McAllen, TX
Population 143,789 · Texas
About McAllen, TX
McAllen is a major city located in Texas with a population of 143,789 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $60,165 per year, which is 20% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34 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 McAllen features a median home value of $173,800, which is 29% below the national median of $244,900. This positions McAllen in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,017, 13% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 54,461 total housing units, 59% are owner-occupied (28,459 units) and 41% are renter-occupied (19,809 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in McAllen shows an unemployment rate of 5.5%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 20.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in McAllen have an average one-way commute time of 21.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
32.0% of McAllen residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 81.1% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Black or African American, and 4.8% Asian residents, with 25.7% of the population being foreign-born.
How McAllen Ranks in Texas
Cost of Living in McAllen, TX
Compared to national averages, McAllen has a median household income of $60,165 (20% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $173,800, which is 29% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,017 is 13% below the US average of $1,163. Within Texas, McAllen's income is 17% below the state average of $72,726, and home values are 18% below the state median of $211,769.
Why Live in McAllen, TX?
McAllen offers affordable housing with a median home value of $173,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,017/month, and short commute times averaging just 21.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($60,165) that falls below the national average. However, as a major city, McAllen provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
McAllen has a population of 143,789 with a median age of 34 years. Compare McAllen with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Texas.
Similar Cities Near McAllen
Cities in Texas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Waco | 141,925 | $51,468 | $199,600 | Compare |
| Denton | 146,987 | $73,719 | $325,700 | Compare |
| Pasadena | 149,345 | $64,270 | $193,600 | Compare |
| Midland | 133,998 | $91,169 | $298,600 | Compare |
| Carrollton | 132,741 | $99,115 | $353,600 | Compare |
| Killeen | 156,144 | $58,339 | $196,000 | Compare |
| Lewisville | 128,313 | $85,002 | $350,200 | Compare |
| Abilene | 127,130 | $62,720 | $178,900 | 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 McAllen With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about McAllen
What is the population of McAllen, TX?
The population of McAllen, TX is 143,789 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in Texas.
What is the median household income in McAllen?
The median household income in McAllen, TX is $60,165 per year, which is 20% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in McAllen?
The median home value in McAllen, TX is $173,800, which is 29% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in McAllen?
The median monthly rent in McAllen, TX is $1,017, which is 13% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in McAllen?
The unemployment rate in McAllen, TX is 5.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is McAllen, TX a good place to live?
McAllen offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 143,789 and a median age of 34, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is McAllen, TX?
32.0% of residents in McAllen 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 McAllen?
Key cost-of-living indicators for McAllen, TX: median home value is $173,800 (29% below national), median rent is $1,017/month, and median household income is $60,165. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in McAllen?
The poverty rate in McAllen, TX is 20.2%, 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 McAllen, TX?
McAllen's population is 81.1% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Black or African American, 4.8% Asian, and 0.5% two or more races. 25.7% of residents are foreign-born.