McKinney, Texas, has retained its No. 1 ranking in RentCafe’s 2026 Best Cities for Renters, a distinction it first earned in 2025. The study evaluated 150 of the nation’s largest and fastest‑growing cities on housing affordability, economic opportunity and quality‑of‑life factors, and McKinney emerged as the clear leader.
Why McKinney Stands Out
The city placed third nationally for cost of living and housing and ninth for overall quality of life. RentCafe highlighted a 35.9% increase in renter household income, highly rated schools and more than 3,000 acres of parks and open space as key strengths.
Average apartment rent in McKinney was $1,683 as of Aug. 31, down 1.72% from a year earlier, with the typical unit measuring 982 sq ft. These figures reflect a market that remains competitive even as new multifamily developments expand the housing stock.
Growth and Vacancy Trends
U.S. Census Bureau estimates put McKinney’s 2025 population at 236,001, a 20.8% increase since 2020, underscoring rapid growth. The influx of new apartments has lifted the city’s overall multifamily vacancy rate to 15.7%, compared with 11.7% across the Dallas‑Fort Worth‑Arlington metro area. When newly built properties still leasing their first units are excluded, McKinney’s stabilized vacancy rate falls to 8%, below the metro average of 9.4%.
Despite the strong ranking, the city’s Affordable Housing Needs Assessment notes gaps at certain price points, reminding residents that affordability challenges persist for some households.
Plano Joins the Top‑20
Collin County’s Plano earned a No. 18 spot, keeping the county represented among the nation’s premier renter destinations. Average rent in Plano was $1,687, just $4 higher than McKinney’s, and down 1.95% from the previous year.
Southern Dominance on the List
The RentCafe list reflects a Southern surge, with 37 of the top 50 cities located in the region. Texas claimed two of the top three positions—McKinney at No. 1 and Austin at No. 3—highlighting the state’s appeal to renters seeking affordable, high‑quality communities.
What the Ranking Means for Residents
For families and individuals weighing a move, McKinney’s continued top ranking signals a community that balances growth with livability. Strong school performance, expanding parkland and rising renter incomes provide a solid foundation for traditional families seeking stability and opportunity.
Local officials and developers are encouraged to address the identified affordability gaps while maintaining the city’s momentum as a leading place for renters.
Original reporting: Local Profile (DFW) — read the source article.
