Plano, Texas is a thriving suburb of Dallas known for its high quality of life and strong sense of community. Plano has great schools, numerous parks, and a busy job market that attracts many people. But is Plano a great place to live? Like any city, living in Plano has its own pros and cons. In this Redfin article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of living in Plano to help you decide if it’s right for you.
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Basic information about Plano
| Median home sales price | $505,000 |
| average monthly rent | $1,821 |
| walk score | 41/100 |
| traffic score | 15/100 |
| bike score | 52/100 |
1. Pros: Great educational program
Plano is known for its excellent educational opportunities, which is an important draw. Plano Independent School District (PISD) consistently ranks among the best in the state for offering a variety of advanced placement courses, extracurricular activities, and specialty programs such as STEM education.
2. Disadvantages: extremely hot in summer
One of the downsides of living in Plano is the intense heat in the summer. Temperatures may soar above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, making outdoor activities uncomfortable. High temperatures can also lead to higher energy bills as residents rely heavily on air conditioners to stay cool. For those not used to such high temperatures, this extreme weather can be a big adjustment.
3. Pros: Booming job market
Plano has a strong job market, especially in the technology and corporate sectors. Major companies such as Toyota, Liberty Mutual and JC Penney have their headquarters or significant operations located in the city. The presence of large employers provides numerous employment opportunities, making Plano a great place to live.
4. Disadvantages: Turnpike tolls
Plano has a toll system on major highways, such as the Dallas Northern Tollway and the George Bush Presidential Tollway, which are major routes to and from Dallas and other major cities. These tolls can add up quickly, resulting in huge additional costs for daily commuters.
5. Pros: Close to Dallas
Plano’s proximity to Dallas is a significant advantage for residents, providing easy access to the amenities and opportunities of the major metropolitan area. The short commute allows residents to enjoy Dallas’ vibrant cultural scene, diverse dining options and abundant shopping without sacrificing the benefits of Plano’s suburban environment.
6. Disadvantages: High cost of living
While Plano offers many amenities, the cost of living is relatively high. Home prices and property taxes are higher compared to other Texas cities, with the median home sales price at $505,000 and the average monthly rent at $1,821. This can be a hurdle for first-time homebuyers or those on a tight budget. The cost of living can make it difficult for some residents to afford the lifestyle they want.
7. Advantages: Excellent shopping opportunity
Plano has excellent shopping opportunities, making it an attractive destination for residents and visitors alike. The city is home to upscale shopping centers such as The Shops at Legacy and The Shops at Willow Bend, which offer a variety of retail options from luxury brands to boutiques. In addition, the Legacy West development further enhances Plano’s shopping scene, offering a vibrant mix of restaurants, shops and entertainment venues.
8. Cons: Limited transportation options
Plano faces the challenge of limited transportation options, as evidenced by its low transit score of 15. The system has limited coverage and frequency compared to the public transport network. Additionally, Plano’s lack of light rail or commuter rail service further exacerbates the problem, making car ownership a necessity for many residents.
9. Pros: Friendly community
Plano prides itself on its friendly and close-knit community, creating a welcoming atmosphere for residents. Neighborhood associations and community events, such as the annual Plano International Festival and neighborhood block parties, promote interaction among neighbors. This sense of community creates a supportive environment where residents can build meaningful connections.
10. Cons: Suburban sprawl
Plano’s rapid growth has led to suburban sprawl, which can diminish the city’s charm. The expansion has resulted in communities that are more spread out, less walkable and more dependent on cars. Such sprawl would also result in less green space and increased environmental impact, a concern for some residents.
method: Median home sales price and average monthly rent data come from the Redfin Data Center. Walk Score, Transit Score, and Bike Score data are derived from Walk Score.
