Arlington, TX: Your Ultimate Handbook to Living and Thriving
Nestled between the bustling metropolises of Dallas and Fort Worth, Arlington, Texas serves as a vibrant hub for culture, education, and entertainment in the Lone Star State. As the seventh-most populous city in Texas, Arlington boasts an array of amenities that appeal to both local residents and visitors alike. From being the home of renowned sports teams and a major research university to offering an extensive range of job opportunities and recreational activities, Arlington emerges as a dynamic locale that perfectly blends urban sophistication with Texan charm.
About Arlington Texas
Arlington, Texas, is a thriving city situated in the heart of Tarrant County, part of the larger Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metropolitan statistical area. It stands as the third-largest city in the metroplex and the seventh-largest in Texas, characterized by its diverse population and multifaceted attractions. Home to the University of Texas at Arlington, a major urban research university, as well as key facilities like the General Motors Arlington Assembly Plant, the city is an important locus for both education and industry. Additionally, Arlington is a mecca for sports enthusiasts and thrill-seekers, hosting the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field, the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium, and boasting theme parks like Six Flags Over Texas and Hurricane Harbor.
The surrounding areas complement Arlington’s bustling vibe, adding depth to the overall regional experience. Nearby cities like Grand Prairie, Mansfield, and Kennedale offer their own unique attractions, from outdoor adventures to cultural venues. Further afield, Dallas and Fort Worth each bring their own blend of Texan style and cosmopolitan allure, with world-class museums, performing arts centers, and vibrant downtowns. For those looking to explore more of what North Texas has to offer, Arlington serves as an ideal base, providing quick access to the region’s best features.
Arlington History
The history of Arlington, Texas, traces back to the 1840s, following a battle between Texas General Edward H. Tarrant and Native Americans of the Village Creek settlement. A trading post was established at Marrow Bone Spring in the area that would later become Arlington. Founded formally in 1876 along the Texas and Pacific Railway, the city was named after General Robert E. Lee’s Arlington House in Virginia. Over the years, it grew as a center for cotton ginning and farming, gaining city incorporation in 1884. By 1910, Arlington had modern amenities such as water, electricity, natural gas, and a public school system.
Significant shifts in Arlington’s history occurred in the 20th century, reflecting broader changes in American society. The city experienced massive growth between 1950 and 1990, becoming one of the nation’s fastest-growing suburbs, or “boomburbs,” during the post-World War II era. This period was marked by large-scale industrialization, especially with the arrival of a General Motors assembly plant in 1954. The population skyrocketed from 7,692 in 1950 to nearly 374,000 by 2011, making Arlington a central hub in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area.
Why People Love Arlington Texas
Many residents and visitors appreciate Arlington, Texas, for its blend of urban amenities and community spirit. The city is home to numerous attractions such as the original Six Flags Over Texas amusement park, AT&T Stadium where the Dallas Cowboys play, and Globe Life Field, the home ground for the Texas Rangers. Whether you’re a sports fan, a thrill-seeker, or someone who enjoys quality time in green spaces, Arlington offers a diverse range of activities. Additionally, the city boasts a number of higher educational institutions, including the University of Texas at Arlington, contributing to a vibrant, youthful atmosphere.
Arlington is also praised for its affordability, particularly in comparison to other cities in the United States. With median house prices and living costs that are generally below the national average, the city offers a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. Residents enjoy a dense suburban feel, where most own their homes, along with plenty of coffee shops, parks, and public schools that are above average. The city’s median household income is higher than the national average, and the area is home to thriving industries such as automotive manufacturing, healthcare, and education.
The Best Time to Visit Arlington Texas
The best time to visit Arlington, Texas, largely depends on what you’re looking to get out of your trip. For sports enthusiasts, the fall brings the thrill of football season with the Dallas Cowboys playing at AT&T Stadium, while the spring and summer months are perfect for catching a Texas Rangers baseball game at Globe Life Field. The weather is typically warm from late spring through early fall, providing ample opportunity to visit outdoor attractions like Six Flags Over Texas and Hurricane Harbor, which usually operate from late March to October.
If you’re not a fan of Texas’ hot summer temperatures, which can climb into the 90s and even reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit, consider visiting during the cooler months. Fall and spring offer milder weather, perfect for exploring the city’s parks or taking a leisurely walk around the University of Texas at Arlington campus. These seasons also provide a backdrop for various festivals and events, such as the annual Texas State Fair held in nearby Dallas, which makes for a memorable day trip.
Top 10 Benefits of Living in Arlington Texas
- Affordable Housing: Compared to other U.S. cities, Arlington offers relatively affordable housing options, making it accessible for a wide range of income levels.
- Sports and Entertainment: The city is a hub for sports enthusiasts, hosting the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium and the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field.
- Educational Opportunities: With institutions like the University of Texas at Arlington, the city offers excellent higher education options.
- Strong Economy: Arlington has a robust local economy fueled by various industries including automotive manufacturing, healthcare, and education.
- Family-Friendly: Numerous public parks, good schools, and family-oriented activities make Arlington a great place for families to settle.
- Diverse Leisure Activities: From thrill rides at Six Flags Over Texas to cooling off at Hurricane Harbor, there’s no shortage of recreational opportunities.
- Central Location: Arlington’s location between Dallas and Fort Worth allows easy access to the amenities of both cities while maintaining its own unique local culture.
- Vibrant Community: Various events, cultural festivals, and community activities contribute to a lively and engaging local social scene.
- Employment Opportunities: The presence of major employers like General Motors and Texas Health Resources provides various job opportunities.
- Accessibility: Arlington’s well-planned infrastructure and proximity to major highways make commuting and traveling relatively hassle-free.
Arlington Texas Geography
Arlington, Texas is situated in Tarrant County and is part of the Dallas–Fort Worth–Arlington metropolitan area. The latitude and longitude coordinates for Arlington are approximately 32.7357° N, 97.1081° W. The city lies about 12 miles east of downtown Fort Worth and 20 miles west of downtown Dallas. Arlington covers a total area of 99.7 square miles, of which 96.5 square miles is land and 3.2 square miles is water. The elevation of Arlington varies but is generally around 604 feet above sea level.
The city’s terrain is mostly flat to gently rolling hills. Johnson Creek, a tributary of the Trinity River, flows through the city. Additionally, the Trinity River itself passes through parts of Arlington. The city borders several other communities including Kennedale, Grand Prairie, Mansfield, and Fort Worth, and completely surrounds the smaller communities of Dalworthington Gardens and Pantego.
