Plano vs. Frisco, Texas – Which is Dallas’ Best Suburb?
When it comes to choosing the best suburb in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, Plano and Frisco are two names that consistently rise to the top. Both cities offer vibrant communities, excellent schools, thriving economies, and a wide range of lifestyle amenities. But which one is better?
The truth is—it depends on what you're looking for. In this comparison, we’ll break down key aspects of both cities, including real estate, schools, amenities, lifestyle, and job opportunities, so you can decide which is the best fit for your needs.
Location & Accessibility
Feature | Plano | Frisco |
---|---|---|
Distance to Downtown Dallas | ~20 miles | ~28 miles |
Major Highways | US-75, Dallas North Tollway | Dallas North Tollway, SH-121 |
Public Transit | DART Rail (Red Line access) | Limited DART, car-centric |
Plano is closer to Downtown Dallas and has access to the DART rail system, which may be attractive for commuters. Frisco is slightly farther north and more car-dependent but offers quick access to SH-121 and the Tollway.
Real Estate & Housing
Feature | Plano | Frisco |
---|---|---|
Median Home Price (2025) | ~$540,000 | ~$620,000 |
Home Style Variety | Established neighborhoods, remodels | Newer developments, master-planned communities |
Average Lot Size | Larger lots in older neighborhoods | Smaller lots, but more modern builds |
New Construction | Limited in-fill and teardown options | Abundant new builds and communities |
Frisco has seen a development boom in recent years, making it a hotspot for brand-new homes and modern neighborhoods. Plano, on the other hand, offers more mature communities with larger lots and tree-lined streets—perfect for those who value space and character.
Schools & Education
Feature | Plano ISD | Frisco ISD |
---|---|---|
District Rating | A-rated (Texas Education Agency) | A-rated (Texas Education Agency) |
Number of Schools | ~80 | ~70 |
High School Campuses | Traditional high schools | Smaller, more numerous campuses |
Academic Recognition | National Blue Ribbon schools | Rapid growth with strong performance |
Both districts are highly rated, but they have different structures. Plano ISD operates larger, more traditional high schools, while Frisco ISD is known for building smaller campuses to promote a close-knit environment. If school size and structure matter to you, this is a key differentiator.
Jobs & Economy
Feature | Plano | Frisco |
---|---|---|
Major Employers | Toyota HQ, Frito-Lay, JCPenney, Capital One | PGA of America, Keurig Dr Pepper, Dallas Cowboys HQ |
Corporate Presence | Established Fortune 500 hub | Growing, with major relocations |
Commercial Development | Legacy West, Granite Park | The Star, Frisco Station, Hall Park |
Plano has long been a major business hub, especially in tech, finance, and corporate HQs. Frisco is quickly catching up, bringing in high-profile developments and relocating major brands. If you're job hunting, both cities offer impressive opportunities.
Entertainment, Shopping & Dining
Feature | Plano | Frisco |
---|---|---|
Shopping Destinations | Legacy West, The Shops at Legacy | Stonebriar Centre, The Star District |
Dining Scene | Upscale, diverse, mature | Trendy, growing, modern |
Entertainment Options | Cinemark HQ, Legacy Hall, Arts Center | FC Dallas, RoughRiders, KidZania |
Green Spaces | Arbor Hills, Oak Point Park | Frisco Commons, Grand Park |
Whether you're into nightlife, boutique shopping, or weekend family outings, both cities have it all. Plano offers a more established cultural scene, while Frisco focuses on innovation, sports, and new developments.
Family-Friendliness
Feature | Plano | Frisco |
---|---|---|
Parks & Trails | Over 90 parks, 4,300+ acres of green space | 1,600+ acres, rapidly expanding trail system |
Youth Sports | Strong community leagues | Home to several pro-level youth facilities |
Safety | Very safe, with low crime rates | Also very safe, consistently rated high |
Community Events | Festivals, cultural events, parades | Sports-centric events, seasonal fests |
Both suburbs offer excellent environments for raising a family, with Frisco skewing slightly younger demographically. Plano, with its mature infrastructure, still maintains a top-tier family lifestyle.
Demographics & Lifestyle
Feature | Plano | Frisco |
---|---|---|
Population (2025 est.) | ~295,000 | ~235,000 |
Median Age | 39 | 36 |
Diversity | Highly diverse | Increasingly diverse |
Vibe | Established, upscale, refined | New, energetic, trendy |
Plano tends to attract professionals, established families, and those looking for a quieter, more refined suburban lifestyle. Frisco is ideal for younger families, early-career professionals, and people drawn to brand-new developments and exciting growth.
Cost of Living
Feature | Plano | Frisco |
---|---|---|
Overall Cost of Living | Slightly lower | Slightly higher |
Property Taxes | ~2.15% | ~2.25% |
Utility & Services Costs | Average for DFW | Slightly higher in new developments |
HOA Fees (average) | Moderate | More common in newer communities |
Though both cities are affluent, Plano may offer a bit more value in terms of property pricing and ongoing expenses. Frisco, due to rapid growth and newer homes, often comes with newer, higher-cost amenities and HOA structures.
So... Which One is Right for You?
There’s no clear winner in the Plano vs. Frisco debate—and that’s a good thing.
If you love:
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Established neighborhoods with mature trees and large lots
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Easy access to Dallas and public transit
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Top-tier public schools and a strong corporate job market
Plano might be your perfect match.
If you're drawn to:
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Modern homes in fast-growing master-planned communities
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A younger, energetic vibe with a sports and tech twist
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New infrastructure and big-brand development
Frisco could be the ideal place to call home.
Ready to Find Your Dream Home?
Whether you’re leaning toward Plano, Frisco, or still exploring, VIP Realty is here to help.
Our expert agents understand the unique vibes of each community and can match you with the perfect home based on your needs, budget, and lifestyle. From luxury estates to new construction and everything in between, we’ve got the connections and experience to guide you home.
Contact VIP Realty today for a personalized home tour in Plano or Frisco.
Let’s make your dream move a reality!
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