Photography by Danny Fulgencio
Dallas has climbed four spots in the Trust for Public Land’s 2024 ParkScore Ranking, moving from #38 in 2023 to #34 this year.
The Trust for Public Land’s 2025 ParkScore report annually rates park systems in 100 of the largest American cities based on accessibility, equity, acreage, investment, and amenities.
In Dallas, 81% of residents now live within a 10-minute walk of a park, a strong indicator of the city’s ongoing investment in equitable, high-quality green spaces.
The ParkScore is more than just a number, as it highlights the accessibility of parks and green spaces for residents, particularly in urban neighborhoods. Access to parks means more opportunities for physical activity, connection to nature, and outdoor recreation for all ages. A strong park system also makes Dallas more attractive to visitors, families, and businesses. In fact, research shows that well-maintained parks contribute to economic development, support public health, and strengthen community identity. Dallas has been actively transforming underused and vacant lots into vibrant neighborhood parks, turning overlooked spaces into community assets that bring people together and enhance quality of life.
Plano has maintained its place atop the rankings in Texas for several years. The city ranked 17th nationally after ranking 16th for the last two years, and earning No. 15 in 2021 and 2022.
Elsewhere across the Metroplex, Fort Worth rose through the ranks to claim No. 72 nationally this year, previously landing in the No. 91 spot in 2024. Arlington moved up one spot as No. 46 nationwide, and Garland moved up seven spots as No. 67. Irving maintained its rank as No. 99 for the second year in a row.
In Oak Cliff, city council recently approved acquiring 9,000 square feet of open space at 902 S Waverly Dr., right next to the Sunset Hill and East Hampton Hills neighborhoods for a pocket park.
District 1 Council Member Chad West worked with city staff to identify an opportunity to acquire land to create a new pocket park in this area which is currently considered a park desert.
“Access to parks, trails, and green spaces within a 10-minute walk of home provides incredible health and social benefits that communities across the city need.” said Trust for Public Land Texas State Director Molly Morgan. “This is a priority area for parks and we are excited that this project will positively impact more than 4,500 people, including 760 residents of North Oak Cliff who don’t currently have access to a close-to-home park, and will raise Dallas’ future ParkScore.”
