Garland Texas
Moving to Garland, Texas
Garland offers young professionals a dynamic lifestyle that blends suburban comfort with big-city access and career-ready opportunities. Located just northeast of Dallas, Garland is part of the thriving DFW Metroplex, with proximity to major employers in industries like technology, manufacturing, education, and healthcare. The city boasts a range of housing options—from modern apartments in mixed-use developments to quiet, family-friendly neighborhoods—and ample green space, including Spring Creek Forest Preserve, Rowlett Creek, and Lake Ray Hubbard, ideal for hiking, fishing, or paddleboarding on the weekend.
Garland’s diverse cultural scene and strong sense of community make it an inviting place to live. Downtown Garland features a walkable square with local eateries, coffee shops, live music venues, and the historic Plaza Theatre. Community events such as the Garland Guzzler 0.5K race, Christmas on the Square, and a vibrant farmers market bring residents together year-round. The city also supports lifelong learning through institutions like Richland College's Garland Campus and an active public library system. With access to DART light rail, I-635, and nearby major highways, Garland offers the perfect balance of connectivity and affordability for those looking to thrive in the Dallas area without the high cost of living.
Garland by the numbers
City population
City Rank of Cost of living vs. national average
Cost of living vs. national average
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Discover Garland: Top Attractions and Things to Do
Local Experiences
Local Experiences
Garland, Texas, combines suburban comfort with a rich cultural heritage and vibrant local experiences. From diverse cuisine to outdoor adventures and lively community events, Garland offers residents and visitors an authentic, connected, and welcoming atmosphere just minutes from the heart of Dallas.
Local Charm & Dining
Garland’s culinary scene reflects its diverse population, with an impressive range of eateries representing flavors from around the globe. Whether you're craving Texas barbecue, Vietnamese pho, Salvadoran pupusas, or authentic Mexican street tacos, Garland delivers. Downtown Garland and the surrounding neighborhoods feature cozy diners, modern cafés, and hidden gems that locals love. Food trucks and pop-up kitchens also bring unique bites to events throughout the year, while Garland’s growing brewery and coffee shop scene adds to the area’s laid-back charm.
Arts, Culture & History
Cultural expression thrives in Garland, anchored by the historic Plaza Theatre, a beautifully restored 1940s venue that hosts concerts, comedy shows, film screenings, and community performances. The Granville Arts Center is another cultural hub, featuring galleries and local theater productions. History buffs can explore the Garland Landmark Museum, housed in a vintage 1901 Santa Fe depot, offering a glimpse into the city's rich past. Public art and murals across town further highlight Garland’s creative spirit and cultural diversity.
Plaza Theatre
Parks, Trails & Nature
Garland boasts over 2,800 acres of parkland and nature preserves, offering plenty of room to play, relax, and explore. Spring Creek Forest Preserve features scenic trails and rare old-growth trees, while Rowlett Creek Preserve is a favorite for mountain bikers and hikers alike. Families enjoy weekends at Audubon Park, Windsurf Bay Park, or along the shores of Lake Ray Hubbard for kayaking, fishing, or picnics. Sports fields, disc golf courses, and dog parks ensure there’s something for everyone in Garland’s great outdoors.
Parks & Facilities
Festivals & Community Spirit
Garland’s event calendar is packed with celebrations that bring people together. Highlights include the Garland Guzzler 0.5K Race, Christmas on the Square, Sounds of Summer Concert Series, and Asian-American Heritage Festival, each showcasing the city’s inclusive and lively character. Seasonal farmers markets, outdoor movie nights, and food truck rallies keep the energy high all year long. Whether you’re a newcomer or a longtime resident, Garland’s strong community spirit shines in every gathering.
Garland Events
Whether you're savoring world-class cuisine, enjoying a play at the Plaza Theatre, or taking a sunset walk by the lake, Garland delivers a well-rounded mix of culture, recreation, and hometown pride.
Sports and Recreation
Sport and Recreation
Garland, Texas, is a vibrant community where recreation and active living are an essential part of daily life. Whether you’re a sports lover, fitness enthusiast, or someone who just enjoys being outdoors, Garland offers a wide range of facilities, parks, and programs that cater to all ages and interests.
Local Sports & Major Events
While Garland doesn’t host any major professional sports teams, it sits just minutes from Dallas, home to legendary franchises like the Cowboys, Mavericks, Stars, and Rangers. Closer to home, Garland Independent School District (GISD) powers a strong local sports culture, with competitive high school programs in football, basketball, volleyball, and track drawing community support year-round. The Curtis Culwell Center, a state-of-the-art arena, hosts local tournaments, regional sports competitions, concerts, and family-friendly expos, serving as a dynamic center of athletic and cultural activity.
Curtis Culwell Center
GISD Athletics
Parks, Trails & Outdoor Activities
With over 60 parks and nature areas, Garland provides plenty of green space for outdoor fun. Spring Creek Park Preserve and Duck Creek Greenbelt are favorites for walking, running, and wildlife watching. Families enjoy Audubon Park for its playgrounds and sports fields, while adventure-seekers head to Rowlett Creek Preserve, a top destination for mountain biking. Garland also features dog parks, fishing spots, and splash pads, making it easy to get outside and stay active no matter the season.
Garland Trails & Bikeways
Rowlett Creek Preserve
Community Sports & Fitness
Garland encourages a healthy, active lifestyle through its extensive recreational programs and fitness amenities. The Garland Recreation Centers offer everything from group fitness classes and indoor courts to yoga, martial arts, and wellness programs. Youth and adult leagues for soccer, baseball, flag football, pickleball, and more are offered year-round through the city’s Parks & Recreation Department. Golfers can tee off at Firewheel Golf Park, one of the largest municipal golf courses in Texas, featuring 63 holes of championship-level play across three scenic courses.
Garland Sports
Professional Sports Nearby
Just a short drive from Garland, Dallas is home to some of the most iconic teams in professional sports, making it easy for Garland residents to catch big-league action:
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Dallas Cowboys (NFL) – Based at AT&T Stadium in nearby Arlington, the Cowboys offer a one-of-a-kind game-day experience in one of the most famous stadiums in the world.
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Dallas Mavericks (NBA) – Watch world-class basketball at the American Airlines Center, where the Mavericks play an exciting season of fast-paced NBA action.
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Dallas Stars (NHL) – Also at the American Airlines Center, the Stars deliver thrilling hockey with a strong and loyal fan base.
These teams bring the excitement of national sports close to home, making Garland an ideal location for fans who want suburban comfort with easy access to major events.
AT&T Stadium
American Airlines Center
Whether you're cheering on the Cowboys, skating local trails, or getting fit at a community center, Garland makes it easy to lead a healthy, active lifestyle with something for everyone—backed by the excitement of nearby pro sports and the charm of local recreation.
Adventures
Adventures
Garland, Texas, is more than just a comfortable place to live—it’s a gateway to local discovery, nature-based recreation, and vibrant cultural experiences. Whether you're exploring trails close to home or setting out on a nearby day trip, Garland offers countless ways to satisfy your sense of adventure year-round.
Nature & Outdoor Exploration
Garland is rich in green space and outdoor opportunity. Spring Creek Forest Preserve invites hikers and nature lovers into a protected hardwood forest with scenic trails, rare wildflowers, and educational signage that brings the landscape to life. For cyclists and runners, the Duck Creek Greenbelt and Rowlett Creek Preserve offer paved and wooded trails ideal for staying active or simply enjoying the fresh air.
Families love Audubon Park for its open fields, playgrounds, and shaded picnic areas, while Lake Ray Hubbard, just minutes away, is a favorite destination for boating, fishing, and waterfront sunsets. In every season, Garland's outdoor offerings make it easy to unplug and reconnect with nature.
Garland Parks and Recreation
Spring Creek Forest Preserve
History, Culture & Local Gems
Garland’s roots run deep, and its cultural offerings continue to grow. The Garland Landmark Museum, housed in a historic Santa Fe depot, tells the story of the city’s evolution through curated exhibits and local artifacts. Just blocks away, Downtown Garland is home to colorful murals, public art, and the Granville Arts Center—a hub for live theater, dance, and concerts by local and regional performers.
For art lovers, the Garland Cultural Arts Commission supports galleries and rotating exhibits throughout the city, ensuring there’s always something new to experience. Seasonal events, from live jazz nights to cultural festivals, make the local arts scene accessible, inclusive, and alive year-round.
Garland Landmark Museum
Granville Arts Center
Nearby Day Trips & Regional Exploration
Garland’s central location in the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex makes it an ideal launchpad for day trips:
Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden – A lush urban oasis with lakeside trails and themed gardens.
Perot Museum of Nature and Science – Hands-on exhibits and interactive fun for all ages in downtown Dallas.
Fort Worth Stockyards – Step into Texas history with daily cattle drives, rodeos, and Western charm.
White Rock Lake – Just a short drive from Garland, this popular Dallas park is perfect for kayaking, hiking, and birdwatching.
George W. Bush Presidential Library – Explore American history and presidential archives on the SMU campus.
Dallas Arboretum
Perot Museum
Fort Worth Stockyards
Whether you're paddling on Lake Ray Hubbard, catching a live play downtown, or heading into Dallas for a cultural outing, Garland offers an exciting blend of nature, history, and discovery—perfect for residents and visitors ready to explore.
Seasonal Events
Seasonal Events
Garland, Texas, is a city that celebrates community through every season, offering a dynamic lineup of events that bring neighbors together and showcase the best of local culture, music, food, and traditions. From festive winter parades to sizzling summer concerts and colorful fall celebrations, Garland’s year-round events calendar keeps the city vibrant and connected.
Winter to Spring
Garland kicks off the holiday season with the beloved Christmas on the Square, a dazzling celebration in Downtown Garland featuring a giant tree lighting ceremony, carolers, light displays, and photos with Santa. The square comes alive with holiday cheer, drawing families and visitors from across the region. Indoors, venues like the Granville Arts Center host holiday concerts, plays, and winter ballet performances including The Nutcracker.
As the weather warms, spring brings a burst of activity. The annual Eggstravaganza at Central Park includes egg hunts, games, and live entertainment perfect for kids and families. Garland’s Earth Day celebration promotes sustainability with eco-workshops, plant giveaways, and green living exhibits. Meanwhile, the Garland Symphony Orchestra and local art groups host spring performances that highlight the city’s creative spirit.
Granville Arts Center Events
Garland Events
Summer to Fall
Summer in Garland is packed with music, food, and family fun. The Sounds of Summer Concert Series transforms Downtown Garland into an outdoor stage, offering free live music across genres every Thursday evening. Local parks also host Movies in the Park nights and Pop-Up Rec events, bringing games and activities to neighborhoods across the city.
Garland’s diversity shines in seasonal events like the Garland Grows Multicultural Festival, which celebrates global cultures with performances, food, and community storytelling. In July, Star-Spangled Spectacular lights up the night with fireworks, live music, and patriotic fun for Independence Day.
As temperatures cool, fall arrives with favorites like the Garland Fall Fest, a celebration of harvest season with hayrides, artisan markets, and pumpkin patches. Halloween brings spooky fun to local parks through the Trunk-or-Treat Trail and costume parades, while the Veterans Tribute Ceremony honors local heroes with reverence and pride.
Fall Fest & Guzzler Run 0.5K
From winter lights and springtime egg hunts to summer concerts and fall festivals, Garland delivers unforgettable experiences that reflect its deep community pride, cultural diversity, and Texan warmth—no matter the season.
Community Resources
Garland, Texas, prioritizes the health and wellness of its residents with a wide range of accessible, high-quality medical services. From nationally recognized hospitals to urgent care clinics, mental health providers, and wellness programs, Garland offers comprehensive healthcare options that support every stage of life and every level of care.
Major Hospitals & Medical Centers
Garland is served by a network of major hospitals and medical facilities that provide exceptional care across numerous specialties. At the center is Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Garland, a cornerstone of the community that offers emergency services, surgery, internal medicine, and outpatient care. Known for its patient-centered approach and efficient service, it continues to be a trusted provider for Garland families.
Baylor Scott & White – Garland
Just a short drive away in Dallas, Baylor University Medical Center and Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas provide advanced care including oncology, neurology, cardiology, maternity, and transplant services. These nationally ranked institutions ensure Garland residents have access to some of the most specialized and cutting-edge care in North Texas.
Baylor University Medical Center
Texas Health Dallas
Mental Health & Community Wellness
Garland recognizes mental and emotional well-being as vital to a healthy community. Organizations such as Metrocare Services and LifePath Systems offer a wide range of behavioral health support, including therapy, crisis intervention, and addiction recovery programs.
The Garland Health Department partners with local schools, nonprofits, and clinics to offer wellness education, parenting support, and preventive outreach. Many services are low-cost or income-based, ensuring everyone can access support.
Metrocare Services
Garland Public Health Department
In addition, community centers such as Fields Recreation Center and Holford Recreation Center host wellness programs, mindfulness sessions, and fitness classes to promote whole-body health in a supportive, social environment.
Urgent Care & Preventive Services
For immediate but non-emergency needs, Garland has a wide network of urgent care facilities, including CareNow Urgent Care, MedExpress, and Baylor Scott & White Urgent Care locations. These clinics offer extended hours and same-day appointments for illnesses, minor injuries, and diagnostics.
CareNow Urgent Care
MedExpress
Baylor Scott & White Urgent Care
Preventive care is also a strong focus in Garland, with neighborhood health clinics providing vaccinations, annual checkups, women’s health screenings, and chronic disease management. Community health fairs, flu shot drives, and educational workshops are held throughout the year—often in collaboration with churches, schools, and local businesses.
From high-level specialty care to local wellness resources, Garland’s healthcare network is designed to meet the diverse needs of its residents—empowering every individual and family to live healthier, longer, and more connected lives.
Garland, Texas, is a dynamic and family-focused city with a strong dedication to education and lifelong learning. With excellent public schools, a range of private and charter options, and easy access to major colleges and universities, Garland offers residents an academic environment built for success—whether you're raising young learners, preparing for college, or advancing your career.
Public Schools & Education
Garland is served by Garland Independent School District (GISD)—one of the largest public school districts in Texas. GISD operates more than 70 campuses, including elementary, middle, and high schools, and is known for its innovative "Choice of School" program, which allows families to select the best-fit campus regardless of their address.
The district offers an array of academic pathways including STEM academies, dual-language programs, Advanced Placement (AP), dual credit, and International Baccalaureate (IB) options. High schools like Garland High School, Naaman Forest, Rowlett, and Lakeview Centennial also provide award-winning fine arts, athletics, and career and technical education programs that prepare students for both college and the workforce.
Garland ISD
Private, Charter & Alternative Education
Garland families can also choose from a number of charter, magnet, Montessori, and faith-based schools tailored to diverse learning styles and beliefs. Institutions such as International Leadership of Texas (ILTexas), Garland Christian Academy, and Montessori Children’s House provide smaller class sizes, unique curricula, and a strong emphasis on leadership, values, or individualized learning.
Specialized schools for students with learning differences or developmental needs are also available within the region, supporting inclusive and personalized education for every learner.
ILTexas
Garland Christian Academy
Higher Education Opportunities
While Garland itself doesn’t house a major university, it's ideally located near some of North Texas’s leading colleges and universities. Dallas College – Richland and Eastfield campuses offer affordable associate degrees, workforce certification programs, and flexible course schedules, including online learning.
Just a short drive away are top-tier institutions such as Southern Methodist University (SMU), the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD), and the University of North Texas (UNT). These schools offer a broad spectrum of undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as research and internship opportunities that benefit local students and professionals alike.
Dallas College – Eastfield
Southern Methodist University (SMU)
University of Texas at Dallas (UTD)
University of North Texas (UNT)
Adult & Lifelong Learning
Garland is a city that values lifelong learning and professional growth. The Garland Public Library System provides free resources including digital literacy classes, GED prep, language learning tools, and workforce readiness programs. Local community centers and colleges offer enrichment courses in finance, technology, ESL, creative arts, and more.
For adults looking to pivot careers, boost job skills, or simply expand their knowledge, Garland is connected to a regional ecosystem of continuing education and personal development opportunities.
Garland Public Library
Whether you're guiding your child through school choice, pursuing a degree, or enriching your own skills later in life, Garland offers a well-rounded, accessible, and forward-looking educational environment that encourages lifelong success.
Garland, Texas, is home to a well-organized and responsive network of public services and government agencies, all dedicated to ensuring the safety, convenience, and overall well-being of its residents. Whether you’re a newcomer or have lived here for years, Garland’s public services make life in this vibrant community both secure and connected.
Garland City Government & Public Services
Garland operates under a City Council-Manager form of government, offering essential services through a range of well-coordinated departments. The Garland Police Department is committed to ensuring public safety, with a focus on community policing, crime prevention, and emergency response. The department works closely with the Garland Fire Department, which provides fire suppression, emergency medical services (EMS), and fire safety education programs to keep residents safe.
Additionally, the Garland Public Works Department manages critical infrastructure such as roads, stormwater systems, and public facilities. It also oversees seasonal services, including street maintenance and neighborhood cleanups. Waste and recycling services are provided by Republic Services, offering convenient curbside pickup and eco-friendly waste management options.
Garland Police Department
Garland Fire Department
Garland Utility Customer Service
Republic Services
Weather
Garland enjoys a mild and sunny climate, typical of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, making it ideal for year-round outdoor activities. Summers are warm with highs often reaching the low 90s°F, perfect for enjoying local parks and outdoor events. Winters are mild, with average lows in the 40s°F, making it comfortable for exploring the city. Spring and fall bring beautiful weather, with colorful blooms and perfect conditions for festivals, nature walks, and family outings.
With abundant sunshine and mild winters, Garland’s climate makes it an ideal place to live and enjoy all kinds of activities.
Garland Weather Forecast
Transportation
Garland is strategically located in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, providing residents with easy access to regional travel and commuting. The city is well-served by major highways, including I-30, I-635, and President George Bush Turnpike, making daily commutes, business trips, and weekend getaways convenient. Garland also has a well-developed DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) system, including bus and light rail routes, which provides public transportation throughout the region. For air travel, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL) are both just a short drive away, offering a wide variety of domestic and international flights.
DART Bus & Rail Service
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL)
Garland’s efficient infrastructure, convenient transportation, and dependable public services make it a city that’s both connected and accessible. Whether you’re commuting to work, exploring the area, or simply enjoying life in your neighborhood, Garland ensures a seamless living experience.
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