Moving from Laredo to McAllen (2026)

McAllen has a COL index of 78 vs 79 for Laredo (100 = US average). You'd pay about 1% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$1/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
7978
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$950$950
per month
State tax
NoneNone
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,741
per month

Salary needed in McAllen to match your Laredo lifestyle

Based on the 1% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in LaredoEquivalent in McAllen
$40K$39,494
$50K$49,367
$60K$59,241
$75K$74,051
$80K$78,987
$100K$98,734
$120K$118,481
$150K$148,101

Monthly budget at $75K — Laredo vs McAllen

ExpenseLaredoMcAllen
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,741
1BR rent$950$950
Groceries$338$338
Transport$35$35
Utilities$168$165
Internet$58$60
Left after essentials$3,192$3,193

Frequently asked questions

Is McAllen cheaper than Laredo?

Yes. McAllen has a cost of living index of 78 vs 79 for Laredo (100 = US average). That's about 1% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Laredo to McAllen?

On a $75K salary, moving from Laredo to McAllen could save roughly $1/month on core expenses. That's ~$12/year.

What salary do I need in McAllen to match my Laredo lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Laredo, you'd need roughly $74,051/year in McAllen. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

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