About Plano

city of plano hot air balloon In January 2004, CNN Money designated Plano its top place to live in the Western United States (cities over 100,000). Our community couldn't agree more. In a February 2004 survey, Plano citizens ranked their city as “the best or one of the best places to live in the Dallas/Ft. Worth Metroplex,” with a 72.7% approval rating. Contributing to the quality of life, is Plano's wonderfully diverse community, with people from all over the globe calling Plano home, and Plano's award winning environmental awareness.

Amenities

Located just 20 miles north of downtown Dallas, the City of Plano enjoys a thriving economy, with abundant amenities and approval ratings.

award-winning schools
outstanding libraries
spacious parkland
internationally-recognized, accredited police and fire departments
easy access to four airports
a municipal government willing to partner with business for success
the hometown choice of 263,900 residents and corporate giants such as JCPenney, HP Enterprise Services, Frito-Lay, Alcatel and Dr. Pepper.

Demographics

Population — 263,900 (Jan., 2009)
Educational Attainment — Graduate Degree 19.1%, Bachelor's Degree 33.1%, Associates Degree 8.4%, Some College 20.2%, High School 11.7%, Less than High School 7.5%
Median Household Income — $77,038
Occupations — Management & Professional 51.9%, Sales & Office Occupation 30.4%, Construction / Maintenance/ Production / Transportation 9.6%, Service 8.1%

Accolades

Plano continues to garner national accolades for its quality of lifestyle, environmental initiatives and opportunities for economic development. Worthy of note are the following accomplishments:

In 2008, Collin County has been rated 14th on Forbes.com's 2008 list of "America's best places to raise a family." Great schools, low crime and a desirable cost of living help make Collin County a haven for families. Plano is the largest city in Collin County.
In 2007, Plano received the Governor's Community Achievement Award for outstanding environmental community improvements (also received in 2001).
In 2006, Plano received the Texas League of Women Voters' Government Award for Excellence in Environmental Awareness.
In 2004, CNN Money designated Plano its top place to live in the Western United States (cities over 100,000).
In 2004, Plano’s citizens' survey ranked Plano as “the best, or one of the best, places to live in the Dallas/Ft. Worth Metroplex,” with a 72.7% approval rate.
In 2002, Plano was ranked 9th by The Ladies’ Home Journal as one of "The Best Cities for Women with Population under 300,000."
In 2001, Plano was designated the Fifth most "Kid Friendly" city in the U.S. by the Children's Environmental Index.
In 2001, Plano received the Gold Award for Excellence in Household Hazardous Waste Reuse Program from the Solid Waste Association of North America.
In 2001, Plano received the Kroger Program Scholarship for the Great American Cleanup.
In 1997, Plano was rated the 8th Safest City in the U.S. according to the F.B.I.

Visit our New to Plano section for community links.

Source: City of Plano web site and 2002 Demographic Report (820k)