DFW Relocation Guide
Allen vs McKinney, 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 | McKinney | |
|---|---|---|
| County | Collin County | Collin County |
| Population | ~115,000 | ~230,000 |
| Median HH Income | ~$130,000 | ~$124,000 |
| Median Age | 38 yrs | 36 yrs |
| Median Home Value | ~$495,000 | ~$490,000 |
| Primary District | Allen ISD — 9/10 | McKinney ISD — 8/10 |
| ZIP Codes | 75002, 75013 | 75069, 75070, 75071, 75072 |
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
McKinney
- Repeat U.S. News top place to live — with a true historic downtown
- Home Depot's SRS Distribution + Raytheon anchor a diversifying job base
- Commercial flights land at McKinney National Airport in late 2026
- US-380 bypass + Outer Loop bring freeway access to new growth areas
- From Craig Ranch luxury to historic-district charm — wide housing range
Commute
- 25–30 minutes to Legacy West / Plano via SH-121 or US-75
- 40–45 minutes to downtown Dallas via US-75
- 35–40 minutes to DFW Airport via Sam Rayburn Tollway
Common Questions
Allen vs McKinney FAQ
Is Allen or McKinney more expensive?
Allen has the higher estimated median home value (~$495,000 vs ~$490,000 in McKinney). Check the live MLS stats on each city page for current sold prices.
Which has better schools — Allen or McKinney?
Allen is primarily served by Allen ISD (GreatSchools 9/10) and McKinney by McKinney ISD (8/10). Allen's primary district rates higher overall, but campus-level assignment matters more — verify your specific address.
How do commutes compare between Allen and McKinney?
Allen: 15–20 minutes to Legacy West / The Star via Sam Rayburn Tollway; 30–35 minutes to downtown Dallas via US-75. McKinney: 25–30 minutes to Legacy West / Plano via SH-121 or US-75; 40–45 minutes to downtown Dallas via US-75.
Still Deciding Between Allen and McKinney?
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