DFW Relocation Guide
McKinney 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.
| McKinney | Plano | |
|---|---|---|
| County | Collin County | Collin County |
| Population | ~230,000 | ~295,000 |
| Median HH Income | ~$124,000 | ~$112,000 |
| Median Age | 36 yrs | 38 yrs |
| Median Home Value | ~$490,000 | ~$495,000 |
| Primary District | McKinney ISD — 8/10 | Plano ISD — 8/10 |
| ZIP Codes | 75069, 75070, 75071, 75072 | 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
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
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
McKinney vs Plano FAQ
Is McKinney or Plano more expensive?
Plano 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 — McKinney or Plano?
McKinney is primarily served by McKinney ISD (GreatSchools 8/10) and Plano by Plano ISD (8/10). Both rate the same overall — campus-level assignment matters more, so verify your specific address.
How do commutes compare between McKinney and Plano?
McKinney: 25–30 minutes to Legacy West / Plano via SH-121 or US-75; 40–45 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 McKinney 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