Finding Harlingen at the crossroads of Southern Texas
Harlingen, Texas is a city at a crossroads – literally. It sits at the intersection of Interstates 69 and 2, and grew up as a distribution, shipping and industrial center for the Rio Grande Valley. Originally an agricultural town, Harlingen has remained a distribution hub, but it now has a diverse economy with health care, communications and education industries as major employers. Harlingen was incorporated in 1910, with a population of 1,126. During World War II, when Harlingen Army Airfield opened, the population surged from 23,000 in 1950 to 41,000 by 1960. As of the 2022 Census, the city has around 71,000 residents, more than half identifying as Hispanic or Latino. It become a destination for those who want to live in a South Texas city that is convenient to other metropolitan areas without the fast pace of a bigger city. “Harlingen is very calm. A lot of winter Texans have vacation homes here because you’re less than an hour from South Padre Island and you can get into Mexico easily,” says Zintiha Loya, Harlingen resident and Realtor with Keller William Realty LRGV who’s been selling homes in Texas for over 20 years. “Our medical field is huge, too. We have a lot of young professionals studying and working and eventually living here.”
Harlingen is conveniently located along highway 69E.
Highway 69E and I2 are easily accessible to Harlingen residents.
1/2
Newly developed suburbs and balmy weather in Harlingen
Most of the homes in Harlingen were built after the 1970s, and the homes from this era are primarily bungalows and ranch styles, particularly in the more central neighborhoods. Three-bedroom bungalows may sell for between $235,000 and $270,000. In newer developments, most homes feature elements from the New Traditional and Craftsman styles. These range from $300,000 to $500,000 depending on the square footage and construction year. “New development is staying consistent, and homes sell easily,” Loya says. “We’re at a point where they build a couple of subdivisions, sell, and move on. And it’s more affordable housing here than nearby cities.” Harlingen’s population has been stable, with a decrease of 0.2% from April 2020 to July 2022, according to census data. Harlingen’s location in the southmost portion of Texas means heat is a critical factor in living there. Summer feels like a year-round event, with very humid, hot days and warm nights. November through February are the coolest months, averaging between 60 and 70 degrees.
Newer three-bedroom Craftman-style homes can be found in central Harlingen area.
Cottage-style homes are common throughout the downtown Harlingen area.
1/2
Schooling with Harlingen ISD and the growing healthcare industry
The Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District has a B grade from Niche and serves around 17,000 students, with four high schools within city limits. It’s ranked as the second-best school district in Cameron County out of nine districts and No. 115 out of 1,084 best places to teach in Texas. The district promotes a “STEM-inspired culture of learning” and includes the Harlingen School of Health Professionals, which trains high school-aged students for careers in a range of specialties like medical science research and dental science. The healthcare industry is a major economic driver in Harlingen, with three of the top 10 employers in Harlingen in the healthcare or medical industry. According to data from the Harlingen Economic Development Corporation, the healthcare and biotech industries represent 30% of the total regional workforce. Because healthcare is a predominant employer in the region, colleges and universities emphasize their healthcare programs. Texas State Technical College, located in Harlingen, offers allied health programs to prepare students for careers in nursing, emergency medical services and biomedical equipment technology.
Texas State Technical College offers allied health programs in Harlingen.
Harlingen CISD has a B grade from Niche and serves about 17,000 students.
1/2
Playing at Harlingen Sports Complex and birding migrations
Like many cities in the Rio Grande Valley, Harlingen is a popular birding destination due to the area being a critical area for bird migration in North America. More than 500 species of birds live in the valley, and Harlingen is home to one of nine World Birding Center locations in the Valley. It hosts the Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival, one of the longest-running bird festivals in the country. The Harlingen Parks and Recreation Department operates 22 parks with 556 total acres within the city of Harlingen. The largest, Harlingen Sports Complex, includes 80 acres of fields and amenities such as walking trails, softball fields, soccer fields, a fishing pond and basketball courts. The 55-acre Hugh Ramsey Nature Park offers opportunities for visitors to observe wildlife from javelinas to hummingbirds and is another popular birding spot. Golf is another popular activity in Harlingen. The mild winters in the Rio Grande Valley allow golfers to play year-round, and the four public golf courses in Harlingen provide plenty of opportunities.
Harlingen residents frequent the various parks located throughout the area.
A Harlingen resident uses a trawl net to catch fish at Dixieland Park.
1/2
The artistic, colorful views of Downtown Harlingen
Downtown Harlingen is a colorful place. Mosaic planters along the street add a pop of color to the palm-lined sidewalks, while 30 outdoor murals turn the central outdoor streets into an art experience. One such piece, The History of Mexico and Mankind artwork in Centennial Park, is made of 905 handcrafted ceramic tiles and includes images from Mexican legends and history. “Our downtown area has cute shops, cafés – we’re definitely excited to see things growing,” Loya says. “We wanted new restaurants and new businesses for long, and we’re finally getting that.” Some businesses in Harlingen, however, have stuck around for over 100 years; Grimsell’s Garden Center has been a shopping destination for gardening enthusiasts since 1909. Given Harlingen’s proximity to the U.S.-Mexico border, it’s no surprise that Mexican fare and barbeque features prominently in the dining scene downtown. Loya mentions that Harlingen Corners, near the south is the city, is where people head to find big-box stores and national retailer
Centennial Park is a community space dedicated to showcasing vibrant murals.
Downtown Harlingen is home to many local boutiques, antique stores, barbershops and shopping.
1/2
Port of Harlingen – plus planes, trains and automobiles
Harlingen’s accessibility for commercial freight makes it a hub for moving goods. The Port of Harlingen is located 25 miles inland from the Gulf Intercoastal Waterway, which runs from Texas up the East Coast, and moves more than 3 million tons of cargo every year. Union Pacific operates a local rail terminal and switching yard in Harlingen, and the Valley International Airport and Harlingen Airpark provide access to air freight. Harlingen Industrial Park, a 500-acre site intended for industrial development, houses 34 businesses ranging from heavy equipment rental to auto parts manufacturing.For individuals, getting around may be more challenging. The city is served by four bus lines that operate from 6:30am to 6:20pm, connecting downtown Harlingen to the surrounding areas of Santa Rosa, Primera, San Benito and La Feria. While the connecting thoroughfares of I-69E and I-2 connect residents to Brownsville and Mexico to the south and San Antonio to the north, traffic can become backed up during rush hour as residents make their way through the streets. For those traveling farther afield, the Valley International Airport is served by five airlines and offers daily nonstop flights to Austin, Houston, Dallas and nationwide.
Valley International Airport located in Harlingen is the largest airport in south Texas.
Port of Harlingen is a growing economic hub of South Texas located along the Arroyo River.
1/2
Community cheers at Friday night lights
On the weekends, residents gather at Centennial Park for recurring events like Downtown at Sundown, which is held every third Saturday of the month and includes a market, beer garden and live music. Harlingen Art Night, held the last Friday of every month, features art exhibitions and shopping, while the Jackson Street Market Days allow local artisans to sell their unique collectibles or fresh food. “We really are a quiet town. Friday night lights is a big deal,” Loya says. “You see everyone you know in town at those bleachers.”
Crime statistics in Harlingen
Harlingen has lower crime rates than the Texas average. According to data that the Harlingen Police Department reported to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program, there were 218 violent crimes reported in 2022, a rate of 307 per 100,000 residents, compared to Texas’s rate of 431 per 100,000 residents. The property crime rate in Harlingen in 2022 was 2,866 per 100,000 residents, compared to Texas’s overall rate of 2,299 per 100,000.
Written By
Kaitie Lamb
Photography Contributed By
Mauricio Atilano
Video By
Alex Finneran
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Ronnie Ontiveros,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Harlingen, TX sell after 97 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Harlingen, TX over the last 12 months is $270,000, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Beautiful 2024 built home featuring 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and 1,811 living sq. ft. This home offers an open layout with a spacious kitchen including an electric glass cooktop, double oven, refrigerator, water softener, and window coverings. Enjoy a large covered patio and fully fenced backyard, perfect for entertaining and privacy. Seller offering $5,000 towards buyer's closing costs.
This beautiful home features 4 spacious bedrooms, including one that can be used as a mini master, and 3 full baths. With a generous 2-car garage and 2,023 square feet of living space, this home offers plenty of room for your family to grow. Enjoy the open concept floor plan, perfect for entertaining, and the modern farmhouse style with sleek wood-look floors throughout. The kitchen boasts
Home has been remodeled and also new roof. Home offers 5 spacious bedrooms and 3 full bath. Kitchen was updated and entire home has been painted within the last 3 weeks.
Welcome to 23919 Ellie Ln, Harlingen, TX—a beautifully remodeled home in a thriving area! This 3-bed, 2-bath home offers ~1,607 sqft of modern living space. Enjoy an open-concept design with new tile flooring, quartz countertops, and a spacious living area perfect for entertaining. The master suite features a luxurious walk-in shower for a spa-like feel. Located in the Harlingen CISD, top-rated
Selling below appraised value! The owner said let's sell now! Who does not love a large corner lot with a solid Cinder Block Construction? You get a cool side entry garage that is the envy of the neighborhood. Owner got transferred and willing to sell below appraised value. This one has it all. Come a take a look at the gourmet kitchen. The cook of the family will love it!
This house is conveniently located across the street from Harlingen High School - South, 0.5 miles from Walmart, 0.9 miles from Victor Park, and 0.8 miles from Valle Vista Mall. Other surrounding locations include Target, Wells Fargo, H-E-B, Luby's, and McDonald's among other local restaurants and stores. Additional features include central air and heat, a storage shed, a covered carport, washer
Discover this charming 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home in Sun Chase Estates, Primera, TX, offering 1,691 sqft of comfortable living space on a spacious 8,580 sqft (.19 acre) lot nestled in a quiet neighborhood. The open floor plan boasts tile flooring, high ceilings, quartz countertops, and an inviting kitchen, complemented by a separate built-in bar area perfect for entertaining, along with a formal
Introducing this stunning 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home spanning 2,460 sqft on a generous quarter-acre lot in the highly desirable Treasure Hill County Club. Built in 2017 with elegant stone and stucco exterior, this residence offers a warm and inviting appeal. Inside, you'll find beautiful wood features, high ceilings, crown molding, granite countertops, and a spacious kitchen with an island—perfect
Check out this beautiful home nestled within Summerfield Estates This inviting home has a split floor plan which features a primary bedroom suite with dual vanities, garden tub, walk-in shower and a large walk-in closet. The two remaining bedrooms are gracious in size with plenty of closet space. The home boasts a large living area with surround sound ready to install, a nice sized formal dining
Welcome to 2214 E Pendleton Street in Harlingen,Tx built in 1995, this three-bedroom home offers a comfortable layout with one full main bathroom and a detached laundry room for added convenience. The metal roof adds long-term durability and peace of mind,while the generous 7,884 sq ft lot gives you plenty of outdoor space for gatherings, pets, gardening, or future improvements. If you've been
2-Bedroom, 2-Bath Condo in Palm Valley. Upstairs Enjoy two generously sized bedrooms, each with ample closet space, two full baths for added privacy and ease. Living areas, kitchen, dining and half bath down stairs. An attached two car, rear entry garage. This condo is perfect for an investor.
Discover this fixer-upper situated on a spacious .76-acre lot, offering endless potential for customization. This property is situated in a highly sought-after area that is rapidly developing! Utilities are available, providing a blank canvas for your renovation or new construction dreams. Conveniently located with easy access to the expressway and nearby stores, this property is perfect for
Situated in an over 55 community, this two bedroom, two bathroom is move in ready. All appliances and nice furnishings pass with sale. In addition to the air conditioned living area, there is a large screened in porch with lots of space for semi outdoor living. A one car carport is attached to the home, plus there is a storage building. Come enjoy all the amenities this park has to offer.
With space for everyone, this home has everything you need to make memories that will last a lifetime. A Genteel country home sitting on 2.32 acres is less than two miles from Valley International Airport, TSTC, highly rated schools, churches and shopping. Enter the front door into the expansive GREAT room with its massive fireplace and a large bank of windows looking out to the courtyard. The
Welcome to Harlingen's newest residential community Agave Estates. Located on Palm Blvd just South of Business 83 between Stefano's restaurant and Vela Middle School. The subdivision features 80 residential lots with easy access to the expressway, schools and major retailers. You don't want to miss this great opportunity to build your dream home in this upcoming subdivision.
This house is conveniently located across the street from Harlingen High School - South, 0.5 miles from Walmart, 0.9 miles from Victor Park, and 0.8 miles from Valle Vista Mall. Other surrounding locations include Target, Wells Fargo, H-E-B, Luby's, and McDonald's among other local restaurants and stores. Additional features include central air and heat, a storage shed, a covered carport, washer
Welcome to The Reserve Townhomes – Modern Comfort in the Heart of Harlingen, TXDiscover upscale living at The Reserve Townhomes, where style, comfort, and convenience come together to create the perfect home for families, professionals, and couples alike.Each of our beautifully designed townhomes features 3 spacious bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms, offering plenty of space and
UNITS A-B - Stunning new construction 3 bed, 2-1/2 bath townhome in a duplex setting located in the NEW Carey Estates subdivision. This stunning high-end townhome is located off Ed Carey Dr in Carey Estates Subdivision. Unit features open-concept layout features tall ceilings, recessed lighting, mini-bar, and blinds throughout. Kitchen has quartz countertops, modern cabinets, stainless steel
At SUNSHINE VILLAGE APARTMENTS , located in Harlingen, Texas, you will find a beautiful community offering spacious 1 & 2 bedroom pet friendly apartment homes. 12 month lease agreementSecurity DepositPet FriendlyRefrigerator & Stove AvailableCentral ACWater, Sewer & Trash Included in Rent
UNIT B - Stunning new construction 3 bed, 2-1/2 bath townhome in a duplex setting located in the NEW Carey Estates subdivision. This stunning high-end townhome is located off Ed Carey Dr in Carey Estates Subdivision. Unit features open-concept layout features tall ceilings, recessed lighting, mini-bar, and blinds throughout. Kitchen has quartz countertops, modern cabinets, stainless steel
We have Apartments AVAILABLE TODAY!Are you looking for a comfortable place in Harlingen Tx.? This is the perfect home for you! Oak Terrace apartments are very beautiful and spacious with a very friendly environment. You are only a few minutes away from Valley Baptist Medical Hospital, Star Bucks, CVS, Walgreen's, Chick Fil A, Ceviche Ceviche, Canes, Jason's Deli, Tipsy Tavern and many
Exceptional rental opportunity! This spacious two-story home offers 4 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and a 2-car garage, conveniently located near shopping, schools, and the expressway. The first floor features a welcoming living and dining area, a game room complete with a pool table, and three bedrooms with two full baths. The kitchen is generously sized and comes fully equipped with a
At Sierra Apartments, located in Harlingen, Texas, you will find a beautifully landscaped community offering spacious one, two and three bedroom pet friendly apartment homes. Our gated apartment community features a 24 hour fitness center & business center, covered parking, two swimming pools, BBQ grills, controlled access gate, volleyball and basketball court and much more. Many of our homes
Welcome to 729 Winddrift St. This single-family brick home offers the perfect blend of modern style and practical living: 4 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms and 1 half bathroom, ideal for large families. Open, light-filled living areas and clean finishes. Includes brand new stove, fridge, dish washer, and microwave. Central cooling & heating. Attached garage & plenty of driveway parking. Established
Valencia Apartments is perfect for starter families and very affordable. Layout is spacious and newly remodeled both inside and outside. Granite countertops make our kitchens stand out. Safe and quiet neighborhood. 24 hr. surveillance and 24 hr. laundry on site.
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
