University Park, TX Community Guide: SMU, Parks & Homes

University Park at a glance

University Park is a residential city just north of Highland Park and a few miles from downtown Dallas. It is home to Southern Methodist University (SMU) and the George W. Bush Presidential Center on SMU’s campus. Neighborhood parks, Snider Plaza, and quick access to US-75 and the Dallas North Tollway shape daily life.

Like Highland Park, many University Park homes use a “Dallas” mailing address while sitting inside University Park’s city limits.

CountyDallas County

RegionPark Cities, north of downtown Dallas

Major roadsUS-75, Dallas North Tollway, Northwest Highway, Mockingbird Lane, Lovers Lane

TransitDART member city (voters chose to stay in May 2026)

UniversitySouthern Methodist University (SMU)

School districtHighland Park ISD

Areas to explore

Around SMU

Homes, student housing, and the university’s campus, including the George W. Bush Presidential Center.

Snider Plaza area

Residential streets near a walkable cluster of local shops and restaurants next to SMU.

Near Curtis Park and Lovers Lane

Established neighborhoods around the city’s parks along Lovers Lane.

Northern University Park

Residential streets toward Northwest Highway, close to shopping and the Tollway.

Housing market

Market data: August 2026Page reviewed: October 2026

Typical home value · August 2026$2,472,652Up 8.6% from August 2025 ($2,276,187)

Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) for the city of University Park: a model estimate of the typical home value for single-family homes and condos in the middle third of values, smoothed and seasonally adjusted. It is not a median sale price or list price. Source: Zillow Research data.

University Park is primarily single-family, with established homes and many newer homes built on redeveloped lots. Near SMU, you’ll also find rental housing used by students and staff. Inventory is limited and values vary by lot size, location, and whether a home is original or newly built. The citywide figure below reflects a relatively small number of sales, so compare individual comparable sales.

Parks, recreation & things to do

University Park’s parks are neighborhood-scale; SMU adds cultural and sporting events.

In University ParkGeorge W. Bush Presidential Center — The presidential library and museum of George W. Bush, opened in 2013 on the SMU campus.
In University ParkSouthern Methodist University — Campus events, athletics, and arts performances open to the public at various times.
In University ParkCurtis Park — A city park on Lovers Lane with lighted tennis courts and a fishing pond.
Nearby · DallasKlyde Warren Park and the Katy Trail — Larger urban parks and trails a short drive south.

Dining, shopping & culture

In University ParkSnider Plaza — A cluster of boutiques, local restaurants, and a grocery store next to SMU.
Nearby · Highland ParkHighland Park Village — An upscale shopping center at Mockingbird Lane and Preston Road.
Nearby · DallasMockingbird Station — Shops and restaurants built around the DART station just east of the city.

Getting around

Major routes include US-75 (Central Expressway), the Dallas North Tollway, Northwest Highway, Mockingbird Lane, and Lovers Lane.
University Park voters chose to remain in DART in a May 2, 2026 election. The SMU/Mockingbird DART light rail station sits just east of the city in Dallas.
Dallas Love Field is a short drive west, and downtown Dallas is a few miles south.

Schools

Highland Park ISD serves University Park, along with the Town of Highland Park and a small part of Dallas.

Highland Park ISD

School assignments depend on the exact property address and can change. Confirm the district and assigned campuses with the district before you make an offer or sign a lease.

Frequently asked questions

Is SMU in Dallas or University Park?

SMU’s campus is in University Park, although its mailing address uses Dallas.

Is University Park a DART city?

Yes. Voters chose to remain in DART in May 2026. The nearest light rail station, SMU/Mockingbird, is just east of the city.

Which school district serves University Park?

Highland Park ISD. Confirm campus assignments for the specific address with the district.

Are there rentals near SMU?

Yes, rental housing near campus is common. Lease terms, parking, and city occupancy rules are worth reviewing carefully.

Keep exploring

Local guideLiving in University Park, Texas: SMU, Snider Plaza, and Park Cities HousingDaily life around SMU, the Park Cities housing market, and what to check before you move. Nearby communityHighland ParkA small residential town with Turtle Creek parks and historic Highland Park Village. Nearby communityDallasThe region’s urban core: high-rises, historic districts, lakes, and the widest choice of homes. DirectoryAll 30 DFW communitiesCompare areas by region across Dallas–Fort Worth.

Planning a move? Start with our home buying guide, home selling guide, or rental guide.

Sources

Information is provided for general guidance and was reviewed in October 2026. Attractions, businesses, transit service, and school boundaries change; confirm details with the official sources linked above. Clever Realtors is a virtual brokerage serving Dallas–Fort Worth.