Hey folks, With a population of 144K, McAllen is a mid-size city. Household incomes average around $60,165 in McAllen. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Looking forward to hearing from you all. The city has invested a lot in new development. Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The suburbs are where most families end up.
4 upvotes
14 Replies
Xavier Flores
Moved here from Denver about 13 years ago. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Still getting used to cost of living but Feel free to reach out with questions..
39 upvotes
Leah Stewart
The food scene here is challenging. Tons of great Thai places. the quality of life is solid.
38 upvotes
Bradley F.
I work in engineering here and the quality of life is solid. The job market for my field is improving. No regrets on my end..
35 upvotes
Emmett Gutierrez
I'm a teacher and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. The community is solid and there's always something going on.
33 upvotes
Evelyn Cook
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want community vibe, then yeah this place is great. But if school system matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
32 upvotes
Michael G.
Bought a house here in 2015 and I have mixed feelings honestly. Property values have gone about the same since then.
27 upvotes
Adeline Reyes
good to know, thanks
15 upvotes
Landon Lewis
Public transit is surprisingly good here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I have mixed feelings honestly.
14 upvotes
Elijah Allen
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Fairview for 3 years. Moved from San Diego for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have biking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Fairview schools are better than expected. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Not very walkable outside downtown. Dating scene is rough. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 7/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
14 upvotes
Isla White
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want outdoor recreation, then yeah this place is great. But if nightlife matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
13 upvotes
Gabriella Johnson
Hot take but it's been a really good experience overall. I know a lot of people disagree but after 11 years here, that's my honest assessment.
13 upvotes
Colton Clark
Weather-wise, the summers are challenging and winters are pricey. You get used to it after the first year.
11 upvotes
axel_papa
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 35, moved here 11 years ago from Baltimore. I've lived in Fairview and Eastside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Can feel isolated
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The cultural scene situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Fairview: Great for families. tough vibes, walkable.
- Eastside: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Baltimore, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
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