Introduction
Melissa, Texas, a small yet rapidly growing city in the North Dallas area, is capturing the attention of many looking to relocate. As a realtor specializing in the Dallas-Fort Worth region, I, Keela McGraw, have guided numerous families in their relocation journey. In this blog post, I’ll unveil the key aspects of living in Melissa, a city that combines rural charm with modern conveniences.
Rapid Growth in a Cozy Community
Melissa has experienced an astonishing 56% population increase from 2016 to 2020, making it the third fastest-growing city in North Texas. Despite this growth, it remains a relatively small community with around 16,000 residents and spans only 11 square miles. Originally a rural suburb of Dallas, Melissa is now firmly on the radar for those seeking a blend of tranquility and accessibility.
Melissa’s Prime Location
Situated about 28 miles north of Dallas in Collin County, Melissa offers convenient access to major highways such as Highway 75 and Highway 121. Its proximity to Dallas-Fort Worth Airport and Dallas Love field makes it a strategic location for frequent travelers. Moreover, Melissa’s location near McKinney and other neighboring cities provides easy access to a wider range of amenities.
Affordable Living with A+ Ratings
One of Melissa’s most attractive features is its cost of living. According to PayScale.com, Melissa’s living expenses are 3% lower than the national average. Additionally, Niche.com has awarded Melissa an overall A grade, reflecting its high quality of life.
Family-Friendly Environment
Melissa is celebrated for its safety, boasting an A+ crime rating from CrimeGrade.org. This makes it an ideal choice for families seeking a secure environment. The city also prides itself on its independent school district, which received an A rating from the Texas Education Agency.
Education: A Top Priority
With six schools serving 4,800 students and a student-to-teacher ratio of 17 to 1, Melissa Independent School District prioritizes quality education. The district is expanding to accommodate the growing population, ensuring that educational standards remain high.
Engaging Community Activities
Despite its small size, Melissa offers a variety of activities. Annual events like the Melissa Road Tribute Fest and Halloween festival showcase the city’s community spirit. Five parks with hiking and biking trails cater to outdoor enthusiasts. Buc-ee’s, a popular Texas convenience store, adds to the local charm with its unique offerings like Beaver Nuggets.
Nearby Attractions
Melissa’s location allows easy access to neighboring cities with more entertainment options. McKinney’s downtown area, large shopping centers, and the Choctaw Casinos and Resort in Durant, Oklahoma, are within a short drive.
Housing Market Insights
As of September 2023, the median home price in Melissa is $480,000, offering better value compared to other Collin County cities. The housing market ranges from $350,000 to $1 million, accommodating a wide spectrum of buyers. The Liberty master-planned community is a highlight, featuring amenities like a resort-style pool, lap pool, and schools within the community.
Environmental Considerations
Potential residents should be aware of the landfill in Melissa. However, there have been no significant complaints about its impact on the community’s quality of life.
Conclusion
Melissa, Texas, emerges as a desirable location for those seeking a balance between rural charm and urban convenience. With its affordable living, excellent education system, safe environment, and growing community activities, Melissa is an excellent choice for families and individuals alike. For more information or assistance in relocating to Melissa, feel free to reach out to me, your Dallas-Fort Worth real estate expert.