Moving from McAllen to Lubbock (2026)

Lubbock has a COL index of 81 vs 78 for McAllen (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 4% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$50 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
78 โ†’ 81
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$950 โ†’ $1,000
per month
State tax
None โ†’ None
income tax
COL difference
78 โ†’ 81
4% more expensive

Salary needed in Lubbock to match your McAllen lifestyle

Based on the 4% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in McAllenEquivalent in Lubbock
$40K$41,538
$50K$51,923
$60K$62,308
$75K$77,885
$80K$83,077
$100K$103,846
$120K$124,615
$150K$155,769

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Pay ~$66/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” McAllen vs Lubbock

ExpenseMcAllenLubbock
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,741
1BR rent$950$1,000
Groceries$338$346
Transport$35$38
Utilities$165$172
Internet$60$58
Left after essentials$3,193$3,127

Frequently asked questions

Is Lubbock cheaper than McAllen?

No. Lubbock has a cost of living index of 81 vs 78 for McAllen (100 = US average). That's about 4% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from McAllen to Lubbock?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Lubbock run about $50/month more than McAllen. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in McAllen, you'd need roughly $77,885/year in Lubbock. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow ยท BLS ยท Numbeo ยท For general guidance only