Adriatica Village in McKinney, TX

Best Places to Live in the US in 2022 Sponsored by: eXp RealtyeXp Realty

UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.

McKinney, TX is the #18 Best City to Live in the USA

Live concert in McKinney, TX
Courtesy of VisitMcKinney
McKinney, TX
Quality of Life
Liv Score

641
How We Calculate Our Data
Civics 60
Demographics 61
Economy 89
Education 66
Health 62
Housing 50
Infrastructure 46
Amenities 43

Why McKinney is one of the best cities to live in

If you’re looking for Texas-sized charm and opportunity, McKinney, TX is sure to fit the bill. The more than 200,000 residents who call McKinney home get to enjoy the best of both worlds: a quaint hometown feel and big-city amenities. Just about 30 miles outside of Dallas, this fast-growing suburb makes the list as one of the best places to live in the U.S. because of its great schools and strong economic backbone. Tech and aviation industries flourish in McKinney, with Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems’ headquarters providing lots of jobs. In addition, McKinney has an exceptionally low crime rate, making it a great place to raise a family and sleep well at night. Plenty of parks, a historic downtown square with shops, galleries and restaurants, and a surprise Croatian village all add to the A-plus quality of life in McKinney.

What are McKinneys major industries and employers?

Medical technology, data management, manufacturing, sustainability, aviation, defense, retail, office and transportation are the major industries here. 

What are the major colleges and universities in McKinney?

Collin College

What is the weather like in McKinney? 

Summers are scorching hot (it is Texas, after all!), and winter months can dip into the 30s.

What is there to do outside in McKinney?

Erwin Park has 10 miles of mountain biking trails and a progressive mountain bike skills course for newbies.

McKinney, TX is Remote-Ready

What makes McKinney a great place for remote workers?

One of the best things Texas has going for it is its sheer size. It’s not only one of the largest economies in the country but one of the largest on the planet…meaning there are lots of opportunities for work and growth. McKinney has a strong economy and has experienced an influx of development over the last few years. Additionally, the city has accessibility to lightning-fast internet speeds, ample opportunities for remote workers and a low cost of living.

What Locals Love in McKinney, TX

What is the best local bookstore in McKinney?

Find bargain new and used books at Half Price Books.

How do you spend a weekend in McKinney?

Hit up the Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary, which has 5 miles of hiking trails, 50 acres of wetlands, native plants, a butterfly house, a fossil exhibit, animals, a ropes course, and frequent events like birding walks and plant sales.

What can you do for free in McKinney?

Play the 18-hole disc golf course at Towne Lake, a favorite park in McKinney that also has trails near the lake and a fishing pier. 

Whats the best way to spend happy hour in McKinney?

Order from the aperitif and oyster menu at CT Provisions Cocktail Parlor and Kitchen

Whats something only locals know about McKinney?

Visit Adriatica, a 45-acre Croatian village in the middle of McKinney’s Stonebridge Ranch Development – no passport required. The village has shops, restaurants and events venues oozing with European charm. 

Is McKinney, TX a good place to live?

With a strong economy, excellent schools and a low cost of living, McKinney is a best place to live in Texas.

Thinking of Moving to McKinney?

What is the McKinney, TX Real Estate Market Like?

McKinney, TX is the northernmost suburb of Dallas and is a major force in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metro Area real estate market. McKinney’s market is dominated by single family homes which make up over 70% of all properties. Most of McKinney’s homes were built in the last twenty years or so. The top neighborhood for young people in McKinney is Craig Ranch, which features a wide range of housing both luxury and affordable, as well as nearby sport centers, restaurants, and easier access to Downtown Dallas.

Quick Facts About McKinney, TX

Average Commute
23.49
Median Home Value
$384,351
Med. Household Income
$100,836
Total Population
207,932
Median Property Tax
$6,544

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