City Profile
Laredo, Texas
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Laredo, situated in South Texas along the banks of the Rio Grande, is one of the fastest-growing inland ports in the United States and a vital hub for international trade. Founded in 1755 by Tomás Sánchez, the city boasts a rich Hispanic heritage and a unique cross-cultural identity heavily influenced by its immediate neighbor across the border, Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. Today, Laredo serves as the premier land port of entry for trade between the US and Mexico, driving a dynamic economy centered around logistics, freight forwarding, and customs brokerage.
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.
How this 70/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 78 / 100 | 78.0 | 30% | 23.4 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 84.0 | 63.8 | 25% | 15.9 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $58,500 Income needed to live here: $42,000 Unemployment rate: 3.9% | 75.2 | 20% | 15.0 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 0.8% Job growth rate: 2.4% | 56.5 | 15% | 8.5 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 75 / 100 | 75.0 | 10% | 7.5 |
| Overall score | 70.3 | |||
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.
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Cost of Living
The cost of living in Laredo is notably lower than the national average, making it an attractive destination for families and professionals seeking affordability. Housing costs, utilities, and everyday goods and services consistently trend below US benchmarks, allowing residents to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the intense financial pressures found in larger metropolitan areas. This favorable cost structure extends to local dining, services, and property taxes relative to other Texas economic hubs.
Income
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Laredo's economy is anchored by international trade, transportation, warehousing, and government services. As the nation's largest inland port, the logistics and freight sector employs a massive portion of the workforce, supported by major customs brokers, trucking fleets, and international shipping firms. Additional economic pillars include retail trade, healthcare, and education through institutions like Texas A&M International University and Laredo College.
The average salary in Laredo is $48,000 per year. You would need approximately $42,000 to live comfortably.
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Laredo is primarily a car-dependent city, with an extensive network of highways and interstate access via I-35 connecting the region directly to San Antonio and the US interior. Public transportation is served by El Metro, which operates fixed bus routes throughout the urban core. The city's geography as a major trade corridor means commercial truck traffic is common, though local infrastructure continues to expand to manage freight and commuter flow efficiently.
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