North metroplex city known for its population growth and development
Rural by nature and about as far north as it gets in the Dallas Metroplex, the City of Celina is rapidly developing as its population swells. Fields of longhorns, a close-knit community, and a historic downtown help maintain its small-town charm. Despite this, Celina's connectivity to the 70-mile Preston Road drives its growth. The city is 15 miles from Frisco and 41 miles from Downtown Dallas. As of 2023, the population of Celina was 43,000, a 26% increase from 2022, making it one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S.
Activity on local roadways has increased, in preparation for $60 million in capital improvements. Costco, Starbucks and more are also coming to the area – along with nearly 50 other businesses, including several medical facilities and a new elementary school called Cambridge Crossing. These businesses will add to an economy that already boasts major employers like the Celina Independent School District and the City of Celina.
Locals express mixed feelings about the city's rapid development. "It's bittersweet,” says Tiffany Smith, a Realtor with Compass Realty. “We miss the days when it felt more rural. At the same time, there will be a Whole Foods by my house soon. When we moved here, it was 15 minutes away." Celina's tagline is “a life connected,” which shows up in its community. “The people make Celina what it is,” Smith says. “They are very caring.”
Celina is a cozy town in North Texas that has a small-town feel and a big-city convenience.
Celina is a lively town in North Texas that has an intense sense of community and pride.
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Growth brings new developments to Celina
"This was all ranch land once,” Smith says. “As landowners sell to developers, more subdivisions pop up.” Developments are occurring north and south of Celina's downtown core, known for its historic Craftsman homes and bungalows. Mustang Lakes is one of the newest and most built-out subdivisions. This master-planned community is built around a lake and stocked with luxury new-traditional properties, 18 miles of trails and its own 20-acre park. The median price for a home in Celina is $625,000, higher than the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington area median price of $399,000, according to the Texas Real Estate Research Center. “Home values have appreciated steadily, reflecting strong demand,” says Raj Nair, a Realtor with ReKonnection LLC.
Each neighborhood in Celina balances modern living with scenic beauty.
Newer traditional homes in Celina bring a sense of timeless grace to the neighborhood.
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Celina Independent School District expanding
Students here attend the Celina Independent School District, which earns an overall A-minus grade from Niche. The school district also earns A marks for academics and sports and an A-minus for college prep. With the rapid population growth in the city, Celina ISD is expanding, adding a new elementary school in 2024, 2025 and 2026, along with an addition to Celina High School.
Celina High School, fostering excellence, serves as a hub of community pride in Celina.
Celina’s Moore Middle School prepares students well for high school success.
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Watching longhorns graze from Old Celina Park
Celina is home to three parks, and additions and renovations are ongoing. Old Celina Park is popular for its baseball, multipurpose fields, and catch-and-release pond. A field of grazing longhorns serves as the park's scenic backdrop. Old Celina Park is undergoing renovations to add an all-inclusive playground with a water feature and a multiuse court. Founders Station Park has tennis and basketball courts, a playground and a horseshoe pit. Wilson Creek Park will be a 100-acre park with lighted fields, concrete trails and a 9-hole disc golf course. The $50 million project is projected to be completed in the fall of 2026. Ousley Park is another city project. The 30-acre park is set to include pickleball courts, a dog park, a trail and an art walk. The Celina Area Heritage Association and Museum showcases the city's history.
Old Celina Park, a cherished gathering spot in Celina, hosts vibrant community events.
The fishing dock at Old Celina Park offers a peaceful retreat by the water.
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Shopping and dining in Downtown Celina
Celina was designated an official Main Street City by the Texas Historical Commission in 1997. Downtown Celina is a cozy square of local coffee shops, restaurants and boutiques. Lucy's on the Square — famed for their coconut cream pies — is a favorite pit stop, as is Summer Moon for an ice-cold coffee on hot Texas days. Papa Gallos serves authentic Mexican cuisine, and Terry's Donuts next door offers sweet treats. Tender Smokehouse across the street has a full range of Texas barbeque. Willow House Boutique sells women's and men's apparel options, and Terramania carries vintage and boho decor.
Tender Smokehouse in Celina serves up mouthwatering brisket and ribs.
Lucys on the Square in Celina is the perfect spot for enjoying great food and drinks.
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Gathering in Celina
“The community is welcoming and tight-knit, with residents who value tradition and actively participate in local events,” Nair says. One of the most popular events in Celina is Cajun Fest, the largest crawfish boil in North Texas, held downtown in May. Locals get their fix of crawdads and jambalaya and stomp to live country music. With the Splash and Blast in July, Beware at the Square in October, and Christmas on the Square in November, there’s always a gathering to look forward to.
The Beware of the Square event in Celina offers enjoyable activities and a chance to connect with the community.
Oktoberfest in Celina features traditional food, drinks, and entertainment for everyone to enjoy together.
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New Methodist Celina Medical Center in 2025
Celina is a 41-mile drive to Downtown Dallas using Dallas North Tollway South, while Downtown Fort Worth is 62 miles away. Collin County Transit provides public transportation for qualifying residents. The Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport is a 38-mile drive, while Dallas Love Field is 39 miles away. The nearest hospital is Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – McKinney, 14 miles away. In 2025, construction on the $237 million Methodist Celina Medical Center will be complete. The facility will be four stories and over 200,000 square feet of space.
Celina's crime and weather
According to the Celina Police Department, the city's violent crime rate was 65 offenses per 100,000 residents in December 2023, lower than both the state and national averages. Over that same span, they reported a property crime rate of 85 offenses per 100,000 residents, also lower than both the state and national averages.
As for the weather, according to the 11th National Risk Assessment, wind is a major factor in Celina, and 99 percent of homes are at some risk of being affected by wildfires. With its geographic location, it’s also prone to extreme heat during the summer months.
Written By
Kevin Haswell
Photography Contributed By
Adam Jebbeh
Video By
Rebecca Askin
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Celina, TX sell after 87 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Celina, TX over the last 12 months is $499,990, down 21% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This home may qualify for a lender-paid incentive of up to $8,000 toward closing costs or a buy-down rate, subject to buyer qualification and lender approval. Buyer is not required to use the preferred lender to purchase the home. Welcome to a beautifully updated home where comfort, style, and location come together seamlessly. Ideally situated on a quiet cul-de-sac and just steps from a
HOME RUN of a deal... PLUS a $5K no cost credit from our Lender !! West facing Single story CORNER LOT with TONS of upgrades, almost 3,000 sq ft, 4 bed 3 FULL baths.. PLUS one half baths with 2 and one half car oversized garage.. PLUS a study PLUS a media room in the AMAZING community of Light Farms in Celina which attends the world famous exemplary Prosper school district. PLUS Preferred lender
This immaculate family home is loaded with upgrades & has fantastic views of the community walking trail and pond! This beautifully designed residence features an open layout filled with natural light. As you enter you'll be impressed with the rotunda type foyer with a sweeping staircase with wood treads. The thoughtful floor plan offers two bedrooms on the first floor, ideal for guests or
Located on a premium cul-de-sac lot in a sought-after master-planned community and zoned to Prosper ISD and Walnut Grove HS, this beautifully maintained one-story home offers a functional layout, modern finishes, and a private backyard designed for everyday living and entertaining. Inside, the open-concept design connects the kitchen, dining, and living areas, creating an easy flow filled with
This home may qualify for a lender-paid incentive of up to $8,000 toward closing costs or a buy-down rate, subject to buyer qualification and lender approval. Buyer is not required to use the preferred lender to purchase the home. Welcome to a beautifully updated home where comfort, style, and location come together seamlessly. Ideally situated on a quiet cul-de-sac and just steps from a
Stunning Modern Tudor by Conventry Homes on an oversized corner lot in highly sought-after Mustang Lakes Celina luxury homes. Built in 2021, this exceptional single-story home offers 6 Bedrooms, 3.5 baths, game room. Enjoy a spacious open-concept floorplan designed for everyday living. Rich hardwood floors, decorative lighting, custom built-ins, and a gas fireplace highlight the inviting living
Experience the best of Celina living at 3100 Eccleston St. in Cambridge Crossing where resort-style amenities, scenic trails, green spaces, parks, playgrounds, pickleball courts, and a community pool create a connected lifestyle just minutes from the growth and charm of Downtown Celina. This beautifully designed and barely lived in one-story Perry Home offers 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, 1 half
Some homes check boxes. This one earns them. This single-story David Weekley Forreston plan in Mustang Lakes has been genuinely updated — new Class 3 impact-resistant roof and gutters, fresh exterior paint, new flooring, lighting, and a kitchen backsplash that finally matches the quality of everything around it. That kitchen deserves the attention: snow white shaker cabinetry running all the way
New price on the newest resale in Mustang Lakes. This 2024 Perry Homes build delivers like-new construction at $156K below the builder's current base — with a transferable builder warranty in effect through December 2026. One year old, one owner, zero deferred maintenance. The kitchen anchors the main level with white quartz counters, a generous island with accent paint, double ovens, gas
Looking for more home for your money in Celina ISD? This spacious Celina home offers the location, layout, and value that many buyers struggle to find in today’s North Texas market. Discover the opportunity to own a spacious home in one of North Texas’ fastest-growing areas. Located in Celina and served by highly sought-after Celina ISD, 3820 Horseshoe Trail offers the space, functionality, and
Welcome to 3452 Ashland Avenue, a beautifully designed 2022-built home in the award-winning master-planned community of Light Farms, zoned to the highly sought-after Prosper Independent School District. This thoughtfully laid-out home features tall ceilings, rich hardwood floors, and an open-concept design that creates a bright and inviting atmosphere. The main level offers a private primary
Reduced for quick sell. This has some amazing updates including fresh paint, new carpet, and new roof. This well-maintained single-story home is located in the highly desirable Sutton Fields community and zoned to the acclaimed Prosper ISD. Built in 2020, this 4-bedroom, 2-bath 2 eating areas, or could be an office and or childrens play area. This residence offers a functional open-concept layout
This stunning single-story home offers 4 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms, thoughtfully designed with high-end upgrades throughout. The spacious kitchen is a true centerpiece, featuring quartz countertops, bright white cabinetry for a clean, open feel, KitchenAid appliances, and a gas cooktop—perfect for both everyday living and entertaining.With three full bathrooms, including a luxurious
Welcome to 16913 Clover Dr in the desirable Celina, Texas community of Green Meadows, where modern living meets small-town charm. This spacious home offers an open, functional layout ideal for everyday living and entertaining. Residents enjoy neighborhood amenities including a resort-style pool, clubhouse, playground, scenic ponds, parks, and miles of walking and biking trails. Located within the
Discover the perfect blend of elegance and functionality in this stunning 5-bedroom home. Featuring engineered wood floors, soaring ceilings, a custom spiral staircase, and a striking stone fireplace, this property radiates sophistication. The modern white kitchen is a culinary dream, complete with an oversized California island, quartz countertops, custom cabinetry, and a butler's pantry, making
Landlord covers HOA dues, lawn maintenance, and yard care for added convenience. Built in 2025! This beautifully designed 3-bedroom plus office townhome offers approximately 1,937 sq. ft. of open-concept living in a prime Prosper location. Landlord covers HOA dues, lawn maintenance, and yard care for added convenience. The home features a modern kitchen that flows seamlessly into a spacious
Welcome to luxury living in Prosper, TX - where modern design meets comfort. Our vibrant community offers one, two, and three-bedroom apartments with stainless steel appliances, spacious closets, and private balconies. Unwind by the beachfront-entry pool, outdoor grills and kitchen, or relax in the Sky Lodge with breathtaking views. Stay productive in our business center, connect in the
Inviting 2-bed, 1.5-bath townhome in a quiet, well-maintained Celina community offering comfort, style, and convenience. The two-story layout places both bedrooms and a full bath upstairs for privacy, while the main level features a spacious living room, half bath, and functional kitchen with white appliances—electric range, refrigerator, range hood, and disposal. Full-size washer and dryer
One Preston Station offers upscale one, two, and three bedroom apartments in Celina, Texas, combining small-town charm with modern living.Located near the Dallas North Tollway, residents enjoy easy access to Frisco, Prosper, and the greater Dallas area while staying connected to the growing Celina community.Our thoughtfully designed apartment homes feature open-concept layouts, high-end finishes,
Modern 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath townhome in the heart of Celina! Smart two-story layout with spacious living room, half bath, and well-appointed kitchen downstairs featuring white appliances—electric range, refrigerator, range hood, and disposal—plus full-size washer and dryer connections. Both bedrooms and full bath upstairs for added privacy. Laminate flooring in living room and bedrooms; ceramic
Beautiful 1-story brick and stone home with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 full baths, study, covered outdoor living area, and 3-car tandem garage. This home has an open floor plan with a gourmet kitchen, stainless steel appliances, gas cooktop opening to the family room with a high ceilings. The primary suite has a spacious bedroom, an oversized shower, linen closet, dual vanities with tons of counter space,
Welcome to The Ownsby, conveniently located in Celina, TX! Forget the generic apartment hunt - embrace a lifestyle tailored to you. Picture trendy, luxury apartments near you where laughter fills the air and comfort reigns supreme. Stay organized with our walk-in closets and built in shelving, offering plenty of storage space for all your essentials. Craft restaurant-quality meals in no time,
Welcome to resort-style living in the highly sought-after master-planned community of Light Farms. This spacious 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers the perfect blend of functionality, comfort, and entertaining space with a thoughtfully designed open-concept layout ideal for everyday living and hosting guests alike. The heart of the home features a large kitchen overlooking the living and dining
Live carefree every day. At Alpine Ten55, coming home feels like you're on vacation. With impressive finishes and resort-quality amenities, our apartments make it possible to live beyond your expectations. With so much to do in the perfect location, a vibrant new lifestyle awaits. Embrace it.
Do not miss this stunning, fully furnished executive rental in Celina, Texas, available this July. Experience Magnificent Resort-Style Luxury Living, completed in 2023. Nestled on a sprawling 2.23-acre lot with no HOA, this extraordinary masterpiece redefines modern luxury living. From the moment you arrive, every detail of this 7,450 SF residence speaks of craftsmanship, elegance, and modern
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