Discover the best Dallas suburbs for retirees — beautiful areas where you can relax, explore new hobbies, and enjoy life's peaceful nuances! If you’re considering settling down in Texas, Dallas and its serene suburbs offer an ideal environment for active adults. Use this guide and browse the best suburbs of Dallas to retire, with insights into what makes each area special and why it might be the perfect place for your next chapter.

Summary:

• Is Dallas a Good Place to Retire?

• Best Dallas Suburbs for Retirees

• New Homes in Dallas Suburbs for Retirees

• Conclusion

Is Dallas a Good Place to Retire? 

Given its affordability, good weather, and wide range of amenities, Dallas is a fantastic choice for retirement. The city is known for its warmer climate, which allows for year-round outdoor activities, and the extensive list of things to do here includes world-class museums, theaters, and dining. Additionally, Dallas has a quality healthcare system with numerous hospitals and medical facilities.

Another advantage of retiring here is the lower cost of Dallas living expenses. While Texas does not have a state income tax, which is a significant financial benefit for retirees, the cost of living in Dallas is 2% lower than the national average, per RentCafe® as of September 2024. 

Additionally, the city’s extensive transportation network, including public transit and major highways, makes it easy to get around, whether visiting loved ones or heading to McKinney for a day of pickleball.

Best Dallas Suburbs for Retirees 

When choosing the perfect suburb, retirees have plenty of options around Dallas. Let’s explore some of the best Dallas, Texas, suburbs for retirees that offer an ideal mix of community, amenities, and convenience.

Celina

According to the Vintage 2023 Population Estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau®, Celina is one of the fastest-growing suburbs in North Dallas. Known for its small-town charm and close-knit community feel, this is a great suburb of Dallas, TX, for retirees who want to enjoy a peaceful lifestyle while still having access to big-city conveniences. Celina’s welcoming atmosphere and scenic surroundings make it a favorite among retirees looking to stay connected and engaged. Check out our active adult communities in Celina, TX.  

Pros

• Small-town feel with friendly neighbors and community events

• Proximity to Del Webb® at Legacy Hills, with beautiful new homes in a 55+ community

• Excellent parks and green spaces for outdoor activities

• Growing dining and shopping options in the area

Cons

• Limited public transportation options, requiring driving for most errands

• Rapidly growing, potentially leading to future congestion and development

• Fewer entertainment options than in larger suburbs

• Longer commute to Downtown Dallas, about 40 miles away

Plano

Plano is one of the most well-established and best suburbs in Dallas for active adults and is known for its quality schools, numerous amenities, and lovely parks like the Arbor Hills Nature Preserve. It’s a great option for retirees who want to enjoy a suburban lifestyle while still being close to the action in Dallas. Plano offers a mix of quiet residential neighborhoods and vibrant commercial districts, making it a well-rounded choice for retirement.

Pros

• Proximity to Dallas, offering easy access to amenities

• Quality healthcare facilities and services

• Numerous parks, trails, and recreational spots

• A bustling local economy with plenty of shopping and dining options

Cons

• Higher cost of living than other suburbs, 16% higher than the national average per RentCafe in September 2024

• Some traffic congestion, particularly during rush hours

• Limited public transportation options

• Rapid development potentially leading to higher property taxes

Frisco

Frisco is a rapidly growing suburb that offers a mix of amenities and is one of the best cities outside of Dallas, TX, for retirees. Known for its excellent dining, entertainment, and shopping options, including the popular Stonebriar Centre®, Frisco has easy access to everything you need for a fulfilling retirement. The suburb is also home to several beautiful parks, golf courses, and community centers, perfect for staying active and social.

Pros

• A wide range of shopping and dining options 

• Quality healthcare facilities, such as Texas Health® Hospital Frisco

• Numerous parks, trails, and recreational facilities

• Frequent community events and festivals

• Proximity to major highways

Cons

• Higher housing expenses,18% more than the national average per Payscale® in September 2024, particularly in newer developments

• Traffic congestion, especially near major shopping and entertainment areas

• Rapid growth, potentially leading to increased demand for public services

• Hot summers, common in the Dallas area

• Limited options for public transportation

McKinney

McKinney is a charming area and one of the best North Dallas suburbs for active adults, with a well-known and historic downtown area. From the beauty of the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary to delightful performances at the McKinney Performing Arts Center, McKinney is a popular choice for retirees due to its range of activities, amenities, 55+ communities, and the beauty of its parks and trails. Explore our active adult communities in McKinney, TX.

Pros

• Historic downtown with boutique shops and restaurants

• Proximity to Del Webb at Trinity Falls, an over-55 community with modern amenities

• Quality healthcare facilities, including Baylor Scott & White® Medical Center

• Plenty of outdoor activities, such as golf courses and nature trails

• Frequent community events and festivals throughout the year

Cons

• Longer commute to downtown Dallas, a little over 30 miles away

• Traffic congestion during peak hours, especially on major roads

• Hot, humid summers 

• Higher cost of living, 5% greater than the rest of the state per RentCafe as of September 2024 

• Limited public transportation options

Allen

Among the best Dallas, TX, suburbs to live in for retirees, Allen is a quieter spot perfect for those seeking a relaxed lifestyle. The suburb offers plenty of parks, recreational activities, and shopping options, such as Allen Premium Outlets®, making it a convenient and enjoyable place to live. Allen’s strong sense of community and slower pace of life make it an attractive option for retirees who value their peace and quiet.

Pros

• Quiet, community-oriented neighborhoods 

• Plenty of parks, trails, and green spaces for outdoor activities

• Proximity to quality healthcare facilities and services

• Abundant shopping and dining options

• Conveniently close to major highways

Cons

• Limited entertainment options compared to larger suburbs

• Traffic congestion on major roads during peak hours

• Higher cost of living, 2% greater than the state average per RentCafe in September 2024

• Hot summers, typical of North Texas

• Limited public transportation options

Colleyville

Another of the good suburbs of Dallas for active adults, Colleyville offers an upscale suburban experience perfect for retirees looking for relaxation close to urban amenities. It's known for its upscale neighborhoods and lush green spaces. Colleyville is a sought-after location and one of the best places to live outside Dallas, TX, for those seeking a peaceful retirement.

Pros

• Boutique shops, fine dining, and wellness facilities

• Abundant parks and trails for outdoor activities

• Easy access to major highways connecting to the Dallas-Fort Worth area

• Quality schools

Cons

• Higher cost of living, 37% greater than the national average per Payscale in September 2024

• Limited public transportation options

• Quieter social scene and fewer cultural activities compared to larger cities

New Homes in Dallas Suburbs for Retirees 

If you’re looking for new homes in the best suburbs around Dallas, TX, there are plenty of options that cater to retirees and active adults. The over-55 communities in Dallas from Del Webb® offer abundant amenities, including fitness centers, social clubs, and recreational activities, making it easy to stay engaged and active in your retirement years.

• Del Webb at Trinity Falls: This premier active adult community in McKinney offers a scenic, suburban setting with modern single-story homes and resort-style amenities, such as trails, a beautiful community pool, and sports courts.

• Del Webb at Legacy Hills: Located in Celina, this community features amenities like a clubhouse with a restaurant and bar, pickleball courts, and miles of trails. It’s perfect for retirees seeking a peaceful lifestyle with easy access to modern conveniences and social activities. 

Conclusion

Choosing from among the best suburbs of Dallas to live in for your retirement is an important decision, and you’ll find plenty of great options. Whether you prefer the small-town charm of Celina, the historic allure of McKinney, or the amenities of Frisco, there’s a Dallas suburb that’s perfect for your next life chapter. Explore these communities, find the best fit for your lifestyle, and enjoy everything that the top Dallas suburbs for retirees have to offer.

Explore active adult communities in Dallas, TX, today or browse more Del Webb blogs. 

Written By: Jordan Thomson, Freelance Writer

Last Updated: 3/5/25