Incomes are climbing all over America. The U.S. Census Bureau put the national median household income at $80,610 in 2023 — a 4% jump from $77,540 in 2022. While most cities are still trying to get to six-figure territory, one Texas suburb has already blown past that mark. It’s no wonder, either, since Plano sits in one of the states with the strongest economies.
SmartAsset found that about 54.3% of Plano households earn over $100,000 a year, and that Plano is officially America’s happiest city. The city also leads the nation in marriage, with a rate of 55.9%, and ranked No. 4 for mental healthy days. Plus, it’s one of the top retirement spots in the country thanks to its relative safety, amenities, and financial stability. The U.S. Census Bureau shows that the city’s median household income hit $108,649 in 2023, way above the Texas median of $76,292, and the national median of $78,538. Also, only 7.1% of Plano residents live in poverty, compared to 11.1% nationally. The city’s higher income can be particularly important because buying a house in certain Texas cities can be prohibitive for many. With this kind of economic foundation, it makes sense that Plano residents are doing well beyond just their paychecks.
Why Plano Pays So Well
Plano’s high incomes didn’t happen by chance. The city has a booming job market and continues to attract major employers. Companies like Toyota North America and JCPenney moved thousands of corporate jobs to Plano over the past few years. The Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas shows that the Dallas-Plano-Irving metro area had just a 3.9% unemployment rate in April 2025. Plus, the talent pool here in Plano is also highly educated. Plano’s 2021 Comprehensive Plan found that 58% of adults had at least a bachelor’s degree and work in management, technical, or professional jobs.
It’s important to realize that Six-figure salaries in Plano aren’t just nice to have — they’re often necessary. SmartAsset calculated that residents need to earn between $72,389 and $217,188, in 2023, in order to qualify as middle class here. The city’s cost of living, and housing market, can necessitate higher salaries. Meaning even people with large salaries have to be smart about money –especially when it comes to saving enough for retirement – in order to keep up their lifestyle.
Plano’s Wealth Leads To A Happier Life
Plano’s financial strength goes beyond the numbers –- you can see it in how the city invests in things that matter to residents. According to the City of Plano, the FY2024-25 community investment program put $317.1 million toward parks, recreation, water infrastructure, and other essentials for residents. Residents can watch this investment happening in real time at places like Hall Park – where they city adding new trails and pavilions. This investment is largely possible thanks to the city’s strong tax base, with many households earning what counts as upper class in Texas…