU
- KETR, Toll rates set to rise in North Texas starting July 1 (June 4, 2025)
- Wikipedia, Highland Park Independent School District
- Home listing, University Park (Doug Newby)
What’s coming
Public projects that will change daily life in University Park: new jobs, roads, schools and places to go. Every project links to its source.
HPISD $137.3M bond projects
Highland Park ISD's Nov. 2024 bond funds upgrades at Highland Park High, Armstrong Elementary and the McCulloch/HPMS campus, a middle school turf and track, security work and a high school cafeteria renovation.
Why it matters: Updated campuses in one of the area's most sought-after school districts.
Also in Highland Park
Citywide
Dallas County homelessness tax vote
County Prop A would raise the tax rate to $0.24865 per $100 from $0.2155 to fund homelessness reduction, incl. mental health treatment, support services and encampment resolution.
Why it matters: Higher county tax bill for Dallas County homeowners if it passes.
Also in Dallas · Irving · Garland · Grand Prairie · Mesquite · Carrollton · Richardson · Rowlett · DeSoto · Cedar Hill · Coppell · Lancaster · Duncanville · Farmers Branch · Sachse · Balch Springs · Seagoville · Glenn Heights · Addison · Highland Park · Hutchins · Wilmer · Sunnyvale · Cockrell Hill · Combine
Citywide
University Park tax rate vote
Prop A would set a $0.220055 per $100 rate to pay for four police officers, two firefighters, residential parking district technology and firefighter pension changes.
Why it matters: Sets the city tax rate; adds police and fire staffing.
Citywide
We track publicly announced projects from official and local news sources. Plans and dates change; dates are targets, not promises. Map locations are approximate. Projects don't affect the Realust Score. Know of a project we're missing? Tell us.
Growth story in University Park
University Park grew up around SMU, which opened in 1915. When the university could no longer supply utilities and both Highland Park and Dallas declined to annex the area, residents voted 5 to 1 to incorporate in April 1924.
University Park population, Census counts 1990-20201
Decennial Census counts (April 1).
University Park population, Census Bureau estimates 2020-20252
Census Bureau Vintage 2025 estimates, July 1 of each year; mark all bars as estimates. Not comparable bar-for-bar with the decennial counts.
New housing units permitted in University Park, 2000-20254
Census Building Permits Survey, annual totals. Nearly all are single-family rebuilds on existing lots; most do not add net housing. 2015 includes 52 units in 5+ unit buildings. 2026 (45 units Jan-Sep) is not shown.
Highland Park ISD enrollment23
Ballotpedia enrollment table. No current district projection was found, so none is shown.
Redevelopment and public projects in University Park14,16,17,18,19,20,21,30,36,37
| Project | Lead | Size / cost | Status | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hilltop Plaza | Strode Property Co. | 6 stories, ~119,000 sq ft above ground; office, retail, dining | Built | 6565 Hillcrest Ave |
| Snider Plaza Improvements, Phase I | City (SYB Construction) | $15.66M contract | Complete per city; north end in design | Snider Plaza, Daniel to Rankin |
| Snider Plaza PID | City / owners | $0.15 per $100; ~$194,000 year one | Approved May 2026; runs 2027-2036 | Snider Plaza south of Rankin |
| Turtle Creek storm sewer | City | $15M issued; corridor phases >$25M; ~$75M total need | Under way / planned | Caruth Blvd to Northwest Hwy |
| Garry Weber End Zone Complex | SMU | ~$100M | Open Sept 2024 | 5801 Bush Ave |
| Rees-Jones Library of the American West | SMU | n/p | Due 2027 | SMU campus |
| HPISD Bond 2024 projects | Highland Park ISD | $137.3M | Under way | HPHS and MIS/HPMS |
University Park has no builder subdivisions or master-planned communities; new homes are individual rebuilds on existing lots. n/p = not published.
Where University Park is changing13,19,21,32,33,36,42
- 1Hilltop Plaza
- 2Snider Plaza parking lot (city)
- 3Gerald J. Ford Stadium / Weber End Zone Complex
- 4University Park Elementary (rebuilt)
- 5Hyer Elementary (rebuilt)
- 6City Hall
Dallas mailing addresses for SMU and some schools are inside University Park city limits.
Read the full growth story guide
A college town that filled up by 1950
University Park grew up around SMU, which opened in 1915. When the university could no longer supply utilities and both Highland Park and Dallas declined to annex the area, residents voted 5 to 1 to incorporate in April 1924. The new city had about 1,200 people on 515 acres.
It filled fast. The population reached 14,458 in 1940 and 24,275 in 1950, which is still the highest Census count. Voters turned down annexation by Dallas in the 1940s and adopted a home-rule charter in 1989.
Population: flat by design
Census counts show 22,259 residents in 1990, 23,324 in 2000, 23,068 in 2010 and 25,278 in 2020. The Census Bureau estimates 25,323 for July 2025. NCTCOG puts the city at 25,617 on Jan. 1, 2026, up 43 in a year.
No city, regional or state projection was found. University Park has almost no vacant land, so the population moves with household size and how houses are rebuilt, not with new subdivisions.
Housing: rebuilding, not adding
The Census permit survey shows the city permitting 50 to 70 new homes a year since 2020, almost all single-family. The 2007 peak was 220 single-family permits. Most of these replace a demolished house on the same lot, so they add little or no net housing. ACS estimates of total housing units have stayed between about 7,400 and 8,400.
The pattern is long-running. Coverage from 2006 described 10,000-square-foot houses replacing cottages under 2,000 square feet, with lots selling for $500,000 to $1 million. Neither University Park nor Highland Park limits which houses may be torn down. Preservation groups track demolitions and have asked for waiting periods.
There are no master-planned communities or builder subdivisions here. For buyers, the choice is between an older house, a renovated one, or a new rebuild on an existing lot. About 83% of occupied homes are owner-occupied.
What is changing
SMU is the largest presence in town, with 12,544 students in fall 2025 and 3,126 employees. Its roughly $100 million end zone complex at Ford Stadium opened in 2024, and a new library of the American West is scheduled for 2027.
Snider Plaza, the main shopping street, got a $15.66 million rebuild of streets, sidewalks, parking and drainage between Daniel and Rankin. In May 2026 the council approved a district that will charge Snider Plaza owners 15 cents per $100 of value from 2027 to pay for employee parking. Nearby, Hilltop Plaza added a six-story office and retail building at Hillcrest and Daniel.
The city's largest capital need is storm sewer work along Turtle Creek, estimated at about $75 million in total. In May 2026 voters chose to stay in DART, about 54% to 46%, while Highland Park voted to leave.
Schools: steady, slightly smaller
Highland Park ISD serves all of University Park. Enrollment peaked at 7,091 in 2014-15 and was 6,350 in 2024-25. State data show 6,238 students in 2026.
Voters passed a $361.4 million bond in 2015 that rebuilt three elementary schools and added Boone Elementary in Dallas. In November 2024 they approved a $137.3 million maintenance bond, 68% to 32%, which the district said would not raise the tax rate.
Values and incomes
Census survey data show the median owner-estimated home value rising from $1,047,200 (2011-2015) to $1,861,800 (2020-2024). Median household income was $177,098 in 2011-2015 and $247,045 in 2017-2021. Since then the Census reports it only as above $250,000.
The city's certified taxable value rose 9.7% for fiscal 2026, and the council cut the city tax rate to 21.8565 cents per $100. Values vary widely by block and by whether a house is original or rebuilt.
Not confirmed yet
- How many demolition permits does University Park issue each year? The city does not appear to publish a count.
- Will the north end of Snider Plaza (north of Rankin) be rebuilt, and when?
- When will the Turtle Creek corridor storm sewer phases be funded and built, and will they require new debt?
- Does HPISD have a current enrollment projection after the post-2015 decline?
- What will the Zoning & Development Advisory Committee recommend?
Questions people ask
What is the population of University Park, Texas?
The Census Bureau estimated 25,323 on July 1, 2025. NCTCOG estimated 25,617 on Jan. 1, 2026. The 2020 Census counted 25,278.
Is University Park still growing?
Barely. Population has stayed between about 22,000 and 25,500 since 1950. NCTCOG shows a gain of 43 people from 2025 to 2026.
How many new homes are built in University Park each year?
The city permitted 50 to 70 new housing units a year from 2020 to 2025 (52 in 2025), almost all single-family homes replacing older houses on the same lots.
Are there new-home subdivisions in University Park?
No. The city is built out. New homes are individual rebuilds on existing lots.
What school district serves University Park?
Highland Park ISD. It had 6,238 students in 2026 state data. A small non-residential area west of US 75 is in Dallas ISD.
Did the Highland Park ISD bond pass?
Yes. Voters approved a $137.3 million bond on Nov. 5, 2024, 68% to 32%. An earlier $361.4 million bond passed in 2015.
Is University Park leaving DART?
No. On May 2, 2026, about 54% of voters chose to stay. Highland Park voted to leave.
Is SMU in University Park or Dallas?
SMU's 234-acre campus is in University Park, though many campus addresses use Dallas mailing addresses.
Sources (42) · checked Oct 28, 2026
- University Park, Texas (Wikipedia; historical census table and history)
- U.S. Census Bureau, Vintage 2025 city and town population estimates, Texas (sub-est2025_48.csv)
- NCTCOG, 2026 Population Estimates publication (Jan 1, 2026)
- U.S. Census Bureau, Building Permits Survey, annual place files, South Region (soYYYYa.txt, 2000-2025)
- U.S. Census Bureau, Building Permits Survey, South Region place file, year-to-date through Sept 2026 (so2609y.txt)
- U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-year table-based summary files 2021-2024 (B25077, B19013, B25001, B25003), place 4874492
- U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2015-2019 5-year summary file, Texas
- U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2011-2015 5-year summary file, Texas
- NBC 5 DFW, Park Cities teardowns concern preservationists (Mar 7, 2022)
- People Newspapers, Appetite for Destruction (Feb 22, 2017)
- Dallas Observer, How University Park ... 'Lost its Soul' (Oct 6, 2006)
- D Magazine, Is Your Home a Teardown? (Mar 2007)
- People Newspapers, Limits Set For Street, Sidewalk Work in Snider Plaza (Aug 19, 2023)
- People Newspapers, UP City Council Awards Contract for Snider Plaza Improvements (Mar 22, 2024)
- People Newspapers, UP Removing Snider Plaza Trees, But Plans to Add More (Jul 15, 2024)
- City of University Park, Snider Plaza Improvements (accessed Oct 28, 2026)
- People Newspapers, Snider Plaza Public Improvement District Plans Greenlit (May 20, 2026)
- Dallas Morning News, Despite neighbors' worries, University Park signs off on controversial plan for vacant building (Oct 19, 2016)
- Hilltop Holdings, Invests in New Dallas Headquarters and Executes Related Long Term Lease (Aug 6, 2018)
- Rogers-O'Brien Construction, Hilltop Plaza project page
- City of University Park, FY2026 Budget Memo
- People Newspapers, UP City Council approves $72 million budget (Sept 30, 2025)
- Ballotpedia, Highland Park Independent School District (Dallas), Texas (enrollment table)
- Texas Tribune Public Schools Explorer, Highland Park ISD (Dallas) (state enrollment data, 2026)
- People Newspapers, HPISD voters narrowly pass bond package (Nov 2015)
- Highland Park ISD, 2010-2019: 100 Years Strong (district history)
- People Newspapers, Declining Enrollment Not a Concern for HPISD Leaders (Mar 22, 2018)
- People Newspapers, Demographic Study Confirms Rapid Growth (Jun 30, 2014)
- Highland Park ISD, Board Calls for November 5 Bond Election (Aug 2024)
- Highland Park ISD, Bond 2024
- People Newspapers, HPISD Bond Passes, Meyer Retains Seat (Nov 6, 2024)
- Highland Park Independent School District (Wikipedia)
- Hyer Elementary, Our School
- SMU, University Employees, Fall 2025
- SMU Institutional Research, Headcounts comparison 2021-2025
- Gerald J. Ford Stadium (Wikipedia)
- Southern Methodist University (Wikipedia)
- City of Dallas Office of Economic Development, Business Environment: Major Employers (undated)
- Texas Tribune, Highland Park votes to leave DART; Addison and University Park stay (May 3, 2026)
- KERA News, Park Cities and Addison DART election (May 2, 2026)
- DART, Voters in Addison and University Park reaffirm commitment to DART (May 3, 2026)
- City of University Park, home page (address and contacts)