Plano, Texas, is a thriving city located only 20 miles north of Dallas. The area has gained popularity among homebuyers who want to live in Texas because it offers a safe and welcoming atmosphere for families, top-notch public schools, and lots of employment opportunities.
The Appeal of Plano
Plano might not have the same level of fame as its neighbors Dallas and Fort Worth, but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking in appeal. More than 293,000 people (and growing) call Plano home for a good reason: Here, you can enjoy all the perks of city living while still being able to hear yourself think!
Quality of Life
Plano, Texas, is a well-kept secret known for its high quality of life. The city is ranked 29th on Livability’s 2024 list of the Top 100 Places to Live in the U.S.– and it’s easy to see why. Plano has a lot going for it: living costs are low, there are lots of jobs around, and loads of top schools, meaning young families all want to be here!
However, Plano isn’t all just about education and work. There are many things to do! For example, you could visit the Perot Museum of Nature and Science to see some cool interactive exhibits. Or, if you’re more into arts-and-crafts-type stuff, head over to Crayola Experience for a day of hands-on learning.
And don’t forget those 80+ parks: with 4300+ acres, there’s plenty of space here for anyone who loves nature sports like hiking or biking trails— or just relaxing outside with friends or family!
Besides being practical and naturally beautiful, Plano also boasts a varied culinary landscape. There are many different restaurants to choose from– meaning there’s always something new for food lovers to try!
Economic Opportunities
If you are searching for economic opportunities, then Plano, Texas, is the place to be. This vibrant city just north of Dallas boasts several high-profile firms across sectors like banking, food and drink provision, and telecommunications.
The job market in Plano is a good reflection of the city’s quality of life. Its unemployment rate is lower (4.3%) than the national average (5.33%), meaning that people who want to find a job or move up in their careers can do so in this stable environment.
Major employers like Ericsson, Frito-Lay, and Bank of America also pay well and offer good benefits packages– another plus point about working here! What’s more? In Plano, the median household income is $123,131– much more than the national average of $75,149.
The Real Estate Market in Plano is Strong
Plano has more affordable real estate than many other Texas cities, such as Austin and Dallas. On average, home values in Plano are higher than the national average but still lower than those in other major Texas cities– plus, the property tax rate is reasonable, making it attractive for would-be homeowners.
The city has lots of different neighborhoods, so there’s something to suit everyone:
- Downtown: Downtown has everything you’d expect from urban life including some cool old buildings alongside swanky new apartments.
- West Plano: If gated communities with big houses appeal, then West Plano might be worth checking out; it’s very popular among people who want to live a high life.
- The Shops at Legacy: For those who like their living quarters above shops and restaurants, there are some smart townhouses at The Shops at Legacy– along with flats (apartments) that have been described as having an ‘uptown vibe’.
- Prestonwood: Prestonwood is becoming increasingly fashionable thanks in part to a range of property options: some newly built family houses as well as homes dating back several decades.
Real Estate Market Insights
The housing market in Plano is tough but steady. Since there are plenty of people who want to buy houses here, home values have been going up at a predictable rate for some time now. This makes investing in real estate an appealing option!
The average home value in Plano is $533,918, according to Zillow, which is an increase of 4.6% from last year. When properties go up for sale there, they typically move to pending status after only about 7 days.
The city is also good for people who want to own rental properties. That’s because there are lots of students as well as young professionals who need affordable rental spaces and apartments.
Living in Plano
Cultural and Recreational Activities
Plano is not just a hotspot for businesses— it also has lots of things to do! Residents can visit the ArtCentre of Plano to see work by local artists or take an art class. And with parks like Oak Point Park & Nature Preserve around, who needs an office all day?
Go for a walk on one of their many trails; have a picnic in the park area (there are tables you can use); or if fishing sounds more like fun than walking does, visit Russell Creek Park!
In addition, Plano is home to a slew of events every year. Among them is the world-renowned “Plano Balloon Festival,” which allows attendees to see the sky filled with colorful hot air balloons.
The Suburbia Music Festival and Downtown Plano Art & Wine Walk are also popular events that take place annually.
Education and Healthcare
Plano boasts an exceptional school district, including some of Texas’ highest-rated public schools like Rice Middle School and Jasper and Vines High Schools.
In addition to great public options, there are also many private schools offering top-notch education. Plano is also home to an array of renowned universities. Some of them are:
- University of Plano
- The University of Texas at Dallas
- Collin College
- University of Dallas
- Amberton University
- West Coast University
- Concorde Career College
- Southern Methodist University
The city’s healthcare system is equally impressive: with multiple top-ranked hospitals (including Baylor Scott & White Medical Center) as well as numerous primary care providers and specialists right nearby— residents here have convenient access to some truly outstanding healthcare services!
Community and Lifestyle
Plano isn’t just a busy city with lots of jobs– it also has strong community ties, and people here like to keep fit and active. Residents take pride in their close-knit neighborhoods; they often get together for special activities or celebrations.
Like outdoor activities? Well, Plano has numerous outdoor activities to offer! You can go for a bike ride or hike on the Bluebonnet Trail, have a picnic at Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve, or play golf at one of several courses in town.
If you like eating out, Plano has many choices. You could have a tasty BBQ at Lockhart Smokehouse, enjoy real Mexican food at Urban Rio, or try yummy Asian fusion dishes at Armoury D.E.
And if you love shopping too, don’t miss The Shops at Legacy: a great place to find unique gifts in small boutiques as well as big brands like Apple and Barnes & Noble!
Transportation and Accessibility
Navigating Plano is easy thanks to its well-designed roads that link up with other urban centers such as Dallas. If you’d rather not drive, there are bus services from DART which operate both in the city itself and nearby.
What’s more, because Plano is so near to big highways, locals have an effortless time getting around by car– whether for everyday use or heading further afield. An average commute takes around 32 minutes.
Making trips south towards Waco or north to Oklahoma City for work (or fun) is a relative breeze: just hop on the I-75 or I-35!
Overall Conclusion on Living and Buying Real Estate in Plano
Plano provides a special mix of suburban lifestyle and city perks. A strong economy, affordable housing market, and close community make it an appealing place for people interested in purchasing property in Texas. There are various types of homes available, and there are also numerous things to do. This thriving area is not just another boring bedroom community!