Moving from McAllen to St. George (2026)

St. George has a COL index of 96 vs 78 for McAllen (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 23% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$375 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
7896
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$950$1,300
per month
State tax
None4.7%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,447
per month

Salary needed in St. George to match your McAllen lifestyle

Based on the 23% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in McAllenEquivalent in St. George
$40K$49,231
$50K$61,538
$60K$73,846
$75K$92,308
$80K$98,462
$100K$123,077
$120K$147,692
$150K$184,615

Monthly budget at $75K — McAllen vs St. George

ExpenseMcAllenSt. George
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,447
1BR rent$950$1,300
Groceries$338$372
Transport$35$40
Utilities$165$148
Internet$60$63
Left after essentials$3,193$2,524

Frequently asked questions

Is St. George cheaper than McAllen?

No. St. George has a cost of living index of 96 vs 78 for McAllen (100 = US average). That's about 23% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from McAllen to St. George?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in St. George run about $375/month more than McAllen. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in St. George to match my McAllen lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in McAllen, you'd need roughly $92,308/year in St. George. 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