Harlingen, TX vs Katy, TX

The cost of living difference between Harlingen, TX and Katy, TX is dramatic. Harlingen is 41.2% cheaper than Katy, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Harlingen has a cost index of 67 while Katy sits at 115, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Harlingen is $893/month compared to $1,609/month in Katy — a 45% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Harlingen is more affordable at $125,700 median vs $376,800.

Median household income in Harlingen is $55,891 compared to $107,332 in Katy (-47.9%). While Katy is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Harlingen spend roughly 19.2% of their income on rent, more than the 18% in Katy.

Climate-wise, Harlingen is notably warmer with an average of 75°F compared to 71.1°F in Katy. Katy receives more rainfall at 49.7" per year compared to 24" in Harlingen.