2026 Compare Cities Overview:
McAllen, TX vs San Marcos, TX

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Highlights
Are people in San Marcos older or younger than people in McAllen?
- The Median Age in San Marcos is 8.1 years younger than in McAllen.

Are housing costs cheaper in San Marcos or McAllen?
- San Marcos housing costs are 64.2% more expensive than McAllen housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, San Marcos or McAllen?
- The average commute for residents of San Marcos is 2.1 minutes longer than it is for residents of McAllen.

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.

Things to do in San Marcos?
San Marcos, Texas is a vibrant city located in the heart of Hays County. This welcoming community offers plenty for visitors to explore such as the Wonder World Cave or one of many popular restaurants. Residents here also take advantage of all the outdoor activities available at Rio Vista Park, Aquarena Springs and Purgatory Creek Natural Area. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and numerous recreational opportunities it's no wonder why so many people choose to make San Marcos their home.

 McAllen, TXSan Marcos, TXUnited States
 Population  Unlock64,812329,725,481
 Median Income$52,422  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock24.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$204,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time19.95  Unlock26.38
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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Reviews for San Marcos    6 Reviews

An area with so much potential and existing natural beauty.Sadly bad urban planning is clearly obvious.Looks like fun for tens of thousands of students.However for the  More

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Over 17 years ago

San Marcos has the most beautiful people and places that I have ever seen throughout my travels. I love this city so much that I decided to settle down here and start a  More

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Over 18 years ago

I spent several summers and a couple winters in San Marcos during my formidable years and really have to tell those interested about what a nice town it is. The best  More

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