If you’re searching for a place that combines luxury living, a genuine community spirit, and all the conveniences of Plano, TX, the Hills at Prestonwood should be on your shortlist. Nestled just north of Plano Parkway and hugging portions of Parker Road, this established neighborhood is a hidden gem offering both sophistication and approachability. Here’s everything you need to know about life in the Hills at Prestonwood—straight from the perspective of someone who calls Plano home.
A Welcoming, Upscale Community Vibe
The first thing you’ll notice when driving down Prestonwood Drive, Charles Place, or Highlands Drive is the sense of pride residents take in their homes and neighborhood. The manicured lawns, mature trees, brick mailboxes, and decorative street lamps set a soothing, upscale tone without coming off as pretentious. You’ll often see neighbors waving hello, children riding bikes on weekends, and dog-walkers chatting along the shaded sidewalks. HOA events, like the annual block party or holiday decorating contest, bring people together and reinforce a close-knit spirit that’s rare in today’s fast-paced world.
Housing: Distinctive Homes with Character
The Hills at Prestonwood offers an appealing mix of single-family homes, many of which were built in the 1990s yet boast extensive updates and customized finishes. Most houses range from 2,500 to over 4,000 square feet, featuring open floor plans, high ceilings, and backyards ideal for entertaining. Popular streets such as Boston Lane and Crown View Lane are lined with homes that showcase varied architecture—think stately brick facades, arched windows, and elegant entryways. You’ll also find a pocket of golf course homes near Prestonwood Country Club, with scenic views and extra privacy for those seeking tranquility.
HOA dues are reasonable and cover maintenance of community green spaces, security patrols, and neighborhood amenities. Residents appreciate the strong community association, which keeps common areas pristine while allowing plenty of flexibility for homeowners’ personal touches.
Walkability and Everyday Conveniences
While the Hills at Prestonwood is distinctly suburban, it remains highly walkable for residential life. Well-maintained sidewalks lace the neighborhood, connecting cul-de-sacs and looping around tree-lined streets. Take a morning stroll along Charles Place and you’ll likely meet neighbors walking dogs, kids headed to school, or joggers enjoying the cooler part of the day.
For daily essentials, the neighborhood’s proximity to Preston Road and Park Boulevard puts grocery stores, pharmacies, and restaurants within a five-minute drive—or even an energetic walk for some. Shopping centers like Preston Towne Crossing and the Shops at Willow Bend are just down the road, making errands easy and efficient.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
Families are drawn to the Hills at Prestonwood for its top-rated Plano schools. Neighborhood children typically attend:
- Brinker Elementary School (just minutes away across Parker Road)
- Renner Middle School
- Shepton High School
- Plano West Senior High
Brinker Elementary, in particular, has an outstanding reputation for academic achievement and strong parent involvement. School buses run through the main streets, and crossing guards help shepherd kids safely to and from school. With a safe environment, active HOA, and family events, parents feel confident letting kids play outside or walk to friends’ houses after school.
Parks and Green Spaces: Enjoying the Outdoors
One of the standout features of the Hills at Prestonwood is the access to lush, well-kept parks and greenbelts. Bob Woodruff Park, only a few minutes away, features scenic ponds, playgrounds, picnic tables, and even a dog park—an ideal spot for weekend family outings or a quiet stroll after dinner.
Within the neighborhood itself, several small pocket parks dot the area, and the Prestonwood Country Club provides beautiful golf course views even for non-members. The neighborhood’s mature canopy of trees means shaded sidewalks year-round, making outdoor exercise and unhurried walks truly enjoyable.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Safety is a big reason why residents love living here. The Hills at Prestonwood boasts very low crime rates, thanks in part to an active Neighborhood Watch program and regular security patrols funded by the HOA. Most homes are equipped with modern security systems, and the community is vigilant about keeping streets well-lit and secure. With friendly neighbors looking out for one another, it’s common to find packages left safely on porches or to see neighbors helping out during vacations.
Location: Near Major Employers and Downtown Plano
Living in the Hills at Prestonwood means you’re never far from the action. The community is just a 10-minute drive to Legacy West, which houses major employers like Toyota, JP Morgan Chase, and Liberty Mutual. The Dallas North Tollway and President George Bush Turnpike are both easily accessible for commutes to Downtown Dallas or beyond.
Historic Downtown Plano, with its boutique shops, restaurants, and live events, is about 15 minutes away. Residents also appreciate the short distance to the Arbor Hills Nature Preserve, perfect for hiking, biking, or weekend picnics with family and friends.
What Residents Love Most
Ask any neighbor what keeps them in the Hills at Prestonwood, and you’ll hear a familiar theme:
- The walkable, scenic streets—especially during springtime when the crepe myrtles are in bloom
- The friendly, active HOA and welcoming, neighborly atmosphere
- Access to some of Plano’s best public schools
- Proximity to shopping, dining, and major highways—life here is convenient but never hectic
- The safe, peaceful environment that’s ideal for raising a family or enjoying a quiet retirement
In short, the Hills at Prestonwood offers an enviable balance: upscale living without pretense, excellent schools, vibrant community life, and one of Plano’s loveliest natural settings. Whether you’re hunting for your forever home or just getting to know Plano, this neighborhood truly embodies the best of suburban Texas living.