Harlingen, TX

Very Low · 54

Texas · Population 71,669 · Updated March 2026

$893
Median Rent / Month
$55,891
Median Income
$125,700
Median Home Value
$837
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Harlingen

19.2%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in Texas

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

0%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
6.25%
Sales Tax
1.6%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$10,716
Annual Rent
$0
State Income Tax
$2,011
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Harlingen is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 54 (where 100 equals the national median), Harlingen residents can expect to pay median rent of $893/month while earning a median household income of $55,891/year.

The median home value in Harlingen, TX is $125,700, with typical monthly owner costs around $837 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 19.2% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

Texas has no state income tax, which can represent significant savings compared to high-tax states. Combined with a 6.25% sales tax rate and 1.6% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment helps keep costs manageable in Harlingen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Harlingen

What is the cost of living in Harlingen, TX?
The cost of living index in Harlingen, TX is 54 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $893, median household income is $55,891/year, and the median home value is $125,700.
Is Harlingen, TX affordable?
Yes, Harlingen is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 54. The rent-to-income ratio is 19.2%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Harlingen, TX?
The median gross rent in Harlingen, TX is $893 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $10,716.
What is the median household income in Harlingen?
The median household income in Harlingen, TX is $55,891 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Texas?
Texas has a top income tax rate of 0%, a sales tax of 6.25%, and an effective property tax rate of 1.6%. Notably, there is no state income tax.