City of McAllen ranks #1 in terms of cost of living in U.S.

McAllen’s low housing costs are a key factor in its affordable cost of living. While the national home price-to-income ratio is 5.5, McAllen’s is just 4.8, meaning home prices are lower relative to incomes. The city benefits from its proximity to the Mexico border, a trade-driven economy, no state income tax, and lower property taxes. With plenty of land for development, McAllen offers a more affordable living environment. Residents spend $86.92 for every $100 of necessities, and the median home price is $275,000.