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Plano Named Among America's Happiest Cities In 2025

The city ranks higher than in previous years
Matilda Preisendorf
box-garden-at-legacy-hall
Photo: Box Garden at Legacy Hall

They say money can’t buy happiness, but where you live might have something to do with it. A strong sense of community, economic stability and access to quality healthcare and recreation can all play a role in shaping overall well-being.

With the International Day of Happiness around the corner on March 20, WalletHub has released its 2025 report on the Happiest Cities in America, ranking the places that offer the best conditions for mental and physical well-being. This year, Plano has earned a spot in the top 20, further cementing its reputation as one of the country’s best places to live.

Where Plano Ranks

Plano ranks 17th overall on WalletHub’s list of the Happiest Cities in America for 2025, standing out in several key well-being factors.

The city ranks 17th for its low depression rate, indicating a relatively positive mental health environment for residents. However, sleep habits are an area for improvement, as Plano comes in 51st for adequate sleep rates.

Plano performs well in community engagement and lifestyle, ranking 21st in sports participation, suggesting that residents are actively involved in recreational activities. The city also boasts one of the lowest separation and divorce rates in the country, ranking 7th, which may contribute to its overall sense of stability and happiness. On the economic front, Plano lands at 65th in unemployment, reflecting a relatively stable job market. 

Plano Comes In Higher Than Previous Years

In 2023, WalletHub released the same report, but with much different results. According to the study, Plano came in 29th. In comparison to this year’s report, Plano performed slightly worse in community and environment, ranking 25th. The city ranked 48th for physical and emotional well-being and 56th for income and environment. Then, in 2024, Plano ranked 35th on the list.

Why People Love Plano 

downtown-plano
Photo: Historic Downtown Plano Association | Visit Plano

Plano offers something for everyone, from Michelin-starred chefs like Knife’s John Tesar to diverse shopping at Plano’s Legacy West. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy any of Plano’s 161 parks. Just a short drive away, Dallas adds to the mix with world-class museums, sports, concerts and nightlife. 

The North Texas area is home to 24 Fortune 500 company headquarters, with many choosing to settle outside Dallas in cities like Plano, Frisco, Irving and McKinney. As major corporations such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, Toyota, Intuit and Globe Life expand their operations, suburban areas are becoming hubs for corporate opportunities. So, not only are there jobs, there are high-paying, good jobs. Plus smaller, safer, family-friendly communities are increasingly attractive for future and current residents.

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