Moving from Boulder to McAllen (2026)
McAllen has a COL index of 78 vs 132 for Boulder (100 = US average). You'd pay about 41% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$1,452/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
13278
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$2,300$950
per month
State tax
4.4%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,466$4,741
per month
Salary needed in McAllen to match your Boulder lifestyle
Based on the 41% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Boulder | Equivalent in McAllen |
|---|---|
| $40K | $23,636 |
| $50K | $29,545 |
| $60K | $35,455 |
| $75K | $44,318 |
| $80K | $47,273 |
| $100K | $59,091 |
| $120K | $70,909 |
| $150K | $88,636 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Boulder vs McAllen
| Expense | Boulder | McAllen |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,466 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $2,300 | $950 |
| Groceries | $414 | $338 |
| Transport | $80 | $35 |
| Utilities | $138 | $165 |
| Internet | $68 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $1,466 | $3,193 |
Frequently asked questions
Is McAllen cheaper than Boulder?
Yes. McAllen has a cost of living index of 78 vs 132 for Boulder (100 = US average). That's about 41% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Boulder to McAllen?
On a $75K salary, moving from Boulder to McAllen could save roughly $1,452/month on core expenses. That's ~$17,424/year.
What salary do I need in McAllen to match my Boulder lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Boulder, you'd need roughly $44,318/year in McAllen. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from McAllen to BoulderBoulder vs McAllen — full comparisonBoulder cost of livingMcAllen cost of living
Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only