Anna: A Quick Look

Located north of McKinney and about 45 miles from Dallas, Anna has transformed from a quiet farming community into one of the fastest-growing areas in Collin and Grayson counties. Founded in the 1870s as a railway stop, Anna has retained its small-town feel while becoming increasingly popular.

With a population around 20,000, Anna offers a comfortable balance between tranquility and accessibility. It’s a town poised for growth, attracting those seeking new homes, particularly in the luxury market.

Anna’s atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, ideal for those wanting a slower pace without sacrificing modern amenities. The town fosters a strong sense of community, with annual events, farmers’ markets, and gatherings that make it easy to connect with neighbors.

Finding Your Neighborhood

Anna boasts diverse neighborhoods catering to various lifestyles and budgets, from starter homes to luxury estates.

• Cedar Ridge Estates: This area features spacious homes on large lots, offering a peaceful, suburban setting. It’s popular for its elegant designs and high-end finishes, especially among those seeking luxury homes.
• Lakeshore Village: Situated near scenic waterfronts, this neighborhood offers beautiful views and lake access. It’s perfect for a relaxed lifestyle with nature nearby, while still enjoying modern conveniences. This area is known for upscale homes and a family-oriented vibe.
• Anna Crossing: If you prefer newer homes, Anna Crossing is ideal. It features stylish homes with modern designs, open floor plans, and energy-efficient amenities, appealing to young professionals and growing families.
• Anna Estates: For those seeking true luxury, Anna Estates offers grand properties on large lots, with access to excellent schools and amenities. Homes here feature high-end finishes and expansive interiors.

Understanding the Cost of Living

Anna’s affordability compared to other North Texas areas is a major draw.

• Housing: Homes range from affordable starters to multi-million-dollar luxury estates. The median home price is significantly lower than the Dallas metropolitan average.
• Utilities: Utility costs are comparable to other suburban areas, with residents typically paying $200–$300 per month for basic services.
• Transportation: With a more rural feel, traffic is minimal, reducing commute times.

Getting Around Anna

Anna offers convenient travel options.

• Public Transportation: While Anna doesn’t have an extensive public transit system, it’s part of the McKinney Urban Transit District. Owning a car is generally necessary.
• Major Roads: U.S. Highway 75 and State Highway 121 provide easy access to McKinney, Plano, Dallas, and surrounding areas.
• Local Roads: A well-maintained network of local roads makes navigating the town easy.

Setting Up Essential Services

A smooth transition involves setting up these key services:

• Water and Sewer: Contact the City of Anna’s utility department to establish an account.
• Trash and Recycling: Schedule your service and obtain collection bins from the City of Anna.
• Electricity and Gas: Choose from various electricity providers in Texas’ deregulated market (e.g., TXU Energy, Reliant Energy, Direct Energy). Natural gas is provided by Atmos Energy.
• Schools: The Anna Independent School District offers quality education and extracurricular activities.
• Emergency Services: Anna has dedicated police, fire, and EMS services.