Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Harlingen, TX
Thinking of moving to Harlingen, TX? With a welcoming population of around 72,000, Harlingen offers one of the most affordable lifestyles in Texas—median home prices are just $124,000 and average rents are about $850. Residents enjoy warm, sunny weather for most of the year, short 18-minute commutes, and access to quality local healthcare. While crime rates are higher than average, the city’s vibrant culture, diverse community, and proximity to beaches make it a standout choice for those seeking great value and a relaxed pace of life.
Demographics - Harlingen, TX
Demographics - Harlingen, TX
Harlingen, Texas is home to nearly 72,000 residents with a youthful median age of 33.7 and a balanced gender ratio. The city is predominantly Hispanic and White, with over a third of the population speaking a language other than English at home. This diverse and growing community offers a welcoming environment for newcomers.
Population:
71,925
Density:
1,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
33.7
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
34.8%

Ethnic Composition
White:
88.6%
Black:
1.2%
Asian:
0.9%
Others:
9.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Harlingen, TX?
Harlingen is known for its low cost of living, with a median home value of just $124,000 and average rent around $850, making it one of the most affordable cities in Texas. State income taxes are nonexistent, and living expenses like groceries, healthcare, and transportation remain below the national average. Residents can enjoy a budget-friendly lifestyle without sacrificing essential amenities.
Median House Value:
$124,000
Gross Rent:
$850
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,120
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
75.4
Grocery:
84.1
Housing:
59.3
Utilities:
95.7
Transportation:
78.2
Health Care:
88.9
Miscellaneous:
79.0
Crime
Is Harlingen, TX a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Harlingen are higher than the national average, with a 1 in 312 chance of experiencing a violent crime and a 1 in 46 chance of property crime. While these figures are notable, many residents find that community bonds and local initiatives help foster a sense of safety. It's important for new residents to be aware and take standard precautions.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
320
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,180
Crime Index:
2,500
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 312
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 46
Weather
What is the weather like in Harlingen, TX year-round?
Harlingen enjoys a warm, subtropical climate with mild winters averaging 50°F at night and hot summers reaching up to 96°F. The city sees about 70% sunny days each year and receives roughly 28.5 inches of rain, making it great for those who appreciate sunshine and outdoor activities. Seasonal changes are gentle, offering comfortable year-round living.

Winter
Min:
50°F
Max:
71°F

Spring
Min:
64°F
Max:
85°F

Summer
Min:
75°F
Max:
96°F

Fall
Min:
67°F
Max:
86°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
28.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
70%
Neighbors
The local community has a median household income of $45,500, with a relatively high poverty rate of 26.2%. Most households have a commute of about 18 minutes, and education levels show that 70% of adults hold a high school diploma or higher. Harlingen’s residents are known for their close-knit spirit and cultural diversity.
Median Income:
$25,800
Household Income:
$45,500
Family Income:
$49,200
Per Capita Income:
$20,300
Income Male:
$32,200
Income Female:
$26,400
Poverty Rate:
26.2%
Non English Speakers:
34.8%
Rent:
$850
Unemployment Rate:
7.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
18.3 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
70.4%
Bachelors or More:
15.4%
Education
How are the schools in Harlingen, TX?
Harlingen offers a range of educational opportunities, featuring public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios, private school options, and local higher education at Texas State Technical College. The city is also close to the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, providing access to degree programs and career training. Families and students will find supportive resources for lifelong learning.

Public Schools
Name:
Harlingen High School
Street:
1201 E Marshall Ave
Phone:
956-427-3600
Students:
2,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.9
Name:
Vernon Middle School
Street:
125 S Vernon Ave
Phone:
956-427-3100
Students:
690
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.7

Private Schools
Name:
St. Anthony Catholic School
Street:
1015 E Harrison Ave
Phone:
956-423-2486
Students:
230

Colleges
Name:
Texas State Technical College - Harlingen
City:
Harlingen
State:
TX
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
4,500
Name:
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
City:
Brownsville
State:
TX
Distance:
23 miles
Students:
29,000
Healthcare
Harlingen provides access to quality healthcare with major facilities like Valley Baptist Medical Center and Harlingen Medical Center offering comprehensive and emergency services. The city has 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents and about 73% of people have health insurance, ensuring medical needs are well supported locally. Healthcare costs also tend to be below national averages.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Valley Baptist Medical Center - Harlingen
Address:
2101 Pease St, Harlingen, TX 78550
Phone:
(956) 389-1100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Harlingen Medical Center
Address:
5501 S Expressway 77, Harlingen, TX 78550
Phone:
(956) 365-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
73.4%
Health Care Index:
62.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Harlingen, TX?
The housing market in Harlingen is highly affordable, with a median home price of just $124,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment at $850. About 60% of homes are owner-occupied, and the area experiences steady appreciation, making it attractive for both buyers and renters. Rental vacancies are moderate, providing options for newcomers.
Median Home Price:
$124,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$850
Owner Occupied Rate:
60.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
2.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Residents in Harlingen are served by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, located in nearby San Benito. The DMV offers standard vehicle registration and licensing services, and helpful information can be accessed online or by phone. Newcomers will find the process straightforward and typical for Texas.
State:
Texas
Department:
Texas Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
600 W. Expressway 83, San Benito, TX 78586
Phone:
1-888-368-4689
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.