Oak Lawn Real Estate in Dallas, Texas

Situated between the Dallas North toll way and I-75, Oak Lawn is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in Dallas, Texas. The majority of this neighborhood is located in Hyland Park, which is south of University Park. Homes on the north end of the area are more expensive with plenty of space, while homes on the south end are much cheaper and might be in need of expensive repairs.

Oak Lawn encompasses a total area of about twelve square miles and is known for its prevalence of restaurants and bars. Much of Oak Lawn is middle- to upper-class families who enjoy living close to downtown Dallas while still retaining a suburban atmosphere. In the last decade, renovations of older homes and the creation of new houses, duplexes and condominiums has raised the value of real estate here.

Victorian, Mediterranean and Spanish architecture are common in Oak Lawn, particularly in the more opulent areas of Turtle Creek. Cultural diversity and “artsy” areas of this neighborhood bring in a sundry array of residents, and there are plenty of historical landmarks and beautiful parks to draw young families into this neck of the woods.

Restorations of older homes start in the mid-eighties and continued well into the late nineties. You’ll find homes that have risen in value by more than $100,000 thanks to repairs and new additions that create a more modern air to the neighborhood. You’ll also find older homes that have not been renovated in recent years, which means that those with limited budgets can also find real estate in Oak Lawn.

As mentioned above, the affluence of Oak Lawn increases as you drive farther north. Crime rates are lower in the Highland Park and University Park areas, while “urban vitality” is the best way to describe the south. Prices for Oak Lawn real estate range from under $100,000 to more than $1 million, depending on the specific area.

In the last few years, Oak Lawn real estate has suffered (or thrived, depending on how you look at it) from the subprime meltdown that has affected the rest of the world. An increasing number of homes—particularly those in the 100s and 200s—have been subjected to foreclosure, which means that buyers are benefiting from great deals on real estate.

Much like Alphabet City in New York, Oak Lawn was Dallas’ “Mecca” for gay and lesbian AIDS victims in the 1980s, then experienced a period of gentrification in the early 1990s. Today, it is still considered a haven for artists, writers, musicians and other creative individuals, as well as architects and landscape artists. The culture of Oak Lawn is one of cultural diversity and respect, which is evinced by its diverse demographics.

Currently, the Hispanic population is much higher than in other areas of Dallas, and Spanish and Mexican bars and restaurants can be found on every corner. Many Hispanic business owners have lived in Oak Lawn for many decades and have passed their homes and business ventures down to their children and grandchildren.

The school districts are considered extremely good in Oak Lawn, particularly for children interested in music and sports. The Academy programs are popular and part of the Dallas I.S.D. system, which gives gifted kids an opportunity to thrive without the cost of private school.

If you are considering moving to Oak Lawn, it is best to drive the streets to get an idea for the look and feel of homes. You will find a wide variety of architecture and amenities, so research is necessary to find the ideal home. Townhouses and condominiums are popular with singles and families alike, particularly in the Turtle Creek high-rises that were built in the late ‘90s.