With an inviting blend of natural beauty, economic vitality, and rich culture, McAllen, Texas, is considered one of the top towns in the state. A haven of art and culture with a strong economy, McAllen also has a rich Mexican influence and is known for its advanced healthcare facilities, making it a medical tourism hub.
Are you moving to McAllen sometime soon? If yes, the information in this moving guide to McAllen, Texas will provide extremely useful information to help you prepare for your arrival. It’s a comprehensive moving guide with information about the cost of living in McAllen, the public school system, the best neighborhoods, and more. Read on to discover actionable facts about McAllen, Texas, and be prepared to live your best life when you arrive.
What is the Cost of Living in McAllen, TX?
You’ll be pleased to know that the cost of living in McAllen, Texas, is an affordable 79/100, 21 points lower than the national average. In fact, every primary cost index in McAllen is lower than the national average, including transportation, groceries, healthcare, utilities, and miscellaneous expenses. As we’ll see next, the housing cost in McAllen is also highly affordable and one of the top reasons folks are moving to McAllen, TX.
Is the Cost of Housing in McAllen Affordable?
With a housing cost index of 57/100, your home in McAllen will cost you 43% less than comparable US cities. Even compared to the rest of Texas, McAllen is affordable! The median home cost of $204,100 is nearly $130,000 less than the US average.
How is McAllen’s Public School System?
Although it’s not the highest rated in the state, McAllen’s public school system still gets a B+. Most students will agree this is an excellent grade. For example, Gonzalez Elementary School receives an A, and so do Sharyland High School and Milam Elementary School.
Nearly 20 public schools in McAllen get an A, although there are over 110 public schools, so it’s strongly suggested you do your research and due diligence. That way, you’ll choose a neighborhood connected to some of the better schools in the area.
What are the Best Neighborhoods in McAllen, TX?
As with all American cities, McAllen has a variety of neighborhoods with different characters, advantages, and drawbacks. We recommend looking at every neighborhood, but we list the top 5 for you below.
1. Trenton Village
Trenton Village is coveted for its family-friendly atmosphere, excellent schools, and many parks and green spaces. This neighborhood also has a central location, making accessing significant roadways, shopping centers, and restaurants easy.
2. North McAllen
One of the more affluent areas of McAllen, North McAllen features upscale homes, lush landscaping, and connections to top schools. It should be noted that the area has experienced significant growth in the last few years, with many new amenities and conveniences added.
3. Las Villas at Meadowood
This gated community in McAllen is popular among retirees and those seeking peace and quiet. It features luxurious homes and well-maintained green spaces and is known as one of the more private communities in the city.
4. Palmview
Many choose Palmview as their community of choice because of its affordability compared to many of McAllen’s upscale neighborhoods. It also has a strong sense of community, with many local events and budget-friendly housing options.
5. The Quarters at Cimarron
Another upscale neighborhood with luxury homes and one of the higher living standards in the city. Well-paid professionals and retirees call the Quarters their home, and it’s adjacent to Cimarron Country Club, which makes it ideal for golf enthusiasts.
How is the Weather in McAllen?
McAllen is a subtropical city with scorching summers and mild winters. It’s not unheard of to see temperatures over 100°F on many summer days. Daytime temperatures in winter, however, are typically between the mid-60s and 70s Fahrenheit. Occasional thunderstorms are seen throughout the year, and rainfall is evenly distributed, although not frequent. McAllen enjoys abundant sunshine and is a popular tourist destination in winter, thanks to its comfort index of 9.1/10, which is nearly perfect.
Top 8 Things to Do in McAllen, TX
As a mid-sized American city with nearly 150,000 residents, you can be sure that McAllen, Texas, has many fascinating, exciting, and fun things to do. Below are 8 of those things, but there are many more.
- McAllen Nature Center. If you’re a fan of birdwatching, this urban nature preserve with excellent and serene trails will be a favorite.
- Palm View Golf Course. A highly-rated public golf course for experts and novice golfers alike.
- McAllen Food Park. With a wide variety of food trucks and stalls, this is the perfect spot to get lunch or a snack.
- Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park. Another top spot for birdwatching and exploring beautiful and scenic trails.
- McAllen Performing Arts Center. Various entertainment shows and concerts are found at the McAllen Performing Arts Center.
- McAllen Botanical Gardens. One of the better botanical gardens in Texas, with beautifully landscaped gardens and a diverse collection of plants.
- Sunset Live Outdoor Concert Series. Live music and the best local food trucks make any concert here a fun and exciting time!
- Fireman’s Park. A fantastic park for the entire family, with picnic grounds, scenic views along the Rio Grande River, and several excellent playgrounds
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