Harlingen, TX
Population 71,669 · Texas
About Harlingen, TX
Harlingen is a mid-sized city located in Texas with a population of 71,669 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $55,891 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.2 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Harlingen features a median home value of $125,700, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Harlingen one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $893, 23% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 29,487 total housing units, 57% are owner-occupied (14,807 units) and 43% are renter-occupied (10,981 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Harlingen shows an unemployment rate of 5.1%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 24.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Harlingen have an average one-way commute time of 17.8 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
21.7% of Harlingen residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 75.5% White, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, and 5.7% Asian residents, with 13.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Harlingen, TX
Compared to national averages, Harlingen has a median household income of $55,891 (26% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $125,700, which is 49% below the national median. Monthly rent at $893 is 23% below the US average of $1,163. Within Texas, Harlingen's income is 23% below the state average of $72,726, and home values are 41% below the state median of $211,769.
Why Live in Harlingen, TX?
Harlingen offers affordable housing with a median home value of $125,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $893/month, and short commute times averaging just 17.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($55,891) that falls below the national average. However, as a mid-sized city, Harlingen provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Harlingen has a population of 71,669 with a median age of 33.2 years. Compare Harlingen with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Texas.
Similar Cities Near Harlingen
Cities in Texas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Richland Hills | 70,338 | $93,434 | $324,800 | Compare |
| San Marcos | 68,920 | $51,030 | $269,700 | Compare |
| Missouri City | 75,234 | $96,746 | $281,600 | Compare |
| Mansfield | 75,398 | $116,590 | $380,000 | Compare |
| Leander | 67,880 | $140,180 | $470,700 | Compare |
| Spring | 67,103 | $86,888 | $221,300 | Compare |
| Cedar Park | 77,474 | $123,972 | $474,800 | Compare |
| Victoria | 65,514 | $68,233 | $193,200 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Texas
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Harlingen With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Harlingen
What is the population of Harlingen, TX?
The population of Harlingen, TX is 71,669 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Texas.
What is the median household income in Harlingen?
The median household income in Harlingen, TX is $55,891 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Harlingen?
The median home value in Harlingen, TX is $125,700, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Harlingen?
The median monthly rent in Harlingen, TX is $893, which is 23% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Harlingen?
The unemployment rate in Harlingen, TX is 5.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Harlingen, TX a good place to live?
Harlingen offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 71,669 and a median age of 33.2, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Harlingen, TX?
21.7% of residents in Harlingen aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Harlingen?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Harlingen, TX: median home value is $125,700 (49% below national), median rent is $893/month, and median household income is $55,891. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Harlingen?
The poverty rate in Harlingen, TX is 24.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Harlingen, TX?
Harlingen's population is 75.5% White, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, 5.7% Asian, and 1.1% two or more races. 13.5% of residents are foreign-born.