8 Things To Know Before Moving To McKinney, Texas
Moving to McKinney, Texas could be the beginning of an amazing time in your life. This is an incredibly popular suburban area near the Dallas-Fort Worth metro. In fact, McKinney has grown by over 63% since the last census to reach a population of 214,035 inhabitants. Why are so many people moving to McKinney? To understand their reasons, you need to know the following eight things.
1) A Thriving Business Climate Provides Diverse Opportunities.
In McKinney, you will find a thriving economy with opportunities to work in a variety of industries. Many people here work in occupations related to technology, manufacturing, aviation, retail, sustainability, defense, and many types of office jobs.
There are many industrial and commercial centers, including office and industrial parks. Also, the historic downtown is a booming business district. Some of the major companies located in McKinney, Texas are:
- Raytheon
- Manner Plastics
- Emerson Process Management
- Zynga
- Encore Wire
- Brandon Industries
- Tenant Tracker
- Wistron GreenTech
- Torchmark
What is more, McKinney’s advantages for businesses are helping it welcome new companies every year. McKinney National Airport makes corporate travel convenient. The McKinney Economic Development Corporation has multiple programs and incentives to bring new companies to the city. Beyond that, there is still much land available for development.
2) McKinney Has a Fascinating History
Whether you are a history buff or just like a good story, you will enjoy learning about the history of McKinney, Texas. It all started in the early 1840s, when the state of Texas hired colonizers to bring settlers to this area. When settlers arrived, each received 640 acres, a firearm, and assistance with building a home. And so, Peter’s Colony was born.
The town grew, and was given the name McKinney. In 1848, the city was designated as the county seat for Collin County. Incorporated in 1849 and again in 1859, McKinney was destined for growth and vitality. Cotton production became a major industry, with The Texas Cotton Mill Company leading the way as the first textile mill in 1910. Other agricultural products included corn, oats, and wheat.
As business flourished, infrastructure, impressive homes, churches, newspapers, and an opera house were added. From a population of 35 in 1848, McKinney grew to 10,000 residents by 1953 and to 21,283 in 1990. Since then, growth has been dramatic. Meanwhile, the world was noticing its many advantages, and in 2014, McKinney, Texas was named the #1 Best Place to Live in the U.S. by Money Magazine.
3) McKinney Has Neighborhoods to Fit Your Lifestyle.
Once you decide to move to McKinney, your next important decision is choosing your neighborhood. Among the 115 subdivisions here, you are sure to find the location, community, and amenities that suit your lifestyle. Here are some of the most sought-after neighborhoods in McKinney.
Stonebridge Estates
Stonebridge Estates has a gorgeous natural setting, with winding streets and beautiful mature trees. It is a peaceful place, with ponds for fishing and an exceptional golf course. At 5,000 acres, this large neighborhood is enhanced by 500 acres of designated open space.
Mallard Lakes
Another peaceful neighborhood is Mallard Lakes. Here, impressive homes are set among mature trees on a hill. Most of the homes in this neighborhood were built between 1995 and 2006 in enchanting Traditional or Mediterranean styles.
Isleworth
A gated community, Isleworth is a place to feel safe and secure while being close to a range of amenities and activities. Most of the predominantly single-family homes were built after 2001. Many six-bedroom homes and excellent education options make this neighborhood an excellent place for families.
Adriatica
Adriatica is a charming upscale community designed to capture the village atmosphere of the island of Brac, which is just off the coast of Croatia. Here, you will find condos and villas with modern design features such as open floor plans, wine bars, and wood floors.
Trinity Falls
A master-planned community near the Trinity River, Trinity Falls offers many activities, from its open air pavilion to its tricycle race track. With easy access to Highway 75, Trinity Falls is a commuter’s dream come true.
Hardin Lake
Hardin Lake neighborhood is named for the beautiful lake along its southern edge. Terraced lots in this area have elegant stone retaining walls and outstanding views of the lake and mature trees. Here, you will feel like you are living in a lush garden with many amenities nearby.
Tucker Hill
Tucker Hill is one of the more prestigious neighborhoods in McKinney, Texas. Here, you will experience a relaxed, quiet community with many activities to keep things interesting. Its parks and trails offer tranquil spaces to enjoy outdoor activity. Within this community, you will find homes in a wide range of styles and prices.
Craig Ranch
Craig Ranch is a newer master planned community, started in 2012. In this neighborhood, you will find TPC Craig Ranch, listed in Golf Digest’s list of the top ten Texas golf courses. The neighborhood also features a swimming pool, bike paths, a park, and a private lake.
Serenity
Serenity is a tranquil neighborhood in the heart of McKinney, Texas. With many single-family traditional style homes typical on half-acre lots, this is an enjoyable place to live. It features an expansive greenbelt, playgrounds, and a private lake.
4) Experience a Unique Arts and Culture Scene.
McKinney is home to a large artistic community as well as numerous cultural venues. Whether you want to make art or enjoy the artistic creations of others, you will find it here in McKinney, Texas. Much of the artistic action takes place in the McKinney Historic Downtown Cultural District. The following are some of the unique cultural experiences you can participate in while living in McKinney.
Visual Arts
Many artists come to McKinney to make art, share their creations, and share their skills. Here are some of the places you can take part in or view visual arts.
McKinney Art House - Here, people of every age can learn artistic skills in art classes, workshops, and art parties. With nationally recognized artists specializing in many different artistic mediums, the Art House offers outstanding arts education.
McKinney Art Studio - At this studio, you can learn to make art with glass, clay, beads, or wire. The small classes facilitate learning to create in your own way using the best techniques.
LAST Art Studio - When you visit the LAST Art Studio, you can view art from local artists and purchase pieces to adorn your home.
Heard-Craig Center for the Arts - This center not only has a historic art museum, but it also has three sections set aside for weddings, meetings, and other events.
The Cove - The cove is the place to be if you are a member of the artistic community. It has a gallery for local artists. In addition, artists can come together to collaborate on creative works and socialize with like-minded people.
Performing Arts
The performing arts are alive and well in McKinney, Texas. In the McKinney Performing Arts Center, you can take in a concert by a world-famous musician, attend a bridal show, or take a performing arts class. The center also has a large collection of pieces by Texas artists. Each year, a juried art show selects additional creations to be added to the gallery.
You can also see a production of the McKinney Repertory Theatre, which offers five shows every year. Plus, The Theatre’s Young Actors Guild serves area children, offering them opportunities to learn and participate in the performing arts.
The Comedy Arena in McKinney is a place where you can see a great live comedy show or even participate in one. If you want to practice and learn how to deliver a hilarious performance, you will not be disappointed.
Museums and Historic Sites
The McKinney area has many unique museums and historical sites. You can learn about the history of firefighting in the city at the Fire History Museum. Or, discover the history of McKinney itself at the Collin County History Museum. See a group of historic homes and artifacts at the Chestnut Square Historic Village. With interesting exhibits and beautiful surroundings, you are sure to enjoy every moment.
Festivals
McKinney is always celebrating! Here, you can take part in the McKinney Juneteenth Celebration, enjoy wine and art at the Arts in Bloom celebration, or enjoy the Red White and Boom Parade on or before Independence Day. McKinney also hosts a fun Oktoberfest, a Christmas celebration, and trick-or-treating events for the kids. Krewe of Barkus in McKinney is an unusual festival which features a parade, costume show, and cultural events all focused on dogs.
5) A Pleasing Variety of Dining Options Await You.
No matter what cuisine you favor, McKinney, Texas has something for you. The Historic Downtown McKinney Square is known for its interesting shopping options as well as its fabulous dining spots.
Going out to eat in McKinney is a wonderful adventure. The variety of restaurants includes everything from Southern homestyle favorites to gourmet French cuisine. Some of the most popular restaurants in the city include:
Sugarbacon Proper Kitchen - features Southern classics like their smoked pork belly.
Hutchins BBQ & Catfish - one of the best barbecue places in McKinney and all of Texas.
Patina Green Home and Market - a lovely restaurant making unique foods using locally-grown produce and high-quality meats.
Snug on the Square - a great place for breakfast or a quick lunch, this restaurant is known for its coffee and comfort food.
Rick’s Chophouse - This steakhouse is classic, with excellent meat and seafood entrees.
The Pantry Restaurant - a legendary McKinney restaurant offering comfort foods from chicken fried chicken to delicious pies.
Gregory’s Bistro - where to go for exquisite French and gourmet dishes and a pleasant ambiance.
You can also find pizza, such as at the Cadillac Pizza Pub, or south of the border favorites, like at Cookie’s Mexican Food. Find amazing breakfast foods at the Eggsquisite Cafe, or enjoy craft foods and beverages at Rye. If you like Irish fare, check out the Celt Irish Pub. Also in this city, you can enjoy Thai, Greek, or Asian cuisines. You can also find national chains, like Saltgrass Steak House, Olive Garden, and 54th Street Restaurant and Drafthouse. For a quick bite, choose from a large variety of fast food restaurants.
6) Attractions, Parks, and Outdoor Activities Give You Lots to Do.
You need never be bored or stressed-out after moving to McKinney, Texas. In addition to the thriving cultural scene, the city offers a host of outdoor activities, natural wonders, and places to play.
At the Towne Lake Recreation Area, you can fish, hike or bike, or spend the day playing volleyball, horseshoes, or disc golf. The WestRidge Golf course includes a space called The Pavillion, where you can lounge and relax. Take a ride in the sky at Rohr Balloons Hot Air Balloon Rides. Or, marvel at the beauty of nature at the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary. At this museum, you can see a robotic dinosaur exhibit, learn about science in the Living Lab, or wander outdoors in the large wildlife sanctuary.
The city also has dozens of parks, where you and your family can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, participate or watch local sports, or play on excellent playgrounds. There’s a dog park, a skatepark, and soccer and practice fields for several sports. Spend the afternoon, the entire day, or camp out overnight at select parks in McKinney to relax and create wonderful memories with your loved ones.
7) Education Gets a High Priority.
McKinney residents, teachers, and community leaders prioritize learning. You can see their commitment to quality education in their up-to-date programs and facilities, their outstanding educators, and their students’ success.
Public School District
The McKinney Independent School District serves the McKinney area. The district has one preschool, twenty-one elementary schools, six middle schools, and five high schools. Of these schools, 48% are rated as above average in providing a quality education. About 54% of the students in MISD progress more academically here than students at other Texas schools. The teachers are typically experienced, with 93% having three or more years of experience in teaching. The district also has three schools that received the College Success Award in 2020, including McKinney North High School, McKinney Boyd High School, and McKinney High School.
Private Schools
As of 2021, McKinney boasted 16 private schools, 31% of them religious schools. One of the most highly rated private schools is McKinney Christian Academy. There are several Montessori schools in McKinney for the young ones. Private schools in McKinney accept about 75% of applicants, so these schools are a viable option for people who want different programs or more attention than larger public schools can offer.
Colleges and Universities
You or your child can advance your education at any of the many local and nearby colleges and universities. Listed in each section from closest to McKinney to farthest, the following schools are all within an hour’s drive of the city center.
First, there are several public two-year colleges, including:
- Collin County Community College District
- Richland College
- Brookhaven College
- Eastfield College
- North Lake College
For students that prefer private colleges or want a more specialized education, there are also private two-year colleges in or near McKinney. These include:
- Remington College at Dallas
- Court Reporting Institute at Wheeler Institute of Texas
- Dallas Institute of Funeral Services
- KD Conservatory College of Film and Dramatic Arts
In McKinney and the surrounding area, you can also choose from several four-year public universities, such as:
- The University of Texas at Dallas
- Texas Woman’s University
- University of North Texas
Private four-year universities offer diverse educational experiences and degrees. Some of these located within an hour of McKinney include:
- University of Phoenix at Dallas
- Dallas Christian College
- Southern Methodist University - ranked as #2 best Texas college
- Devry University Texas
- University of Dallas
- Wade College
8) Convenience Abounds in McKinney.
Life can be easy in McKinney, Texas. So many businesses are within an easy commute, and you can enjoy a wide range of activities and events within a short drive. Major highways in the area include US 75, State Highway 5, and Highway 380. Using these routes, you can easily navigate the surrounding areas, including the rest of the Dallas-Fort Worth complex.
Collin County Transit offers low-cost taxi service for older adults, people with disabilities, and low-income residents. There are also several bus and coach companies providing transportation in McKinney. Even better, many of the shopping, dining, and businesses are situated in easily walkable areas. Many bike trails offer a healthy alternative form of travel. No matter where you want to go within or near McKinney, you will find convenient transportation options.
McKinney, Texas certainly has a lot to offer its residents. An array of beautiful homes, peaceful neighborhoods, and plenty to see and do make this city a wonderful place to call home. McKinney is a great place for families, young adults, singles, and older adults alike. Therefore, if you are moving to McKinney, you can look forward to happy times ahead.
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Homes For Sale in McKinney, Texas
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Information is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed accurate by the MLS or NTREIS. The information being provided is for the consumer's personal, non-commercial use, and may not be reproduced, redistributed or used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Real estate listings held by brokerage firms other than The Good Home Team - eXp Realty are marked with the NTREIS IDX logo and information about them includes the name of the listing brokerage.NTREIS data last updated December 3, 2023.
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