Moving from Tacoma to McAllen (2026)
McAllen has a COL index of 78 vs 114 for Tacoma (100 = US average). You'd pay about 32% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$1,022/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
11478
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,900$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 Tacoma lifestyle
Based on the 32% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Tacoma | Equivalent in McAllen |
|---|---|
| $40K | $27,368 |
| $50K | $34,211 |
| $60K | $41,053 |
| $75K | $51,316 |
| $80K | $54,737 |
| $100K | $68,421 |
| $120K | $82,105 |
| $150K | $102,632 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Tacoma vs McAllen
| Expense | Tacoma | McAllen |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,741 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $1,900 | $950 |
| Groceries | $399 | $338 |
| Transport | $90 | $35 |
| Utilities | $118 | $165 |
| Internet | $63 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,171 | $3,193 |
Frequently asked questions
Is McAllen cheaper than Tacoma?
Yes. McAllen has a cost of living index of 78 vs 114 for Tacoma (100 = US average). That's about 32% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Tacoma to McAllen?
On a $75K salary, moving from Tacoma to McAllen could save roughly $1,022/month on core expenses. That's ~$12,264/year.
What salary do I need in McAllen to match my Tacoma lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Tacoma, you'd need roughly $51,316/year in McAllen. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from McAllen to TacomaTacoma vs McAllen — full comparisonTacoma 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