5 Fastest Declining Cities in Texas

2. Dallas

3-Year Population Change: -3.28%

2020 – 2021 Population Change: 1.04%

Dallas, Texas, is an urban city known for its diverse population and employment opportunities. However, it has experienced one of the most significant population decreases among all Texas cities, primarily due to factors like high living costs. The city’s rapid urbanization has caused an increase in the cost of homes, rising from $122,000 in 2013 to $325,000 in 2023. Many Dallas residents are leaving because of declining living conditions and disappearing natural landscapes. Between 2020 and 2021, approximately 15,000 people moved away from Dallas, citing issues such as overcrowding and susceptibility to natural disasters. The city also faces problems like air pollution and a lack of green spaces, making it one of the worst outdoor cities in America. Dallas’ education system is also criticized, prompting families to seek better educational opportunities elsewhere. Moreover, since January 2023, crime rates in Dallas have increased, with a 9.5% rise in homicides and a 15% increase in aggravated assaults. These various factors collectively contribute to the decline in Dallas’ population.