With a population of over 199,000 as of 2022 according to Wikipedia, McKinney is one of the fastest growing cities in Texas. It is the county seat of Collin County and is located about 30 miles north of Dallas. Once a small farming town, McKinney has transformed into a thriving community with a diverse economy and plenty of amenities.
McKinney’s Growing Population
McKinney has seen explosive growth in recent decades. Since 2000, its population has nearly tripled. McKinney appeals to families and professionals looking for a high quality of life, good schools, and reasonable housing costs compared to neighboring cities like Plano and Frisco. The median age in McKinney is 34, with over 30% of residents under the age of 18.
Economic Drivers in McKinney
There are several major employers that drive McKinney’s economy:
- Raytheon – Aerospace, defense and security technology company
- Collin College – Community college with nearly 27,000 students
- Medical Center of McKinney – Hospital and health care provider
- Independent Bank – Headquarters for this regional bank
- Milliken & Company – Textiles and specialty chemicals manufacturer
Other important economic sectors in McKinney include technology, corporate offices, manufacturing, construction and retail. The city has received accolades for its business-friendly environment, including being named #1 Best Place to Live in America by Money Magazine.
Major companies with regional or corporate offices in McKinney include Toyota, Emerson and Horizon Group Properties. McKinney’s strategic location along the Sam Rayburn Tollway allows convenient access to Dallas-Fort Worth economic centers.
In 2021, McKinney had a gross metropolitan product of over $13 billion according to DataCommons.org.
Attractions and Things to Do in McKinney
McKinney offers a wide variety of attractions and activities for visitors and residents:
- Historic Downtown McKinney – Charming main street with shops, restaurants and galleries. Don’t miss the courthouse square.
- Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary – 250 acre nature preserve with hiking trails, gardens and over 1,000 animal residents. See everything from lemurs to snakes!
- Chestnut Square Historic Village – Step back in time at this 19th century living history village. Costumed interpreters bring the past to life.
- Towne Lake Recreation Area – Large park with fishing, playgrounds, walking trails and sports fields adjacent to a scenic 146 acre lake.
- McKinney Performing Arts Center – Catch a show or performance at this modern, fully-equipped theater complex downtown.
Outdoors enthusiasts will love the over 1,000 acres of parkland in McKinney. Golfers can tee off at one of McKinney’s public or private courses. Shopping options abound at Stonebridge Village, Adriatica Village and the Outlet Malls of Allen among other retail centers.
Sports Teams and Recreation
McKinney is home to several professional and amateur sports teams:
- McKinney Boyd High School Soccer – Successful boys and girls soccer programs with multiple state titles.
- McKinney ISD Athletics – Other high school sports like football, basketball, baseball and more.
- North Texas Soccer Club – Professional soccer team competing in the USL Championship league and affiliated with FC Dallas of Major League Soccer.
- Frisco RoughRiders – Minor league baseball team located just south of McKinney in Frisco.
McKinney has over 50 parks and many recreational facilities including the Ron Poe Municipal Complex which features 8 softball fields, 12 baseball fields, 12 soccer fields and the McKinney Aquatic Center. Frisco Athletic Center and The Star in Frisco offer professional-grade sports facilities just a short drive away.
McKinney for Families
McKinney offers family-friendly attractions and activities:
- Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary – Kids will love seeing and learning about live animals.
- Pecan Grove Park – Picturesque park with playground, splash pad, fishing and picnic areas.
- Chestnut Square Historic Village – Fun, hands-on history lessons.
- Movie Theater at Stonebridge Village – Catch a movie at the Cinemark theater.
- Amazing Jakes – Large indoor amusement park with rides, games and laser tag.
McKinney has many excellent public schools that regularly win awards and accolades. Housing options cater towards families with good selections of affordable single-family homes. Low crime rates and family-friendly community events and festivals also make McKinney an ideal place to raise a family.
Moving to McKinney
If you’re considering a move to McKinney, the City of McKinney and Visit McKinney tourism site are great resources to learn more. McKinney offers an excellent quality of life for families and professionals seeking a vibrant community with a small-town feel just north of Dallas. McKinney is proud of its history but also has its sights set firmly on the future as it continues to grow and thrive.