DFW Relocation Guide
Denton 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.
| Denton | McKinney | |
|---|---|---|
| County | Denton County | Collin County |
| Population | ~176,000 | ~230,000 |
| Median HH Income | ~$80,000 | ~$124,000 |
| Median Age | 30 yrs | 36 yrs |
| Median Home Value | ~$390,000 | ~$490,000 |
| Primary District | Denton ISD — 7/10 | McKinney ISD — 8/10 |
| ZIP Codes | 76201, 76205, 76207, 76208, 76209, 76210 | 75069, 75070, 75071, 75072 |
Approximate figures — see each city page for live MLS market stats updated in real time.
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
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
Denton vs McKinney FAQ
Is Denton or McKinney more expensive?
McKinney has the higher estimated median home value (~$490,000 vs ~$390,000 in Denton). Check the live MLS stats on each city page for current sold prices.
Which has better schools — Denton or McKinney?
Denton is primarily served by Denton ISD (GreatSchools 7/10) and McKinney by McKinney ISD (8/10). McKinney's primary district rates higher overall, but campus-level assignment matters more — verify your specific address.
How do commutes compare between Denton and McKinney?
Denton: DCTA A-train commuter rail to the DART Green Line; 40–45 minutes to downtown Dallas via I-35E. 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 Denton 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