The Waylon Apartments & Townhomes in McKinney, Texas, opened in 2025 and offer a mix of modern design, upscale amenities, and a convenient location. Situated in Collin County, ranked the best place to live in Texas for 2025, The Waylon provides easy access to the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex and is surrounded by McKinney’s vibrant dining, shopping, and outdoor attractions.
Key Features:
- Modern Units: Luxury finishes, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and wood-style plank flooring.
- Amenities: Resort-style pool, advanced fitness center with yoga studios, co-working lounge, and pet-friendly perks like a dog spa and park.
- Convenience: EV charging stations, private garages, 24-hour refrigerated package lockers, and proximity to major highways.
- Community Perks: Access to McKinney’s historic downtown, top-rated dining spots, and over 80 miles of trails.
The Waylon combines style, comfort, and practicality, making it a top choice for renters seeking a high-quality living experience in one of Texas’s most desirable cities.
Building Design and Features
Architecture and Interior Design
The Waylon offers a charming blend of rustic farmhouse aesthetics and sleek modern design. Built in 2025, this property boasts luxury finishes across its apartments and townhomes. The open layouts are designed to flood spaces with natural light, while 9- and 10-foot ceilings paired with clean crown molding add an extra touch of sophistication and spaciousness.
Residents can choose between two carefully curated finish packages to suit their style:
- Sage Package: Features White Oak shaker cabinets, Ocean Cove quartz countertops, a sage green backsplash, matte black hardware, warm wood-style plank flooring, and large-format Grigio porcelain tiles.
- Slate Package: Includes Slate shaker cabinets with matte white accent kitchen cabinets, brushed brass hardware, Fogged Ice quartz countertops, a decorative taupe tile backsplash, and rich wood-style plank flooring.
Both kitchens and bathrooms are anchored by polished quartz countertops, offering a perfect mix of durability and elegance. Wood-style plank flooring runs throughout the living spaces and bedrooms, creating a cohesive and warm atmosphere. Select units elevate the experience further with dual vanities and glass-enclosed showers, adding a touch of indulgence. Beyond its stylish finishes, The Waylon is designed to meet the needs of modern renters.
Features for Today’s Renters
The thoughtful design of The Waylon extends beyond aesthetics, with features tailored for everyday convenience. Each unit is equipped with stainless steel appliances to boost energy efficiency, alongside programmable thermostats and USB outlets for seamless smart home integration.
The community promotes a healthy lifestyle with its smoke-free "Share the Air" policy. Inside, residents enjoy the convenience of full-sized in-home washers and dryers, while select units include built-in shelving and desks – perfect for organized storage or remote work setups.
For vehicle owners, The Waylon offers private garages, ample carport parking, and EV charging stations. Select apartments feature kitchen islands and pantries, adding extra storage and workspace, while private patios or balconies provide a relaxing outdoor retreat. A 24-hour package room with refrigeration ensures that deliveries, including perishable items, are secure and well-maintained, even when residents are away.
Amenities
Pool and Recreation Amenities
The Waylon brings a touch of luxury to everyday life with its resort-style pool, nestled in a beautifully landscaped courtyard. This inviting space acts as the community’s centerpiece, perfect for relaxing after a long day or enjoying sunny weekends under the Texas sky.
For those who enjoy staying active, the state-of-the-art fitness center offers much more than the standard apartment gym. It includes free weights, cardio machines, and two dedicated aerobic and yoga studios equipped with Echelon mirrors. These mirrors provide access to guided workouts and yoga sessions, creating a studio-quality experience right at home.
Outdoor fun continues with a grilling courtyard, complete with a fire pit and outdoor games. It’s an ideal spot for hosting barbecues or gathering with friends on cool evenings. Beyond these outdoor perks, the community and in-unit features are designed to make everyday life more comfortable and enjoyable.
Convenience and Community Features
Balancing work and leisure is made easier with a co-working lounge that includes both shared spaces and private pods. For socializing, the social lounge offers a full kitchen, billiards table, and a cozy fireplace, making it a great place to connect with neighbors.
Pet owners will find thoughtful amenities like a dog park for exercise and a dog spa for grooming and bathing. The inclusion of a pet washing station is especially noteworthy, as it’s available in less than 9% of buildings in McKinney, making it a rare and welcome addition.
Modern conveniences extend to EV charging stations for electric vehicle owners, and 24-hour package lockers with refrigeration to keep deliveries fresh and secure.
Special Features
The Waylon elevates apartment living with high-end in-unit features. Select apartments include dual vanity sinks and glass-enclosed showers, creating a spa-like atmosphere in the comfort of your home.
| Feature | The Waylon Apartments & Townhomes | Standard McKinney Offerings |
|---|---|---|
| EV Charging Stations | Yes | Less common, premium amenity |
| 24-Hour Package Lockers with Refrigeration | Yes | Refrigeration is a premium addition |
| Dog Spa/Pet Washing Station | Yes | Rare (less than 9% of McKinney buildings) |
| Co-working Spaces with Private Pods | Yes | Less common, found in newer developments |
| Dual Vanity Sinks (in-unit) | Yes (select units) | Typically in higher-end units |
| Glass-Enclosed Showers (in-unit) | Yes (select units) | Premium feature in luxury apartments |
| USB Outlets (in-unit) | Yes | Modern convenience, becoming standard |
Additional perks include carport parking and direct access private garages available in select units, ensuring flexible vehicle storage options. For cycling enthusiasts or those who prefer eco-friendly travel, bicycle storage is also available. These thoughtful amenities, combined with the vibrant community setting, create an exceptional place to call home.
Neighborhood and Area
Dining and Entertainment
Living at The Waylon means easy access to McKinney’s vibrant dining and entertainment scene. One standout is District 121, a nearby hotspot featuring a variety of restaurants and a main stage for live performances. Don’t miss McKinney’s First Friday Market & Music on October 3, 2025, or live shows like the 80s Mix Tape (Pop & Rock Cover Band).
For a fine dining experience, Bob’s Steak & Chop House takes the crown as Texas’ No. 1 Steakhouse. With its mahogany interiors, crisp white tablecloths, and a cozy Cigar Lounge, it’s no surprise this restaurant boasts a stellar 4.8/5 rating from 803 reviews. Another top-tier option is Urban Grill and Wine Bar McKinney, offering contemporary American dishes paired with an extensive wine selection. It’s highly rated at 4.9/5 from over 1,000 reviews.
If you’re in the mood for something fresh, Union Bear McKinney opened in April 2025, offering "no coast" craft beers brewed on-site and a chef-inspired menu featuring American classics. With a spacious dining room and a large patio, it’s perfect for gathering with friends. For a Southern twist, Sugarbacon Proper Kitchen in Historic Downtown McKinney serves up dishes like braised beef short rib and pan-seared scallops, crafted by Chef Anthony Dismuke. Their whiskey collection and award-winning cocktails make it a must-visit.
For casual outings, The Yard combines a family-friendly vibe with "classic backyard grub", frozen margaritas, and plenty of outdoor space for dining and play. Coffee lovers will enjoy Layered, where in-house roasted coffee meets delightful family recipes. With so many options nearby, residents of The Waylon are spoiled for choice.
Shopping and Outdoor Spaces
McKinney isn’t just about food – it’s also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and shoppers. Erwin Park offers 212 acres of rugged Texas prairie, featuring 11 miles of mountain bike trails maintained by the Dallas Off-Road Bicycle Association (DORBA). Visitors can also enjoy a mountain bike skills course, camping facilities, and prairie restoration areas teeming with wildflowers and grasses. It’s a favorite for nature lovers with a 4.4/5 rating.
Bonnie Wenk Park spans 216 acres and includes scenic trails, a tranquil pond, an all-abilities playground, and a large dog park. Reviewers give it a solid 4.6/5, praising its peaceful atmosphere and accessibility. For water-based fun, Town Lake Park features a 22-acre lake ideal for paddling and fishing, along with sand volleyball courts, an 18-hole disc golf course, and hiking trails.
Sports fans and families will love Gabe Nesbitt Community Park, a 160-acre space packed with amenities like a sports complex, skatepark, tennis and pickleball courts, and an indoor/outdoor aquatic center. It’s a hit with visitors, earning a perfect 5.0/5 rating for its variety of activities.
For those seeking a mix of nature and education, the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary offers 289 acres of diverse habitats and six miles of hiking trails. Visitors can spot native wildlife and birds while exploring interactive museum exhibits. Meanwhile, Trinity Falls, a sprawling 1,700-acre master-planned community, adds 20 miles of trails and 450 acres of open space for outdoor adventures.
Transportation and Access
The Waylon’s location makes regional travel easy, thanks to its proximity to Highway 75 and SH-121. While most errands require a car (with a Walk Score of 36 out of 100), residents benefit from convenient parking options, including carports, private garages in select units, and electric vehicle charging stations.
Public transit options are limited, reflected in the area’s Transit Score of 0 out of 100. However, Collin County Transit, powered by DART Mobility Service, offers an on-demand shared ride program for qualifying users in McKinney and nearby towns. To book a ride, call 469-771-0667.
For air travel, Dallas Love Field is 31.7 miles away (about a 42-minute drive), while Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport is slightly closer at 32.6 miles (roughly 39 minutes by car). The nearest DART Transit stations, Parker Rd and Downtown Plano, are 10.3 miles and 11.4 miles away, respectively, making them accessible with a short drive.
Biking is somewhat feasible, with a Bike Score of 35 out of 100, but a car remains essential for most activities. Residents of The Waylon can enjoy a balance of convenience and comfort, with seamless connectivity to McKinney and the broader region.
Why Choose The Waylon
Main Benefits of The Waylon
The Waylon offers a blend of contemporary design, upscale amenities, and a location that’s perfect for today’s renters. Here’s what makes it stand out:
Brand New Construction with Premium Features: Unlike older properties in the area, The Waylon boasts modern upgrades in every unit. From quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances to wood-style plank flooring, every detail is thoughtfully designed. Select units even include private garages, dual vanity sinks, and built-in desks.
Exceptional Pet-Friendly Amenities: Pet owners will love the expansive dog park, dog spa, and dedicated pet washing station. Considering that 69% of renters prioritize pet-friendly features in their homes, The Waylon caters directly to this demand.
State-of-the-Art Fitness Center: The fitness center goes beyond the basics with two dedicated aerobic and yoga studios featuring Echelon mirrors. Residents can enjoy professional-grade equipment and tailored workout spaces right at home.
Designed for Modern Work-Life Balance: With remote work becoming the norm, The Waylon offers a co-working lounge complete with private work pods. Additional conveniences like 24-hour package lockers with refrigeration and on-site electric vehicle charging stations make everyday life easier.
Prime Location Advantages: Nestled near historic downtown and providing easy access to major highways, The Waylon ensures convenient commutes throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
How The Waylon Compares
When stacked against typical McKinney apartments, The Waylon’s features shine. Here’s a side-by-side comparison:
| Feature | The Waylon | Typical McKinney Apartments |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | Brand new | Often 5–15+ years old |
| Pet Washing Station | ✓ Included | Available in less than 9% of buildings |
| Fitness Center | State-of-the-art with Echelon mirrors & dedicated studios | Basic gym equipment |
| Work Spaces | Co-working lounge with private pods | Limited or no dedicated work areas |
| Package Service | 24-hour lockers with refrigeration | Standard package room |
| EV Charging | On-site charging stations | Rarely available |
| Garage Access | Direct access in select units | Typically separate parking structures |
| Countertops | Polished quartz | Often laminate or basic stone |
| Appliances | Stainless steel with slide-in ranges | Mixed quality, basic models |
| Social Amenities | Full kitchen lounge with kegerator | Basic community room |
The numbers back it up: Properties offering 8–13 social and service amenities can charge 5.1% more in rent compared to those with basic features. Plus, well-designed shared spaces often lead to 20% lower turnover rates. Current residents seem to agree, giving The Waylon a 4.5-star rating on its official website and 4.0 out of 5 on Apartments.com.
With its modern design, extensive amenities, and prime location in McKinney, The Waylon delivers a lifestyle tailored to the needs of today’s renters, offering exceptional value in one of Texas’s most sought-after areas.
Conclusion
The Waylon blends modern luxury with practical amenities, creating a living experience tailored to meet the needs of today’s renters in McKinney.
Some standout features at The Waylon include a state-of-the-art fitness center with Echelon mirrors and pet-friendly amenities like a dog spa and washing station. For those working remotely, the co-working spaces with private pods and 24-hour refrigerated package lockers make daily life more convenient and flexible.
The location offers the best of both worlds: the peace of suburban living with easy access to urban attractions. Residents can explore historic downtown McKinney’s vibrant dining and entertainment options while staying well-connected to the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex via major highways.
What truly sets The Waylon apart is its attention to detail in every unit. From quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances to wood-style plank flooring and select units with private garages, every space is designed with modern renters in mind. Combined with its ideal location, The Waylon offers more than just apartments – it provides homes that exude quality and style.
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Reach out to Taco Street Locating today to schedule a tour of The Waylon and find your next home.
FAQs
What makes The Waylon apartments in McKinney, Texas, stand out for modern renters?
The Waylon apartments combine modern design with practical living, perfectly suited for today’s renters. Each unit is thoughtfully equipped with features like in-home washers and dryers, stainless steel appliances, and wood-style plank flooring. With layouts ranging from studios to three-bedroom townhomes, these spaces are designed with open floor plans and upscale finishes to offer both comfort and convenience.
Beyond the apartments themselves, the community offers a range of impressive amenities. Residents can enjoy a resort-style pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center featuring Echelon mirrors, and social spaces like a lounge complete with a kitchen and billiards table. The beautifully landscaped courtyard provides a serene spot to relax or connect with neighbors. With its sleek design and top-tier features, The Waylon delivers a sophisticated, stress-free living experience in McKinney.
What makes The Waylon’s location convenient and appealing for residents?
The Waylon boasts a location that perfectly blends convenience with an active lifestyle. Nestled near major highways like Highway 75, getting around McKinney or traveling to neighboring areas is quick and hassle-free. Residents are just a stone’s throw from McKinney’s bustling downtown, filled with a mix of dining hotspots, unique boutique stores, and cozy coffee shops. For those who love the outdoors, the area is dotted with parks and green spaces, offering peaceful retreats to relax and recharge. With everything so close, The Waylon offers an ideal setting for anyone who values both ease of access and a dynamic community vibe.
What pet-friendly features make The Waylon a great choice for renters with pets?
The Waylon is a paradise for pet owners, complete with a dog park where your four-legged companions can stretch their legs, run, and play to their heart’s content. This community embraces both dogs and cats, even welcoming puppies and kittens under a year old, provided they meet the necessary health and vaccination standards. It’s a space designed for you and your pets to enjoy life side by side!