Factors that influence moving costs from New York City to McAllentoggle

The cost of New York City movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from New York City to McAllen might cost as little as $1,366, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $11,420.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in New York City, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $1,404 to $3,602. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from New York City to McAllen

Moving from New York City to McAllen means adjusting to a different pace of life โ€” and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in New York City than in McAllen, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how New York City compares to McAllen so you know what to expect before you relocate:

New York City McAllen
Average rent cost $4,340 $1,350
Average home value $752,778 $221,244
Average income (per capita) $78,058 $57,439
Cost of living (single person) $5,683 $1,457
Cost of living (family of 4) $15,081 $3,557
Unemployment rate 11.2% 7.9%
Sales tax 8.0% 8.25%
State income tax 10.9% 0.0%
  • Rent prices in McAllen are 69% lower than in New York City, which means youโ€™ll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in McAllen.
    Home prices in McAllen are 70.6% lower than in New York City.
  • Income in McAllen is 26.4% lower than in New York City, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in McAllen include The Monitor Group, Am-Mex Products, and South Texas College.
  • The cost of living for a single person in McAllen is 74.4% lower than in New York City. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in McAllen is 76.4% lower than in New York City.
  • The unemployment rate in McAllen is 29.46% lower than in New York City.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in McAllen, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in McAllen are 3.13% higher than in New York City.
  • One perk of moving to McAllen is paying less in state income taxes, which are 100.00% lower than in New York City.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $769.14 in McAllen to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in New York City.

How life is different in New York City vs. McAllen

McAllen New York City
Population 142,210 8,258,035
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 3 10
Walkability score 41 88
Bike friendliness score 46 69
Crime Index 36.26 50.83
Safety Index 63.74 49.17
Air Quality Moderate Good
  • McAllen's population is about 98% less than New York City.
  • McAllen's public transportation has a score of 3 out of 10 versus New York City's higher score of 10.
  • McAllen is less walkable than New York City with a score of 41 out of 100 vs New York City's 88 out of 100.
  • McAllen has a bike-friendliness score 46 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as New York City, which has a score of 69 out of 100.
  • McAllen's crime rate is lower than New York City with a score of 36.26 compared to New York City's 50.83. This means that McAllen neighborhoods are safer than 36.26% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and New York City neighborhoods are safer than 50.83%.
  • McAllen is considered to be safer than New York City with a safety index of 63.74 vs New York City's 49.17.
  • Air quality in McAllen is moderate, and in New York City it's good.

Other things to consider for your New York City vs. McAllen move

  • Weather: Consider moving to McAllen city on November, March and February. The city has two distinct seasons; a wet season from May to October and a dry season from November to April.
  • HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulationsโ€”some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • State licensing: In-state movers operating in the Lone Star State are legally required to be licensed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TXDMV), which issues 10-digit TXDMV numbers to commercial carriers. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Texas moving company\โ€™s license by visiting the state'spublic utilities commission
  • Moving permits: You wonโ€™t need a moving permit in Texas, though it\โ€™s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly toMcAllen Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations.In Texas, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It's crucial to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Texas.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in McAllen

Now that youโ€™ve chosen "City of Palms" as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in McAllen to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown McAllen
  • South McAllen
  • La Vista
  • Dove Landing
  • The Village of Westlakes

Best neighborhoods for families

  • North McAllen
  • Sharyland Plantation
  • Tres Lagos
  • Royal Oak Estates
  • Tuscan Estates

Things to do in McAllen

Now that you've made the move to Texas, itโ€™s the perfect time to explore McAllen. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโ€™s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Youโ€™ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout McAllen, such as the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS), The McAllen Heritage Center, and Nuevo Santadar Gallery.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s McAllen Nature Center, Town Lake at Firemen's Park, and McAllen's New Park & Spray Ground โ€” along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from New York City to McAllen?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from New York City to McAllen. Youโ€™ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in New York City.

When is the cheapest time to move from New York City to McAllen?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from New York City to McAllen, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from New York City to McAllen take?

The 1,977-mile journey from New York City, NY to McAllen, TX typically takes five to 16 days. Some movers in New York City offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in McAllen.

Helpful moving resources