DFW Relocation Guide
Melissa 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.
| Melissa | Plano | |
|---|---|---|
| County | Collin County | Collin County |
| Population | ~33,000 (rapidly growing) | ~295,000 |
| Median HH Income | ~$138,000 | ~$112,000 |
| Median Age | 36 yrs | 38 yrs |
| Median Home Value | ~$450,000 | ~$495,000 |
| Primary District | Melissa ISD — 8/10 | Plano ISD — 8/10 |
| ZIP Codes | 75454 | 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
Melissa
- Melissa ISD rates 8/10 — top-tier schools without the Frisco price tag
- Among the fastest-growing cities in Texas — up ~130% since 2020
- $138K median household income — a rising affluent suburb
- New construction in the mid-$400s vs $600K+ for comparable Frisco homes
- H-E-B & the 43-acre Melissa Town Center landing at US-75 & SH-121
Commute
- ~10 minutes to downtown McKinney via US-75
- ~20 minutes to Allen; ~30 minutes to Legacy West in Plano
- ~45 minutes to DFW International Airport via SH-121
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
Melissa vs Plano FAQ
Is Melissa or Plano more expensive?
Plano has the higher estimated median home value (~$495,000 vs ~$450,000 in Melissa). Check the live MLS stats on each city page for current sold prices.
Which has better schools — Melissa or Plano?
Melissa is primarily served by Melissa 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 Melissa and Plano?
Melissa: ~10 minutes to downtown McKinney via US-75; ~20 minutes to Allen; ~30 minutes to Legacy West in Plano. 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 Melissa 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