Are you curious about Plano, Texas, and wondering if it’s a good place to call home? Let’s explore everything you need to know about living in this vibrant city.
Why Consider Plano?
Plano might not be as well-known as its northern neighbor, Frisco, but it is definitely worth your consideration if you’re planning to move to the North Dallas area. Consistently ranked among the best places to live in America, Plano has a lot to offer:
- Rankings and Recognitions:
- Ranked #5 Best City to Live in America by Niche.com.
- Ranked #9 Best City for Jobs by WalletHub.
- Ranked #5 Safest City by SmartAsset.
With a population of about 290,000, Plano provides a blend of urban amenities and suburban charm.
Location and Accessibility
Plano’s location is a major advantage. Situated just north of Dallas and south of Frisco, it offers easy access to major highways like:
- George Bush Turnpike
- Dallas North Tollway
- Highway 75
- Sam Rayburn Tollway
Commute Times:
- Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport: ~30 minutes
- Dallas Love Field: ~25 minutes
- Downtown Dallas: ~20 minutes
- Fort Worth: ~45 minutes
Things to Do in Plano
Outdoor Recreation
Plano boasts 84 parks within its city limits, providing ample opportunities for outdoor fun. The largest, Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve, spans over 800 acres and features activities like:
- Canoeing and kayaking
- Hiking and jogging
- Fishing and zip-lining
Unique Attractions
- The Texas Pool: A 168,000-gallon saltwater pool shaped like the state of Texas, featuring diving boards, water slides, and shallow areas for kids. Open from Memorial Day to October, it’s a local icon since 1961.
- The Crayola Experience: A 60,000-square-foot venue with 22 hands-on attractions, perfect for families.
Dining and Entertainment
Plano offers a thriving food scene, arcades, bowling alleys, and a rich arts and live music culture. Key spots include:
- Shops at Legacy: Fine dining, shopping, and convenient parking.
- Legacy West: A mixed-use destination with luxury retail, over 20 restaurants, and the Renaissance Dallas at Plano hotel.
Shopping in Plano
Plano has diverse shopping options, including:
- The Shops at Willow Bend: Currently undergoing redevelopment, but still home to attractions like the Crayola Experience.
- Legacy West: High-end retailers like Tiffany, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci.
Cost of Living and Housing
Plano’s cost of living is 21% higher than the national average, with housing costs about 36% above average. As of June 2024:
- Median Home Price: $522,000
- Housing Range: $250,000 to multimillion-dollar estates
Housing Options
Plano offers a mix of older homes and new construction homes for sale. Notable Plano neighborhoods include:
- White Rock Creek Estates
- Lakes on Preston
- Heritage Ridge Estates
Education in Plano
Plano Independent School District (PISD) is one of the top-rated districts in North Texas, serving about 49,000 students across 74 schools. PISD earned an overall accountability rating of B (89/100) from the Texas Education Agency.
Crime and Safety
Plano received a B- for crime and safety from Niche.com. It’s recommended to review crime maps and perform due diligence when selecting neighborhoods.
Ready to Make the Move?
If you have any questions about Plano or are considering a move to the area, feel free to contact us. Plano’s blend of safety, amenities, and vibrant culture might just make it the perfect place for you!