Cost of Living in Brownsville-Harlingen, TX

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Brownsville-Harlingen? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $7,241 per year — Texas levies no state income tax, so that figure covers federal tax only. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($1,047/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Brownsville-Harlingen metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $50,195, or roughly $4,183 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Brownsville-Harlingen metro has a cost of living index of 55.7 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). At 44% below the national average, Brownsville-Harlingen is a genuinely affordable metro where everyday expenses stretch further than in most cities.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Brownsville-Harlingen represents approximately 18% of gross income. That is well within the 30% rule of thumb that financial advisors typically recommend, leaving significant room for savings and discretionary spending. Texas's zero income tax helps offset the rent burden compared to otherwise similar cities that also levy state income tax.