DFW Relocation Guide
Allen vs Plano, 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 | Plano | |
|---|---|---|
| County | Collin County | Collin County |
| Population | ~115,000 | ~295,000 |
| Median HH Income | ~$130,000 | ~$112,000 |
| Median Age | 38 yrs | 38 yrs |
| Median Home Value | ~$495,000 | ~$495,000 |
| Primary District | Allen ISD — 9/10 | Plano ISD — 8/10 |
| ZIP Codes | 75002, 75013 | 75023, 75024, 75025, 75074, 75075, 75093, 75094 |
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
Plano
- Toyota, JPMorgan, Frito-Lay — Fortune-scale HQs in one city
- Only Collin County city with two DART rail lines (Red + Silver)
- Dallas Stars arena approved for The Bend redevelopment
- Legacy West — walkable shops, Legacy Hall, corporate campuses
- Mature trees, Plano ISD schools, 4,000+ acres of parks
Commute
- Legacy West / Legacy Business Park jobs are in town
- 25–30 minutes to downtown Dallas via US-75 or DART Red Line
- DART Silver Line (opened Oct 2025) — east Plano to DFW Terminal B
Common Questions
Allen vs Plano FAQ
Is Allen or Plano more expensive?
Allen and Plano have similar estimated median home values (~$495,000 and ~$495,000). Check the live MLS stats on each city page for current sold prices.
Which has better schools — Allen or Plano?
Allen is primarily served by Allen ISD (GreatSchools 9/10) and Plano by Plano 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 Plano?
Allen: 15–20 minutes to Legacy West / The Star via Sam Rayburn Tollway; 30–35 minutes to downtown Dallas via US-75. Plano: Legacy West / Legacy Business Park jobs are in town; 25–30 minutes to downtown Dallas via US-75 or DART Red Line.
Still Deciding Between Allen and Plano?
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