Moving from St. George to McAllen (2026)

McAllen has a COL index of 78 vs 96 for St. George (100 = US average). You'd pay about 19% less for the same lifestyle.

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

Key differences

COL index
9678
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,300$950
per month
State tax
4.7%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,447$4,741
per month

Salary needed in McAllen to match your St. George lifestyle

Based on the 19% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in St. GeorgeEquivalent in McAllen
$40K$32,500
$50K$40,625
$60K$48,750
$75K$60,938
$80K$65,000
$100K$81,250
$120K$97,500
$150K$121,875

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

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

Frequently asked questions

Is McAllen cheaper than St. George?

Yes. McAllen has a cost of living index of 78 vs 96 for St. George (100 = US average). That's about 19% cheaper.

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

On a $75K salary, moving from St. George to McAllen could save roughly $375/month on core expenses. That's ~$4,500/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in St. George, you'd need roughly $60,938/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