DFW Relocation Guide
Denton 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.
| Denton | Plano | |
|---|---|---|
| County | Denton County | Collin County |
| Population | ~176,000 | ~295,000 |
| Median HH Income | ~$80,000 | ~$112,000 |
| Median Age | 30 yrs | 38 yrs |
| Median Home Value | ~$390,000 | ~$495,000 |
| Primary District | Denton ISD — 7/10 | Plano ISD — 8/10 |
| ZIP Codes | 76201, 76205, 76207, 76208, 76209, 76210 | 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
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
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
Denton vs Plano FAQ
Is Denton or Plano more expensive?
Plano 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 — Denton or Plano?
Denton is primarily served by Denton ISD (GreatSchools 7/10) and Plano by Plano ISD (8/10). Plano's primary district rates higher overall, but campus-level assignment matters more — verify your specific address.
How do commutes compare between Denton and Plano?
Denton: DCTA A-train commuter rail to the DART Green Line; 40–45 minutes to downtown Dallas via I-35E. 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 Denton 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