Is Mcallen expensive to live in?

Mcallen is considered affordable, with a cost index of 91 compared to the US average of 100. Living here costs about 9% less than the national average. The median monthly rent is $1,272, and the median household income is $60,165.

What salary do you need to live comfortably in Mcallen?

Using the standard 30% rent-to-income rule, you need at least $50,880/year to afford median rent in Mcallen. The median household income is $60,165, giving a rent-to-income ratio of 25%. Financial experts recommend keeping rent below 30% of gross income.

What is the average rent in Mcallen?

The median rent in Mcallen is $1,272 per month. Housing costs score 77 against the national average of 100, meaning housing is 23% cheaper than the US average.

How does Mcallen compare to the national average cost of living?

Mcallen's overall cost index is 91 vs the national average of 100. Breaking it down: housing (77), food & groceries (89), transportation (86), utilities (83), and healthcare (93). Mcallen is below average in most categories, making it a strong value destination.

Is Mcallen, Texas a good place to live?

Mcallen has a population of 146,593 and a median household income of $60,165. With a cost index of 91, it offers strong affordability relative to the national average. The rent-to-income ratio is 25%, which is within healthy financial guidelines.

What are the cheapest cities near Mcallen?

To find the most affordable cities near Mcallen in Texas, use the Livably city comparison tool or browse the Texas state page. You can compare rent, cost index, income, and affordability side by side across all tracked cities.

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Mcallen

Monthly city intelligence across housing costs, tax load, and affordability signals to help you plan your next move with clearer numbers.

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Cost index: 91

Median rent: $1,272

Median income: $60,165

Cost Index

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About Mcallen

Living in Mcallen, Texas

Mcallen, Texas is a growing city with a population of approximately 146,593. The overall cost of living index sits at 91, which is below the national average of 100. This means everyday expenses — housing, groceries, transportation, and healthcare — are roughly 9% less expensive compared to the typical U.S. city.

Housing is the largest cost driver in Mcallen. Median rent is $1,272 per month, while the median home price is $225,568. At a median household income of $60,165, rent consumes roughly 25% of gross income, which remains manageable relative to local incomes. The housing sub-index of 77 reflects well below-average housing expenses.

Beyond housing, healthcare is the most elevated non-shelter expense in Mcallen with a sub-index of 93, while utilities is comparatively more affordable at 83. State-level taxes also shape the true cost of living: Texas applies a 0.00% income tax rate, and property tax averages 1.60% of assessed home value. The combined sales tax rate is 8.19%. Local income tax may apply in some municipalities.

Over the past twelve months, the cost of living in Mcallen has remained relatively stable. Among the 40 tracked cities in Texas, Mcallen ranks #5 from most to least affordable. Whether you're evaluating a job offer, planning a relocation, or comparing salary purchasing power, these numbers give a grounded, data-backed view of what life in Mcallen actually costs.

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