Richardson, TX

Richardson received its first wave of inhabitants in 1840, when residents of Kentucky and Tennessee made their way to settle in the area. Richardson later saw the implementation of the Texas Electric Railway, in addition to the Red Brick Road, facilitating an increase in population, traffic and property values in the area. With Texas Instruments and the University of Dallas Texas moving to the area, Richardson continued to grow and spawn numerous parks and facilities. This gave way to a surge of residential development and commercial expansion that continued well into the 21st century.

Residents visit locations such as Heritage Farm Museum for an interactive and educational look into the late 19th and early 20th century Blackland Prairie history. With its variety of productions throughout the year, the Charles W. Eisemann Center serves as a prime location for experiencing the arts and theater scene of Richardson.

Richardson presents a cross-cultural spread of independently owned bistros and eateries with a light distribution of nationally recognized food chains. Most restaurants are located in North Dallas within fairly close proximity to Highway 75.

A family-owned business originally established in 2012, Olive Burger serves residents of Richardson with a distinct menu of gourmet burgers, sandwiches and salads made fresh to order. The restaurant follows a strict standard and never uses anything other than fresh high-quality beef, buns and organic toppings. Customers love the affordable prices and cozy neighborhood atmosphere that Olive Burger offers, making it a top spot for locals wanting a quick lunch or full-on dinner. Try the Ultimate Burger, a divine combination consisting of a 1/2 pound of freshly grilled beef, three different cheeses, lettuce, tomatoes and pickles, complemented by sautéed mushrooms, onions, jalapeños, avocado and savory bacon.

Sushi Sake on North Collins Boulevard crafts some of the most delectable sushi in Richardson. Located in an ambient and elegantly decorated environment, Sushi Sake presents a menu of authentic and freshly cooked Japanese cuisines. The restaurant has a full sushi bar for customers to enjoy the freshest fish in the area. For the full experience, try the Sushi Sampler, a platter dish consisting of tuna, shrimp, salmon and a half California roll.

A sundry distribution of bars, lounges and nightclubs distinguish the nightlife experience in Richardson. The highest concentration of entertainment outlets can be found within the North Dallas area. Chase Place on East Belt Line Road presents a fusion dive bar and sports bar atmosphere. Guests enjoy access to a full bar, pool table and dance floor, with karaoke on select nights. For a lively yet laid back night out, residents of Richardson make their way to Mango's Hookah Bar and Nightclub on East Main Street. The establishment offers precisely what its name implies with an upbeat and casual environment. Music pulses throughout the building, while guests let loose on the dance floor or relax with friends in the lounge areas, making for an overall energetic and lively experience.

The most common means of transportation in Richardson are light rails and automobiles. The Dallas Area Rapid Transit dominates public transportation, with its heavy distribution of light rail lines throughout the city and numerous bus routes. Taxi services are available throughout Dallas, as well as Uber car service. Residents park in privately owned lots and metered parking spots throughout the city as well as within the relatively inexpensive public parking lots provided by a selection of DART stations in the area. Entrances to major highways, including Interstate 635, Highway 75 and State Highway 190, are located around Richardson.

The city presents a fairly walkable environment, with only a few areas considered to be car-dependent. Richardson promotes a cycling-friendly environment with over 15 miles of bicycle lanes and numerous bike routes throughout the city.

A combination of scenic landscapes and exercise-centric traditional parks populate Richardson. Cottonwood Park combines the best of both worlds, offering access to a family-friendly environment full of amenities, including a basketball court, a volleyball court, playground equipment and an open, emerald-green landscape by a glistening freshwater lake that is the perfect backdrop for long walks with the family dog. Residents also enjoy frequenting both Crowley and Brekenridge parks, which offer similar features.

Be sure to catch the Cottonwood Art Festival in May, which showcases and celebrates local artwork in a festival environment filled with interactive events, food and drink galore, and live musical entertainment to top it all off.

The cost of living in Richardson is 8 percent higher than the city average. Meanwhile, traveling to the center of the city costs about $2.50 for a two-hour DART pass. One-bedroom apartments rent at a median cost of approximately $900 per month. Typically, a pint of beer runs at about $6, while gas prices are around 11 percent lower than the national average.

An assortment of privately owned shops and specialty boutiques define the shopping experience in Richardson. A small spread of nationally recognized chain retailers and high-value stores can be found throughout the area as well. The majority of commercial outlets in Richardson are located in the North Dallas area.

Half of Half on West Campbell Road presents a rich selection of designer clothing at a fraction of the big-name cost. The store receives the majority of its inventory as the unsold merchandise of bigger chain retailers, so customers regularly find spectacular deals on a variety of name-brand clothing. Half of Half houses a neatly organized atmosphere, complemented by a helpful staff that is more than ready to help you find your newest outfit.

Silver Pyramid on South Colt Road perfectly embodies the neighborhood bookstore vibe, while offering a thorough selection of jewelry, gemstones, incense and specialty decor. Residents of Richardson consider this store a hidden gem due to its diverse inventory and affordable prices. The tranquil atmosphere, combined with the knowledgeable staff, makes Silver Pyramid a must-visit destination.

A number of independently owned grocery stores serve Richardson, with Sara's Market & Bakery the popular choice for residential grocery needs. Located on South Sherman Street, the store functions as a Mediterranean and Indo-European specialty grocer but also sells a full selection of fresh produce, all-natural meats, imported cheeses and a variety of groceries. Sprouts Farmers Market on West Campbell Road embodies the old-fashioned farmers market feel and offers the freshest local fruits, vegetables, meats and goods.