When deciding where to live in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the choice often comes down to McKinney vs. Plano. They’re both great places to live, but each has its own vibe and perks. Deciding between them can depend on what you seek in a community. This blog will help you compare McKinney and Plano so you can choose the suburb that best fits your lifestyle.
Dallas, TX Area Real Estate Market Watch
As of July 2024, the average price per square foot for a home in Dallas, TX, was around $212. However, real estate data is constantly changing. Contact Norma Wall for help buying and selling homes in Dallas, TX.
McKinney vs. Plano: 4 Key Differences
Location and Commuting
McKinney and Plano are both in the northern part of the Metroplex. Plano is closer to downtown Dallas, at about 20 miles north, compared with McKinney, at around 32 miles away. If you’re commuting to Dallas or other nearby cities, both McKinney and Plano have access to major highways like US-75 and the Dallas North Tollway. However, Plano has DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) services, while McKinney mainly relies on driving.
Cost of Living and Housing: McKinney vs. Plano
Living in McKinney or Plano will cost you more than the U.S. average, but the difference between the two is slight. McKinney’s cost of living is about 11.7% higher than the national average, with homes priced around $503,400. Rent for a two-bedroom apartment is roughly $1,950 per month. To live comfortably, a family in McKinney needs about $96,480 a year.
Plano’s cost of living is similar, with homes averaging $492,900. Rent is slightly lower at $1,930 per month. A family needs around $94,320 annually to live comfortably in Plano. McKinney’s slightly higher costs might be offset by its lower rental prices, depending on what you’re looking for.
Schools
Plano ISD and McKinney ISD each earned a “B” rating, scoring 89 out of 100 from the Texas Education Agency for the 2021-2022 school year.
Plano ISD is known for its high graduation rate of 97.5% and strong college and career preparation, making it a solid choice for families focused on academics. McKinney ISD also excels, with an impressive 99.1% graduation rate and a focus on student success. Additionally, McKinney ISD is highly regarded for its athletic programs, making it an attractive option for families with student-athletes.
Lifestyle and Amenities: McKinney vs. Plano
Plano offers a more urban lifestyle with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The Shops at Legacy and Legacy West are popular spots. Plus, there are over 80 parks, including the Arbor Hills Nature Preserve, where you can enjoy the outdoors. According to the Trust for Public Land (TPL) report 2024, Plano Parks are the highest-ranking parks system in Texas.
McKinney has a more relaxed, small-town feel. Its downtown area is known for its charming boutiques and local restaurants. For outdoor activities, McKinney also has great parks and the Towne Lake Recreation Area and prominent golf courses, including Stonebridge Ranch, El Dorado, and Craig Ranch.
The Bottom Line
McKinney might be your pick if you’re looking for a tight-knit community with a small-town vibe. If you prefer a more urban environment with lots of amenities and job opportunities, Plano could be the better fit. Both suburbs offer quality schools, housing, and amenities, so consider what matters most.
Learn more about McKinney and Plano, including homes for sale and new construction in all price ranges.
Own Your Dream Home in Dallas, TX, Today!
Consult your real estate pro! Contact Norma Wall, Broker at North Point Realty, at 214-212-6770, or visit our contact page here and contact us. Let’s explore your options together and see how we can make a move that works for you. As your Realtor®, we’re here to help you set realistic expectations and guide you every step of the way.
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