Introduction: Why Allen, Texas is Gaining Popularity
Allen, Texas, a suburb located just north of Dallas, is increasingly catching the attention of families and individuals looking to relocate. With a population of over 106,000, Allen has been recognized by niche.com as the ninth-best suburb in the Dallas-Fort Worth area for raising a family. This recognition is significant given the plethora of cities and suburbs in the region.
Location and Accessibility: The Convenience of Allen
Strategic Positioning
Situated directly north of Plano and east of Frisco, Allen resides in Collin County, one of the fastest-growing counties in the United States. Its proximity to major cities like Dallas and Fort Worth, which are approximately 30 minutes and one hour away respectively, makes it an attractive location for commuters.
Highway Access
Allen’s accessibility is further enhanced by the presence of Highway 75, which runs north-south through the city, and the Sam Rayburn Toll Road that extends east-west. This network of highways ensures ease of travel to various parts of the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Airport Proximity
For air travel, residents are about 30 minutes away from both the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport and Dallas Love Field Airport.
Exploring Allen: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Parks and Trails
Allen boasts 66 parks and facilities, along with over 78 miles of biking and hiking trails. The city’s commitment to ensuring that every resident lives within a half mile of a park or outdoor facility highlights its focus on community health and wellness.
Unique Attractions
Allen’s unique offerings include a fully enclosed indoor water park (natatorium) with a competition-size pool and updated fitness center. The city also features Hydrus, a wakeboard park in Allen Station Park, offering an exhilarating experience with three lakes and a six-tower system. For skateboarding enthusiasts, the Edge Skate Park is one of Texas’ largest outdoor skate parks.
Celebration Park and Entertainment
Celebration Park in Allen is a comprehensive recreational area featuring soccer fields, baseball fields, a multi-sport court, playgrounds, and picnic areas. For more conventional entertainment, the city offers venues like Topgolf and Penn’s Stack.
Shopping and Dining: A Blend of Choices
Allen caters to all shopping needs with destinations like Allen Premium Outlets, The Village at Allen, and Waters Creek. These locations offer a mix of retail and dining options, ranging from popular chains to local favorites.
Education: A Top Priority in Allen
Allen Independent School District
The city is served by the Allen Independent School District, which has an impressive overall rating of A (94 out of 100) from the Texas Education Agency. The district encompasses 24 schools, serving over 21,000 students with a student-teacher ratio of approximately 16:1.
Emphasis on Quality Education
Allen High School, with its large student population of about 5,300, maintains this high rating and boasts a notable football team and a large stadium, enhancing the educational experience.
Safety and Cost of Living: Vital Considerations
Crime and Safety
Allen’s safety is rated as B by crimegrade.org, indicating a relatively safe environment. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about local safety statistics.
Affordability
The cost of living in Allen is 6% lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordability without compromising on quality of life.
Housing in Allen: A Market Overview
Housing Costs
As of June 2023, the median price of a home in Allen is $606,500, which is higher than the Dallas-Fort Worth median but competitive within Collin County. The housing market in Allen offers a diverse range of options, from older homes to newer communities.
Notable Communities
Communities like Star Creek, Twin Creeks, Cypress Meadows, and Montgomery Farm Estates offer a mix of older and newer homes to suit various preferences and budgets.
Conclusion: Making Allen Your New Home
Allen, Texas, with its strategic location, vibrant community, excellent schools, and a range of recreational and shopping options, stands out as an ideal place to live. If you’re considering relocating to Allen or have questions about the area, feel free to reach out for more information.