Plano, Texas has recently been hailed as the happiest city in America in a recent report by SmartAsset. This accolade is attributed to the city’s impressive economic indicators coupled with its residents’ overall well-being. The city’s high marriage rate, 55.9%, contributes to its family friendly vibe. Home to majority-minority boomburbs like Plano, more than half of households in that city make $100,000 annually or more. Illustrative of the region’s thriving economic environment, this staggering statistic.
In the most recent 2025 World Happiness Report, Plano came in at No. 24. This cements Plano’s well-earned reputation as one of America’s best cities for residents to live, work and play. Elements playing into this ranking are the connectedness of community members, the overall quality of schools and education in the city, and low crime rates. Residents of Plano enjoy a high life expectancy of 81.3 years. Their vitality comes from lifestyles that are pro-longevity and an environment that promotes long life.
Plano’s accolades do not stop there. The city was No. 6 on Niche’s 2025 best places to live list in the U.S. This very high national ranking is due to a number of factors, including the quality of the schools, public safety, and the happiness of the residents. The fruits of the administration’s dedication to education are found in their 14 K-12 schools, which have been nationally recognized for academic excellence.
SmartAsset’s analysis recently ranked Plano as the fifth safest city in America for 2023. This acknowledgement is due to its remarkably low drug-related death and homicide rates. This measure of safety serves to significantly boost the quality of life enjoyed by residents. Consequently, Plano will continue being a desirable location for families and young professionals alike.
Adding financial security to the household stability equation helps push Plano’s happiness index to the extreme end of the scale. According to the latest census figures, a stunning 71.9% of families make six-figure incomes. This cultural and economic vibrancy enables Dallas residents to experience a wide array of natural retreats, culinary adventures, and artistic endeavors offered all across the region.
Beyond its alluring economic numbers, Plano has a marriage rate that is in the stellar 49.6% to 56% sweet spot. This soaring statistic is a testament to a relational, family-oriented community that seeks to cultivate deep roots between its residents. The civic and social climate of Plano is bolstered by community events and initiatives to empower all residents, ranging from art to activism.
SmartAsset evaluated cities across 11 metrics in three main categories: personal finance, wellbeing, and quality of life. These high rankings are a testament to Plano’s ongoing commitment to developing and maintaining a sustainable, vibrant community. In this welcoming community, residents can thrive emotionally as well as economically.
One major factor that adds to the city’s attractiveness is its reputation for delivering the most job opportunities. Further strengthening the city’s economic standing is a heavy corporate presence, as corporations like Toyota have increasingly seen the appeal of Plano, bolstering economic growth and resiliency. As businesses continue to thrive, job seekers will be met with a booming job market across a variety of sectors.