Proximity to Dallas, good schools and lower home prices than nearby suburbs are just some of the reasons that the city of Princeton has exploded in popularity. “It’s one of the fastest growing cities and has conveniences of other cities within 10 minutes,” says Vickie Mize, owner and broker at Vickie’s Real Estate Group, who has been selling real estate in Princeton for 25 years. Princeton is home to 28,000 residents--about 11,000 more than in 2020. “It's blooming with new businesses and residential developments,” says Alba Herrera Beaty, a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Apex who’s sold many homes in the area. “People used to move to McKinney, but it's become crowded, so they’re heading to Princeton instead. It’s still one of the most affordable places in the area even though it’s becoming more expensive.”
Many residents work in Dallas, about 40 miles away, Plano, 22 miles away, or McKinney, 10 miles west. Major employers in the city are the Princeton Independent School District and the City of Princeton.
Princeton aims to offer unique products and services, enhancing the community experience for everyone.
Overall, Princeton is set to benefit greatly from these developments as they enrich local shopping options.
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Growth brings new residential development
Aligned with its recent growth, many homes in Princeton were built in the last 20 years. Homes range from older ranch-style properties to New Traditional homes in organized developments on wide roads. Several new master planned communities have sprung up in the city, including Whitewing Trails and Forest Park. The median home price in Princeton is $345,000, lower than the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington area median of $399,000, according to the Texas Real Estate Research Center. Mize notes that “the cost point of the homes is the number-one reason come here. You can get a house for $350,000 in Princeton that would be $500,000 in McKinney.” Due to the explosive growth in Princeton, a 120-day moratorium on new residential development was issued in September 2024 to assess its impact on the city's infrastructure and public services.
Princeton features beautiful ranch-style homes with spacious, open layouts.
Princeton’s master-planned neighborhoods offer convenience and strong amenities.
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Local parks and nearby Lake Lavon
The City of Princeton has four parks, but a $109 million bond is set to improve the parks' infrastructure. The bond will expand green spaces, enhance existing parks, and build community spaces. J.M. Caldwell Sr. Community Park has a disc golf course, basketball court and dog park. The park also hosts a big 4th of July event. Other parks include Princeton Municipal Park, with a catch-and-release fishing pond and walking trails, and Parkview Heights with a playground and a basketball court. Princeton is next door to Lake Lavon for fishing, beaches, campgrounds, boat docks and hiking trails.
Veterans Memorial Park in Princeton has pathways to walk and view the memorial monuments.
Local athletes of Princeton enjoy training at J.M. Caldwell St. Community Park.
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Students served by the well-rated Princeton Independent School District
The Princeton Independent School District serves students in Princeton. The district earns an overall A-minus grade from Niche, including an A grade for diversity and an A-minus mark for college prep. Princeton ISD offers students a variety of fine arts and has been recognized on both the state and national levels. The district is planning to open new schools through 2034 to avoid overcrowding in schools due to population growth.
James Godwin Elementary in Princeton serves students Pre-K through 5th grade in Collin County.
Students might attend Southard Middle School in Princeton.
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Shopping and dining at nearby Historic Downtown McKinney
Historic Downtown McKinney is a 9-mile drive from Princeton and is one of the largest historic districts in Texas. The area has over 170 unique shops, from art galleries to home décor shops, and more than two dozen places to grab a bite. Dining in Princeton can be found along U.S. Highway 380, including national chains like Wingstop and Dominos and local spots like Scrambler Café and Jocy’s Restaurant.
The fun of McKinney's downtown shops and cafes is easily reached from Princeton.
Jocy's Restaurant is a where all the local residents of Princeton recommend to grab lunch.
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Near McKinney and Greenville
U.S. Highway 380 bisects the area and runs west to McKinney and east to Greenville. While there is no traditional public transportation in Princeton, those who qualify can use the Collin County Transit Program, which connects them to local grocery stores, senior centers, libraries, hospitals and more. Downtown Dallas is 40 miles from Princeton, while Downtown Fort Worth is about a 65-mile drive. The Dallas Fort Worth International Airport and Dallas Love Field Airport are about 40 miles away. The nearest hospital is Medical City McKinney, 11 miles away.
Princeton's weather
According to the 11th National Risk Assessment, Princeton has a significant wind factor. The city is also at risk of wildfires, with 100% of properties in Princeton being at some risk of being affected. The city also has extreme heat during the summer months but mild winter temperatures.
Princeton's crime
According to Princeton Police Department reporting, in December 2023, the violent crime rate was 73 offenses per 100,000 residents, lower than the state and national averages. Over that same span, they reported a property crime rate of 69 offenses per 100,000 residents, also lower than the state and national averages.
Written By
Kevin Haswell
Photography Contributed By
Adam Jebbeh
Video By
Grace Kim
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Kelly Kanatzar Lunardon,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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J.M. Caldwell Sr. Community Park / WWII P.O.W. Camp
Veterans Memorial Park
Princeton Municipal Park
Parkview Heights Park
Princeton Housing Trends
On average, homes in Princeton, TX sell after 46 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Princeton, TX over the last 12 months is $299,877, down 10% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
** OPEN HOUSE: Saturday, May 2nd from 12:00 to 2:00 PM ** Bring your loved ones to view this $285,000 home with four bedrooms, two complete bathrooms, and almost 1900 square feet of well-designed living space. This lovely one-story brick house in the welcoming Abbey Crossing neighborhood at Forest Grove is prepared to welcome her new owners. Durability and curb appeal are provided by the
Fall in love the moment you walk through the door. This beautifully designed two-story, 4-bedroom home welcomes you with soaring ceilings, abundant natural light, and an open, inviting layout made for both everyday living and unforgettable gatherings. At the heart of the home, the kitchen and living room come together around a striking statement fireplace, creating the perfect space to host,
2023 Build • 4 Bedrooms • Covered Patio • Rangers Crossing Built in 2023 by DR Horton, this 4-bedroom, 2-bath home in Rangers Crossing offers 1,747 sq ft of updated interior space with community pool access. Located near US Highway 380 and FM 75, with convenient access to Walmart Supercenter – Princeton, Brookshire’s, Starbucks, and J.M. Caldwell Sr. Community Park. Interior features include
Charming Home in Ranger Crossing! Welcome to this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home nestled in the highly sought-after Ranger Crossing community. Offering approximately 1,410 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, this home features a bright, open-concept layout perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. Inside, you’ll find modern finishes throughout, including
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and community in this beautifully appointed 4-bedroom, 2-bath residence with a spacious 2-car garage. Designed for both style and functionality, the home features an open-concept kitchen with elegant quartz countertops, abundant natural light, and sleek tile flooring throughout. Step outside to a fully fenced private backyard—ideal for relaxing or
$5000 FLOORING ALLOWANCE! Located in the Park Trails community of Princeton, this thoughtfully designed single-story home was built with an impressive level of upgrades that set it apart from typical new construction. Offering approximately 1,608 square feet, the home features an open-concept layout with three bedrooms and two full baths, all enhanced by over $10,000 in builder-selected upgrades
** OPEN HOUSE: Saturday, May 2nd from 12:00 to 2:00 PM ** Bring your loved ones to view this $285,000 home with four bedrooms, two complete bathrooms, and almost 1900 square feet of well-designed living space. This lovely one-story brick house in the welcoming Abbey Crossing neighborhood at Forest Grove is prepared to welcome her new owners. Durability and curb appeal are provided by the
Exclusive financing incentive available for this property: Buyer may receive a lender credit equal to 1% of the loan amount, applicable toward closing costs or an interest rate buy-down, when financing is obtained through Mpire Financial Group. This offering is property-specific and available only through the designated lender. Terms, conditions, and eligibility requirements apply.Charming
This move-in ready home is designed with family living in mind, offering an open-concept layout filled with natural light from large windows throughout. The bright eat-in kitchen features granite countertops, white cabinetry, and a generous pantry, blending everyday function with timeless style. With 1,454 square feet, the home includes three comfortable bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and a
Move-in-ready 2021 home in the Whitewing Trails subdivision, offering a spacious and stylish home, with great amenities and just minutes from downtown. Gently lived in with plenty of warranty left! This home delivers modern ease, featuring 42 inch cabinets, energy-efficiency, easy to care for flooring, and split bedrooms with a large primary suite and oversized primary bathroom at the back of the
Situated on an Oversized Corner Lot with a fenced backyard, this Immaculate 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers a refined blend of comfort and functionality. The light-filled Open-Concept floor plan is ideal for both entertaining and everyday living, highlighted by Beautiful Ceramic Tile flooring that adds durability and timeless appeal throughout the main living areas. The kitchen provides
The Ponderosa plan Cope Homes Luxury Series. This beautiful craftsman style home is located in the newest 1+ acre lot community in Princeton , at Hidden Valley II. This home features a large open floorplan, two story ceilings, and an oversized 3 car garage. The kitchen features quartz countertops, Bar, Kitchen Aid double ovens, gas cooktop, dishwasher, large kitchen island. Other features include
Fall in love the moment you walk through the door. This beautifully designed two-story, 4-bedroom home welcomes you with soaring ceilings, abundant natural light, and an open, inviting layout made for both everyday living and unforgettable gatherings. At the heart of the home, the kitchen and living room come together around a striking statement fireplace, creating the perfect space to host,
4.99% Assumable Loan for qualified buyers. Pristine property! Delightful East Facing, single story 4-bedroom home shows beautifully. The easy flowing floor plan provides for a peaceful and serene living experience. Advantages in buying this gem start with the beautiful drive up in an established subdivision which includes a spacious lot consisting of a sixty foot wide frontage providing more
Section 8 welcome! Brand new, energy-efficient home ready June 2026 with refrigerator, washer, and dryer included, and landlord pays HOA dues. This thoughtfully designed home features an open-concept living area perfect for entertaining, with a spacious second-story loft ideal for kids or additional living space. The interior showcases pebble cabinets, marble-look white granite countertops,
Step into the ultimate blend of style and comfort with this 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom haven nestled in a sought-after lagoon community. Situated on a generous lot, this spacious residence offers an open layout and distinctive architectural elements that cater to modern living. From the moment you enter, you’ll be captivated by the expansive living spaces, thoughtfully designed for ease and
Welcome to this well-maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with a 2-car garage, located in the highly regarded Princeton ISD. With an open, airy layout and luxury vinyl plank flooring in most rooms, this home offers both style and durability for everyday living.The spacious kitchen including a built-in microwave and refrigerator, provides plenty of room for cooking, gathering, and
Located in the Park Trails community of Princeton, this thoughtfully designed single-story home offers approximately 1,608 square feet with an open-concept layout including three bedrooms, two full baths, all enhanced by over $10,000 in builder-selected upgrades at the time of construction.Spacious kitchen anchors the home with granite countertops, designer wood cabinetry, brushed nickel
Adorable home in Princeton's Trails at Riverside Community, offering community pool, walking and bike trails. Spacious 4 Bedroom 2 bath home has split bedrooms, and the primary suite is at the back of the home. The living area offers custom painted and tiled wall. Open living space to kitchen with lots of cabinetry, large granite island and abundance of natural light. Large walk-in laundry room.
Rare opportunity to lease a country retreat! Renovated and beautiful 3 beds and an office sitting on 1.5 acres. LVP flooring throughout and fantastic updated kitchen and laundry room. Two living spaces with plenty of room for dining space. Extended covered patio for eating outdoors or relaxing and enjoying the country scenery. Huge shop with added air conditioned room perfect for a work office
Beautiful home in great location close to great schools, lakes, parks, shopping, dining & more. Home offers 3 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms. The open concept design of the main living area creates a spacious feel, perfect for entertaining or spending time with family. The Living room has large windows allowing plenty of natural light to flood the space. Custom Drapes and blinds in Master Bedroom, Living
New Build in Princeton, TX! 3 Bed, 2.5 Bathroom, 1 ?Car Garage. Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer and Free Wifi included! Spacious Kitchen with Granite countertops, breakfast bar. Half Bathroom downstairs. High ceilings, lots of natural lighting. All Bedrooms Upstairs! Spacious Primary bedroom with standing shower, walk in closet! Community HOA Pool Access, Playground, ball courts. Close to schools,
Like-new 2023-built, energy-efficient home available for immediate move-in in the master-planned community of EastRidge. This thoughtfully designed home features a private primary suite on the main floor with dual sinks and a spacious walk-in closet. The interior showcases modern finishes including pebble cabinetry, white pearl quartz countertops, cool grey luxury vinyl plank flooring, and plush
Beautiful 3 bed, 2 bath home with a 2-car garage, offering comfort and modern living. The kitchen features granite countertops, modern appliances, and stylish finishes. Wood flooring in the entry, hallway, family room, and kitchen adds warmth and elegance. Open-concept layout with abundant natural light creates a bright and inviting space. Enjoy a charming front porch and a spacious
Section 8 welcome. Landlord pays the HOA dues. Amazing opportunity to get into a 2 year old single family detached home at a price cheaper than the apartments in a great school district close to the lake. This single-story home offers everything you need on one level. Enter into the open layout that is host to the family room, dining nook and kitchen. The hall leads to three secondary bedrooms
Want to be the FIRST one to live in this New Home? Located on the Green Belt, with no other homes behind you! 3 Bdrm, 2 Bth with flex room, make it an office, 2nd living area, formal dining, or play room!Front Entry 2 car garage* Open floorplan for entertaining & space for everyone to gather*Quartz countertops in kitchen with island & room for counter stools*Stainless appliances with gas top
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