If you’re considering living in McAllen, there are a lot of factors to consider. Located in the Rio Grande Valley, McAllen is full of charm and natural beauty. That said, like any city, it has its own set of cons to go along with the pros.
Below, I’ll walk you through 13 specific pros and cons of moving to McAllen. Give this short guide a quick read before you decide if living in Texas and calling McAllen home is right for you.
McAllen at a glance
Walk Score: 41 | Bike Score: 46
Median Sale Price: $245,000 | Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $844
Houses for rent in McAllen | Apartments for rent in McAllen | Homes for sale in McAllen
1. Pro: Affordable cost of living
Living in McAllen comes with a lower cost of living compared to larger Texas cities. Housing is especially affordable, with home prices and rents well below the national median sale price. Groceries, utilities, and healthcare costs are also lower, making day-to-day expenses manageable.
2. Con: Hot, humid climate
The weather in McAllen can be challenging, especially if you’re not used to extreme heat. Summers regularly reach over 100°F and stay there. The high humidity can make it feel even hotter. Winters are mild, but the intense summer heat lasts for months, placing McAllen among the hottest cities in the U.S.
3. Pro: Access to quality healthcare
McAllen has a strong healthcare system with several respected hospitals and medical centers in the area. The city is known for offering a wide range of medical services, which is a major benefit for retirees and families looking for quality healthcare options nearby.
4. Con: Limited public transportation
McAllen’s public transportation system is not as developed as in larger cities. The Metro McAllen bus service is available, but its limited routes can make getting around without a car difficult. Most residents rely on personal vehicles for daily transportation.
5. Pro: Proximity to nature and wildlife
McAllen’s location near natural reserves like the Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge is a major plus. Residents enjoy legendary bird-watching, hiking, and outdoor activities just a short drive from the city.
6. Con: Minimal entertainment options
While McAllen has some entertainment, it lacks major attractions like theme parks or large concert venues. For those who enjoy big-city entertainment, you’ll need to visit friends living in San Antonio or Houston for more options.
7. Pro: Family-friendly atmosphere
McAllen is known for being a family-friendly city, with solid schools and plenty of parks. Families appreciate the low cost of living and friendly community. The city also hosts family-oriented events and activities throughout the year.
8. Con: Traffic congestion during rush hour
Despite being a smaller city, McAllen experiences traffic congestion during peak hours. The city’s growth has led to more cars on the road, particularly along the major highways. Rush-hour commutes can be frustrating, especially during the hot summer months.
9. Pro: Convenient border location
McAllen is just a short drive from the U.S.-Mexico border, making it easy to visit Mexico for a weekend trip. This proximity offers unique experiences and easy access to affordable shopping and dining options across the border.
10. Con: Lackluster education system
While McAllen has some strong schools, the overall education system has room for improvement. Test scores in the area are often below the national average, which may be a concern for parents considering moving to the city with school-age children. The city is home to South Texas College but this alone can’t land it a spot among the top Texas college towns.
11. Pro: Cultural diversity and local events
McAllen is known for its diverse population, with a mix of influences from Mexico and the local community. The city hosts a handful of local festivals, including the annual Fiesta De Palmas and McAllen Holiday Parade, which bring people together for food, music, and fun.
12. Con: High property taxes
Property taxes in McAllen can be higher than expected. Although home prices are affordable by Texas standards, the property tax rates in the area can offset some of the savings. Homeowners should be prepared for this additional cost when budgeting.
13. Pro: Growing economy and infrastructure
McAllen’s economy has been steadily growing, and the city continues to invest in improving infrastructure. New businesses and residential developments are popping up, which boosts the local economy and provides more opportunities for locals to live and work in McAllen.
