Explore the elevation of Dallas—one of the most iconic and vibrant cities in Texas. With deep historical roots and a dynamic present, Dallas sits at a modest elevation yet plays a towering role in the cultural, economic, and urban landscape of the American South.

Table of Contents

Where is Dallas?

  • Location: Dallas is located in the northeastern part of Texas, primarily within Dallas County, and forms part of the expansive Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.

City Profile

  • Size: Covers an area of over 385 square miles.
  • Population: More than 1.3 million residents in the city and millions more in the metro area.
  • History: Originally part of New Spain, Dallas was settled and named in 1841 by John Neely Bryan.
  • Growth: Spurred by the railroad boom, it developed into a major trade and economic center.
  • Modern appeal: Dallas is known for its Tex-Mex cuisine, vibrant arts scene, sports teams, and corporate headquarters.

Elevation Basics

  • Elevation of Dallas: The city sits at 430 feet (131 m) above sea level.
  • Geographic context: Located on relatively flat terrain, which contributed to its growth as a rail and transport hub.
  • Urban landscape: Despite modest elevation, the city is known for its impressive skyline and sprawling urban area.

Must-Know Elevation Facts

  • Elevation definition: The vertical distance above mean sea level, commonly measured in feet or meters.
  • U.S. city comparison: Dallas shares similar elevations with many other major cities, typically under 500 feet (152 m):
    • New York City
    • Los Angeles
    • Chicago
  • Nearby comparison: Fort Worth is slightly higher at 653 feet (216 m).
  • State comparison: Texas has a mean elevation of 1,700 feet (520 m), making Dallas significantly lower than the state average.
  • State extremes:
    • Highest point: Guadalupe Peak – 8,751 feet (2,667 m).
    • Lowest point: Gulf of Mexico at sea level.
  • Other Texas cities:
    • Houston: 80 feet (32 m)
    • San Antonio: 650 feet (198 m)
    • Austin: 489 feet (149 m)
    • Fort Davis (highest city): 4,900 feet (1,494 m)
    Dallas has a similar elevation to Austin but is much lower than Fort Davis.

Climate and Tourism

  • Climate type: Dallas has a humid subtropical climate, typical of the Southern Plains.
  • Seasonal overview: The city experiences four seasons with distinct temperature and precipitation shifts.
  • Hottest month: August – Highs around 96°F (36°C), lows near 77°F (25°C).
  • Coldest month: January – Highs around 57°F (14°C), lows near 37°F (3°C).
  • Precipitation: Rain is more common than snow, with light snowfalls in winter.
  • Rainy months: May and October are typically the wettest.
  • Activities and attractions:
    • Sporting events
    • Tex-Mex dining
    • Live music and festivals
    • Museums and galleries
  • Landmarks to visit:
    • Dallas City Hall
    • Old Red Museum
    • NorthPark Center
    • Dallas Museum of Art
    • Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
  • More information: Visit the Dallas City Hall official website.

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