Collin County is still one of the best places to buy a home in 2026. However, it is not the right answer for every buyer. WalletHub’s 2026 Best Real Estate Markets study ranked Frisco No. 1, McKinney No. 2, and Allen No. 8. Even so, many of my clients still choose Lakewood, Preston Hollow, or Uptown. Dallas luxury real estate offers character, convenience, and established neighborhoods that rankings cannot measure. Therefore, this guide compares both options.
Quick Answer: How Does Dallas Luxury Real Estate Compare?
Collin County earns its rankings with newer homes and rapid job growth. In contrast, Dallas offers historic architecture, mature trees, and short drives to the city’s core. Both choices can be smart. However, they suit very different lifestyles. So, the better choice depends on how you want to spend your days.
Key Takeaways for 2026 Buyers
- Frisco ranked No. 1 among 300 U.S. cities.
- McKinney ranked No. 2, and Allen ranked No. 8.
- Dallas ranked No. 71, which places it in the top quarter nationally.
- Collin County’s median listing price was $520,000 in August 2026.
- Dallas County’s median listing price was $385,000 that same month.
What the 2026 Rankings Say About North Texas
WalletHub scored 300 cities on 17 measures. These measures cover market strength, affordability, and the local economy. Notably, the study rewards new construction and fast growth. Here is how the cities compare.
| Market | 2026 National Rank | County | County Median Listing Price (Aug. 2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frisco | No. 1 | Collin and Denton | $520,000 (Collin) |
| McKinney | No. 2 | Collin | $520,000 |
| Allen | No. 8 | Collin | $520,000 |
| Plano | No. 61 | Collin | $520,000 |
| Dallas | No. 71 | Dallas | $385,000 |
Median listing prices come from Realtor.com data published by the St. Louis Fed. See the figures for Collin County and Dallas County. Of course, luxury homes in both counties sit well above these medians.
Should I Live in a Dallas Neighborhood or the Suburbs?
This is the question I hear most often. The answer depends on three things: commute, home style, and daily lifestyle.
What the Suburbs Do Well
Nearly 47% of Frisco’s homes were built between 2010 and 2024. Similarly, about 40% of McKinney’s homes date from those years. Consequently, suburban buyers find newer construction and master-planned amenities. Frisco also posted the seventh-best job growth rate in the study.
What Dallas Neighborhoods Do Well
Dallas neighborhoods offer something newer suburbs cannot build quickly. For example, Lakewood features historic Tudors and towering trees near White Rock Lake. Meanwhile, Uptown residents walk to dining along the Katy Trail. In addition, Frisco sits roughly 30 miles north of downtown Dallas. As a result, living in the city can return hours each week.
Why Buyers Choose Dallas Luxury Real Estate
A citywide ranking blends hundreds of neighborhoods into one score. However, luxury buyers purchase a street, not a statistic. That is where local knowledge matters.
Character and Architecture
Many Dallas homes carry decades of history. Accordingly, buyers find Tudors, Spanish revivals, mid-century moderns, and new custom builds. That variety is difficult to match in a newer community.
Culture, Dining and Green Space
City living keeps the best of Dallas close. For instance, the Dallas Arboretum sits on the shore of White Rock Lake. Likewise, Klyde Warren Park connects Uptown with the Dallas Arts District.
Dallas Luxury Real Estate by Neighborhood
Each neighborhood offers something different. For example:
- Lakewood: Homes for sale in Lakewood Dallas pair historic charm with lake access.
- East Dallas: East Dallas offers varied architecture and a strong neighborhood feel.
- Preston Hollow: Preston Hollow luxury homes sit on large, private estate lots.
- Uptown and Downtown: Uptown and Downtown suit buyers who want condos, lofts, and walkability.
- North Dallas: North Dallas homes for sale offer space with quick tollway access.
What to Weigh Before You Choose
Both options reward careful planning. Consider these points first.
What Dallas Luxury Real Estate Costs Right Now
County medians offer only a starting point. Dallas County’s median listing price was $385,000 in August 2026. By comparison, Collin County’s median was $520,000. However, Lakewood and Preston Hollow homes sell far above the county figure. Therefore, recent sales on the same street matter most. Ask me for current numbers in any neighborhood.
Commute, Taxes and Carrying Costs
First, drive your commute at rush hour before you commit. Next, compare property tax rates, since they vary by city and district. The Dallas Central Appraisal District publishes values and exemption forms. Also, most luxury purchases require jumbo financing, so speak with a lender early. Finally, budget for upkeep, especially with an older home.
A Dallas Luxury Real Estate Checklist
- First, decide how much commute you will accept.
- Next, choose between historic character and new construction.
- Then, tour each neighborhood on a weekday and a weekend.
- After that, review inspections closely on older homes.
- Finally, compare tax rates, insurance, and recent nearby sales.
How Gia Marshello Guides Dallas Buyers and Sellers
Rankings describe a city. However, they cannot tell you which block fits your life. That is where I come in.
I have worked hard for my clients for the past 16 years. I am also a longtime Lakewood resident. Moreover, D Magazine has named me a D Best agent year after year, including 2026. I am proud to be with Allie Beth Allman and Associates.
My client’s best interests are my only interests. So, I stay with you at each step of the transaction. Ready to begin? Then search properties or view my listings. You can also browse sold properties and learn more about me.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I live in a Dallas neighborhood or the suburbs?
It depends on your priorities. Suburbs like Frisco offer newer homes and master-planned amenities. In contrast, Dallas neighborhoods offer character, shorter commutes, and walkable dining.
Is Lakewood Dallas a good place to live?
Many buyers think so. Lakewood offers historic homes, mature trees, and White Rock Lake nearby. Additionally, downtown Dallas is only minutes away.
What are the best neighborhoods in East Dallas?
Buyers often start with Lakewood, Forest Hills, the M Streets, and Hollywood Heights. Each one offers distinct architecture and a strong community feel.
Is Collin County still a good place to buy a home in 2026?
Yes. Frisco, McKinney, and Allen all rank in WalletHub’s national top 10. Newer homes and strong job growth support those rankings.
Lakewood vs Preston Hollow: which is better for luxury homes?
Both are excellent. Lakewood offers historic character near the lake. Meanwhile, Preston Hollow offers larger estate lots and more privacy.
Who is Gia Marshello, the Dallas realtor at Allie Beth Allman?
Gia Marshello is a Dallas luxury real estate agent and longtime Lakewood resident. She is a repeat D Magazine D Best honoree. Simply call 214-616-2568 to get started.
Contact Gia Marshello
Ready to explore Dallas’s finest neighborhoods? Then reach out today.
📍 6318 Gaston Ave, Suite 200, Dallas, TX 75214
📞 214-616-2568
✉️ gia.marshello@alliebeth.com
🌐 giamarshello.com
🏡 Search Properties
💬 Contact Gia
📘 Facebook
📸 Instagram
💼 LinkedIn
Challenges? I have solutions!