Cost of Living: Denton, TX vs McAllen, TX (2026)

Denton

Texas
100
VS

McAllen

Texas
66

Denton is 52% more expensive than McAllen.

$1,344/mo ↑ 32%
Median Rent
$1,017/mo ↓ 24%
$73,719/yr ↑ 23%
Median Income
$60,165/yr ↓ 18%
$325,700 ↑ 87%
Home Value
$173,800 ↓ 47%
$1,461/mo ↑ 47%
Owner Costs
$996/mo ↓ 32%
146,987
Population
143,789

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
0%
6.25%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
1.6%
Property Tax
1.6%

Affordability

21.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Denton, TX and McAllen, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 66 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $327/month cheaper in McAllen, saving renters about $3,924/year.

Median household income is $13,554/year higher in Denton. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Denton is $325,700 compared to $173,800 in McAllen.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Texas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Denton vs McAllen — common questions

Is Denton or McAllen cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, McAllen is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 100 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Denton and McAllen?
Median rent in Denton is $1,344/month and in McAllen it's $1,017/month — a difference of $327/month.
Which city has higher income, Denton or McAllen?
Median household income is $73,719 in Denton and $60,165 in McAllen. Median household income is $13,554/year higher in Denton.
How do taxes compare between Texas and Texas?
Both cities are in Texas and share the same state tax rates: 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.
Should I move to Denton or McAllen?
It depends on your priorities. Denton has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,344/mo, while McAllen has a cost index of 66 with rent of $1,017/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Denton details → View McAllen details →

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