DFW Relocation Guide
Allen vs Denton, TX
Two of North Texas's most-searched relocation destinations, side by side — prices, schools, commutes, and what daily life looks like in each.
| Allen | Denton | |
|---|---|---|
| County | Collin County | Denton County |
| Population | ~115,000 | ~176,000 |
| Median HH Income | ~$130,000 | ~$80,000 |
| Median Age | 38 yrs | 30 yrs |
| Median Home Value | ~$495,000 | ~$390,000 |
| Primary District | Allen ISD — 9/10 | Denton ISD — 7/10 |
| ZIP Codes | 75002, 75013 | 76201, 76205, 76207, 76208, 76209, 76210 |
Approximate figures — see each city page for live MLS market stats updated in real time.
The Case For
Allen
- Allen ISD — GreatSchools 9/10 — one high school, one town: the Allen Eagles
- Eagle Stadium — the famed 18,000-seat high-school showpiece
- Watters Creek & The Farm — walkable dining on greenbelts
- ~$130K median incomes with sub-$500K median home values
- US-75 + Sam Rayburn Tollway put every DFW hub in reach
Commute
- 15–20 minutes to Legacy West / The Star via Sam Rayburn Tollway
- 30–35 minutes to downtown Dallas via US-75
- ~35 minutes to DFW Airport via Sam Rayburn Tollway
The Case For
Denton
- Two universities give Denton real college-town energy and culture
- The only DFW suburb with its own commuter rail line to DART
- Live-music scene and courthouse square rival Austin at half the price
- I-35E/I-35W split puts both Dallas and Fort Worth in easy reach
- Lakes on two sides — Ray Roberts north, Lewisville south
Commute
- DCTA A-train commuter rail to the DART Green Line
- 40–45 minutes to downtown Dallas via I-35E
- 35–40 minutes to Fort Worth / Alliance via I-35W
Common Questions
Allen vs Denton FAQ
Is Allen or Denton more expensive?
Allen has the higher estimated median home value (~$495,000 vs ~$390,000 in Denton). Check the live MLS stats on each city page for current sold prices.
Which has better schools — Allen or Denton?
Allen is primarily served by Allen ISD (GreatSchools 9/10) and Denton by Denton ISD (7/10). Allen's primary district rates higher overall, but campus-level assignment matters more — verify your specific address.
How do commutes compare between Allen and Denton?
Allen: 15–20 minutes to Legacy West / The Star via Sam Rayburn Tollway; 30–35 minutes to downtown Dallas via US-75. Denton: DCTA A-train commuter rail to the DART Green Line; 40–45 minutes to downtown Dallas via I-35E.
Still Deciding Between Allen and Denton?
I help relocating families make this exact call every week — schools, commutes, budgets, and the neighborhood nuances no data table shows. The first consultation is free.
Talk to Konda