Let the numbers do the talking.
Austin, TX vs Mckinney, TX
Austin, TX vs Mckinney, TX: What the data shows
Austin, TX is in Austin, TX while Mckinney, TX is in Mckinney, TX — both in the same state. On home prices, Mckinney, TX is the more affordable option at $350,000 median — $219,700 less than Austin, TX's $569,700. WYLT rates Austin, TX as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Mckinney, TX as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Mckinney, TX has the stronger safety profile of the two. Austin, TX has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Mckinney, TX has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Austin, TX has Low flood risk and Mckinney, TX has Low flood risk.
Austin, TX is the more walkable neighborhood. Austin, TX scores 53/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Mckinney, TX's 29/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Mckinney, TX has the higher school rating — Austin, TX rates 7.3/10 and Mckinney, TX rates 7.5/10.
| Category | Austin, TX | Mckinney, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $570K | $350K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $87K ✓ Higher income | $74K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 53/100 ✓ More walkable | 29/100 |
| Transit Score | 40/100 ✓ Better transit | 25/100 |
| Bike Score | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable | 22/100 |
| Commute | 4 min ✓ Shorter commute | 41 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | B ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.3/10 | 7.5/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | young professionalsremote workersstudents | Families with childrenCommuters with access to a carHomebuyers looking for a suburban lifestyle |
Bottom line
For singles or couples who value being close to downtown action and prioritize walkability, Austin might be a good fit. However, for families seeking a more affordable lifestyle with good schools and ample housing options, McKinney is a more practical choice. Ultimately, McKinney edges out Austin in terms of overall value for the typical family or commuter.
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