4 Best Places to Live in Plano, Texas

Plano, Texas was named the safest city in Texas in 2021, and it is no surprise that the city of Plano is home to an abundance of great neighborhoods. Known to be one of the most affluent big cities in the US, both young professionals and families alike are flocking to Plano for its high quality of life and amazing real estate. Plano resides in a desirable location and offers residents the best of suburban living.

There is the offer of top education opportunities for children and plenty of things to do, especially if you are considering moving to Texas, then Plano is the best place to be. Finding the right neighborhood that meets all of your needs can be daunting. Lucky for you, this guide was created to help provide you with information about the best areas to live in Plano. Continue to read to find 4 of the best places to live in Plano, TX.

Lakeside on Preston

Known for its high price tag, the neighborhood of Lakeside on Preston happens to be one with the most beautiful scenery in Plano, TX. Featuring five lakes, a 15-acre park, well-manicured tree-lined streets and lawns, and fountains, this neighborhood offers only the best of living. Most properties back up to the water, and most homes in the area are luxurious estates that were constructed between the years 1992 and 2005. This neighborhood features walking trails, biking, trails, public pools, and many top-of-the-line fitness clubs. Lakeside on Preston is a true suburban oasis and offers a variety of fine dining options and an open-air shopping center to all of its residents. Families that have school-aged children, parents will be happy to know many schools in the area are highly rated.

Local Favorites:

• Arbor Hills Nature Preserve: This 200-acre park is found on the western side of Plano and features miles of hiking trails, biking trails, a playground, and a covered pavilion.
• Bob Woodruff Park: This public community park is located off of San Gabriel Drive and features walking trails, a fishing pier, a pond, volleyball courts, and a playground. It is also dog-friendly.
• Heritage Farmstead Museum: Acting both as a historic farm and museum, this farmstead sits on 365 acres and was built in 1891. This Victorian-style farmhouse depicts early Texas pioneer life. Visit for a tour of the farm, and see live animals.
• Lakeside Market: Home to 47 retail stores and restaurants, you won't want to miss this upscale outdoor shopping center.

Willow Bend 

One of the best and most sought-after places to live in Plano, Willow Bend is in a prime location and proximity to fine dining, shopping, and entertainment. The homes are priced on the higher end, the area is safe, and is home to top-rated schools, making this a great place to settle for families. This neighborhood is large, featuring many architectural styles and price points available, making finding the home of your dreams attainable. Known for its tight-knit community, Willow Bend hosts multiple fun annual events throughout the year including parades, a fun run, and a holiday party. Featuring a quiet, and secluded atmosphere, many residents enjoy being outside on one of the many walking trails, lakes, ponds, and green spaces. It is also a popular fishing destination.

Local Favorites: 

• The Shops at Willow Bend: The shopping center is known as Willow Bend Mall, and features over 125 stores. It is a popular place for retail therapy, with top retailers including Neiman Marcus, Crate and Barrel, and Dillard's.
• Crayola Experience Plano: Bringing your kids here will prove to be the best decision yet. The attraction is hands-on and blends creativity and technology in a new way. Your children will be creating memories and art.
• Windhaven Park: A neighborhood hangout and park that includes a public pool, playground, picnic tables, and recreation center. The pool here features a lazy river, and water slides making it a hotspot in the summer months.
• Oak Point and Nature Preserve: This city park is the largest in the Plano, TX area, located on 800 acres of land. Featuring miles of walking and biking trails, kayaking on the lake, and an outdoor amphitheater for concerts is a great place to spend time outside in nature.

Kings Gate 

Consisting of only 50 homes, Kings Gate is a smaller gated community located in Plano. The real estate market here is competitive due to its smaller size, but the homes here are worth the wait. There are large private lots and luxurious homes, and the wide-open spaces and quiet atmosphere the neighborhood provides make it popular. The homes here are priced on the higher end since most homes in Kings Gate were constructed around 1996, the neighborhood comes with a variety of home types and architectural styles. There are many amenities, including walking and biking trails, a private lake, and highly-rated public schools.

Local Favorites:

• Interurban Railway Museum: The historic electric railway and train station have been turned into a museum. The train station operated between the years 1908 and 1948. Visit to learn more about the electric railway line.
• Legacy West: A brand-new shopping center and cultural hub in Plano is a must-visit for shopping and dining. Featuring top retailers, designer stores, and an award-winning dining hall.
• Historic Texas Pool: The historic landmark is a public saltwater pool that is shaped into the state of Texas. This pool is a popular spot in the summer months, as well as a fun tourist attraction.
• Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park: This zipline and adventure park is located in Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve, and consists of multiple zipline courses and a treetop rope course for thrill-seekers.

Avignon Windhaven 

If luxurious homes that are over 4,000 square feet are your cup of tea, then look no further than Avignon Windhaven. The lot sizes in this neighborhood are not as large as others, the real estate is located in a prime location in Plano. There are over 21o courtyard estates mixing both Mediterranean and European architectural styles and is located minutes away from the neighboring city of Dallas. It is also located next to prime shopping, dining, and entertainment options as well as the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport.

Local Favorites:

• Angelika Film Center and Cafe: Located in Legacy Town Center, the film center consists of five scream cinemas on the first floor, as well as a gourmet restaurant on the second floor. Here, they serve craft cocktails, soups, salads, sandwiches, and other favorites. Movie lovers can take food from the restaurant to the cinema for great viewing experiences.
• Pinstack- Plano: This bowling alley has over 28 bowling lanes, a gourmet restaurant, and over 50,000 square feet of fun. Pinstack is a great place to bring your family and friends, as it also features arcade games, a rock-climbing wall, laser tag, and even a high ropes course.
• Plano Balloon Festival: The annual festival takes place every September in Plano as a three-day hot air balloon celebration. Featuring parachute jumpers, inflatable rides for kids, local foods, and live music bring the family together to watch 45 hot air balloons.
• Whiskey Cake- Plano: A top spot in the city for cocktails and creative bar food, the Whiskey Cake in Plano is open long hours during the week. Featuring exotic dishes and unique whiskey flavors, it is a great spot to check out if you are I'm searching for a great time.

For more local information on the best neighborhoods in Plano, Texas, check out our website.