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Brownsville, Texas

USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence

63
Overall Score

Brownsville is a vibrant and historically rich border city located at the southernmost tip of Texas along the banks of the Rio Grande. Founded in 1848, the city grew rapidly from a military outpost surrounding Fort Brown into a major cultural, educational, and international trade hub. Today, Brownsville is known for its deep-rooted Tejano heritage, proximity to South Padre Island, and its burgeoning position as a center for commercial space exploration and advanced manufacturing. People are increasingly drawn to Brownsville for its warm climate, affordable lifestyle, and a rapidly expanding economy driven by cross-border commerce with Mexico.

About Texas

Texas, known as the "Lone Star State," is characterized by its vast and diverse landscapes, ranging from eastern forests to western deserts, and a strong sense of cultural identity. Its economy is one of the largest and most diverse in the United States, driven by major industries such as energy (oil, natural gas, and renewables), information technology, aerospace, defense, manufacturing, and agriculture. Living in Texas generally offers a lower cost of living compared to the national average, with housing expenses being approximately 16% lower. The climate varies significantly across the state, from humid subtropical in the east to semi-arid in the west, with notoriously hot summers, especially in southern cities, and mild to cool winters. The lifestyle often blends urban amenities with a strong appreciation for outdoor activities, Texan heritage, and a generally pro-business environment.

189,424
Population
$48K
Avg Salary
82
Cost Index
62.9
Quality Score
How this 63/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
Component Readings used Points Weight Contributes
Safety Safety score: 68 / 100 68.0 30% 20.4
Affordability Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 82.0 66.3 25% 16.6
Economy & jobs Median household income: $45,500 Income needed to live here: $42,000 Unemployment rate: 5.8% 44.0 20% 8.8
Growth Population growth rate: 0.9% Job growth rate: 3.2% 65.8 15% 9.9
Business climate assessment Business climate assessment: 73 / 100 73.0 10% 7.3
Overall score 62.9

Provenance. These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as Tier 1 (fast) (q=52, partial — below threshold), last refreshed 17 October 2026. They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.

Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.

Businesses in Brownsville

Featured local businesses in Brownsville.

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Quality Scores

Business
73
Livability
72
Affordability
85
Growth
76

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Brownsville is notably lower than the national average, making it one of the most affordable metropolitan areas in the United States. Expenses related to housing, groceries, and utilities track significantly below typical U.S. benchmarks, allowing residents to enjoy a comfortable standard of living on modest incomes. This high purchasing power attracts retirees, remote workers, and young families looking to stretch their budgets further without sacrificing community amenities.

While housing and basic services remain inexpensive, certain goods associated with transportation and imported retail items can reflect regional logistics costs. However, overall consumer prices consistently rank well beneath state and national baselines, providing a strong financial buffer for households residing in the Rio Grande Valley.

Average Rent
$1,150/mo
Groceries
$380/mo
Transport
$110/mo
Utilities
$170/mo
Healthcare
$210/mo
Gym membership (monthly)
$40.00
Cinema ticket
$11.00
Restaurant meal (mid-range)
$18.00
Monthly groceries
$380.00
Doctor visit (without insurance)
$120.00

Salary Insights

Brownsville's economy is undergoing a dynamic transformation, moving beyond its traditional foundation in international trade, logistics, and government services into high-tech aerospace and advanced manufacturing. The presence of SpaceX at nearby Boca Chica Village has catalyzed massive regional growth, attracting aerospace engineers, technicians, and related supply-chain businesses to the area. Major local employers also include the Brownsville Independent School District, the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, and Valley Regional Medical Center.

The city's strategic location as a major port of entry with Mexico bolsters robust logistics, warehousing, and cross-border manufacturing operations. While the local economy offers strong job growth in specialized sectors, remote work has also gained traction among professionals seeking lower living costs while maintaining employment with national firms.

The average salary in Brownsville is $48,000 per year. You would need approximately $42,000 to live comfortably.

Top Industries

Education +1.50% Healthcare & Social Assistance +3.10% Hospitality & Tourism +2.20% Aerospace & Advanced Manufacturing +8.50% International Trade & Logistics +2.80%

Climate

🌡️
77°F
Avg Temp
☀️
92°F
Summer High
❄️
57°F
Winter Low
🌧️
30.60"
Annual Rain
💧
74.00%
Humidity
🌤️
261
Sunny Days

Transport

Getting around Brownsville is primarily centered on automobile transit, with major thoroughfares like Interstate 69E and Highway 77 providing efficient connectivity across the city and the broader Rio Grande Valley. Public transportation is served by Brownsville Metro, which operates a comprehensive bus network connecting key residential, commercial, and educational hubs.

While car dependency remains high for most daily commutes, downtown Brownsville and select mixed-use neighborhoods offer improving pedestrian infrastructure and bike lanes. The Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport provides convenient regional air service, facilitating business and leisure travel.

21 min
Avg Commute
42.00/10
Transit Score
45.00/10
Walkability
High
Car Dependency

Pros & Cons

Advantages
Median home prices and overall cost of living remain significantly below the U.S. national average per Census and Zillow data.
Rapidly growing aerospace and advanced manufacturing sectors driven by SpaceX operations in the region.
Abundant sunshine with an average of 261 sunny days per year and mild winter temperatures.
Rich cultural heritage, bilingual community, and close proximity to South Padre Island beaches and nature sanctuaries.
Expanding higher education and healthcare infrastructure anchored by UTRGV and regional medical centers.
Drawbacks
Summer temperatures are high and humid, requiring heavy reliance on air conditioning.
Average household incomes and wages trail state and national benchmarks.
High reliance on automobile transportation with limited heavy rail or rapid transit options.
Vulnerability to severe weather events and tropical storms coming off the Gulf of Mexico.
Poverty rates remain above the national average despite recent economic diversification.

Questions about Brownsville

What people ask about living in and moving to Brownsville, Texas.

Are the public schools in Brownsville good for my children? Schools & Education 1 answer

Public schools in Brownsville vary in performance, with some districts performing well and others needing improvement. The city’s school district website provides standardized test scores, graduation rates, and school‑rating reports. Visiting schools, talking to administrators, and reviewing parent reviews can give you a clearer picture of the educational environment before deciding.

What is the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Brownsville? Housing 1 answer

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Brownsville is about $1,150 per month. This figure reflects the typical cost for a modest unit in the city. When searching for rentals, look at online listings and local classifieds. You can also contact real estate agents in the area who can provide current market rates and available properties.

How does Brownsville’s cost of living compare to the national average? Cost of Living 1 answer

Brownsville’s cost of living index is 82, which is below the national average of 100. This means everyday expenses—such as groceries, utilities, and transportation—tend to be lower than in many other parts of the country. With an average salary of $48,000 per year, you would likely find that your money goes further here than it would in a city with a higher cost of living index.

How safe is Brownsville for families? Safety 1 answer

Brownsville’s safety score is 68 out of 100, indicating a moderate level of safety. Crime rates are higher in some parts of the city, especially in certain neighborhoods. It’s advisable to research specific areas, consult local crime maps, and talk to residents to gauge safety. Neighborhood associations and community groups can also provide insights into local security measures.

What public transportation options are available in Brownsville? Getting Around 1 answer

The city offers a local bus system that covers many residential and commercial zones. Routes connect downtown, shopping centers, and nearby suburbs. Buses run on a regular schedule, and fares are affordable. For route maps, schedules, and fare information, visit the city’s transportation department website or inquire at the main transit hub.

What types of jobs are most common in Brownsville? Jobs & Economy 1 answer

Brownsville’s economy features a mix of manufacturing, logistics, and service positions. The port and transportation corridors create demand for warehouse, shipping, and supply‑chain roles. Additionally, retail, healthcare, and education sectors offer employment opportunities. For a detailed view, check local job boards and the city’s economic development portal to see current openings and industry trends.

What healthcare facilities are nearby for family needs? Healthcare 1 answer

Brownsville hosts several hospitals and specialty clinics that provide a range of services, including primary care, emergency care, and specialized treatments. The city’s health department website lists facility locations, services offered, and contact information. Checking patient reviews and insurance coverage can help you choose the best option for your needs.

What are the top free attractions to visit in Brownsville? Things to Do 1 answer

Brownsville offers several free or low‑cost attractions such as local parks, botanical gardens, and historic sites that open to the public. The city’s tourism office provides a calendar of events, including festivals, outdoor concerts, and community gatherings. Visiting these venues can give you a sense of the local culture without a large expense.

What should I know about moving to Brownsville during the summer? Moving Here 1 answer

Summer in Brownsville can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F. Plan your move for early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat. Pack light, keep water supplies, and schedule any heavy lifting or loading during cooler parts of the day. Also, check weather forecasts and local advisories for any heat‑related alerts.

Is Brownsville a good place for retirees? General 1 answer

Brownsville offers a relatively low cost of living, moderate housing prices, and a range of recreational activities suitable for retirees. The city has senior centers, parks, and community programs that cater to older adults. Additionally, the mild winter climate allows for year‑round outdoor activities. For more specific information on senior services, consult the city’s senior affairs office or local community grou...

Some answers here were drafted as a starting point and may be out of date. Live in Brownsville? Add your own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Urblytica benchmarks its Cost of Living Index against a United States national average baseline of 100. A score of 115 means a city is approximately 15% more expensive than the national average, while a score of 85 indicates it is 15% more affordable. This composite calculation is weighted across six primary expenditure categories: housing, utilities, grocery items, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods.

Urblytica aggregates housing data from multiple authoritative sources, including Multiple Listing Service (MLS) feeds, municipal property tax registries, the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS), and verified historical deed transactions. This multi-tier aggregation ensures precision in tracking median home values and rental rates.

A municipality must meet minimum data-density thresholds—including consistent reporting population samples from the U.S. Census and active residential or commercial real estate transaction feeds—to ensure statistical significance before a complete scoring profile is published.

When primary agencies (such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics or U.S. Census Bureau) issue historical data revisions or benchmark corrections, Urblytica's data pipeline automatically re-indexes affected historical archives to maintain longitudinal trend accuracy.

U.S. affordability calculations incorporate federal income tax brackets, state-specific income tax rates, and local municipal tax variations to evaluate the true net tax drag on median household earnings across different states and cities.

Local county and municipal property tax millage rates are factored directly into the housing component of the cost-of-living index to reflect recurring annual tax burdens for homeowners.

The platform aggregates state sales taxes alongside county and city surtaxes to measure consumer basket purchasing power parity accurately across different retail jurisdictions.

Utility calculations apply regional seasonal consumption weightings, incorporating high summer air conditioning loads in southern states and heavy winter heating demands in northern states.

The index tracks average out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, routine outpatient visit costs, and regional health insurance premium benchmarks published by federal health agencies.

Educational metrics aggregate state standardized testing benchmarks, student-to-teacher ratios, high school graduation rates, and per-pupil expenditure data published by state departments of education.

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