Two Dallas Suburbs Crack America's Top 10 Safest Communities

National Recognition for North Texas Safety

Two North Texas suburbs have earned coveted spots among America's safest communities, proving that the Dallas metropolitan area offers more than just big-city amenities. In SmartAsset's 2025 ranking of the safest suburbs in America, McKinney ranked ninth, and Frisco came in 10th place — and that's out of 360 suburbs within commuting distance of major U.S. cities.

To rank their safety, SmartAsset looked at factors such as violent crime, property crime, and drug overdose death rates (all areas where both McKinney and Frisco scored especially well). These rankings represent more than statistical achievements. For people considering a move to the Dallas area, these numbers point to neighborhoods where people feel comfortable walking around, parks stay busy with families, and downtown areas are active rather than avoided after dark.

The methodology behind these rankings examined five critical safety metrics across hundreds of suburban communities nationwide. The rankings to determine Texas' safest suburbs were based on the rates of violent crime, property crime, drug overdoses, traffic deaths and excessive drinking, according to SmartAsset. Both McKinney and Frisco demonstrated exceptional performance across these categories, establishing them as standout communities in a competitive field.

McKinney: Small-Town Charm with Big-City Access

Locals describe McKinney as quaint and peaceful, with friendly neighbors and a family-oriented vibe. The community's safety reputation extends beyond statistics to real resident experiences. On Reddit, u/Thedarkfic writes, "Downtown McKinney is the safest downtown I've ever been in." Another resident, u/Blantons4Breakfast agrees, saying, "I've never felt even remotely unsafe."

Aside from the shops and restaurants in the downtown district, McKinney is close enough to neighboring cities with more retail options so that residents and visitors don't feel cut off. Plus, it's just over a half-hour drive into Dallas for access to big-city amenities. This strategic location offers residents the best of both worlds: suburban tranquility with metropolitan convenience.

In McKinney, the median monthly housing payment is $2,101, compared to a median household income of $120,273. This balance between income and housing costs makes the community accessible to middle-class families seeking safety without sacrificing affordability.

Frisco: The Active Suburb That Never Sleeps

Frisco is safe, but it's anything but sleepy. While it shares McKinney's top-10 safety ranking, this suburb offers a different experience — one built around sports, entertainment, and cultural attractions. The city brands itself as "The City That Plays," and visitors can quickly see why.

Attractions like the National Videogame Museum, the Frisco Heritage Museum, and minor-league baseball games at Riders Field give Frisco the feel of a destination rather than merely a quiet bedroom community. Frisco is also home to The Star, the Dallas Cowboys' headquarters and practice facility, which doubles as a mixed-use district with restaurants, events, and public spaces.

For digital nomads, Frisco is frequently mentioned as one of America's best cities for remote work. In Frisco, the figures are slightly higher with median housing payments at $2,389 and household incomes at $146,158. While housing costs exceed McKinney's, the income levels support the premium, and Frisco was one of Texas' fastest-growing cities in 2023, according to a study cited by Frisco Economic Development Corporation. But residents often point to the town's safety, amenities, and schools to prove that it's worth the investment.

Looking Ahead: Sustained Excellence in Safety

These rankings reflect a broader trend of suburban Texas communities excelling in safety metrics. Beyond Frisco and McKinney, other Dallas‑Fort Worth suburbs like Seagoville and Denton also make the top 100 (Seagoville at No. 89 and Denton at No. 90). The success of multiple North Texas communities suggests regional approaches to public safety and community planning are paying dividends.

Given their strong foundation in safety metrics and quality of life, Frisco and McKinney seem poised to remain among the nation's safest suburbs in coming years. Continued investment in public services, infrastructure, and neighborhood stability is key. Meanwhile, both cities maintain affordability relative to income—and , solid reputations for livability, civic engagement, and sustained growth.

As families nationwide search for communities that balance safety, opportunity, and quality of life, McKinney and Frisco have positioned themselves as compelling options. Their top-10 national rankings demonstrate that thoughtful community planning, strategic location, and resident engagement can create environments where safety isn't just a