Overview
McKinney is Collin County’s third-largest city and part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. In 2019, McKinney was ranked as the #3 Good Place to Live by Money Magazine and in the top 15 of Niche’s “Best Places to Live in America” list.
McKinney offers two state universities, four private colleges, an array of corporate headquarters, and many major healthcare resources. It also has many historical landmarks and an outstanding arts community.
Moreover, several parks and recreation areas, including the Town Lake Park and the Collin County Historic Park are located in McKinney.
Weather & Natural Disasters
McKinney, TX is no stranger to extreme weather. Located in Collin County just north of Dallas, the city experiences hot summers, cold winters, and occasional severe weather.
While McKinney is not located in a high-risk area for hurricanes, tornadoes are a common occurrence. In fact, the city has been hit by more than 30 tornadoes since 1950.
The most recent tornado struck on April 3, 2019, and caused significant damage to homes and businesses. While severe weather can be damaging and disruptive, it is also a natural part of life in McKinney.
Luckily, the city is well prepared for extreme weather events and has a robust emergency response plan. As a result, residents can rest assured that they will be safe and protected during any severe weather event.
Economy & Job Market
The economy of McKinney, TX is strong and diverse, with a number of different sectors providing employment opportunities. The city is home to a number of large businesses, including manufacturing and healthcare companies, as well as several smaller businesses.
The job market in McKinney is competitive, but there are opportunities for those who are willing to look for them.
Additionally, the cost of living in McKinney TX is relatively affordable, and the city offers a number of amenities that make it the best place to live. Overall, McKinney is a great place to work, and its economy provides ample opportunities for residents to find employment.
Best Places to Work in McKinney
1. Independent Bank Group Inc.
According to a recent survey, Independent Bank Group Inc. is one of the best places to work in McKinney. The survey, which was conducted by the Dallas Business Journal, polled more than 500 employees in the city and asked them to rate their companies on a scale of 1 to 5.
Independent Bank Group Inc. received an overall rating of 4.5, making it one of the highest-rated companies in the city. Employees cited the company’s supportive culture and strong benefits package as two of the main reasons they enjoy working there.
Furthermore, they praised the company’s commitment to community involvement and its flexible work schedule. With its impressive rating, it’s no wonder that Independent Bank Group Inc. is one of the best places to work in McKinney.
2. Baylor Scott & White Medical Center
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center is among the top employers in McKinney. The hospital offers a variety of residency programs in several medical fields.
It has a staff of more than 1,000 employees, and it provides a benefits package that includes health insurance and tuition reimbursement. The hospital also offers a retirement plan and a generous vacation policy.
In addition, Baylor Scott & White Medical Center is committed to diversity and inclusion. The hospital has a diverse staff that reflects the community it serves. Baylor Scott & White Medical Center is an employer of choice for many medical professionals.
Tax Rates
Taxes are always a hot topic, and nowhere is that more true than in McKinney, TX. The sales tax rate in McKinney is 8.25%, which is made up of 6.25% for Texas state sales tax and 2% for the McKinney city tax.
These taxes are a major source of revenue for McKinney. In fact, last year the city collected nearly $200 million in sales tax revenue. This money helps to fund essential services like police and fire protection, road maintenance, and trash pickup.
Without this revenue, the quality of life in McKinney would quickly decline. Therefore, even though taxes can be unpopular, they are an essential part of supporting a developing community.
Traffic and Transportation
While McKinney, TX may be a small town, it is growing quickly. As the population increases, so does the amount of traffic and transportation. The city has been working hard to keep up with the demand and has invested in new roads and highways.
In addition, the city has also expanded its public transportation system, which now includes buses and trains. These investments have made it easier for people to get around McKinney, and have helped to reduce traffic congestion.
The city is also working on a new project to create a pedestrian-friendly downtown area. This will provide a safe and convenient place for people to walk, shop, and dine. Ultimately, these efforts are designed to make McKinney a more livable and enjoyable place for all residents.
Education:
Public School District
McKinney public schools are committed to providing a high-quality education to all students. The McKinney ISD serves the educational needs of McKinney and includes two high schools: McKinney Boyd High School, and McKinney North High School.
McKinney Boyd High School offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum, while McKinney North High School provides an innovative curriculum that includes career and technical education programs.
Both schools offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, clubs, and service projects. McKinney public schools are also dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment for all students.
Every school has a strict anti-bullying policy, and all staff members undergo extensive training on how to identify and address potential bullying situations. As a result, McKinney public schools provide an excellent education for all students.
Private Schools
Acton Academy McKinney is a popular private school in McKinney, TX that specializes in teaching students in grades 3-8. Acton Academy McKinney is accredited by the NAIS (National Association of Independent Schools) and is a member of the Independent Middle Schools Association of the Southwest.
The school offers a unique curriculum that combines project-based learning, Socratic seminars, and student-led conferences. Students are given the opportunity to explore their passions and develop their talents through weekly expeditions, electives, and extracurricular activities.
In addition to academic excellence, the school also emphasizes character development and social-emotional learning. Therefore, Acton Academy McKinney provides its students with an education that prepares them for success in college and in life.
Colleges and Universities
Apart from schools, McKinney also has several colleges and universities, including the prestigious Southern Methodist University. Located just north of downtown Dallas, SMU is a private research university with more than 11,000 students.
Founded in 1911, SMU is known for its excellent academic programs, beautiful campus, and impressive alumni. Other colleges and universities in McKinney include the University of Texas at Dallas and Collin College.
UT Dallas is a public research university with almost 3,000 students, while Collin College is a community college with more than 5,300 students.
Both UT Dallas and Collin College offer a variety of academic programs and opportunities for students to get involved on campus.
Real Estate
McKinney is known for its affordable housing options, and there are plenty of properties available to meet your needs.
McKinney also offers a variety of commercial and residential real estate options. For businesses, there are office buildings, retail centers, and industrial parks.
For residents, there are apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes. Additionally, McKinney also has a large number of schools, parks, and recreation centers. As a result, it is an ideal location for families and businesses alike.
Places to visit in McKinney
Downtown McKinney Square
McKinney, TX is a historic city with a lot to offer visitors. The downtown area is especially worth exploring, as it is home to a number of restaurants and shopping centers.
For those who enjoy good food, the square is home to several excellent eateries, including the likes of Patina Green Home + Marketplace and Rick’s Chophouse.
Meanwhile, shoppers will find plenty to keep them occupied, with stores selling everything from vintage clothes to locally-made artisanal goods.
In addition to being a great place to eat and shop, the square is also home to a number of historic buildings, making it a perfect place to take a leisurely stroll and soak up some history. Overall, the Historic Downtown McKinney Square is a must-visit for anyone spending time in the city.
Heard natural science museum
The Heard natural science museum is one of the best places to visit in McKinney, TX. The museum has a wide variety of exhibits that focus on the natural world.
One of the highlights is the animal exhibit, which features a variety of live animals that visitors can learn about. Plus, the museum has an extensive collection of minerals and fossils, as well as a planetarium.
The Heard natural science museum is an amazing place to learn about the world around us, and it is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
McKinney performing arts center
The McKinney Performing Arts Center is a state-of-the-art facility that hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Concerts, art galleries, and bridal shows are just a few of the many events that take place at this venue.
The performing arts center also provides a number of art classes and workshops. The art galleries are a particular highlight of the McKinney Performing Arts Center.
Local artists display their work in a professional setting, and the rotating exhibitions provide a constantly changing array of art to enjoy.
Whether you’re attending an event or just stopping by to admire the art, the Arts Center is definitely worth a visit.
Best Neighborhoods in McKinney, TX
Adriatica Village
Adriatica Village is a unique, tight-knit community in McKinney. The neighborhood is centered around a charming central plaza with a stunning fountain and plenty of seating.
This is the perfect place to gather with friends and neighbors, and it’s also a popular spot for events and festivals.
Adriatica Village also has its own private pool and clubhouse. This is a great amenity for residents, and it’s also a great way to meet your neighbors.
Plus, the neighborhood has its own elementary school, which is part of the highly-rated Frisco ISD. Adriatica Village is truly a one-of-a-kind community, and it’s an ideal place to spend a day.
Craig Ranch
Craig Ranch is one of the many neighborhoods that make up the city of McKinney, North Texas. Craig Ranch is a master-planned community that includes both residential and commercial areas.
The neighborhood is home to Adriatica Village, which is a Mediterranean-style shopping and dining district. Craig Ranch also has a golf course, country club, and fitness center. The community is well-connected, with major highways and public transportation options nearby.
Craig Ranch is a popular choice for those who want to live in a safe, family-friendly neighborhood with plenty of amenities.
Isleworth
McKinney TX is a good place to live, and the Isleworth community is one of the best neighborhoods in the city. Isleworth is convenient to shopping and dining destinations, as well as major highways.
Residents of Isleworth enjoy access to a variety of amenities, such as a clubhouse, swimming pool, and tennis courts.
The homes in Isleworth are spacious and well-maintained, and the community is quiet and family-friendly. If you’re looking for a good place to live in McKinney TX, Isleworth is definitely worth considering.
Final Thoughts
McKinney TX is definitely a good place to live! It’s extremely family-friendly, with plenty of activities and amenities for families of all ages. The cost of living is also quite reasonable, and the city offers a good mix of urban and suburban living.
There are plenty of dining and shopping options, as well as ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Overall, McKinney is a safe, affordable, and welcoming city that offers something for everyone. If you’re looking for a place to call home, McKinney should definitely be at the top of your list!