Cost of Living in Harlingen, TX

With a cost of living index of 67, Harlingen, TX is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 33% cheaper than the national average and 20% below the Texas state average of 88. With a population of 71,669, Harlingen is a mid-sized community that balances access to services with a more manageable cost of living compared to larger metros.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Harlingen's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $893 (32% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $125,700 (59% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.2x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Harlingen is $55,891, which is 26% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 19% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Harlingen. The area sees an average annual temperature of 75°F, with summers averaging 86°F and winters around 63°F. Annual rainfall totals 24 inches spread over roughly 84 days. Hot summers are common, which can affect utility costs and lifestyle.

Everyday prices in the Brownsville-Harlingen, TX (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area are generally below the national average. Out of 6 common items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced lower than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.