Surrounded by the city of Dallas and, with Highland Park, half of that metropolis' un-annexed 'Park Cities' inner suburban enclave, University Park is perhaps best known as the site of Southern Methodist University. With over 80% of its adult population holding a bachelor's degree or higher, it's also considered the most highly educated community, per capita, in the state. The influence of the university, as well as the number of businesses and research grants it naturally attracts, has also solidified University Park's status as one of Texas' wealthiest, with a median family income above $200,000. Status and influence, however, are only a part of why this "college town within a big city" is special, though. With a current population of 23,068, and one that has always hovered slightly above 20,000 since 1945, University Park is a stable, thoroughly developed bedroom community that is free of the wild swings in fortune that have marked some boom towns. Its residents, while living in stately homes that are known for spacious, well-manicured lawns, also benefit from the vibrant and complex culture that permeates the greater Dallas-Fort Worth region. This connection provides a number of economic opportunities, as well, as the overall metro area is a major player in the aerospace, petrochemical, and electronics industries.