Allen Texas Relocation Guide

Where Is Allen, Texas?

Located in Collin County, Allen is part of the DFW metropolitan area, just 25 miles north of downtown Dallas. The city is easily accessible via US-75 (Central Expressway), offering a quick commute to major hubs like Plano, McKinney, and Frisco.

Its prime location gives residents all the benefits of city living—without the constant hustle. With beautiful parks, great schools, and a strong sense of community, Allen has become a relocation hot spot for families and professionals alike.

Top Reasons to Move to Allen, TX

Wondering why so many people are choosing Allen? Here are just a few of the standout reasons:

• Top-rated public schools

• Affordable luxury housing

• Safe, master-planned communities

• Vibrant business and retail sectors

• Convenient location near Dallas

• World-class entertainment and recreation

Whether you’re raising a family, launching a business, or enjoying retirement, Allen offers a balanced, enriching lifestyle.

Cost of Living in Allen

The cost of living in Allen is slightly higher than the national average but much more affordable than central Dallas or Plano. Here’s a quick overview:

• Housing: 10–15% higher than the national average, but with exceptional value per square foot

• Groceries & healthcare: Close to national averages

• Utilities: Generally affordable, especially in energy-efficient homes

• Property taxes: Higher due to Texas rates, but balanced by no state income tax

Many residents feel the higher cost is more than justified by access to elite amenities, great schools, and community safety.

Allen’s Real Estate Market

Allen’s housing market is both diverse and dynamic, offering everything from modern condos to luxury estates and new construction homes.

• Median home price: Around $450,000–$550,000

• Rental rates: Averages $1,800–$2,500/month for 3-bedroom homes

• Popular builders: Toll Brothers, Highland Homes, Ashton Woods

Popular neighborhoods include:

• Twin Creeks – Golf course community with luxury homes

• Watters Crossing – Known for mature trees and trails

• StarCreek – High-end homes with resort-style amenities

• Glendover Park – Family-oriented with easy access to schools

Allen is ideal for buyers who want upscale features at competitive prices, and the growth trajectory continues to attract real estate investors.

Schools and Education in Allen ISD

One of Allen’s greatest strengths is its highly acclaimed public school system. Allen Independent School District (AISD) serves over 21,000 students and is consistently rated as “A” by the Texas Education Agency.

Top schools include:

• Allen High School – One of the largest high schools in Texas, offering:

  • State-of-the-art facilities

  • Robust AP and honors programs

  • Award-winning athletics and band

• Ereckson Middle School

• Green Elementary School

• Cheatham Elementary School

Allen ISD emphasizes college and career readiness, and families move here specifically for the educational advantages.

Colleges and Universities Nearby

While Allen doesn’t have its own college campus, it’s conveniently located near:

• Collin College (McKinney campus)

• University of Texas at Dallas (UTD)

• Southern Methodist University (SMU)

• Texas A&M Commerce (Frisco campus)

This makes Allen a great base for students and working professionals alike.

Jobs and Career Opportunities

Allen is part of Collin County’s economic boom, offering strong employment opportunities in tech, finance, education, and healthcare. Key employers include:

• Allen ISD

• Watters Creek District

• Credit Union of Texas

• Experian

• CVS Health

• Cisco and HP (in nearby Plano)

Thanks to remote work trends, many residents also work from home in fields like software development, marketing, and finance. With high-speed internet and co-working spaces, Allen is quickly becoming a remote work haven.

Healthcare and Medical Services

Allen is well-equipped with top-tier medical care, including:

• Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Allen

• Children’s Health Specialty Center

• Baylor Scott & White clinics

• Legacy ER & Urgent Care

You’re also just minutes away from major medical centers in Plano and Dallas, such as:

• Medical City Plano

• UT Southwestern Medical Center

• Baylor University Medical Center

This access ensures families and retirees feel confident and cared for.

Transportation and Commuting

Commuting from Allen is straightforward:

• US-75: Direct access to Dallas and surrounding suburbs

• Sam Rayburn Tollway (121): Quick route to DFW Airport and Frisco

• Plano DART Station: Closest light rail access for car-free commutes

While most residents use cars, bike trails and walkable areas are expanding, especially in downtown and retail zones.

Entertainment, Dining, and Nightlife

From casual eats to elegant dining, Allen doesn’t disappoint.

Local favorites include:

• The Cheesecake Factory

• Torchy’s Tacos

• Hedary’s Mediterranean

• Crú Food & Wine Bar

Entertainment hotspots:

• Credit Union of Texas Event Center – Home to the Allen Americans hockey team and concerts

• Allen Premium Outlets – High-end outlet shopping

• Watters Creek at Montgomery Farm – A scenic outdoor mall with restaurants, shops, and events

You’re also close to Frisco’s sports district, Legacy West in Plano, and downtown Dallas nightlife.

Parks, Trails, and Outdoor Living

Outdoor living is a cornerstone of life in Allen. The city boasts over 1,200 acres of parkland and 70+ miles of hiking and biking trails.

Highlights include:

• Celebration Park – Splash pad, baseball, tennis, and fireworks on July 4th

• Bethany Lakes Park – Fishing, picnic areas, and paddle boats

• Allen Station Park – Skate park and extreme sports zone

• The Edge – One of Texas’ largest extreme sports parks

Allen is also home to golf courses, dog parks, nature preserves, and a strong parks department committed to green space development.

Community Events and Family Fun

Allen is a family-first city, with a packed calendar of local events:

• Allen USA Celebration – Annual 4th of July fireworks and festival

• Holly Jolly Celebration – Holiday fun and winter wonderland setup

• Market Street Allen USA – Live music and local food trucks

• Farmers Market – Seasonal produce and handmade goods

Residents love the small-town feel with big-city energy, especially when it comes to family activities and community engagement.

Faith and Spiritual Life

Allen has a rich faith community, with churches representing a variety of denominations, including:

• Cottonwood Creek Church

• Chase Oaks Church

• First United Methodist Church of Allen

• St. Jude Catholic Church

These institutions often offer youth groups, support services, missions, and charitable outreach, reinforcing Allen’s strong sense of belonging and community support.

Allen’s Future: Smart Growth and Innovation

Allen is planning for the future with smart investments in:

• Mixed-use developments like The Farm in Allen

• Expanded roadways and bike infrastructure

• New school facilities and bond improvements

• Sustainable energy and green building codes

City leaders are intentional about maintaining the charm and character of Allen while supporting responsible growth. If you’re planning a long-term move, you can feel confident that Allen is a future-proof investment.

Conclusion: Is Allen, Texas the Right Place for You?

If you’re looking for a place that combines suburban comfort, excellent education, economic opportunity, and modern amenities, Allen, Texas checks all the boxes.

From thriving neighborhoods to excellent schools and abundant green space, this city offers an exceptional quality of life—all just a short drive from downtown Dallas. Whether you’re buying your first home, relocating for work, or planning retirement, Allen welcomes you with open arms and open skies.

Make your move to Allen, TX, and start living the life you deserve.