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

Plano

Texas
132
VS

McAllen

Texas
66

Plano is 100% more expensive than McAllen.

$1,792/mo ↑ 76%
Median Rent
$1,017/mo ↓ 43%
$108,649/yr ↑ 81%
Median Income
$60,165/yr ↓ 45%
$440,600 ↑ 154%
Home Value
$173,800 ↓ 61%
$1,829/mo ↑ 84%
Owner Costs
$996/mo ↓ 46%
287,339
Population
143,789

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

19.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Plano, TX and McAllen, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 132 and 66 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $775/month cheaper in McAllen, saving renters about $9,300/year.

Median household income is $48,484/year higher in Plano. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Plano is $440,600 compared to $173,800 in McAllen.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Plano vs McAllen — common questions

Is Plano or McAllen cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, McAllen is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 132 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Plano and McAllen?
Median rent in Plano is $1,792/month and in McAllen it's $1,017/month — a difference of $775/month.
Which city has higher income, Plano or McAllen?
Median household income is $108,649 in Plano and $60,165 in McAllen. Median household income is $48,484/year higher in Plano.
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 Plano or McAllen?
It depends on your priorities. Plano has a cost index of 132 with median rent of $1,792/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.
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