Living in University Park, Texas

University Park is served by Highland Park ISD, which reports more than 6,150 students on eight campuses: five elementary schools (Pre-K to 4), McCulloch Intermediate, Highland Park Middle School and Highland Park High School. A small area west of North Central Expressway falls in Dallas ISD, but it is not zoned residential. HPISD trustees cut the district's tax rate again for 2026-27, to $0.8128 per $100.

For tax year 2025, the city rate is $0.218565 per $100, Highland Park ISD is $0.8347 and Dallas County's county, Parkland Hospital and Dallas College rates add $0.534075, for about 1.59% combined. On a $2 million home that is roughly $31,700 a year, or about $2,650 a month, before exemptions. The state's $140,000 school homestead exemption and the city's 20% homestead exemption together trim about $2,000 a year at that price, so file your homestead the year you move in.

On August 18, 2026, HPISD trustees adopted a 2026-27 rate of $0.8128 per $100, down from $0.8347, which the district says is a 32.4% reduction since 2017-18.^[5]

HPISD's 2024 bond projects were reported 90% complete over the summer of 2026.^[5]

Preservation Park Cities has been building a list of the most historically significant Park Cities homes since 2021, with most new additions expected from University Park. The board has discussed drafting local ordinances with more enforcement power.^[6]

University Park is in Oncor's delivery area, so Oncor maintains the lines and you choose your own retail electric provider. Compare plans for your ZIP code on the state's official Power to Choose site before move-in day.^[14]

The City of University Park bills water and runs its own sanitation and recycling service. Start or transfer service through the city's Utility Services page, or call the city at 214-363-1644.^[15]

File Form 50-114 with the Dallas Central Appraisal District, online or by mail. DCAD notes filing is free, so there is no need to pay a company; the standard deadline is April 30 of the tax year. University Park also gives a 20% city homestead exemption once it is approved.^[17]

Enroll through Highland Park ISD's enrollment page, which covers new-student registration and proof of residency. Call the district at 214-780-3000 to confirm the zoned elementary campus for your address.^[19]

Register your vehicle with the Dallas County Tax Office within 30 days of moving, after a passing emissions inspection (required in Dallas County). You can drive on a valid out-of-state license for up to 90 days; book your Texas license visit with DPS early, since offices work by appointment.^[20]