Let the numbers do the talking.
Garland, TX vs Mckinney, TX
Garland, TX vs Mckinney, TX: What the data shows
Garland, TX is in Garland, TX while Mckinney, TX is in Mckinney, TX — both in the same state. On home prices, Garland, TX is the more affordable option at $221,800 median — $128,200 less than Mckinney, TX's $350,000. WYLT rates Garland, 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. Garland, TX has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Mckinney, TX has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Garland, TX has Low flood risk and Mckinney, TX has Low flood risk.
Mckinney, TX is the more walkable neighborhood. Garland, TX scores 4/100 (car-dependent) versus Mckinney, TX's 29/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Mckinney, TX has the higher school rating — Garland, TX rates 6.9/10 and Mckinney, TX rates 7.5/10.
| Category | Garland, TX | Mckinney, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $222K ✓ Lower price | $350K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $71K | $74K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 4/100 | 29/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 10/100 | 25/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 22/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 35 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 | 6.9/10 | 7.5/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | familiescommutersaffordable_suburban | Families with childrenCommuters with access to a carHomebuyers looking for a suburban lifestyle |
Bottom line
Bottom line: If you need the lowest entry price and are fine with a car‑centric lifestyle, Garland’s $221,800 median price and decent schools make it a budget‑friendly option, but it offers almost no walkability or transit. Mckinney, while pricier at $350,000, provides better schools, a higher walk score and lower flood risk, making it a stronger pick for families seeking a comfortable suburban life even if you still drive. Choose Garland for strict affordability, Mckinney for overall livability.
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