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

McAllen

Texas
66
VS

Pearland

Texas
121

McAllen is 45% cheaper than Pearland.

$1,017/mo ↓ 42%
Median Rent
$1,759/mo ↑ 73%
$60,165/yr ↓ 47%
Median Income
$112,470/yr ↑ 87%
$173,800 ↓ 47%
Home Value
$330,900 ↑ 90%
$996/mo ↓ 49%
Owner Costs
$1,962/mo ↑ 97%
143,789
Population
125,983

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
18.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing McAllen, TX and Pearland, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 66 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $742/month cheaper in McAllen, saving renters about $8,904/year.

Median household income is $52,305/year higher in Pearland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in McAllen is $173,800 compared to $330,900 in Pearland.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

McAllen vs Pearland — common questions

Is McAllen or Pearland cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, McAllen is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 121 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between McAllen and Pearland?
Median rent in McAllen is $1,017/month and in Pearland it's $1,759/month — a difference of $742/month.
Which city has higher income, McAllen or Pearland?
Median household income is $60,165 in McAllen and $112,470 in Pearland. Median household income is $52,305/year higher in Pearland.
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 Pearland?
It depends on your priorities. McAllen has a cost index of 66 with median rent of $1,017/mo, while Pearland has a cost index of 121 with rent of $1,759/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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