Jade Malay has long had a finger on the pulse of Dallas’s growth, and lately, all signs point in one direction: tech. As the city evolves, Jade Malay notes how it’s no longer just a business-friendly hub—it’s now a serious contender in the tech world.

Here’s why Dallas is being called the next big tech city in the South, and why founders, developers, and investors are paying close attention.

1. Strategic Location and Business Climate

Dallas benefits from what most startup founders crave: central geography, low taxes, and a welcoming business environment. Texas has no state income tax, which is a huge draw for both businesses and individuals.

The Dallas-Fort Worth area sits at the intersection of major U.S. markets, making it ideal for logistics, travel, and national outreach. Major airports like DFW and Love Field connect the city globally.

Why this matters:

1. Startups save on overhead.

2. VC firms see more bang for their buck.

3. Employees get more value from salaries.

2. Tech Talent Is on the Rise

In the past five years, Dallas has seen an influx of tech talent, driven by both local universities and remote workers relocating from high-cost cities.

Schools like UT Dallas, SMU, and Texas A&M are producing engineers, data scientists, and IT professionals who are staying local. At the same time, tech workers from California and New York are finding Dallas appealing thanks to its lower cost of living and growing opportunity.

Jade Malay points out that this shift isn’t just about affordability—it’s about lifestyle. People want vibrant cities without the burnout.

Dallas delivers:

1. Affordable homes vs. the coasts

2. Shorter commutes

3. A growing food, culture, and music scene

3. Big Tech and Startups Are Investing

Several major tech firms have expanded or relocated operations to Dallas. Think Google, Amazon, and Oracle. They’re opening offices, hiring locally, and investing in the ecosystem.

At the same time, startups in fintech, health tech, and SaaS are gaining traction. Co-working spaces, tech incubators, and accelerators are popping up across the city—from downtown to Plano to Frisco.

Examples of the momentum:

1. Capital Factory expanded its Dallas presence

2. The DEC Network continues to support local founders

3. Venture capital is growing, especially for early-stage companies

4. Cost of Living Still Wins

Even with inflation, Dallas remains more affordable than tech-heavy cities like San Francisco, Austin, or Seattle. For the average tech employee or founder, this means more flexibility, less pressure, and a better quality of life.

Compared to other cities:

1. Rent is lower

2. Office space is more affordable

3. Energy and utilities are manageable

This matters for startups trying to stretch their funding or self-funded entrepreneurs working toward product-market fit.

5. A Diverse and Supportive Community

The Dallas tech scene is inclusive and collaborative. Networking events, pitch nights, and community meetups are regular—and not just for show. Whether you’re in blockchain, AI, clean tech, or e-commerce, there’s a place to plug in.

Organizations like Dallas New Tech, Women Who Code Dallas, and Techstars Dallas help professionals connect and grow. And they’re not gatekept. That openness is attracting newcomers and returning talent.

Jade Malay emphasizes that culture still matters. A strong tech scene isn’t just about capital or code—it’s about people who want to build something meaningful together.

6. The Infrastructure Is Ready

From reliable power grids to new office developments and fast internet, Dallas is ready for tech to scale. Cities like Irving, Richardson, and Plano are already home to data centers and tech parks.

With billions being invested in infrastructure upgrades across North Texas, the region is setting itself up not just to grow—but to sustain that growth.

What’s driving this:

1. Public-private partnerships

2. Tech-forward city planning

3. Investment in transportation and 5G connectivity

7. Remote Work Makes Dallas Even More Attractive

The rise of remote work has changed the equation for tech professionals. Many are leaving the coasts but still working for companies based elsewhere.

Dallas offers a lifestyle where you don’t have to choose between career and comfort. Whether you want to rent a loft downtown or buy a house in the suburbs, the options are wide open.

What remote workers love:

1. Plenty of coffee shops and co-working spaces

2. Diverse neighborhoods with character

3. Strong internet and work-from-home culture

Final Thoughts: The Dallas Tech Scene Is Just Getting Started

Dallas isn’t trying to be the next Silicon Valley. It’s carving its own path—one built on smart growth, community, and opportunity.

Jade Malay believes this moment is just the beginning. As more companies relocate, more ideas launch, and more talent arrives, Dallas is positioning itself as a tech destination with real staying power.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or someone looking to pivot into tech, now is the time to keep Dallas on your radar.