Thinking about moving to Frisco, Texas, and curious about the Preston Lakes neighborhood? As someone who’s spent plenty of time in the area, I can tell you: Preston Lakes is the kind of place where neighbors actually wave hello and kids ride bikes until sunset. This article breaks down what life is like here, from its friendly community vibe to practical details about housing, schools, and daily life.
Community Vibe: Welcoming and Connected
The first thing that strikes most people about Preston Lakes is the strong sense of community. Neighbors look out for each other here, whether you run into a friendly face at the mailbox pavilions off Hickory Street or gather at the playground for an impromptu playdate. Residents often organize block parties and seasonal events, especially around the intersection of Preston Vineyard Drive and Preston Lakes Drive, which builds a true sense of belonging. You’ll see families walking dogs, joggers taking lap around the beautiful lakes, and folks gathering outdoors at almost any hour.
Types of Housing: Comfortable and Family-Oriented
Preston Lakes is known for its classic suburban appeal, offering mostly single-family homes built in the late 1990s to early 2000s. These houses typically feature:
- Spacious floor plans (many with 3-5 bedrooms)
- Mature landscaping and large yards
- Brick facades and tidy curb appeal
You’ll find a mix of one- and two-story homes, many lining quiet streets such as Lake Point Drive, Cedar Creek Drive, and Preston Lakes Drive itself. The well-cared-for homes and streets give the neighborhood a timeless, welcoming feel. There’s a consistent pride of ownership across the community—lawns are well-maintained, and holiday decorations are a big deal here.
Walkability: Enjoyable and Safe Strolls
While Preston Lakes isn’t what you’d call “urban walkable,” it’s definitely pedestrian-friendly for suburban standards. Wide sidewalks run along every street, making it easy to walk the dog, stroll with a stroller, or let the kids ride bikes. The neighborhood is compact enough that you can walk from one side to the other in about 15 minutes, with lovely views of the neighborhood’s small lakes and scenic green belts.
For errands, you’re just a short drive to major shopping and dining anchored around Preston Road and Lebanon Road, including Kroger, Starwood Café, Lowe’s, and plenty of local favorites. There are also several trails and parks within walking distance or a very short drive, encouraging an active outdoor lifestyle.
Schools and Family-Friendliness: Highly Rated and Engaged
One major draw for families is the exceptional local schools. Children in Preston Lakes are zoned for the highly acclaimed Frisco Independent School District. Specifically, Gunstream Elementary, Wester Middle School, and Centennial High School are the primary campuses for neighborhood residents—all of which consistently earn high ratings and have enthusiastic parent involvement.
Family life is a big part of the feel here. Whether it’s neighborhood kids playing together along Waterford Drive or families organizing group outings to local attractions, there’s a strong sense of support. The presence of a playground and community pool means there’s a built-in spot for playdates and summer lounging.
Parks and Green Spaces: Room to Roam
Preston Lakes shines when it comes to outdoor recreation. The neighborhood’s namesake lakes add a unique water feature to the community, perfect for peaceful walks or teaching little ones to fish. The central greenbelt with mature trees provides a serene escape, and the community playground and swimming pool get plenty of use.
Nearby, you’ll find larger parks like Warren Sports Complex (just off Legacy Drive) and Shawnee Trail Sports Complex, which offer sports fields, trails, and picnic spots, all within a five-minute drive. These public spaces are a huge plus for active families and anyone who enjoys being outside.
Safety: Peace of Mind
Safety is a top priority for Preston Lakes residents. The neighborhood maintains a low crime rate, thanks in part to its strong community watch network and active communication among neighbors via platforms like Nextdoor and private Facebook groups. Many streets have low traffic volumes, especially on circle drives like Lake Brook Circle and Lake Bend Court, making them ideal for kids to play safely.
Frisco Police Department is quick to respond, and you’ll often spot patrol cars making their rounds—a subtle but comforting presence. The peaceful, well-lit streets encourage late-evening walks and provide a genuine sense of security.
Convenience: Near Everything You Need
Preston Lakes offers a location that’s tough to beat for daily commuters and busy families:
- Quick access to Preston Road (SH 289), which connects you to area amenities and major employers in Plano, Legacy West, and beyond
- Just 10 minutes from downtown Frisco’s Rail District, with its unique shops, dining, and entertainment
- Close to Stonebriar Centre for shopping and The Star for sporting events
- Major employers like T-Mobile, Toyota, and Liberty Mutual are just a short drive away on the Dallas North Tollway
While traffic can get busy during peak commute times, the neighborhood’s placement offers a nice balance between a peaceful home environment and urban convenience.
What Residents Love Most
Ask almost any Preston Lakes resident, and they’ll tell you it’s the combination of community spirit, convenience, and comfort that keeps them here. Some of the most common “why I love it” reasons include:
- Warm, welcoming neighbors willing to lend a hand
- Safe streets where kids can actually play outside
- Serene lakes and greenbelts perfect for relaxation
- Pride in homeownership that keeps the area looking its best
- Top-tier schools and an easy commute to work or play
For many, Preston Lakes is the perfect blend: close enough to everything Frisco has to offer, yet peaceful and settled enough to truly feel like home.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering a move to Frisco and want a neighborhood that truly balances family-friendliness, location, and lifestyle, Preston Lakes deserves a spot on your list. Whether you’re a young professional, growing family, or empty nester looking for a welcoming community, you’ll find Preston Lakes to be more than just a place to live—it’s a place to belong.