Moving from Tampa to McAllen (2026)
McAllen has a COL index of 78 vs 104 for Tampa (100 = US average). You'd pay about 25% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$1,153/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
10478
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$2,000$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 Tampa lifestyle
Based on the 25% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Tampa | Equivalent in McAllen |
|---|---|
| $40K | $30,000 |
| $50K | $37,500 |
| $60K | $45,000 |
| $75K | $56,250 |
| $80K | $60,000 |
| $100K | $75,000 |
| $120K | $90,000 |
| $150K | $112,500 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Tampa vs McAllen
| Expense | Tampa | McAllen |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,741 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $2,000 | $950 |
| Groceries | $376 | $338 |
| Transport | $65 | $35 |
| Utilities | $195 | $165 |
| Internet | $65 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,040 | $3,193 |
Frequently asked questions
Is McAllen cheaper than Tampa?
Yes. McAllen has a cost of living index of 78 vs 104 for Tampa (100 = US average). That's about 25% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Tampa to McAllen?
On a $75K salary, moving from Tampa to McAllen could save roughly $1,153/month on core expenses. That's ~$13,836/year.
What salary do I need in McAllen to match my Tampa lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Tampa, you'd need roughly $56,250/year in McAllen. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from McAllen to TampaTampa vs McAllen — full comparisonTampa 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