A shopping and birding epicenter in the Rio Grande Valley
Though it was founded in 1905, what put the South Texas city of McAllen on the map less than a decade later was its flourishing agricultural industry. McAllen sits in the Rio Grande Valley, whose fertile plains made it a center for farming and where the official state fruit of Texas, the Ruby Red grapefruit, originated in 1929. And while agriculture still plays a large role, one of the main drivers of the city’s economy today is trade with Mexico, just across the Rio Grande via the McAllen–Hidalgo International Bridge. McAllen is also a major retail hub; among its many shopping centers is La Plaza Mall, the largest in the Rio Grande Valley, measuring 1.3 million square feet.
Ecotourism is gaining importance here, too. With over 400 bird species migrating through the area each year, the Rio Grande Valley is a birding mecca, attracting huge numbers of tourists. Several of the parks and nature preserves that make up the World Birding Center are a short drive from McAllen, and the city’s Quinta Mazatlán is another top birding spot. The Rio Grande Valley’s temperate climate also draws a seasonal influx of “Winter Texans” — Texas’ version of snowbirds—who come from as far away as Canada. McAllen has a permanent population of around 145,000 and is the second-largest city in the Rio Grande Valley to Brownsville, which has about 185,000 residents.
Quinta Mazatlan is a tropical garden featuring over 250 bird species located in McAllen.
Mercado Food Hall located in the McAllen city consists of over 100+ independent businesses.
Synergo is a tea and herb based business located in the city of McAllen.
Locals frequent Firemen's Park in McAllen for picnics or fishing.
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North and South McAllen offer differing lifestyles and price ranges
In 2024, the median price for a single-family home in McAllen was $295,000, compared to the state’s median price of $340,000, according to The Texas Real Estate Research Center. Gema Hernandez, a broker with Fox Real Estate Pros, says that McAllen is very developed in comparison to neighboring Rio Grande Valley cities like Edinburg. Newer residential developments were mostly built within the last 10 years, like those in bustling South McAllen, near La Plaza Mall and Interstate 2. Those interested in a less densely populated area of town look to North McAllen neighborhoods like Tres Lagos and Los Lagos, which sit closer to Edinburg. These planned communities offer their own restaurants, events, clubs and golf courses. “In neighborhoods like Los Lagos, you have lower middle income and then you have the nice $2 million houses and above,” Hernandez says. “It’s a little bit of everything.”
Various ranch and modern style homes can be found throughout the city of McAllen.
Newer three bedroom modern brick style homes can be found in north Mcallen.
McAllen has plenty of spanish style homes with lush trees near the downtown area.
Various craftsman to contemporary style homes can be found in central McAllen.
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Investments are on the horizon for McAllen
The city plans to evolve current beautification initiatives already in place to improve the overall quality of life for residents. “Environmental sustainability is important to McAllen,” says Alejandro Rios, a representative of Visit McAllen. “We launched McAllen Shines to help keep our public spaces free of litter. We have an event, Texas Recycles Day, to encourage recycling efforts, as well. We want to provide grants to help empower homebuyers to maintain their personal properties, too.”
Refresh5050 is another improvement project that provides qualifying businesses with a matching grant of up to $15,000 for storefront revitalization. “We really want to build that spirit of the community. We want to make sure that they have the help and resources they need,” Rios says.
McAllen is considered the most populous city in Hidalgo County Texas.
Gravel walking trails lined with palm trees are a common sight throughout the McAllen area.
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McAllen’s parks and area preserves
The city’s 1,042 acres of green space include McAllen Nature Center, with forest trails and local wildlife, and the Quinta Mazatlán, an exotic bird sanctuary on the grounds of a preserved mansion. Approximately $30 million is being allocated towards the development of a 14-acre urban ecology center at Quinta Mazatlán, which is slated to open in 2026, in partnership with the University of Texas. The city of McAllen has several public aquatic facilities, including pools, splash pads and interactive fountains; indoor pools are also an option at one of three community centers in the city.
The monarch butterfly is a milkweek butterfly found throughout the McAllen city area.
Quinta Mazatlan is a historical Adobe mansion and birding center located in McAllen.
Rose-bellied lizard can be found throughout the McAllen city area.
Firemen's Park has a manmade lake used for fishing by McAllen residents.
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Shopping, entertainment and city-wide events
McAllen is home to several major retail centers, including La Plaza, one of the largest shopping malls in South Texas with 184 stores plus dozens of chain restaurants. Downtown McAllen is a hub for community activities; at its heart is the McAllen Convention Center, an 18.5-acre complex that hosts more than 500 annual events. They include festivals like October’s Fiesta de Palmas that reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage. “We have some of the best Latino festivals with art, music and food,” Rios says. The McAllen Performing Arts Center, a venue for live theater, music and dance, is also part of the entertainment complex. The largest holiday parade in Texas takes place in McAllen, a night of illuminated floats, celebrity hosts, bands and a festival in Municipal Park.
The McAllen Public Library was located on Main Street before closing in 2011 and reopening in a much larger building north of downtown. “It used to be a Walmart, and then the city bought it, and now it has this ultra-modern design,” Rios says, noting that it’s the largest one-story library in the country. The library is a community hub and hosts a Saturday farmers market.
Mercado Food Hall has a grand selection of locally McAllen owned restaurants.
Custom cowboy hat shops and apparel are popular throughout the downtown McAllen area.
La Placita McAllen Heritage Center is located in downtown McAllen.
Downtown McAllen has a thriving population of 144,000 as of 2023.
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McAllen ISD has its very own award-winning mariachi band
The McAllen Independent School District has over 32 campuses across Hidalgo County and earns an A-minus from Niche. The district’s student-teacher ratio is 15-to-1. “Our cultural offerings are very bolstered in our schools,” Acosta says. “We now have a mariachi group, which performed at Carnegie Hall.” The area also has many private school options, including Montessori schools, Episcopal schools and Catholic schools. For higher education, the South Texas College Pecan Campus is a local community school offering two-year programs.
The Bulldog is the official mascot of Hidalgo County's McAllen High School.
La Joya High School hosts grades 9th to 12th in the La Joya, Tx area.
La Joya Palmview High School hosts grades 9th to 12th grade in the La Joya area.
Ann Richards Middle School hosts grades 6th thru 8th grade in the Mission, Tx area.
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Getting in and around the city of McAllen
McAllen is roughly 8 miles from Mexico via the McAllen-Hidalgo International Bridge, a border entry point controlled by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The city is 60 miles west of Brownsville, and 20 miles farther east is South Padre Island and other beachfront areas along the Gulf of Mexico. McAllen’s main throughways include Interstate 2 and I-690. Although most of the population drives or carpools to work, the city has a public bus system, Metro McAllen. McAllen International Airport, 2 miles from downtown, offers select flights through American Airlines, Aeromexico, Volaris, United, Delta and Allegiant. Hospitals include Mission Regional Medical Center and South Texas Health System McAllen.
McAllen's crime, weather and environmental concerns
The McAllen Police Department reported a 2% decrease in violent crime and a 2.5% decrease in property crime from 2022 to 2023. Border cities are often heavily policed, which can result in lower rates of crime than larger cities such as Fort Worth.
According to the FEMA National Risk Index, Hidalgo County is at a higher risk of loss and hardship after a natural disaster than other areas in the country. Future natural disasters that the county could face are flooding or severe cold weather/snowstorms.
Written By
Corrine Fizer
Photography Contributed By
Mauricio Atilano
Video By
Francesco Basti
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On average, homes in McAllen, TX sell after 93 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in McAllen, TX over the last 12 months is $360,000, down 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Beautiful 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home located in the highly desirable Sharyland ISD! This stunning new construction offers a spacious open-concept layout perfect for entertaining and everyday living.The fully equipped kitchen features brand-new stainless steel appliances, including a refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, and microwave. You’ll love the custom cabinetry, quartz countertops, and large
Beautiful new construction in McAllen’s desirable Cobblestone community. This thoughtfully designed home offers 4 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, 1 half bathroom, a formal dining area, and 2,250 sq ft of living space. The open-concept layout features a spacious kitchen with quartz countertops, abundant cabinetry, a large island, and generous gathering areas filled with natural light. The private
New Price alert! $320,000! MUST-SEE BACKYARD with beautiful mature trees on a spacious 0.31-acre lot in the heart of McAllen! Welcome to 1108 Harvey, a fully remodeled home featuring all-new windows, roof, lighting, flooring, custom cabinetry, and so much more.This inviting home offers an open-concept floor plan with more than 1,976 square feet of living space, three bedrooms, two bathrooms,
Priced to Sell! Beautiful brick and stone home situated on a spacious 0.52-acre lot offering comfort, charm, and room to grow. This inviting property features 4 large bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms, with warm Saltillo tile floors, high ceilings with wood beams, and a bright open living area perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The kitchen offers granite countertops and abundant cabinet space.
Welcome to 2207 W Fern Ave, McAllen, TX—a charming corner-lot brick home in the heart of the desirable Westchester Plaza area, just minutes from shopping, dining, and major business corridors. Offering 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and 1,790 sq. ft. of comfortable living space, this home is made for both everyday living and entertaining. Inside, enjoy decorative high ceilings, elegant crown molding, and
Looking for a home under $200K in McAllen, TX? This 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom brick home offers 1,384 sqft of living space and a 1 car garage. Ideal for a first-time buyer, investor, or anyone looking to downsize without stretching their budget. The roof was replaced in 2022–2023, and the home was recently painted. The yard is fully fenced, offering privacy and relaxing outdoors. An oven, washer and
7.6% CAP RATE | Fully Stabilized Fourplex. Turnkey income opportunity in The Heights at McColl, one of central McAllen's most desirable rental pockets. All four units are leased and performing, delivering immediate, predictable cash flow with proven tenant demand and minimal vacancy risk. Each unit is individually metered for electric and water, keeping utility costs off the owner's ledger and
A must see well taken care of two story home! This home features 3 spacious bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. Gorgeous kitchen with plenty of cabinet space, and an open concept spacious living area, great for hosting and dining. The flooring is beautiful wooden laminate tile through out the entire house. All bedrooms are a great size, especially the Main bedroom. This home had the entire roof replaced
Discover this exceptional two-story home offering over 5,950 sqft of total living space on nearly an acre in the heart of North McAllen, just a couple of blocks north of Trenton on Main Street. The main home features a spacious primary bedroom on the first floor, multiple living and dining areas, and a versatile basement ideal for a home theater, gym, or hobby space. Step outside to enjoy a large
Located in the exclusive gated community of The Vineyard Estates, this stunning two-story home with three car garage offers luxury living with beautiful lake views. Featuring 4 bedrooms and 4.5 baths, every bedroom includes its own private en-suite bathroom. The home also offers a dedicated office/library, spacious family room with fireplace, and a massive chef’s kitchen designed for
Welcome to this stunning residence in the highly desirable Spanish Oaks Estates, where comfort, elegance, and functionality come together beautifully. This exceptional home features 4 spacious bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms, designed for everyday living and entertaining. Inside, you’ll find two expansive living areas perfect for hosting or relaxing, along with two dining areas for formal and
Own 5 unrestricted acres right in McAllen with room to live, work, and grow. This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers vaulted ceilings with exposed wood beams, stained concrete floors throughout, and a kitchen with stainless steel appliances and a breakfast bar. The guest house adds flexibility for extended family or rental income. Outside, enjoy a stocked 10-foot-deep pond, mature shade trees, RV
Big lot. 2-car garage. Modern luxury in Tres Lagos. This stunning 4-bedroom home offers over 2,200 sq ft of bright open-concept living with soaring ceilings, upscale finishes, and the sleek modern style buyers are searching for in today’s RGV market. Designed for entertaining and everyday comfort, the spacious layout flows effortlessly into a chef-inspired kitchen and private primary suite
A sleek, contemporary 3-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom townhome offering exceptional convenience and modern style awaits! Thoughtfully designed, this low yard maintenance home features an open-concept living area, a striking show-stopping staircase, and a stylish kitchen perfect for everyday living and entertaining. The flexible layout includes two primary suites plus a third bedroom with full bath access
This spacious 4-bedroom, 3-bath home offers a rare combination of comfort, character, and thoughtful upgrades in one of North McAllen’s most desirable areas. Step inside to discover Brazilian cherry wood floors in three of the four bedrooms and rustic tile flowing throughout the main living areas, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Two of the bathrooms feature tiled ceilings, adding a
Brand-new 4-plex in the desirable North Park at 107 Subdivision, offering modern comfort, convenience, and a prime location. This unit features 3 spacious bedrooms and a well-designed layout ideal for families or professionals. All appliances are included: stove, microwave, refrigerator, washer, and dryer. Trash, and yard maintenance are also included, making this a truly hassle-free living
TAYLOR VILLAS LIFESTYLE- more than a home, a new way to live.Welcome home and experience modern, maintenance-free living with everything you need in an all-inclusive, luxurious gated community designed for comfort, convenience, and connection.Our spacious two- and three-bedroom townhomes are thoughtfully designed across two stories combining privacy, comfort, modern elegance and
GATED SUBDIVISION!!! BEAUTIFUL AND SPACIOUS APARTMENT. 2 BEDROOM - 2 BATHS. OPEN CONCEPT, GRANITE COUNTERTOPS, APPLIANCES (STOVE AND REFRIGERATOR) WASHER AND DRYER, CELING FANS IN LIVING AND BEDROOMS. MODERN STYLE. RENT INCLUDED WATHER AND TRASH. PET FRIENDLY (ONLY ONE SMALL PET -$50 MONTLY FEE). TO APPLY USE THE RENTSPREE LINK
1304 E E Daffodil Unit D McAllen TX 78501! Beautiful Like-New Town Home For Rent! Featuring 2 Bedrooms, 2 1/2 Baths & a 2 Car Carport. All newer Stainless Steel Appliances including Stove, Refrigerator, Micro-Wave and Dishwasher with stacked Washer & Dryer. NOTE: Bedrooms & stairway have new commercial grade carpet-therefore NO PETS PLEASE. Rent is :$1,100 p/month, $900.00 Deposit & $50 App Fee
Texan Ranch ApartmentsNature-Inspired Living for First Responders & ProfessionalsWelcome to Texan Ranch Apartments, McAllen’s premier 20-acre gated community tailored for those who serve and protect. Surrounded by lush greenery and featuring a private one-acre lake, lighted jogging trails, a resort-style pool, spa, basketball court, and a fully equipped fitness center — our property
Beautiful 3-bed, 3-bath home for lease in a prime location just off 2nd Street! This spacious home offers a large living room with soaring vaulted ceilings, exposed wood beams, a cozy brick fireplace, and abundant natural light. The kitchen features ample cabinet space, a new double oven, and comes fully equipped with appliances, including the refrigerator, dishwasher, washer, and dryer. The
Discover spacious, modern living in a prime location with top-tier amenities designed for your comfort. Encino Luxury Apartments offers a resort-style pool, 24/7 fitness center, private theater, game room with poker and billiards, business center, and a pet-friendly environment with a dog spa. Our spacious 1- and 2-bedroom apartments feature modern finishes, ample storage, and a welcoming
MOVE-IN SPECIAL — ONE FREE MONTH! Discover comfortable and convenient living in this spacious 2-bedroom, 2-bath apartment ideally located near Ware Rd and 107 seconds from 3 Lagos with quick access to major roads, schools, shopping, and everyday essentials. Designed with practicality and comfort in mind, this apartment features a well-planned layout that makes daily living easy and low
At El Patrimonio, you are not just renting an apartment; you’re choosing an exciting, contemporary lifestyle in the heart of McAllen!Located near TX 336 and FM 1016, our pet-friendly, stylish one, two and three-bedroom apartment homes come with fully equipped kitchens and many more options that make every day apartment living special. Our residents enjoy a multitude of wonderful amenities
BEAUTIFUL MCALLEN APARTMENT WITH FULL SIDE FENCED YARD, PAINTED/STAINED CONCRETE AND NEW FLOORING, STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES AND WASHER/DRYER INCLUDED, SPRINKLER SYSTEMS, QUARTZ COUNTERS, 2 BEDROOMS/1.5 BATHROOMS/ASSIGNED PARKING, BLINDS INCLUDED, COVERED PATIO, NO CREDIT CHECK, INCOME VERIFICATION ONLY.
Hearthstone Apartments has the three greatest features any apartment community can offer: location, location, location. Situated in the heart of the medical district, near shopping, entertainment, and transportation. Hearthstone Apartments is the perfect place to call home! Enjoy our swimming pools, fitness center, and playground. The comforts of our spacious apartments will suit your every need.
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