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

McAllen

Texas
66
VS

Midland

Texas
99

McAllen is 33% cheaper than Midland.

$1,017/mo ↓ 28%
Median Rent
$1,407/mo ↑ 38%
$60,165/yr ↓ 34%
Median Income
$91,169/yr ↑ 52%
$173,800 ↓ 42%
Home Value
$298,600 ↑ 72%
$996/mo ↓ 32%
Owner Costs
$1,468/mo ↑ 47%
143,789
Population
133,998

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

20.3%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing McAllen, TX and Midland, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 66 and 99 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $390/month cheaper in McAllen, saving renters about $4,680/year.

Median household income is $31,004/year higher in Midland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in McAllen is $173,800 compared to $298,600 in Midland.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

McAllen vs Midland — common questions

Is McAllen or Midland cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, McAllen is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 99 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between McAllen and Midland?
Median rent in McAllen is $1,017/month and in Midland it's $1,407/month — a difference of $390/month.
Which city has higher income, McAllen or Midland?
Median household income is $60,165 in McAllen and $91,169 in Midland. Median household income is $31,004/year higher in Midland.
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 McAllen or Midland?
It depends on your priorities. McAllen has a cost index of 66 with median rent of $1,017/mo, while Midland has a cost index of 99 with rent of $1,407/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View McAllen details → View Midland details →

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