Mcallen, TX — Cost of Living & Relocation Guide
Population: 144,579
📍 Some data sourced from nearby metro area
About Mcallen, TX
Welcome to our comprehensive guide to Mcallen, TX. With a population of 144,579, Mcallen features a cost of living index of 71.1 (28.9% below the national average of 100). The local economy supports a median household income of $56,326 (25% below the national average), while the real estate market offers homes at a median price of $269,000.
Explore our detailed crime and safety data (6% below the national average), school ratings, tax information, and climate data below. Compare Mcallen with Houston or other cities.
📅 Data last updated: February 2026 | Sources: U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, BLS
Mcallen, TX Quick Facts & Key Statistics
💡City Insights
Mcallen scores 8/10 for affordability, 6/10 for safety, and 5/10 for family-friendliness — an good overall profile. Its strongest aspect is affordability, making it particularly suitable for budget-conscious buyers. This balanced profile makes Mcallen worth considering for various lifestyle priorities.
Living in Mcallen, TX
McAllen, Texas, located in the southern part of the state near the border with Mexico, is known for its vibrant culture and booming economy. As part of the Rio Grande Valley, McAllen boasts a diverse population and is a hub for international trade and commerce. The city has a warm climate, with hot summers and mild winters, making it ideal for outdoor activities year-round. McAllen has a rich cultural tapestry, influenced by its proximity to Mexico. Visitors can explore various cultural festivals, art galleries, and museums, showcasing the area’s heritage. The city is also renowned for its delicious Tex-Mex cuisine, with numerous restaurants offering local specialties. The area is home to several parks and recreational facilities, including the McAllen Nature Center and the Quinta Mazatlán, an historical estate and nature preserve. Additionally, McAllen is a retail destination with several shopping centers, attracting shoppers from across the region. Education is a priority in McAllen, with numerous public and private schools as well as higher education institutions. Overall, McAllen offers a unique blend of culture, commerce, and outdoor living, making it an attractive place for residents and visitors alike.
How Mcallen Compares
Black line indicates US average
💵 Affordability Calculator
Based on the 28/36 rule: housing costs should not exceed 28% of your gross income. Compared against local median income of $56,326.
Income Needed to Buy
Income Needed to Rent
Pros & Cons of Moving to Mcallen, TX
Pros
- • Good schools available
- • Friendly local residents
- • Strong job market growth
- • Rich cultural diversity
- • Warm weather year-round
- • Family-friendly community
- • Low cost of living
- • Affordable housing options
- • Vibrant local festivals
- • Various outdoor activities
Cons
- • Less public transportation
- • Traffic congestion issues
- • Higher crime rates reported
- • Limited nightlife options
- • Limited shopping options
- • Political polarization exists
- • Extreme summer heat
- • School quality varies greatly
- • Occasional flooding concerns
- • Poverty affecting some areas
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Mcallen, TX? ▼
The cost of living in Mcallen, TX is 29% lower than the national average, with a cost of living index of 71 (where 100 represents the U.S. average). Housing typically accounts for the largest portion of living expenses. See full cost of living breakdown →
How much does it cost to buy or rent a home in Mcallen, TX? ▼
In Mcallen, TX, The median home price is $269,000. requiring approximately $100,500 annual income to afford. Average rent is $1,547/month (requiring ~$61,874/year income). The local median household income is $56,326, making homeownership attainable for typical residents. Explore Mcallen real estate data →
Is Mcallen, TX a safe place to live? ▼
Mcallen, TX is average in terms of safety, with crime rates near the national average. The crime rate is 21.6 per 1,000 residents. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood. View detailed Mcallen crime statistics →
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Mcallen, TX? ▼
To live comfortably in Mcallen, TX and afford a median-priced home of $269,000, you would typically need a household income of $67,250 to $84,062 per year. The local median household income is $56,326. Renting requires approximately $61,874/year (at $1,547/month). See full affordability analysis →
What are the job opportunities like in Mcallen, TX? ▼
Mcallen, TX has an unemployment rate of 5.0%, which is above the national average of 3.7%. The median household income is $56,326, suggesting moderate local economic conditions. View Mcallen employment & demographics →
Is Mcallen, TX growing? ▼
Mcallen, TX has a population of 144,579. As a mid-to-large city, population trends depend on local housing development, job growth, and quality of life factors. The affordable housing market and competitive job market shape migration patterns. See Mcallen population demographics →
What are the best neighborhoods in Mcallen, TX? ▼
The best neighborhoods in Mcallen, TX depend on your priorities. For families, look for areas near top-rated schools with lower crime rates. For affordability, neighborhoods throughout the city offer good value since the median home price of $269,000 is below the national average. Explore Mcallen on our interactive map →
What is the commute like in Mcallen, TX? ▼
Commute times in Mcallen, TX vary by neighborhood and workplace location. As a mid-size community, most residents rely on personal vehicles, though public transit options may be available. The affordable cost of living may allow for housing closer to employment centers. Explore commute times on our map →
How are the taxes in Mcallen, TX? ▼
Tax rates in Mcallen, TX include state and local components. The cost of living index of 71 suggests a lower overall tax and expense burden cost environment compared to the national average. View detailed Mcallen tax information →
How does Mcallen, TX compare to Houston? ▼
Mcallen, TX offers a more affordable alternative to nearby communities. With a cost of living index of 71, median home prices of $269,000, and a crime rate of 21.61 per 1,000 residents, you can compare these metrics side-by-side. Compare Mcallen vs Houston →
What is the weather like in Mcallen, TX? ▼
Weather in Mcallen, TX varies by season. Climate data varies by season. View detailed Mcallen climate & environment data →
Explore Mcallen in Detail
📅 Last Updated: February 2026
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (ACS), FBI Uniform Crime Reports, Bureau of Labor Statistics