McKinney.
Historic Charm Meets Modern Luxury
McKinney is consistently ranked one of the best places to live in America — and after 20+ years of selling homes here, I can tell you exactly why. It's the rare combination of a beautifully preserved historic downtown square, top-rated public schools, and a real estate market that keeps delivering value for homeowners. Whether you're drawn to the tree-lined streets of Westridge, the resort-style living at Stonebridge Ranch, or the golf-course estates at Craig Ranch, McKinney offers a lifestyle that's hard to find anywhere else in North Texas.
The city has grown from a quiet Collin County town into one of the most desirable markets in the DFW metroplex. New construction is filling in around the edges while the historic core keeps getting better — more restaurants, more culture, more community. Median home prices sit around $429,000, with luxury properties reaching well past $2 million. That range means McKinney works for first-time buyers, growing families, and luxury seekers alike. Explore our complete Collin County guide for a broader look, or check the buying guide and market data for McKinney.
Explore McKinney, Texas — Historic charm, top-rated schools, and one of the best downtowns in America.
Where to Live.
Every neighborhood in McKinney has its own personality. Here are four of the most popular communities — each with a distinct lifestyle and price point.
Westridge
Price range: $450K – $1.2M+
One of McKinney's most sought-after neighborhoods, Westridge offers golf course living along the challenging Westridge Golf Club. Homes here enjoy manicured fairway views, mature trees, and a mix of traditional and transitional architecture. Westridge is highly desirable partly because portions are zoned to the acclaimed Frisco ISD, giving families access to one of Texas's top school districts while enjoying McKinney's charm.
Tickle Creek
Price range: $350K – $650K
Tickle Creek Village is a walkable, trail-connected community that blends modern townhome living with McKinney's natural beauty. Residents enjoy direct access to the Tickle Creek trail system, connecting to parks and greenbelts throughout the area. It's ideal for professionals and small families who want low-maintenance living without sacrificing the outdoor lifestyle.
Stonebridge Ranch
Price range: $500K – $2M+
A flagship master-planned community in McKinney, Stonebridge Ranch spans thousands of acres with multiple villages, each offering its own character. Think resort-style pools, community lakes, miles of hike-and-bike trails, and homes ranging from traditional estates to newer luxury builds. It's been a cornerstone of McKinney real estate for decades and remains one of the most recognized addresses in Collin County.
Craig Ranch
Price range: $600K – $2.5M+
Craig Ranch delivers a premium lifestyle with its own TPC Craig Ranch golf course — home to the PGA Tour's Byron Nelson. The community features luxury homes, a vibrant town center, and resort-style amenities. It attracts buyers who want a polished, country-club atmosphere with easy access to US-75 and the broader North Texas corridor.
The Lifestyle.
Top-Rated Schools
McKinney ISD earned an overall A grade from Niche and ranks among the state's best for academic growth. The district serves over 24,000 students across dozens of campuses, with strong programs in STEM, fine arts, and athletics.
Historic Downtown Square
The McKinney Square is one of the best-preserved historic downtowns in Texas. Boutiques, art galleries, wine bars, and farm-to-table restaurants line the streets. It's the heart of the community and hosts events year-round.
Parks & Outdoors
Over 40 parks, 50+ miles of trails, and the beautiful Towne Lake Recreation Area give McKinney residents endless outdoor options. From fishing and kayaking to playgrounds and splash pads, there's something for every age.
Community Events
Home to the McKinney Oktoberfest, the Taste of McKinney, the Arts in Bloom festival, and a thriving farmers' market. The community calendar stays packed with events that bring neighbors together.
The Scene.
Urban Grill & Wine Bar
218 E Louisiana St — Fine dining and craft cocktails on the historic square.
The Yard
107 S Church St — A lively social spot with outdoor seating and great atmosphere.
54th Street Restaurant & Drafthouse
3645 W University Dr — Casual American fare with a huge craft beer selection.
Tipsy Crawfish
1910 N Stonebridge Dr — Cajun seafood with bold flavors and a fun, energetic vibe.
Mabel's African Cuisine
5200 W Stacy Rd — Authentic African dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Hokkaido Ramen & Sushi
3350 Virginia Pkwy — Handmade ramen and fresh sushi in a cozy setting.
McKinney FAQ.
What are the best neighborhoods in McKinney?
Westridge offers golf course living along Westridge Golf Club with portions zoned to Frisco ISD. Stonebridge Ranch is a flagship master-planned community spanning thousands of acres with multiple villages, lakes, and trails. Craig Ranch features TPC Craig Ranch golf course and a vibrant town center. Tickle Creek is a walkable, trail-connected community ideal for low-maintenance living.
What is the average home price in McKinney?
The median home price in McKinney is approximately $429,000, with homes ranging from $350K for townhomes and starter homes to over $2M for luxury estates in Stonebridge Ranch and Craig Ranch. McKinney offers one of the widest price ranges in Collin County, making it accessible to first-time buyers and luxury seekers alike.
What school district serves McKinney?
McKinney ISD earned an overall A grade from Niche and ranks among Texas's best for academic growth. The district serves over 24,000 students across dozens of campuses with strong programs in STEM, fine arts, and athletics. Some portions of McKinney are zoned to the acclaimed Frisco ISD, giving families additional school options.
Is McKinney good for new construction?
McKinney offers new construction opportunities in newer developments around the edges of the city, complementing its historic core and established neighborhoods. For a comprehensive guide to building in the area, see our new construction guide.
What commute times can I expect from McKinney to Dallas?
McKinney is approximately 35 minutes from downtown Dallas and 25 minutes from DFW Airport via US-75. Nearby cities like Frisco, Prosper, and Plano offer different commute profiles worth comparing.
Is McKinney a good investment area?
McKinney offers one of the most consistently strong rental markets in Collin County. Its historic downtown, top-rated schools, and diverse housing options attract a steady stream of young professionals and families. For more data, see our investment properties guide and market report.
Explore more resources.
Best Neighborhoods 2026
Top communities across every Collin County city including McKinney's best.
Living in Collin County Guide
Top things to know about McKinney and the cities of Collin County.
Moving to Collin County Guide
Everything relocating families need to know about McKinney and North Texas.
Let's find your
McKinney home.
I've been selling homes in McKinney for over two decades. I know every street, every neighborhood, and every market shift. Whether you're buying your first home or selling a luxury estate, I'll make sure you get the best outcome possible.
It's Showtime. Let's get started.