DFW Overview

The Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex is the fourth-largest metro area in the United States, with a population of approximately 8 million people spread across 13 counties. It is one of the most economically diverse metros in the country, with major industries in technology, financial services, healthcare, logistics, aerospace, and energy.

Despite being a single metro area, Dallas and Fort Worth have distinct identities. Dallas is a cosmopolitan city with a strong arts scene, diverse neighborhoods, and a corporate headquarters culture. Fort Worth has a Western heritage identity the Stockyards, cattle drives, and a genuine cowboy culture combined with world-class museums and a growing economy.

Climate

DFW has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers, mild winters, and unpredictable spring weather. Summers are long and hot temperatures regularly exceed 100°F from June through August. Winters are generally mild but can include occasional ice storms and, rarely, significant snow events.

Spring brings severe weather risk tornadoes, large hail, and heavy rain. Understanding severe weather preparedness is important for new residents.

• Summer: June–September, regularly 95–105°F
• Fall: October–November, mild and pleasant
• Winter: December–February, mild with occasional freezes
• Spring: March–May, severe weather season
• Average annual rainfall: approximately 37 inches

Transportation & Airports

DFW is a car-dependent metro. Most residents drive to work and daily activities. The highway system is extensive, with I-30, I-35E/W, I-20, I-635, US-75, and the Dallas North Tollway as primary arteries.

DFW International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, with direct flights to most major US cities and international destinations. Dallas Love Field serves Southwest Airlines.

• DFW International Airport: dfw.com
• Dallas Love Field: dallas-lovefield.com
• DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit): dart.org
• Trinity Metro (Fort Worth): ridetrinitymetro.org
• North Texas Tollway Authority: ntta.org

Texas Driver's License

New Texas residents must obtain a Texas driver's license within 90 days of establishing residency. You'll need to visit a Texas DPS (Department of Public Safety) driver's license office.

Required documents include proof of identity, Social Security number, Texas residency, and your out-of-state license. Make an appointment online at dps.texas.gov to reduce wait times.

Vehicle Registration

New Texas residents must register their vehicles within 30 days of establishing residency. Vehicle registration is handled by your county tax assessor-collector's office.

Texas requires a vehicle inspection before registration. Inspections are performed at licensed inspection stations throughout the state.

Voter Registration

Texas residents can register to vote online at votetexas.gov or by mail. The registration deadline is 30 days before an election.

Healthcare

DFW has a robust healthcare system with major hospital networks including UT Southwestern Medical Center, Baylor Scott & White Health, Texas Health Resources, and Parkland Health.

Finding a primary care physician early is recommended popular practices can have wait times for new patients.

First 30-Day Checklist

• Apply for homestead exemption (if you closed before January 1)
• Set up utilities: electricity, gas, water, internet
• Update your address with USPS, bank, employer, and subscriptions
• Register your vehicle (within 30 days)
• Get a Texas driver's license (within 90 days)
• Find a primary care physician
• Locate nearest urgent care and emergency room
• Introduce yourself to neighbors
• Locate your main water shutoff valve

First 90-Day Checklist

• Complete Texas driver's license (required within 90 days)
• Register to vote in Texas
• Apply for homestead exemption (deadline: April 30)
• Review and update homeowner's insurance
• Schedule HVAC service
• Set up foundation watering system
• Explore your community parks, restaurants, local events
• Connect with neighborhood association or community groups

Sports & Entertainment

DFW is home to five major professional sports teams: the Dallas Cowboys (NFL), Dallas Mavericks (NBA), Texas Rangers (MLB), Dallas Stars (NHL), and FC Dallas (MLS). The region also has strong college athletics with TCU, SMU, and others.

The arts scene includes the Dallas Arts District (one of the largest in the country), the Fort Worth Cultural District, and numerous performing arts organizations.