| Statistic | McAllen | Texas | National |
| Population | 142,557 | 28,995,881 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 2,288 | 113 | 91 |
| Median age | 32.6 | 34.2 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 54% | 56% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 48% | 48% | 43% |
| Speak English | 25% | 65% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 72% | 30% | 13% |
The demographics of McAllen offer invaluable insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of both urban and rural areas, empowering planners, developers and policymakers to foster prosperity, equity, and well-being for all residents. With a population of 142,557, McAllen exhibits a population density of 2,288 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 91. The median age stands at 32.6, with 54% of individuals aged 15 or older being married and 48% having children under 18. In terms of income equality in McAllen, 30% of households report a median income below $25,000, while 14% report an income exceeding $150,000, showcasing a diverse economic landscape.
The McAllen racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown serves as a critical tool for understanding and addressing systemic inequities, promoting social justice and inclusion and building stronger, more resilient communities. The racial breakdown in McAllen is 65% White, 1.1% Black or African American, 2.8% Asian, 0.3% American Indian and 0.1% Native Hawaiian - 85.5% of the population identify as Hispanic or Latino. Of all households, 25.3% reported speaking English only, while 72% reported speaking Spanish only. A total of 26.5% of residents were considered foreign born.
High population density areas typically offer a diverse array of amenities and services within walking distance or a short commute, enriching residents' quality of life and well-being. Accessible healthcare facilities, educational institutions, cultural venues, restaurants, shopping and public transportation options contribute to the convenience and vibrancy of these communities. The population density of of McAllen is 2,288 people per square mile, which far exceeds the national average of 91 and ranks among the most densely populated cities in the nation.
Understanding Populations: Reporting and analyzing the demographic data in McAllen can allow us to gain insights into the characteristics and composition of populations, including age, gender, race, ethnicity, income, education and other socio-economic factors. This understanding is essential for addressing the diverse needs, preferences and challenges of different demographic groups within communities. Demographics can play a crucial role in understanding populations, informing decision-making processes and promoting equity, inclusion, and well-being for all individuals and communities. McAllen population data serves as a foundation for addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges and promoting the well-being and resilience of societies.
Urban Development: Urban planners can leverage demographics data in McAllen to design and develop areas that cater to residents' needs, spanning housing, transportation, and public services, while prioritizing sustainability and enhancing quality of life. Demographic changes can contribute to gentrification and neighborhood evolution, whether in urban or rural contexts. As neighborhoods attract new residents with diverse income levels and lifestyle preferences, property values may appreciate, potentially displacing longstanding residents and reshaping the neighborhood's identity. Understanding population density, age distribution, household size and income levels is essential for guiding decisions on zoning, transportation infrastructure, housing development and public amenities. Incorporating McAllen demographics data into planning and implementing affordable housing initiatives can help mitigate displacement risks.
Education Allocation: In education planning, McAllen demographic data can be invaluable for identifying student demographics, school enrollment trends and educational needs. This data aids schools and policymakers in resource allocation and the formulation of effective educational programs. It serves as a crucial tool for recognizing disparities in educational access and outcomes among different demographic groups, including racial and ethnic minorities, socio-economic status and students with disabilities. Through the disaggregation of data by demographic factors, education planners can pinpoint areas of inequity and implement targeted interventions to enhance access, support, and outcomes for marginalized students. Overall, McAllen demographic data can be an essential tool in education for promoting equity, facilitating student success, and nurturing inclusive learning environments that cater to the needs of all students.
| Race | McAllen | Texas | National |
| White | 65.03% | 74.84% | 73.35% |
| Black | 1.07% | 11.95% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 2.78% | 4.36% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 0.28% | 0.48% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.12% | 0.08% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 11.46% | 2.50% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 19.26% | 5.79% | 4.75% |
Here are the best places to live in Texas
10 best cities to buy a new house in Texas
Check out the 10 safest cities in Texas
10 Best cities in Texas for employment