The Housing Market in Frisco Today

A man takes out the trash at dusk in front of his Frisco, Texas home while his wife waves to a neighbor.
For many Frisco residents, the joys and challenges of suburban homeownership are a daily reality.

Frisco, Texas is a rapidly growing suburb of Dallas, known for its excellent schools, abundant parks and trails, and thriving business community. As more people flock to Frisco for its high quality of life, the housing market has become increasingly competitive in recent years.

According to local real estate data, the median home price in Frisco reached $550,000 in 2022, a 15% increase from the previous year. Inventory has tightened as well, with homes spending an average of just 20 days on the market before going under contract. Despite rising prices, demand remains strong, fueled by Frisco’s robust job market and desirable amenities.

On the rental side, apartment construction has struggled to keep pace with population growth. Newer luxury complexes are popping up in prime locations, but often at premium price points. Many renters find themselves in older units or further from the city center to secure affordable housing.

Renting in Frisco: What’s Typical?

As of early 2023, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Frisco is around $1,500 per month. Two-bedroom units hover closer to $1,900. These figures represent a 10-12% year-over-year increase, outpacing wage growth for many residents.

Renters can find more budget-friendly options in older complexes or those located further north or west of the city center. However, these savings often come with trade-offs like longer commute times, fewer amenities, or aging interiors. Centrally-located apartments with modern finishes and resort-style extras can easily exceed $2,500 per month.

Young professionals, small families, and empty nesters make up a significant portion of Frisco’s renter population. Many are attracted to the flexibility and convenience of apartment living, as well as the ability to enjoy community amenities without the responsibilities of ownership. Popular renter hotspots include Frisco Square, Stonebriar, and West Frisco.

Owning a Home in Frisco

For those looking to put down roots, Frisco offers a range of housing options from cozy starter homes to expansive executive estates. The median home price of $550,000 equates to a typical monthly mortgage of around $2,900, assuming a 20% down payment and 30-year fixed rate.

However, the mortgage is just one piece of the homeownership puzzle. Frisco residents also face substantial property taxes, with rates among the highest in the nation. For a $550,000 home, annual property taxes alone can add $1,000 or more to the monthly budget. Homeowners insurance, HOA dues, and private mortgage insurance (PMI) can tack on several hundred dollars more.

All told, many Frisco homeowners find themselves spending upwards of $4,000 per month on housing before utilities, maintenance, and repairs. While building equity has its perks, the significant upfront costs and ongoing expenses of homeownership are prohibitive for many, especially in a high-priced market like Frisco.

Renters vs. Homeowners: Who Lives Where?

Frisco’s homeownership rate stands at around 71%, slightly higher than the national average. The majority of homeowners are established families and empty nesters who have built up savings and credit over time. Neighborhoods like Starwood, Newman Village, and Chapel Creek are popular with buyers seeking spacious homes, good schools, and a strong sense of community.

For younger professionals and newcomers to the area, renting is often the more attainable path. Saving up a hefty down payment can be challenging on top of student loans, car payments, and other financial obligations. Plus, the flexibility of renting allows for easier job or lifestyle changes down the road.

Cultural factors play a role in housing choices as well. In some immigrant communities, multigenerational living is common, with extended family pooling resources to afford a shared home. Other residents simply prefer a low-maintenance apartment lifestyle that frees up time and money for travel, hobbies, and experiences.

Typical Monthly Housing Costs in Frisco

Here’s what housing costs might look like each month in Frisco:

Expense Renting (1BR) Owning ($550K home)
Rent/Mortgage $1,500 $2,900
Property Tax $0 $1,000
Insurance $15 (renters) $200 (homeowners)
PMI $0 $250
HOA Dues $0 $100
Utilities $150 $400
Total $1,665 $4,850

Estimates reflect mid-range properties and average usage.

What’s Driving Costs Up or Down?

Several key factors are putting upward pressure on Frisco housing costs. On the demand side, the city’s strong job market and acclaimed schools continue to attract new residents from across the country. Toyota, the Dallas Cowboys, and other major employers have chosen Frisco for their headquarters, bringing an influx of well-paid workers.

Supply, meanwhile, has failed to keep up. Strict zoning laws and a shortage of buildable land limit new housing development. Apartment construction lags behind population growth, and many new units are priced at the high end of the market. Labor shortages and supply chain issues in the construction industry have further constrained inventory.

Some local policies aim to boost affordability, like tax breaks for seniors and a new “missing middle” zoning designation. However, these efforts have yet to make a significant dent in overall housing costs. As Frisco’s population climbs toward 300,000, demand is expected to keep home prices and rents elevated for the foreseeable future.

FAQs About Housing in Frisco

  • Is Frisco affordable to live in? While Frisco offers a high quality of life, its housing costs are well above national averages. Many residents stretch their budgets to afford a home or apartment in the city.
  • Why are housing prices changing? Frisco’s population boom, coupled with limited housing supply, has driven up prices in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated these trends as more people sought out suburban living.
  • How does Frisco compare to nearby cities? Frisco’s housing costs are on par with other affluent DFW suburbs like Plano and McKinney. Prices are lower than in central Dallas, but still much higher than further-out suburbs or more rural areas.

Making Smart Housing Decisions in Frisco

For anyone considering a move to Frisco, it’s essential to weigh the full cost of living, not just the sticker price of a home or apartment. Property taxes, insurance, and utilities can add thousands to the monthly budget, especially for homeowners. Renters should factor in the cost of commuting and compare amenity packages when choosing a complex.

Creating a realistic monthly budget is key to making an informed housing decision. By accounting for both upfront and long-term costs, residents can better assess what they can comfortably afford and make tradeoffs that align with their priorities. A trusted real estate agent or financial advisor can provide valuable guidance in navigating Frisco’s complex housing landscape.

Ultimately, the decision to rent or buy in Frisco is a highly personal one that depends on individual circumstances and goals. By understanding the market dynamics and planning ahead, residents can find a place to call home in this vibrant, growing community.

The Housing Market in Frisco Today

A man takes out the trash at dusk in front of his Frisco, Texas home while his wife waves to a neighbor.
For many Frisco residents, the joys and challenges of suburban homeownership are a daily reality.

Frisco, Texas is a rapidly growing suburb of Dallas, known for its excellent schools, abundant parks and trails, and thriving business community. As more people flock to Frisco for its high quality of life, the housing market has become increasingly competitive in recent years.

According to local real estate data, the median home price in Frisco reached $550,000 in 2022, a 15% increase from the previous year. Inventory has tightened as well, with homes spending an average of just 20 days on the market before going under contract. Despite rising prices, demand remains strong, fueled by Frisco’s robust job market and desirable amenities.

On the rental side, apartment construction has struggled to keep pace with population growth. Newer luxury complexes are popping up in prime locations, but often at premium price points. Many renters find themselves in older units or further from the city center to secure affordable housing.

Renting in Frisco: What’s Typical?

As of early 2023, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Frisco is around $1,500 per month. Two-bedroom units hover closer to $1,900. These figures represent a 10-12% year-over-year increase, outpacing wage growth for many residents.

Renters can find more budget-friendly options in older complexes or those located further north or west of the city center. However, these savings often come with trade-offs like longer commute times, fewer amenities, or aging interiors. Centrally-located apartments with modern finishes and resort-style extras can easily exceed $2,500 per month.

Young professionals, small families, and empty nesters make up a significant portion of Frisco’s renter population. Many are attracted to the flexibility and convenience of apartment living, as well as the ability to enjoy community amenities without the responsibilities of ownership. Popular renter hotspots include Frisco Square, Stonebriar, and West Frisco.

Owning a Home in Frisco

For those looking to put down roots, Frisco offers a range of housing options from cozy starter homes to expansive executive estates. The median home price of $550,000 equates to a typical monthly mortgage of around $2,900, assuming a 20% down payment and 30-year fixed rate.

However, the mortgage is just one piece of the homeownership puzzle. Frisco residents also face substantial property taxes, with rates among the highest in the nation. For a $550,000 home, annual property taxes alone can add $1,000 or more to the monthly budget. Homeowners insurance, HOA dues, and private mortgage insurance (PMI) can tack on several hundred dollars more.

All told, many Frisco homeowners find themselves spending upwards of $4,000 per month on housing before utilities, maintenance, and repairs. While building equity has its perks, the significant upfront costs and ongoing expenses of homeownership are prohibitive for many, especially in a high-priced market like Frisco.

Renters vs. Homeowners: Who Lives Where?

Frisco’s homeownership rate stands at around 71%, slightly higher than the national average. The majority of homeowners are established families and empty nesters who have built up savings and credit over time. Neighborhoods like Starwood, Newman Village, and Chapel Creek are popular with buyers seeking spacious homes, good schools, and a strong sense of community.

For younger professionals and newcomers to the area, renting is often the more attainable path. Saving up a hefty down payment can be challenging on top of student loans, car payments, and other financial obligations. Plus, the flexibility of renting allows for easier job or lifestyle changes down the road.

Cultural factors play a role in housing choices as well. In some immigrant communities, multigenerational living is common, with extended family pooling resources to afford a shared home. Other residents simply prefer a low-maintenance apartment lifestyle that frees up time and money for travel, hobbies, and experiences.

Typical Monthly Housing Costs in Frisco

Here’s what housing costs might look like each month in Frisco:

Expense Renting (1BR) Owning ($550K home)
Rent/Mortgage $1,500 $2,900
Property Tax $0 $1,000
Insurance $15 (renters) $200 (homeowners)
PMI $0 $250
HOA Dues $0 $100
Utilities $150 $400
Total $1,665 $4,850

Estimates reflect mid-range properties and average usage.

What’s Driving Costs Up or Down?

Several key factors are putting upward pressure on Frisco housing costs. On the demand side, the city’s strong job market and acclaimed schools continue to attract new residents from across the country. Toyota, the Dallas Cowboys, and other major employers have chosen Frisco for their headquarters, bringing an influx of well-paid workers.

Supply, meanwhile, has failed to keep up. Strict zoning laws and a shortage of buildable land limit new housing development. Apartment construction lags behind population growth, and many new units are priced at the high end of the market. Labor shortages and supply chain issues in the construction industry have further constrained inventory.

Some local policies aim to boost affordability, like tax breaks for seniors and a new “missing middle” zoning designation. However, these efforts have yet to make a significant dent in overall housing costs. As Frisco’s population climbs toward 300,000, demand is expected to keep home prices and rents elevated for the foreseeable future.

FAQs About Housing in Frisco

  • Is Frisco affordable to live in? While Frisco offers a high quality of life, its housing costs are well above national averages. Many residents stretch their budgets to afford a home or apartment in the city.
  • Why are housing prices changing? Frisco’s population boom, coupled with limited housing supply, has driven up prices in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated these trends as more people sought out suburban living.
  • How does Frisco compare to nearby cities? Frisco’s housing costs are on par with other affluent DFW suburbs like Plano and McKinney. Prices are lower than in central Dallas, but still much higher than further-out suburbs or more rural areas.

Making Smart Housing Decisions in Frisco

For anyone considering a move to Frisco, it’s essential to weigh the full cost of living, not just the sticker price of a home or apartment. Property taxes, insurance, and utilities can add thousands to the monthly budget, especially for homeowners. Renters should factor in the cost of commuting and compare amenity packages when choosing a complex.

Creating a realistic monthly budget is key to making an informed housing decision. By accounting for both upfront and long-term costs, residents can better assess what they can comfortably afford and make tradeoffs that align with their priorities. A trusted real estate agent or financial advisor can provide valuable guidance in navigating Frisco’s complex housing landscape.

Ultimately, the decision to rent or buy in Frisco is a highly personal one that depends on individual circumstances and goals. By understanding the market dynamics and planning ahead, residents can find a place to call home in this vibrant, growing community.