McAllen Lands in Top 5 Affordable Cities to Visit in Texas

Travel site ranked cities more affordable than Dallas

Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan

McAllen has once again landed in the top five of another state list–this time, a ranking of cities in Texas more affordable than Dallas. The ranking, compiled by the website TheTravel, looked at 10 cities and compared travel costs, including flights, hotels, and affordable entertainment options. McAllen earned the number-four spot, while other border cities (Laredo and El Paso) were named three and two, respectively. Other cities on the list included south central communities and Dallas’ neighbors, Arlington and Fort Worth.

While the cities listed are more affordable than Dallas, they are still bustling cities in their own right. In fact, according to the author of the article, many of them are hidden gems in Texas that offer wide open spaces, cultural richness, and cost-conscious opportunities.

“McAllen is a great place to live, work, play, or visit,” said McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos.” Whether someone visits for a weekend or decides to visit forever, McAllen will provide the best vacation or stay-cation, not only on a budget but on any budget.”

Costs for a solo traveler for the weekend in McAllen are $379, compared to $531 in Dallas.  McAllen is one of the affordable cities in Texas that makes Dallas look really expensive in comparison. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s cultural richness with a visit to the International Museum of Art and Science (IMAS), offering free admission on Sundays, where art and science converge in captivating exhibitions; or a stroll through the lush landscape of Quinta Mazatlán, a historical-mansion-turned-nature-center, which provides affordable admission and abundant birdwatching opportunities.  And, of course, McAllen’s Downtown Entertainment District offers budget-friendly delights, with live music and great local cuisine.

• Best Times to Visit: August to November
• Best Budget Accommodation: $27 – $89 for a 2- or 3-star hotel
• Cost of Flights: $602 – $858

TheTravel is a site fueled by writers with a passion for idyllic destinations, helpful and all-encompassing travel guides, as well as travel-destination recommendations.