Cedar Hill, Texas

Dallas County · Southwest DFW · Joe Pool Lake

Living in Cedar Hill, Texas

The complete family relocation guide, schools, neighborhoods, taxes, commutes, and everything else you need to decide.

~48.5K Population ACS 2023 · Dallas County
~$346K Median SFR Price See live listings ↗ · NTREIS
C School Rating Cedar Hill ISD · Niche 2025
~25 min To Downtown Dallas via US-67 N · no traffic
~2.14% Base Tax Rate per $100 · Dallas County (2024)
C+ Safety Grade Niche Crime & Safety 2025
Family Score
69  /100
Affordability Score
89  /100
Niche.com City Grades · 2025

Family Score = schools (35%) + safety (30%) + community (10%) + commute (15%) + market stability (10%), normalized 0–100 for readability · Affordability Score = price-to-income ratio + school quality per dollar + price vs. metro avg · Sub-scores on a 0–10 scale · Niche grades refreshed annually each fall

Kristen Carpentier, DFW Family Relocation Specialist
"Cedar Hill is the suburb that surprises people the most. They come in expecting a compromise, affordable but nothing special, and then they discover Cedar Hill State Park, Joe Pool Lake, and a community with real character. For families who want outdoor space, a manageable commute to Dallas, and a home they can actually afford, Cedar Hill deserves a serious look."

Kristen Carpentier is a licensed Texas Realtor® and DFW family relocation specialist, brokered by eXp Realty. She's a mom of four and has helped hundreds of families, mostly relocating from California, New York, and Illinois, find their right suburb and the right school district before ever stepping foot in a home.

(602) 405-4115  ·  Kristen@whymovetodallas.com  ·  TREC #760457

$91K
Median Income
38%
HH w/ Kids
35 yrs
Median Age
69%
Owner Occupied
31%
Bachelor's+
15%
Work From Home
32 min
Median Commute

U.S. Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates, 2023


Getting Your Bearings

Where Is Cedar Hill, Texas?

Cedar Hill sits in the southwest quadrant of the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex, about 19 miles from Downtown Dallas via US-67 North. It's perched on some of the highest terrain in the DFW area, around 800 feet elevation, which gives it rolling hills, cedar-covered ridgelines, and views you simply don't get in the flatlands north of the city. The city hugs the western edge of Joe Pool Lake and is bordered by Grand Prairie to the north, Duncanville to the northeast, and the more rural Ellis County communities to the south.

The primary arteries are US Highway 67 (running northwest into Dallas and southeast toward Midlothian) and Interstate 20, which cuts across the northern edge of Cedar Hill and connects west to Fort Worth and east toward Dallas. US-67 is the daily commute route for most Cedar Hill residents, it feeds directly into Downtown Dallas, and from I-20 you can reach Las Colinas, DFW Airport, and Grand Prairie in 20–30 minutes. One honest note: US-67 does not have HOV lanes, and peak-hour traffic on the Dallas-bound segment can stack up. If your role puts you in Downtown Dallas between 7:30–9 AM, plan for 35–45 minutes on tough mornings.

Commute Times from Central Cedar Hill

Downtown Dallas 25–35 min ~19 miles · Via US-67 N, AT&T, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan; add 10–15 min during morning rush
DFW Airport 30–40 min ~26 miles · Via I-20 W to SH-360 N, accessible without entering Dallas proper; AA crews and frequent flyers do this run daily
Fort Worth (Downtown) 35–45 min ~30 miles · Via I-20 W, BNSF, Alcon, Pier 1 (Legacy); solid commute for Fort Worth employers
Grand Prairie / Arlington 18–25 min ~14 miles · Via I-20 W, Bell Textron, GM Arlington Assembly, Amazon fulfillment; the closest major employment corridor
Las Colinas / Irving 25–30 min ~22 miles · Via I-20 W to SH-183 W, Celanese, Fluor, Kimberly-Clark HQ, Freeport-McMoRan
Plano / Legacy West 40–50 min ~38 miles · Via US-67 N to I-635/Bush Tollway, Toyota, Liberty Mutual, JPMorgan; toll road eases congestion
Frisco / The Star 55–65 min ~52 miles · Via US-67/I-35E N, T-Mobile, Keurig Dr Pepper; honest drive, best for remote-hybrid workers
Midlothian / Waxahachie 20–28 min ~18 miles · Via US-67 S, Nucor Steel, Ennis ISD medical corridor; useful for families with Ellis County employment
Transit reality: Cedar Hill has no DART light rail service. The closest DART rail stations are in Dallas (around the Bishop Arts/Westmoreland area), accessible via park-and-ride connections, but a personal vehicle is essential for daily life. Budget for two cars if you have a two-adult household. The city does have a local shuttle (Cedar Hill CityLink) for limited routes, but it is not a commuter transit solution.

Education

Cedar Hill ISD: Schools Deep Dive

Cedar Hill ISD is a mid-sized district serving roughly 6,900 students across 13 campuses. The district carries a C overall rating from Niche and a TEA accountability score of 74 out of 100 (C) in 2025, up from 71 the year before. That score is honest: this is not one of the top-rated ISDs in DFW, and families moving from highly-rated districts should know that going in. What the ratings don't fully capture is the district's standout collegiate pathway, a specialized program that allows motivated students to earn up to 60 college credit hours, or an associate's degree, before graduating from high school. For families who have a student ready to take advantage of that kind of opportunity, Cedar Hill ISD offers something genuinely exceptional. For families with younger kids just looking for solid fundamentals, it's a working-class community district doing its best in a challenging environment.

TEA Rating
C
74 / 100 (2025)
Niche Grade
C
Overall (2025)
GreatSchools
Below Average
District summary
College Prep
B
Niche College Prep Grade

13 Campuses

7 elementary schools, 3 middle schools (including the Collegiate Academy), and 3 high schools. Enrollment: ~6,900 students district-wide.

Collegiate Pathway

Admitted students can earn up to 60 college credit hours, or an associate's degree, through Dallas College before graduation. 11th and 12th graders attend Cedar Valley College full-time.

Verify Your Zone

Not every Cedar Hill address feeds the same schools. Feeder patterns matter here. Always verify your specific address at chisd.net before making an offer.

Top Campuses in Cedar Hill ISD

Campus Level GreatSchools Known For
Cedar Hill Collegiate High School 9–12 7/10 Dual-enrollment pathway; up to 60 college credit hrs before graduation; full-time college attendance in 11th–12th grade at Cedar Valley College
Cedar Hill High School 9–12 3/10 Traditional comprehensive HS; AP courses, Project Lead The Way, Gifted & Talented; serves ~2,075 students
Cedar Hill Collegiate Academy 6–8 5/10 Application-based middle school feeder for Collegiate High; accelerated pre-AP instruction; ~295 students
Cedar Hill Collegiate Prep K–5 7/10 Above average elementary; ranked 624/4,651 TX elementaries; gifted & talented program; feeder into Collegiate Academy
High Pointe Elementary K–5 4/10 Neighborhood elementary in High Pointe community; 487 students; serves the Lake Ridge area corridor
Kristen's advice: The biggest thing to understand about Cedar Hill ISD is the split between the standard track and the collegiate pathway. If you have a motivated, academically-driven middle schooler who can get into the Collegiate Academy, the outcome at the far end, an associate's degree before high school graduation, is remarkable. But placement is competitive and application-based. For families with younger kids, Cedar Hill Collegiate Prep is genuinely strong. For everyone else, manage your expectations on district-wide ratings and verify feeder patterns with me before you write an offer. Use Cedar Hill ISD's Attendance Zone information or call me — I check this on every offer I write.

Compare Cedar Hill ISD vs. All 36 DFW Districts →

Niche Category Grades: Cedar Hill ISD

Academics C+ College Prep B Good for Families B+ Teachers C+ Resources C Diversity A Sports B-

Source: Niche.com — Cedar Hill ISD Profile (2025)


Where to Live

Best Neighborhoods in Cedar Hill for Families

Cedar Hill's geography, rolling hills, lakefront terrain, and established suburbs blending into newer development, creates real variety in what's available. Lake Ridge is in a class by itself for outdoor access and custom-home character. High Pointe is the go-to for families who want a traditional suburban neighborhood at a practical price point. Newer communities near US-67 cater to buyers looking for modern finishes without the premium of north DFW suburbs.

Search Current Cedar Hill Listings →

$350K–$1.2M+ · Lakeside Master-Planned

Lake Ridge

Cedar Hill's most distinctive neighborhood, a 3,400-acre lakeside community overlooking Joe Pool Lake. Seven gated sub-communities, 1,200+ custom homes, a golf course, stocked fishing pond, sport courts, and direct access to DORBA mountain bike trails and the lake. This is where buyers come when they want space, privacy, and lake country living without leaving DFW. Prices range widely by lot and view, entry-level custom homes start around $350K, with lakefront estates topping $1M+.

Joe Pool Lake ViewsGolf CourseGated OptionsCedar Hill ISD
$280K–$420K · Established Family

High Pointe

High Pointe is Cedar Hill's signature family neighborhood, an established community with mature trees, cul-de-sacs, and the feel of a place where kids actually play outside. It feeds High Pointe Elementary and sits on the southeast side of Cedar Hill close to the lake corridor. Homes here are predominantly 1990s–2000s builds with brick exteriors, larger lots than you'd find in comparable price-point suburbs north of Dallas, and active neighborhood HOA events through the year.

Mature TreesCul-de-sacsNear Joe Pool LakeCedar Hill ISD
$320K–$550K · Newer Custom Builds

The Hills of Lake Ridge

A newer development in the Lake Ridge area, The Hills offers larger lots on the elevated terrain that Cedar Hill is known for. Homes here were built predominantly in the 2000s–2010s and offer more square footage than many same-priced suburbs. The lake is nearby but not within walking distance, you're buying the land and the peace, with quick access to Cedar Hill State Park trails and Joe Pool Lake boat ramps a few minutes away.

Larger LotsHill Country FeelNear State ParkCedar Hill ISD
$230K–$360K · Central / Near Uptown Village

Beltway Park & Central Cedar Hill

The neighborhoods surrounding Uptown Village, Cedar Hill's main commercial corridor, offer the city's most walkable experience and the most accessible price points. These are established 1980s–2000s subdivisions with solid bones, reasonable lot sizes, and quick access to Walmart, Target, and the restaurants and services along US-67. Commutes are straightforward. This is where first-time buyers and value-focused families tend to land.

Walkable to ShoppingEstablishedStrong ValueCedar Hill ISD
$380K–$600K · New Construction

First Texas Homes Communities

First Texas Homes builds new construction in Cedar Hill starting in the low $400s, among the more affordable new-build options in the Dallas metro. These are traditional suburban floorplans (1,800–3,500 sq ft) with modern finishes, energy-efficient construction, and builder warranties. If you want new without paying Frisco or Prosper prices, this is worth the look. Always verify whether MUD or PID assessments apply to the specific lot before making an offer.

New ConstructionFrom Low $400sBuilder WarrantyCedar Hill ISD

Not seeing what you're looking for? These are the neighborhoods I recommend most, but Cedar Hill has more to offer. Tell me your must-haves and I'll match you to the right streets.


Market & Money

Cost of Living: Cedar Hill vs. Where You're Coming From

Most of my clients come from California, New York, or Illinois. Here's the comparison they need before they decide.

Category San Francisco Bay Area New York Metro Chicago Suburbs Cedar Hill, TX
Median Home Price ~$1.3M ~$750K–$1.1M ~$380K–$550K ~$346K
State Income Tax 9.3%+ (up to 13.3%) 4–6.85% state + NYC tax 4.95% flat $0, No state income tax
Property Tax Rate ~1.1–1.2% (Prop 13 capped) ~1.5–2.5% ~2.0–3.5% ~2.14% per $100
Property Tax on $346K Home ~$3,800–$4,200/yr (Prop 13) ~$5,200–$8,600/yr ~$6,900–$12,100/yr ~$5,100–$7,400/yr
Avg. Tax Burden ~13–16% of income ~14–17% of income ~11–14% of income ~7–9% of income (no income tax)
School Quality Highly variable by zip Highly variable by zip Strong suburban ISDs Cedar Hill ISD · C (Collegiate Pathway: B+)
Avg. Commute 45–90+ min 45–90+ min 40–70+ min 25–35 min to Dallas core
The California math: A family earning $250,000 in California pays roughly $23,000+ in state income tax. In Texas, that's $0. Even with Cedar Hill's combined ~2.14% property tax rate, most California families come out $15,000–$25,000 ahead annually on a $346K home, and that's before accounting for the enormous difference in purchase price. The home that costs $1.3M in the Bay Area costs $346K here. That math is hard to argue with.

Property Tax Breakdown: Cedar Hill (Dallas County)

Taxing EntityRate per $100On $346K HomeNotes
Cedar Hill ISD~$1.1906~$4,120/yrM&O + I&S combined; TEA C-rated district; rising accountability score (74/100 in 2025)
City of Cedar Hill~$0.6365~$2,202/yrFunds city services, roads, parks; FY25 adopted rate
Dallas County~$0.2248~$778/yrCounty services and hospital district
Dallas College (Mountain View)~$0.0940~$325/yrCommunity college district assessment
Base Total~$2.145~$7,422/yrWithout homestead exemption or MUD/PID
With Homestead Exemption-~$5,280/yrTexas $100K homestead exemption reduces taxable value significantly
+ MUD/PID (new construction)+$0.30–$0.80+$1,000–$2,700/yrNew construction communities only, always verify before purchase

Rates are 2024 certified. Note: a small portion of Cedar Hill is in Ellis County, rates differ. Always confirm current rates and any special district assessments for a specific address. Source: Texas Comptroller.

Work & Economy

Major Employers: Cedar Hill & Nearby

Cedar Hill's economy is anchored by education, healthcare, government, and retail services. Most residents with professional roles commute north toward Dallas or west toward Grand Prairie and Arlington, both corridors are well-served by US-67 and I-20. The 18–35 minute drive to major employment hubs is manageable by DFW standards.

In Cedar Hill

EmployerIndustry
Cedar Hill ISDK–12 Education (~2,500+ employees)
City of Cedar HillMunicipal Government
Methodist Charlton Medical (clinics)Healthcare
HCA North Texas (clinics)Healthcare
Walmart SupercenterRetail
Target / Home Depot / Lowe'sRetail
Hillside VillageRetail / Services
Uptown Village at Cedar HillRetail / Dining

Dallas & Grand Prairie Corridor (18–35 min)

EmployerIndustry
AT&T (Dallas HQ)Telecommunications
JPMorgan Chase (Southwest campus)Financial Services
Kimberly-ClarkConsumer Products (Irving)
Fluor CorporationEngineering (Irving)
Bell TextronAerospace (Fort Worth)
Lockheed MartinDefense (Fort Worth)
City of DallasGovernment / Public Safety
Dallas ISD / Dallas CountyEducation / Government
Commute reality: Cedar Hill's position on US-67 makes it a practical base for workers heading to downtown Dallas (25–30 min off-peak), Grand Prairie, Arlington, and the DFW Airport corridor. If you're in aerospace or defense, the drive to Bell Textron or Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth runs 35–45 minutes via I-20 West, manageable, but plan around traffic windows. Cedar Hill is not well-positioned for Frisco or Legacy West without a long reverse commute.

Family Life

What Life Actually Looks Like in Cedar Hill

Active Youth Athletics

Cedar Hill Youth Association and the city's Parks & Rec program run strong baseball, softball, soccer, and basketball leagues for kids of all ages. The district's varsity programs are competitive at the Class 6A level, especially football where the Longhorns are a perennial playoff team. Travel league families will find club options within a 20-minute drive toward Grand Prairie or Mansfield.

Joe Pool Lake: Your Backyard

Joe Pool Lake sits on Cedar Hill's western edge, a 7,470-acre Corps of Engineers reservoir with two beach areas, boat ramps, campgrounds, and multi-use trails. For a family moving from coastal California, having a major lake within 10 minutes of home is a real quality-of-life upgrade. Cedar Hill State Park sits right on the lake's shore and is one of the most-visited state parks in Texas.

Shopping & Dining

Hillside Village and Uptown Village at Cedar Hill are the city's main retail anchors, Target, Home Depot, major grocery stores, and casual dining. For wider restaurant variety or a weekend dinner out, Grand Prairie, Arlington, or Mansfield are 15–25 minutes away. The city is building commercial density, but it's not there yet for a foodie crowd.

Community Events & Culture

Cedar Hill celebrates its identity through a Parade of Lights, summer concerts at the city amphitheater, the Cedar Hill Cultural Arts Center, and a seasonal farmers market. The Cedar Hill Civic Chorale performs locally, and the community garden draws regular participants. Residents describe a city that takes its local identity seriously, people are proud to call Cedar Hill home.

Cedar Hill State Park: A Rare Asset

1,826 acres of cedar, oak, and tallgrass prairie right on Joe Pool Lake, with 9+ miles of mountain bike trails (Penn Farm Trail is a local favorite), camping with full hookups, fishing piers, and swim areas. Most DFW suburbs have city parks. Cedar Hill has a full state park within the city limits. For outdoor families, that's genuinely hard to match at this price point.

Established, Diverse & Rooted

Cedar Hill has one of the most genuinely diverse communities in DFW, a majority-Black city with strong owner-occupied housing rates (69%). Long-term residents, deep neighborhood pride, and a community identity that goes well beyond a master-planned HOA. Families who move here often describe finding a warm, stable community where people have lived for decades.

Honest tradeoff: Cedar Hill doesn't have a walkable "main street" or town square scene, there's no downtown district with coffee shops and weekend foot traffic like you'd find in Grapevine or McKinney. Entertainment and dining variety require driving, usually 15–20 minutes to Grand Prairie, Mansfield, or Arlington. If a vibrant walkable urban core is important to your lifestyle, Cedar Hill isn't the answer. But if Joe Pool Lake, outdoor recreation, and a stable, diverse community matter more, it more than holds its own.

Getting Outside

Recreation, Walkability & City Amenities

Cedar Hill is a car-dependent suburb, a personal vehicle is not optional here. There's no DART rail service, no light rail, and limited bus coverage. What Cedar Hill compensates with is outdoor recreation that most Dallas suburbs can't match: a state park, a major lake, and a trail network that gives active families real options without driving to another city.

Walkability & Transportation Scores

68
Walk Score®
Somewhat walkable near the Hillside Village corridor, the highest-scoring part of the city. Most residential neighborhoods require a car for daily errands.
52
Bike Score®
Bikeable within parks and trail corridors, Cedar Hill State Park's trail network is excellent for recreational cycling. Road cycling to errands is less practical.
N/A
Transit Score®
No DART rail service. Limited DART bus routes serve select corridors. A personal vehicle is essential for all practical purposes.

Scores reflect the city's most walkable core and vary significantly by address. Source: Walk Score® Walk Score

Parks, Trails & Green Space

Cedar Hill's parks system is anchored by two crown jewels: Cedar Hill State Park and Joe Pool Lake. The city maintains over 20 parks and recreation areas, with the state park alone adding 1,826 acres of protected land and 9+ miles of trails. For a suburb of 48,000 residents, that's exceptional green space access.

Cedar Hill State Park

1,826 acres on Joe Pool Lake's southeast shore. 9+ miles of mountain bike and multi-use trails (Penn Farm Trail is the flagship), camping with full hookups, fishing piers, and swim areas. One of the most-visited state parks in Texas, day use fee applies; annual Texas State Park pass pays for itself fast for active families.

Joe Pool Lake

7,470 acres of water managed by the Army Corps of Engineers. Lynn Creek Marina, two public boat ramps, sandy swim beaches, and picnic areas. Kayaking, sailing, fishing, and jet skiing are popular. The lake borders Grand Prairie and Arlington, the surrounding regional trail network connects multiple cities.

Longbranch Park

One of Cedar Hill's busiest community parks, playgrounds, sports fields, a splash pad, pavilions, and picnic areas. Popular for youth league games and family gatherings. Located near central Cedar Hill with easy neighborhood access.

High Pointe Park

A neighborhood-scale park serving the High Pointe community with walking paths, open green space, and a playground. Less busy than Longbranch, good for families who want a quieter outdoor option within walking distance of their neighborhood.

Veterans Memorial Park

A well-maintained community park with athletic fields, pavilions, a walking trail, and a veterans memorial monument. Hosts organized youth sports leagues seasonally. Good baseline park for south Cedar Hill neighborhoods.

Valley Ridge Sports Complex

Multi-field sports complex supporting youth baseball, softball, and soccer leagues. The primary home for Cedar Hill Youth Association programming. Lit fields for evening games. Heavily used during spring and fall league seasons.

City Recreation Centers & Facilities

FacilityWhat's InsideNotes
Cedar Hill Recreation CenterFitness center, gymnasium, aerobics studio, weight room, locker roomsCity-operated; affordable annual memberships available
Cedar Hill Senior CenterActivity rooms, fitness classes, social programs, lunch servicesFull programming calendar for 55+ residents
Cedar Hill Public LibraryBooks, digital resources, children's programming, teen center, computer labActive summer reading programs; story time for young children
Cedar Hill Cultural Arts CenterTheater performances, art exhibitions, community events, classesHome to Cedar Hill Civic Chorale and performing arts events
Amphitheater at Cedar HillOutdoor performance space, seasonal concerts, community eventsFree summer concert series; family-friendly programming

Youth Sports & Organized Recreation

Cedar Hill's youth sports scene is solid for a suburb its size, city-run leagues through Parks & Rec cover the core sports, and Cedar Hill ISD's varsity programs are competitive at the 6A level. The travel league scene is accessible but requires driving to Grand Prairie or Mansfield for most specialized clubs. This is a community where youth athletics and outdoor recreation are valued, even if the total infrastructure isn't at the scale of Frisco or Allen.

Youth Soccer Youth Baseball / Softball Basketball Leagues Youth Flag Football ISD Swim Programs Mountain Biking (State Park) Fishing & Boating (Joe Pool Lake) Gymnastics Programs City Tennis Programs
Parent reality check: Cedar Hill's outdoor recreation is genuinely exceptional, Cedar Hill State Park and Joe Pool Lake give active families options that most North DFW suburbs simply don't have. The youth sports infrastructure is solid but not overwhelming; serious club travel sports are a 15–20 minute drive away. What Cedar Hill is not is a suburb where kids can walk or bike to organized activities, everything requires a parent with a car. Plan accordingly, and the outdoor lifestyle here is hard to beat for the price.

See the Full Cedar Hill Activities Guide →


Crime & Safety

How Safe Is Cedar Hill?

Cedar Hill's crime rates are above the national average, this is something families should weigh honestly. Violent crime runs roughly 40% above the U.S. average, and property crime is elevated compared to top-ranked DFW suburbs like Coppell, Southlake, or Flower Mound. That said, Cedar Hill is not an outlier by Dallas metro standards, it compares similarly to DeSoto and Duncanville. Niche gives the city a C+ for crime and safety. Most residents in Lake Ridge, High Pointe, and the newer developments toward the 360 corridor report a quieter, lower-crime experience than the overall city stats suggest.

~5.5
Violent crimes per 1,000 residents
(U.S. avg: ~4.0)
~27
Property crimes per 1,000 residents
(Texas avg: ~22.4)
C+
Niche Crime & Safety Grade
niche.com

Sources: Niche Crime & Safety  ·  NeighborhoodScout  ·  Cedar Hill PD


Real Estate

Cedar Hill Real Estate Market: What to Expect

Most homes sell here Starter Under $400K $310K ≈ 1,913 sq ft · $162/sq ft 70% of sales · 332 closed
Typical $400K to $700K $514K ≈ 3,131 sq ft · $164/sq ft 22% of sales · 103 closed
Move-up $700K to $1M $785K ≈ 3,617 sq ft · $217/sq ft 4% of sales · 21 closed
Luxury $1M and up $1.4M ≈ 6,003 sq ft · $236/sq ft 3% of sales · 15 closed

In Cedar Hill, the heart of the market is the starter band: 70% of homes sold in the past year landed under $400K, where a median of about $310K buys roughly 1,913 square feet. About 7% of sales were $700K or more, so move-up and luxury buyers have real selection. Price per square foot climbs from about $162 at the entry level to $236 at the top, which is what you are paying for in larger lots, newer builds, and higher finish levels.

Median Sale Price

$347K

12-month rolling avg · single-family

Average Sale Price

$417K

12-month rolling avg · single-family

Price per Sq Ft

$165

Median · 12-month rolling

Sale to Original List

96.9%

12-month rolling · share of original list price

Days on Market

32 days

Median · 12-month rolling

Months Supply

4.2 mo.

Balanced market · 12-month

Active Inventory

166

Current active supply · single-family

Closed Sales

471

12-month total · single-family

A few more numbers worth knowing if you are weighing an offer in Cedar Hill. Over the trailing 12 months, single-family homes sold for a median of $347K and an average of $417K, which works out to about $165 per square foot. Homes here sold for roughly 96.9% of their original list price, which gives you a sense of how much room buyers have typically had to negotiate. As of the latest data, about 166 single-family homes were actively listed. These are NTREIS figures (the price metrics are 12-month rolling, inventory is current active supply), and your own price per square foot and negotiating room will vary by neighborhood, age of home, and finish level.

Source: NTREIS via 10K Research · All figures are 12-month rolling periods · Updated April 2026

Demand Read Steady demand
Months Supply
4.2 mo.
Seller-leaning
Days on Market
32 days
Homes don't sit
Sale to Original List
96.9%
Some room to negotiate
What these numbers tell you: Cedar Hill is a steady demand market. Single-family homes are averaging about 32 days on market and selling at roughly 97% of their original list price, with around 4.2 months of supply. In plain terms, well-priced homes here do not sit, and there is not much room for a lowball offer, but you are also not walking into a bidding war. If you are relocating on a timeline, get your financing in order before you tour.
Why Cedar Hill is priced where it is: The value is anchored by Cedar Hill ISD, which earns a C overall and a B for college prep, so school-driven demand stays strong year after year. It is a mostly owner-occupied community (about 69%) where roughly 4 in 10 households have school-age kids, and with 45 parks and green spaces mapped. Prices have also been stable rather than swingy. The tradeoff, and there is always one, is the commute: a typical drive runs about 32 minutes, longer than the inner-ring suburbs, which is part of why your dollar buys more square footage in Cedar Hill than closer to the core.

At a median of around $346,000 for a single-family home, Cedar Hill is one of the most affordable options in the greater DFW market, and one of the rare places where families moving from California or New York will find that their dollar goes a genuinely long way. A $400,000 budget in Cedar Hill gets you a 2,000–2,500 sq ft home with a yard in an established neighborhood; the same budget in Frisco or Allen typically gets you a smaller townhome or a starter home at the edge of a development.

The market is currently balanced with 4.2 months of supply, neither a frenzied seller's market nor a heavy buyer's market. Homes are taking about 33 days to sell, meaning the right home at the right price still moves without sitting for months. The 482 closed sales over 12 months reflects consistent demand for a city this size.

Schedule a Cedar Hill Home Search Consultation →

Search Current Cedar Hill Listings →

Honest Assessment

Pros & Cons of Living in Cedar Hill

I won't sell you on Cedar Hill. I'll give you the real picture so you can decide if it's right for your family.

✓ What Cedar Hill Does Well

  • Joe Pool Lake and Cedar Hill State Park, Two of the best outdoor amenities in DFW, both within city limits. Active families get year-round outdoor recreation that most Dallas suburbs can't offer at this price point.
  • Exceptional value for Dallas access, A median home around $346K with a 25-minute commute to downtown Dallas is one of the best value propositions in the metro. You get the Dallas job market without paying Allen or Frisco prices.
  • Genuine community diversity, Cedar Hill has one of the most authentically diverse populations in DFW. Long-term residents, strong neighborhood pride, and a community identity that goes well beyond a master-planned HOA.
  • Direct US-67 Dallas access, A clean shot up US-67 to Dallas with no toll road required. For Dallas-based workers, this is a practical advantage over cross-town commutes from other affordable suburbs.
  • Collegiate High School pathway, Cedar Hill ISD's Collegiate High School partnership with Dallas College lets juniors and seniors earn a full associate's degree while in high school at no tuition cost, a meaningful academic and financial opportunity for motivated students.
  • Balanced real estate market, 4.2 months of supply means buyers aren't overpaying in desperation. You can negotiate, have a real inspection period, and take time to make the right choice.
  • No state income tax, Meaningful savings, especially for high earners from CA, NY, or IL.

- What to Weigh Carefully

  • Cedar Hill ISD is a C-rated district, The district's TEA score of 74/100 and Niche C overall grade reflect real performance gaps. Families with strong school priorities will find better-rated ISDs in DeSoto, Mansfield, or further north. The Collegiate HS pathway is a standout, but the overall district picture is below DFW top-tier.
  • Crime above DFW average, Violent and property crime rates are elevated compared to top-tier DFW suburbs. Lake Ridge and High Pointe residents report quieter experiences, but the city-level stats are above average. Vet your specific street before committing.
  • US-67 peak-hour traffic, The main artery north to Dallas backs up meaningfully during morning and evening rush, especially near the I-20 interchange. Allow extra buffer time for a 7–9am departure or 4:30–6:30pm return.
  • No walkable downtown, Cedar Hill has no town square, no main street retail district, and no walkable urban core. Evening dinner-and-stroll lifestyle requires a 15–20 minute drive.
  • Car-dependent, No meaningful public transit. A personal vehicle is essential for every daily task. Not ideal if you're used to public transportation.


Side by Side

How Cedar Hill Compares to Nearby Suburbs

Every family weighs the same factors differently. Here is how Cedar Hill stacks up against nearby options on the metrics that matter most for relocating families.

Scores computed from Niche, NTREIS, WalkScore, and Census ACS · Updated 2026 · Compare all DFW suburbs →

Common Questions

Cedar Hill, Texas: Frequently Asked Questions

Cedar Hill is a genuinely good option for families who prioritize outdoor access, community diversity, and affordability over school district rankings. Niche gives Cedar Hill a B+ for families. Joe Pool Lake and Cedar Hill State Park offer year-round outdoor recreation that most North DFW suburbs can't match. The tradeoff is a C-rated school district and crime rates above the DFW average. Families who vet their specific neighborhood and don't need a top-10 ISD find Cedar Hill delivers strong quality of life for the price.

Cedar Hill ISD earned a TEA Accountability Rating of 74/100 (C) in 2025 and holds a Niche overall grade of C. The district serves about 7,000 students across roughly a dozen campuses. The standout program is Collegiate High School, a partnership with Dallas College that lets juniors and seniors earn college credit (and often a full associate's degree) while in high school at no tuition cost. For families with college-bound students, Collegiate HS is a meaningful academic and financial opportunity even within a C-rated district.

The combined effective property tax rate in Cedar Hill runs approximately $2.145 per $100 of assessed value, covering Cedar Hill ISD (~$1.19), the City of Cedar Hill (~$0.64), Dallas County (~$0.22), and Dallas College (~$0.09). On a $346,000 home, that's roughly $7,422/year before the Texas $100,000 homestead exemption, which reduces the annual bill to approximately $5,280 for most owner-occupants.

Note: A small portion of Cedar Hill is in Ellis County where rates differ slightly. Always confirm current rates for a specific address before purchasing. New construction in some communities may also carry MUD/PID assessments of $0.30–$0.80 additional per $100. Source: Texas Comptroller 2024 certified rates.

For a family moving from the Bay Area or LA, Cedar Hill represents a dramatic cost-of-living reset. A home that costs $346,000 median in Cedar Hill would run $900,000–$1.3M+ in most Bay Area suburbs. Texas has no state income tax, a family earning $200,000 in California pays roughly $15,000–$20,000/year in state income tax; in Texas, that goes back in your pocket. Property taxes are higher in Texas than California's Prop 13-limited rates, but the offset in mortgage cost and income tax is overwhelming for most households.

The lifestyle adjustment is real, DFW is car-dependent, summers are intensely hot (100°F+ weeks are common), and the restaurant scene requires driving. Most families who've made the move describe the financial relief as life-changing. The adjustment to Texas summers and car culture takes a season.

Lake Ridge is Cedar Hill's most established family neighborhood, a master-planned community built around Joe Pool Lake with amenities, trails, and a strong community identity, with homes typically ranging $290,000–$450,000. High Pointe offers newer construction and well-maintained single-family homes in the $310,000–$430,000 range. Hills of Lake Ridge sits adjacent to the lake with mature trees and larger lots. For budget-conscious buyers, Central and East Cedar Hill offer more affordable entry points in the $250,000–$320,000 range. Always verify school feeder patterns by specific address, Cedar Hill ISD has multiple elementary campuses and assignments vary by neighborhood.

Renting before buying in Cedar Hill makes sense if you're uncertain which neighborhood fits your family's commute, school, and lifestyle needs, the city spans a large footprint and the vibe differs considerably between Lake Ridge near the lake and the more urban corridors near US-67. A 6–12 month rental gives you time to identify your preferred neighborhood and understand commute patterns without the pressure of a cross-country buying decision. Rental inventory is available; expect $1,600–$2,200/month for a 3BR in a mid-range neighborhood.

Cedar Hill's city-wide crime rates are above the national average, approximately 5.5 violent crimes and 27 property crimes per 1,000 residents, versus a U.S. violent crime average of ~4.0. Niche rates Cedar Hill's crime and safety at C+. This is comparable to DeSoto and Duncanville, and notably worse than top-rated DFW suburbs like Coppell, Southlake, or Flower Mound. Lake Ridge and High Pointe residents generally report quieter, lower-crime experiences. Researching your specific street on NeighborhoodScout before purchasing is strongly recommended.

Cedar Hill has no DART rail service and no light rail. DART operates a few bus routes through the city, but coverage is limited and not practical for daily commuting. A personal vehicle is essential for virtually all daily activity. Families relocating from transit-dependent cities like New York, Chicago, or San Francisco should plan for a household with at least two vehicles.

The largest local employers are Cedar Hill ISD (~2,500 employees), the City of Cedar Hill, and healthcare providers including Methodist Charlton and HCA North Texas clinics. Within 18–35 minutes, residents commute to AT&T, JPMorgan Chase, and downtown Dallas employers via US-67; to Bell Textron and Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth via I-20 West; and to Kimberly-Clark, Fluor, and Las Colinas employers via I-20 East. The corridor between Cedar Hill and downtown Dallas (25 min off-peak) is the most practical for white-collar employment.

US-67 northbound toward Dallas is Cedar Hill's main artery and backs up noticeably during peak hours, expect 35–45 minutes to downtown Dallas on a morning commute versus 25 minutes off-peak. The I-20 interchange near Cedar Hill is a consistent bottleneck. I-20 East and West are accessible for reaching Irving, Arlington, and Fort Worth with typical DFW congestion. The best commute windows are before 6:30am or after 7pm. US-67 is a free highway, no toll road required to reach Dallas, saving $5–$10 per day compared to some northern suburbs.


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Kristen Carpentier  ·  (602) 405-4115  ·  Kristen@whymovetodallas.com
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Kristen Carpentier | Licensed Texas Realtor® #760457 | Brokered by eXp Realty, 15950 Dallas Pkwy #400, Dallas, TX 75248
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Information on this page is provided for educational purposes and is believed to be accurate as of May 2026. School district ratings, property tax rates, crime statistics, home prices, employer information, and community details change over time. Always verify ISD zoning by specific property address before making real estate decisions. Tax rates: Texas Comptroller 2024. TEA ratings: txschools.gov. Niche grades: niche.com. GreatSchools: greatschools.org.
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