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recent ranking of the best real estate markets in the US has five North Texas cities in its top 10, solidifying D-FW's reputation as a premier metro. WalletHub's analysis considered 17 metrics to determine the best local markets, balancing short-term and long-term factors.

    The study evaluated real estate dynamics through measures like Zillow's Home Value Forecast and building permit activity, which gauge growth expectations. It also looked at current demand indicators such as median home-price appreciation, days on market, and foreclosure rates. For economic conditions, WalletHub prioritized housing affordability and maintenance costs, along with job and population growth, unemployment, and underemployment.

    North Texas cities excelled in the ranking: McKinney took the top spot, Richardson ranked 5th, Frisco earned 6th place, Denton came in at 9th, and Allen placed 10th. The region's strong economy and population growth have driven its success, with many big-name corporate relocations bringing jobs and investment.

    While housing affordability remains a challenge, quality of life benefits and economic opportunities may offset the issue. McKinney, for example, ranked 74th in home affordability due to homes costing around 365% of median local income. However, its strong performance in other metrics propelled it to the top spot. "The best cities may not always be the cheapest," said WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo, "but they offer excellent housing options and long-term stability."

    McKinney's newer housing stock, with a high share built between 2010 and 2023, provides buyers with a range of options and potentially lower maintenance costs. The city also boasts the 11th-fastest job growth rate and third-highest building permit activity. While single-family homes may be out of reach for many, renters in McKinney seem to have it relatively good, as the city was recently ranked the No. 1 place for renters by RentCafe.