
Why Move to Allen, Texas?
Explore top schools, master-planned neighborhoods, and unbeatable family amenities.
Take a Full Tour of Allen, Texas
Considering a move to Allen, Texas? This full city tour highlights everything families love about living in Allen — from its top-ranked schools and master-planned neighborhoods to its parks, shopping, and family-friendly vibe. Watch this video to see why Allen is one of the best suburbs in the Dallas-Fort Worth area!
Where is Allen, Texas?
Allen, Texas is a thriving suburb located about 25 miles north of downtown Dallas in Collin County. Known for its award-winning schools, beautiful master-planned communities, and family-friendly atmosphere, Allen offers quick access to major highways like US-75 and SH-121. It's just minutes from neighboring cities like Plano, McKinney, and Frisco, making it a strategic location for those commuting across the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Families and professionals alike choose Allen for its small-town charm paired with modern amenities and excellent quality of life.
Allen, Texas by the Numbers
Considering relocating to Allen? These key statistics—homes, schools, income, and community insights—offer everything you need at a glance.
Sources: ESRI via Allen EDC, U.S. Census Bureau ACS, DataUSA, Niche.com, NCES, NTREIS MLS (2023–2025)
Allen, Texas Rankings & Recognition
From award-winning schools to national quality-of-life rankings, Allen consistently earns recognition as one of the top places to live in Texas and the U.S. Here’s how Allen stands out in 2025:
- #8 Best Suburb to Live in DFW – Niche.com 2025
- #19 Best Suburb to Live in Texas – Niche.com 2025
- #22 Best Place to Raise a Family in Texas – Niche.com 2025
- #2 Best Place to Live in America – Money Magazine (Historical, 2017)
- Named a Top 40 City in Texas – U.S. News & World Report 2025–2026
- #3 Best Suburb for Young Professionals in Collin County – Niche.com
- Tree City USA – Recognized for green initiatives and urban forestry
- Low Natural Disaster Risk – Sperling’s BestPlaces Safety Ranking
These honors reflect Allen’s strong schools, beautiful neighborhoods, community amenities, and overall quality of life — making it a smart choice for families, professionals, and retirees alike.
Pros and Cons of Living in Allen, Texas
What People Love About Allen
- Excellent Public Schools – Allen ISD is known for strong academics, sports, and arts programs. The district is highly rated and offers a wide range of advanced coursework and extracurriculars.
- Well-Planned Neighborhoods – Many of Allen’s communities are beautifully maintained with walking trails, parks, and green spaces. Neighborhoods like Twin Creeks and Montgomery Farm are especially popular.
- Great Shopping and Dining – You’ll find plenty of shopping at Allen Premium Outlets, Watters Creek, and The Village at Allen, along with local restaurants and familiar chains.
- Safe and Family-Friendly – Allen consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in North Texas. It has a reputation for being clean, quiet, and great for families.
- Steady Job Market – While many residents commute, Allen is home to several large employers and is close to major job centers in Plano and Richardson.
- Modern Education Facilities – Schools like the Allen STEAM Center and Lowery Freshman Center give students access to updated technology and learning environments.
- Parks and Outdoor Space – From Celebration Park to the hike-and-bike trail system, Allen has no shortage of green space. There are plenty of places for kids to play, ride bikes, or enjoy the outdoors.
- Strong Community Vibe – From football games at Eagle Stadium to citywide events and festivals, there’s a lot of local pride and community involvement.
Things to Consider
- Home Prices Are Rising – The average home in Allen now costs over $500K, which can be tough for first-time buyers or those on a tighter budget.
- Commuting Can Take Time – Even though Allen is close to US-75, traffic during rush hour can be slow. Expect 30–45 minutes to downtown Dallas on a typical weekday.
- Not Much Nightlife – Allen is quiet after dark. For live music, comedy shows, or a night out, you’ll likely be driving to Dallas, Plano, or Frisco.
- Hot Summers – July and August often bring 100+ degree days. If you’re sensitive to heat, the long summers here may be a challenge.
- Strict HOA Rules – Many communities have active homeowners’ associations that may limit things like landscaping choices, paint colors, or outdoor storage.
- Car Required – There’s no public transportation in Allen, so having a car is necessary for getting to work, school, or even the grocery store.
- Lots of Growth – Allen has grown quickly, and that can mean more traffic, crowded schools, and ongoing construction in some parts of town.
Sources: Allen ISD, Niche.com, NTREIS, U.S. Census Bureau, City of Allen, AEDC, and relocation feedback (2024–2025).
Ready to Explore Allen, Texas?
Relocating isn’t just about finding the right house — it’s about choosing a community that fits your lifestyle. Whether you're looking for top-rated schools, nearby employers, or a quiet suburban feel, Allen offers something for every kind of homebuyer.
As a local Allen relocation specialist, I’ve helped families make confident moves by sharing neighborhood insights, market trends, and what it’s really like to live here. From navigating HOAs to understanding commute routes, I’ll walk you through every step.
Let’s create a personalized relocation plan based on your goals, timeline, and budget — so you can make the move with clarity and confidence.
Get Your Free Allen Relocation ConsultationWhat It’s Really Like Living in Allen, Texas
Allen, Texas, is a popular north Dallas suburb in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex that has earned a reputation for its family-friendly atmosphere, excellent schools, and abundant amenities. Located about 25 miles north of downtown Dallas in Collin County, Allen offers residents the perfect blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience. The city is often praised as one of the best places to live in Texas – even garnering national recognition for its high quality of life – thanks to a combination of safe neighborhoods, welcoming community spirit, and a robust local economy that continues to attract families from across the country.
Daily life in Allen centers around convenience, community, and plenty of activities for all ages. The city boasts several popular shopping and entertainment districts – from the open-air Watters Creek at Montgomery Farm to the expansive Allen Premium Outlets and The Village at Allen – ensuring that retail, dining, and family fun are always close at hand. Community events like outdoor concerts, festivals, and seasonal celebrations frequently take place in these hubs and local parks, bringing neighbors together throughout the year. With quick access to Highway 75 (Central Expressway) and the Sam Rayburn Tollway, commuting to downtown Dallas or major employment centers in Plano and Frisco is relatively straightforward, allowing professionals to enjoy suburban tranquility without sacrificing career opportunities.
Neighborhoods in Allen offer a diverse range of housing options and a strong sense of community. Many areas are master-planned with amenities like community pools, playgrounds, walking trails, and even golf courses integrated into the neighborhood design. You’ll find everything from charming, established subdivisions with tree-lined streets to newer luxury developments. Popular neighborhoods include Twin Creeks, Watters Crossing, StarCreek, and Glendover Park, each known for its own unique perks – whether it’s a championship golf course, top-notch community facilities, proximity to highly rated schools, or lush greenbelts. These well-kept neighborhoods, combined with a relatively affordable cost of living, make Allen especially attractive for families seeking space, comfort, and a friendly atmosphere.
One of Allen’s biggest draws is its outstanding education system. The city is served by the highly acclaimed Allen ISD, which consistently ranks among the top school districts in Texas. Despite having just one comprehensive high school for the entire city, Allen ISD excels in academics, arts, and athletics. In fact, Allen High School – one of the largest in the nation – is known for its renowned extracurricular programs and the famous 18,000-seat Allen Eagle Stadium that becomes a community gathering spot on Friday nights. Families also appreciate that younger students have access to numerous well-regarded elementary and middle schools, ensuring quality education at every level. Additionally, a portion of Allen is zoned to Lovejoy ISD, another elite district, so the commitment to education here is second to none.
Outdoor living is a major part of the Allen lifestyle. The city maintains an award-winning park system with over 50 parks and green spaces, and an extensive network of hiking and biking trails that help connect neighborhoods. In fact, most residents are within a 10-minute walk of a park. Local favorites like Celebration Park – with its sports fields, playgrounds, and the city’s signature Allen USA fireworks festival every summer – and Allen Station Park – featuring baseball fields, a skate park, and even a BMX track – offer endless opportunities for recreation and family fun. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy courses like Twin Creeks, and the city’s proximity to nearby lakes and nature preserves means outdoor adventure is never far away.
Dining and entertainment options in Allen are plentiful and continue to grow. The city offers a mix of well-known restaurants and charming local eateries, many concentrated around Watters Creek and along Stacy Road. You can find everything from trendy brunch spots and Tex-Mex cafes to upscale bistros and international cuisine, ensuring there’s something for every palate. Family-friendly entertainment is easy to find too – from movie nights in the park and bowling alleys to fun spots like Topgolf. While Allen’s nightlife is relatively low-key compared to Dallas, residents appreciate the relaxed evenings and know that the vibrant dining and nightlife scenes of Plano or downtown Dallas are just a short drive away whenever they want a night out.
Allen’s sense of community is one of its greatest strengths. The city regularly hosts local events, parades, and festivals that foster strong neighborhood bonds. Residents often describe Allen as warm, safe, and community-driven, with neighbors coming together for everything from weekend farmers’ markets and outdoor concerts to city-wide celebrations like the Allen USA Festival or the annual holiday tree lighting downtown. This high level of community engagement is also seen in the way people support local schools, volunteer in civic organizations, and participate in active homeowners’ associations. Whether it’s cheering on the Allen Eagles at a packed Friday night football game or joining a local service project, there are countless ways for residents to connect and feel a sense of belonging.
Compared to neighboring suburbs like Plano, Frisco, or McKinney, Allen stands out for its combination of excellent schools, extensive amenities, and a tight-knit community spirit. It may not be as large as some of those cities or expanding quite as rapidly, but that’s part of its charm. Home prices in Allen are often more approachable than in its higher-profile neighbors, and residents say their investment is well worth it for the exceptional amenities, safety, and sense of community they enjoy. It all adds up to a quality of life that’s hard to beat, even among North Texas’s most celebrated suburbs.
Living in Allen means embracing a well-rounded, family-focused lifestyle in the heart of North Texas. It’s a place where you truly can have it all – highly rated schools, beautiful parks, diverse shopping and dining, and friendly neighbors – all while remaining within easy reach of the big-city opportunities in Dallas. Allen offers the space and comfort of suburban life without feeling remote or isolated. For families and professionals alike, calling Allen home promises an exceptional quality of life, strong community values, and the peace of mind that comes from living in one of the region’s most desirable cities.
Crime & Safety in Allen, Texas
Allen earns a B grade for Crime & Safety on Niche.com, reflecting both low crime rates and positive resident reviews. According to NeighborhoodScout, Allen is markedly safer than the national average for communities of comparable size. Detailed FBI data (via Niche) shows Allen’s violent crime and property crime both remain well below U.S. averages — a reassuring indicator for families considering the move. (Sources: Niche Crime & Safety; NeighborhoodScout Allen Crime Data)
Niche Crime & Safety Grade: B
Violent crime in Allen is significantly lower than national averages: assault (~56.4 vs. 282.7), murder (~0.9 vs. 6.1), rape (~22.2 vs. 40.7), and robbery (~17.6 vs. 135.5) per 100,000 residents.
Property crime is also well under the national rate: burglary (~75.8 vs. 500.1), theft (~793.8 vs. 2,042.8), and motor vehicle theft (~50.8 vs. 284.0).
Allen’s placement as “safer than average” reflects both low crime data and consistent feedback from residents. Learn more on Niche
NeighborhoodScout – Safety Comparison
NeighborhoodScout places Allen among the safer communities compared to typical cities of similar size. While exact scores are hidden behind membership, the overall analysis affirms Allen’s low risk of violent or property crime.
Experts highlight Allen’s strong public safety record, informed law enforcement practices, and active community engagement. Explore NeighborhoodScout data
Official Crime & Safety Resources
Allen, Texas School District Ratings & Insights
Allen Independent School District serves around 21,300 students (pre‑K through grade 12) in Collin County, operating ~22–24 campuses including one high school, one freshman center, three middle schools, sixteen elementary schools, and one early childhood school. On Niche.com, Allen ISD holds an overall grade of A+, ranking it #1 in Collin County and among the elite districts in Texas. The student‑teacher ratio averages about 16 to 1, and the four‑year graduation rate is an impressive 98% (compared to the state average of ~90%). The district routinely earns top marks in areas such as academics, teacher quality, college readiness, and extracurriculars.
According to Texas Tribune data, the average SAT score is 1,140 and the ACT score is 25.3, positioning students well above state averages. This level of performance reflects the district’s investment in advanced academics, IB programs, and strong college counseling.
(Sources: Niche – Allen ISD Profile, Texas Tribune Data)
Allen ISD Quick Facts (2024–25)
Students: ~21,300 (grades PK–12)
Campuses: 1 high school, 1 freshman campus, 3 middle schools, 16 elementary schools, 1 early childhood center
Student‑Teacher Ratio: ~16 : 1
Graduation Rate: 98% (four‑year, Class of 2023)
SAT / ACT (2022–23): Avg. SAT 1,140 | Avg. ACT 25.3
College‑Prep Participation: ~37% of juniors/seniors took ≥1 AP or IB test; ~87% passed at least one exam
Program Populations: Gifted & Talented ~14% | Bilingual/ESL ~13% | Special Education ~14%
Top Schools in Allen ISD
Allen High School (Grades 10–12)
GreatSchools Rating: 8/10
One of the nation’s largest comprehensive high schools, Allen HS offers IB, AP courses, and 40+ athletic programs. Known for excellent college-readiness and an active campus culture. Learn more
Ereckson Middle School (Grades 7–8)
GreatSchools Rating: 9/10
Highly rated for academics and student support, with a strong GT (Gifted & Talented) program and active community involvement. Learn more
Max O. Vaughan Elementary School (Grades PK–6)
GreatSchools Rating: 10/10
One of Allen’s top-scored elementaries on test performance and student progress, with a nurturing culture and consistent parent satisfaction. Learn more
Allen ISD’s great schools reflect strong district leadership, academic rigor, and wide-ranging programming—from fine arts and athletics to STEM and leadership opportunities.
Allen ISD – Overall Niche Grade: A+
Allen Texas Homes For Sale
Looking for homes for sale in Allen, Texas? Click on the link below to explore all the available homes currently on the market in Allen, TX. Plus, you can set up personalized custom searches so you’re always among the first to know when your dream home hits the market, keeping you steps ahead in this competitive area.
New Construction Homes in Allen Texas
Are you interested in New Construction homes in Allen Texas? Check out our resource you can search for all the new construction communities!
Allen Texas Real Estate Market Trends
These live market charts highlight the latest real estate trends in Allen, TX — including median sales prices, the number of closed sales, how long homes stay on the market, inventory levels, months of supply, and how close sellers are getting to their original asking price.
Updated monthly from NTREIS MLS, this data helps buyers and sellers understand how the Allen housing market is performing, whether it's leaning toward a buyer’s or seller’s market, and what to expect in terms of pricing and competition.
More Articles About Living in Allen, Texas
Discover helpful blog content about moving to Allen, Texas — including suburb comparisons, local neighborhood insights, homebuyer tips, and relocation advice. New posts are added regularly to support your journey.
Allen, Texas — Frequently Asked Questions
Is Allen, Texas still growing and family-friendly?
Yes. Allen continues to attract families for its highly rated Allen ISD schools, well-planned neighborhoods, parks, and convenient access to US-75 and SH-121. Growth is steadier than boom towns like Prosper, but amenities are abundant and established.
How does the cost of living in Allen compare to nearby suburbs?
Allen’s overall cost of living is moderate for North Dallas suburbs. Housing is typically more affordable than Frisco or Southlake, but higher than McKinney or Wylie. Property taxes vary by subdivision and school funding zones, generally in the low-2% range of assessed value.
What are the best neighborhoods in Allen for families?
Popular family areas include Twin Creeks, StarCreek, Watters Crossing, Montgomery Farm, Waterford Crossing, and Lexington. These communities offer trails, pools, parks, and strong access to Allen ISD campuses.
How are the schools in Allen ISD?
Allen ISD is well regarded for academics, arts, and athletics. The district uses one comprehensive high school (Allen High School, 6A) with extensive AP programs, CTE pathways, a renowned marching band, and the Eagle Stadium complex. Middle and elementary schools feed into the single high school system for consistent programming.
What’s the commute like from Allen to Dallas and major job hubs?
Most commuters use US-75 to reach Dallas, Richardson, or Plano, and SH-121 for Legacy/Frisco corporate centers. Peak traffic can be heavy near 75/121 interchanges, but multiple arterials help with local circulation.
Does Allen have DART rail or public transit?
Allen does not have DART rail service. The nearest light rail stations are in Plano (Parker Road). Most residents drive; a few private shuttles and regional options exist but aren’t a substitute for daily commuting.
Are there affordable options like townhomes or apartments?
Yes. In addition to single-family homes, Allen offers townhomes and apartments around US-75, Watters Creek, and The Village at Allen. These can be good interim options for families relocating before purchasing.
What shopping and dining areas are most popular?
Watters Creek at Montgomery Farm, Allen Premium Outlets, and The Village at Allen offer shopping, restaurants, seasonal events, and green spaces. Legacy West and Stonebriar Centre are a short drive via SH-121.
What parks and recreation does Allen offer?
Highlights include Celebration Park (splash pad, sports fields), Allen Station Park (skate park, BMX), Bethany Lakes Park, and extensive hike-and-bike trails. Families also use Joe Farmer Recreation Center, Don Rodenbaugh Aquatics Center, and Courses at Watters Creek (golf).
How safe is Allen?
Allen is widely viewed as a safe, suburban city with active community policing and engaged HOAs. As with any city, property crime can occur—most families appreciate the overall low violent-crime environment.
What are typical property taxes and HOA/PID considerations?
Property tax rates vary by subdivision but are commonly in the low-2% range. Many neighborhoods have HOAs that maintain amenities and set architectural standards. A few newer areas near SH-121 may include additional assessments—review before purchasing.
Does Allen have new construction or primarily resale homes?
Buildable land inside Allen is limited, so most options are resale or infill townhomes. For larger new-build communities, many buyers look to nearby Fairview, McKinney, Lucas, or Prosper while still using Allen amenities.
What local events should new families know about?
Allen USA Celebration (July 4th festivities), seasonal markets at Watters Creek, city rec events, and youth sports leagues are big draws. The Credit Union of Texas Event Center hosts concerts, shows, and community events year-round.
How is internet, power, and utilities service in Allen?
Electricity is deregulated with multiple provider choices. Water/trash is city-managed. High-speed internet options include fiber in many neighborhoods (e.g., AT&T Fiber) and cable providers, supporting work-from-home needs.
What healthcare options are nearby?
Allen is served by Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Allen and numerous clinics. Larger hospital networks in Plano, McKinney, and Frisco (e.g., Medical City, Baylor Scott & White) are within a short drive via 75/121.
How competitive is the Allen real estate market?
Well-priced homes, especially those near top elementary/middle schools or with updated finishes, can move quickly. Pre-approval and flexible terms help buyers compete, particularly in spring.
What’s unique about Allen High School and athletics?
Allen High School’s single-high-school model supports large-scale programs across academics, arts, robotics, and athletics. The football program competes at the 6A level and plays in Eagle Stadium; fine arts and STEM programs are also standouts.
Is Allen walkable? Which areas are most pedestrian-friendly?
Most of Allen is car-dependent, but Watters Creek and parts of Montgomery Farm offer walkable retail, dining, and parks connected by trails. Sidewalks and greenbelt paths are common within neighborhoods.
Are short-term rentals allowed in Allen?
Short-term rental rules evolve. Some neighborhoods and HOAs restrict STRs or require permits. Always verify current city ordinances and HOA covenants before purchasing with rental plans.
How does Allen compare to Plano, McKinney, and Frisco for families?
Allen offers a balance of established amenities and relative affordability. It’s typically more affordable than Frisco, a bit pricier than parts of McKinney/Wylie, and smaller/more cohesive than Plano—while staying close to major job corridors.
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