McKinney has once again captured national attention, officially ranking as the No. 1 real estate market in the United States in WalletHub's 2025 report. This recognition reflects the city’s rapid growth, thriving economy, and strong housing market—making it one of the most desirable places in the country to call home.
Why McKinney Stands Out
One of McKinney’s biggest strengths lies in its new housing opportunities. Nearly 38% of the city’s homes have been built since 2010, giving buyers access to modern properties that often require less maintenance and renovation. The city’s growth isn’t slowing either, as McKinney currently holds the third-highest number of building permits per capita nationwide.
Affordability also contributes to McKinney’s appeal. While not the least expensive market in the country, it ranks 74th for affordability out of 300 cities studied—with competitive costs for utilities, maintenance, and energy. Zillow’s Home Values Index reported the average home value in McKinney at $497,766 as of July 2025, which is actually down five percent from last year. That balance of value and opportunity makes McKinney attractive for both homeowners and investors.
A Thriving Job Market Fuels Growth
McKinney isn’t just a housing hotspot—it’s also one of the fastest-growing job markets in the nation. With nearly 21% annual job growth, the city ranks 11th nationwide, pairing housing opportunities with strong economic momentum. For those relocating to the area, McKinney offers not only a place to live but also a place to build lasting careers.
North Texas Cities Dominate the Rankings
McKinney’s success is part of a broader story across North Texas. Several neighboring cities also ranked in WalletHub’s top ten real estate markets of 2025:
Top 10 Real Estate Markets in the U.S. (2025)
- McKinney, Texas
- Cary, North Carolina
- Irvine, California
- Durham, North Carolina
- Richardson, Texas
- Frisco, Texas
- Gilbert, Arizona
- Nashville, Tennessee
- Denton, Texas
- Allen, Texas
With Richardson, Frisco, Denton, and Allen joining McKinney in the top 10, it’s clear that North Texas is a national leader when it comes to housing, affordability, and quality of life.
What McKinney’s #1 Ranking Means for Buyers and Sellers
For buyers, McKinney offers the rare combination of new construction, affordability, and strong job opportunities—making it a smart place to purchase a home with long-term value. For sellers, this recognition adds momentum to an already competitive market, with national visibility drawing more attention to the area.
At the Lonestar Living Team, we’re proud to serve our hometown of McKinney and help clients navigate one of the strongest real estate markets in the country. Whether you’re looking for homes for sale, planning to sell your property, or exploring investment opportunities, our team is here to guide you every step of the way!
