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McKinney Fifth Fastest Growing City In The US

McKinney is the fifth fastest-growing city in the United States with a population of at least 100,000, and has had fastest growth rate of all cities since 2000 with 122%, the National Census Bureau reported July 1.   

"The magnitude of growth that McKinney has experienced speaks volumes about the strength and diversity of our economy - especially when other cities are losing both residents and jobs," said David Pitstick, President/CEO of McKinney Economic Development Corporation (MEDC).

Positioned 30 miles north of downtown Dallas in Collin County, McKinney has gained a reputation for its beautiful, landscaped neighborhoods, educated workforce, excellent schools, regional airport, and historic downtown area that's one of the most successful in the state.

In 2008, McKinney was named by CNNMoney as #14 "Best Places to Live" and was also listed in the top 75 of the wealthiest communities in the United States by American City Business Journal. 

"We certainly have all of the ingredients that make a city attractive," Pitstick said, "but it is a strong economy that puts residential growth in action." 

Unlike other states, Texas municipalities have the option to utilize a portion of sales tax funds to attract economic development. McKinney voters opted to create MEDC in 1993.  Since then, the corporation has provided incentives to projects that have contributed more than $1 billion to the city's economy. In the last five years alone, MEDC has funded projects have created 2,300 permanent jobs and created $600 million in tax revenue.  

"With additional revenue, the city has more money able to upgrade infrastructure and city services," said Pitstick.  "That also adds to excellent quality of life."