North Texas Spotlight: McKinney Named the No. 1 Real Estate Market in the U.S.
The McKinney housing market 2025 is making national headlines. Last month, a new study from WalletHub has ranked McKinney, Texas, as the No. 1 real estate market in America, out of 300 cities analyzed. The ranking considered multiple factors, including home affordability, job growth, building permits, and foreclosure rates.
Why McKinney Leads the U.S. Housing Market
Rapid Growth and New Homes
Nearly 38% of McKinney’s homes were built between 2010 and 2023, giving buyers access to newer, modern properties. The city also ranks among the highest for building permits per capita, meaning more inventory is coming online to meet demand.
Strong Job Market & Economic Growth
McKinney has one of the highest job growth rates in the nation — about 21% annually. That kind of expansion drives housing demand and strengthens long-term property values.
Affordability Compared to Income
While prices are climbing, McKinney still offers relative affordability when factoring in utilities, maintenance, and high local income levels. This balance makes it one of the best places to buy in Texas for both first-time buyers and seasoned investors.
Quality of Life
Beyond numbers, McKinney is known for its excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and strong sense of community. It was also ranked one of the best midsize U.S. cities for renters, blending lifestyle and value.
DFW Real Estate Trends: Other Cities in the Top 10
McKinney may have earned the top spot, but Dallas–Fort Worth real estate as a whole is thriving. WalletHub also placed Richardson, Frisco, Denton, and Allen in the top 10. Fort Worth continues to improve, while Dallas slipped slightly in this year’s rankings. Together, these cities make North Texas one of the strongest housing regions in the U.S.
Key Challenges to Watch
But even the strongest housing markets face challenges:
Rising Home Prices: Growing demand could make affordability harder over time.
Mortgage Rates: Higher interest rates impact buyer purchasing power.
Infrastructure Needs: Rapid growth requires expanded schools, roads, and public services.
Increased Competition: Popular markets often see multiple offers and bidding wars.
What It Means for Buyers, Investors, and Renters
Homebuyers: McKinney offers newer homes, excellent schools, and long-term value in a booming area.
Investors: Strong rental demand and economic growth make McKinney one of the best places to invest in Texas real estate.
Renters: McKinney provides a balance of affordability, amenities, and quality of life that rivals larger cities.
McKinney’s recognition as the No. 1 real estate market in the U.S. highlights what makes North Texas so appealing: economic opportunity, modern housing, and an exceptional quality of life. With multiple DFW real estate markets ranking among the best nationwide, the region remains a hotspot for buyers, renters, and investors in 2025 and beyond.
