🚧 1) The Big Highway 380 & Spur 399 Construction Problem

One of the biggest surprises many buyers face is the ongoing Highway 380 / Spur 399 construction. Major expansions that aim to improve this corridor — including widening and a future bypass — won’t be done anytime soon. Some projects are expected to continue well into the late 2030s. This means:

• Constant construction noise, delays, and detours
• Business closures in spots near the corridor
• Potential impact on property values for homes within ~¼ mile of 380

If you’re considering places right along U.S. 380 in McKinney, make sure you factor in this long-term disruption before locking in your purchase price.

📍 2) McKinney ISD School Boundary Changes

Another challenge: local school zones are shifting. In late 2025, the McKinney Independent School District approved closures of several elementary schools due to enrollment changes — and 140+ families already had their boundaries changed. This means:

• You can’t guarantee kids will attend the school you liked when you bought your home.
• Overcrowded campuses in fast-growing parts of the city mean more rezoning could happen soon.

For families, this makes it critical to review the latest district maps directly from McKinney ISD (not just what’s listed on MLS).

🚗 3) Traffic & Commute Reality

McKinney’s intersections — especially around Highway 380 and U.S. 75 — are infamous for rush-hour backups that have become more consistent even midday. If you work in Dallas or across the metroplex, here’s the best tip:

👉 Drive the commute yourself during peak times before you buy.

Apps like Google Maps don’t always show real-world stop-and-go conditions.

🏘️ Areas to Think Twice About (and Why)

⚠️ Northern McKinney near 380

• Closest to the big construction zones
• Higher chances of traffic headaches
• More school rezoning pressure

🏡 Better Alternatives for Smart Buyers

If you want suburban DFW living without all the chaos, here’s where many of the “smart money” buyers are headed:

📍 McKinney, TX City Guide (Redfin)

Central McKinney offers diverse neighborhoods with less construction impact and solid amenities. Home prices here still reflect strong demand.

🌳 Craig Ranch, McKinney, TX

• Master-planned community with trails, golf, and family-friendly features
• Partially zoned for Frisco ISD (well-rated schools)

🏡 Stonebridge Ranch, McKinney, TX

• Well-established with lakes, golf courses, parks and community amenities
• Homes range from affordable to luxury options

📌 Historic Downtown McKinney

For buyers who value character over cookie-cutter new construction, the downtown area delivers charm, walkability, and a sense of community.

🏙️ Nearby Suburbs Worth Considering

These towns offer balance: less construction, more stability, and easy access to McKinney and DFW.

🏘️ Anna, TX City Info & Market Trends

• More affordable median home prices than McKinney (~$346K)
• Close enough for daily needs but typically more peaceful

🏡 Melissa, TX Housing Market Guide

• Pricing close to McKinney but with small-town feel
• Good schools and a strong sense of community

🚙 Van Alstyne, TX City Overview

A smaller community north of Anna with a growing population and slower pace of life — ideal for remote workers or retirees.

🧠 Neighborhoods to Consider for Specific Priorities

Priority                                                                      Best Picks

Stable Schools                                                       Established McKinney areas, Allen, Lovejoy-area communities

Peace & No Construction                                    Historic McKinney, Allen, Fairview         

Resort-Style Amenities                                       Craig Ranch, Stonebridge Ranch, master-planned communities   

Most Affordable Entry                                          Anna, Van Alstyne

Allen, TX — while similarly priced to McKinney — offers long-established infrastructure and schools with far fewer construction disruptions.

📌 Tips Before You Buy

• Drive the commute yourself at peak times.
• Download current school boundary maps from the district website.
• Visit neighborhoods on different days/times.
• Factor in HOA fees — often $1,200–$1,800/year.

🏁 Conclusion – Don’t Gamble on Your Move

McKinney is undeniably a great place to live — but its rapid growth brings real world complexities. Construction, school rezoning, and traffic are deal breakers for many buyers if unprepared. Choosing the right neighborhood (or nearby alternative city) can be the difference between a dream move and buyer’s remorse.

If you want help matching your priorities (schools, quiet streets, commute, amenities) with the right neighborhoods in the region, I can help walk you through it — saving you time and money.