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

McAllen

Texas
66
VS

Tyler

Texas
79

McAllen is 16% cheaper than Tyler.

$1,017/mo ↓ 15%
Median Rent
$1,199/mo ↑ 18%
$60,165/yr ↓ 8%
Median Income
$65,527/yr ↑ 9%
$173,800 ↓ 20%
Home Value
$216,400 ↑ 25%
$996/mo ↓ 15%
Owner Costs
$1,170/mo ↑ 17%
143,789
Population
107,718

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
22.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing McAllen, TX and Tyler, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 66 and 79 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $182/month cheaper in McAllen, saving renters about $2,184/year.

Median household income is $5,362/year higher in Tyler. Home values also differ significantly — the median in McAllen is $173,800 compared to $216,400 in Tyler.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

McAllen vs Tyler — common questions

Is McAllen or Tyler cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, McAllen is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 79 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between McAllen and Tyler?
Median rent in McAllen is $1,017/month and in Tyler it's $1,199/month — a difference of $182/month.
Which city has higher income, McAllen or Tyler?
Median household income is $60,165 in McAllen and $65,527 in Tyler. Median household income is $5,362/year higher in Tyler.
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 Tyler?
It depends on your priorities. McAllen has a cost index of 66 with median rent of $1,017/mo, while Tyler has a cost index of 79 with rent of $1,199/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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