2026 Compare Cities Overview:
Harlingen, TX vs McAllen, TX

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Highlights
Are people in McAllen older or younger than people in Harlingen?
- The Median Age in McAllen is 1.2 years older than in Harlingen.

Are housing costs cheaper in McAllen or Harlingen?
- McAllen housing costs are 24.5% more expensive than Harlingen housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, McAllen or Harlingen?
- The average commute for residents of McAllen is 3.2 minutes longer than it is for residents of Harlingen.

Things to do in Harlingen?
Harlingen, Texas is an incredible city located in the Rio Grande Valley. This charming city offers plenty for visitors to explore such as the historic Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge or the quaint Harlingen Arroyo Colorado. Residents here also take advantage of all the outdoor activities available at Lago Vista Golf Course, Town Park and Recreation Center, and Resaca de la Palma State Park. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and numerous recreational opportunities, it's no wonder why so many people choose to make Harlingen their home.

Things to do in McAllen?
McAllen, Texas is a vibrant city located in Hidalgo County. This welcoming community offers plenty for visitors to explore such as the stunning Quinta Mazatlán or one of many popular restaurants. Residents here also take advantage of all the outdoor activities available at Archer Park and Firemen's Park. With its excellent school system, thriving businesses, and numerous recreational opportunities it's no wonder why so many people choose to make McAllen their home.

 Harlingen, TXMcAllen, TXUnited States
 Population  Unlock141,941329,725,481
 Median Income$46,507  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock3338.4
 Avg. Home Price$164,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time16.79  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Harlingen    6 Reviews

Harlingen is a city that offers retirees the most bang for the buck! It is near enough to McAllen and Brownsville and all they offer. You get a wide variety of shopping  More

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This area of the state of Texas is bland to most people from the East and northeast. However the community has everything you need at a price you can afford. Dining out  More

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Over 9 years ago

Here is what you will not get in Harlingen: easy access to great museums and Michelin starred restaurants. However, there are things that counter it. 1) It is  More

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Reviews for Mcallen    17 Reviews

Over 6 years ago

My wife and I are snowbirds from Iowa. We tried the McAllen area for a couple of seasons. We didn't like it, and have since opted for Mesa, AZ. Mesa ranked No. 8 in the  More

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On transfer here for two years now. Pros: Daytime traffic is pretty decent, when using Interstate 2. Home prices are cheaper, when compared to the national average.  More

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Over 12 years ago

with 3  More

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