San Marcos named one of 'least expensive' cities

SAN MARCOS, Texas (KXAN) - San Marcos was one of the cities named on the "least expensive cities" list, according to a new report by the Council for Community and Economic Research.

The 2012 Cost of Living Index includes 300 urban areas across the United States and ranks cities from most expensive to least expensive.

San Marcos took 10th place on the list, according to the report.

Two other Texas cities made the list: Harlingen was ranked No. 1 and McAllen came in at No. 3.

"This ranking demonstrates that San Marcos not only has a fantastic quality of life and great educational opportunities -- we also are highly competitive when it comes to the price of housing, utilities, health care, transportation, groceries, goods and services," said Mayor Daniel Guerrero. "Our affordable cost of living adds to the appeal of our community and the benefits of living here."

The most expensive urban areas were New York (Manhattan), New York (Brooklyn), Honolulu, San Francisco, San Jose, New York (Queens), Stamford, Conn., Washington DC., Framingham-Natick, MA., and Orange County, Calif.

Along with being one of the least expensive cities, San Marcos was also named "One of the best places to raise children" by Businessweek magazine. It was also named one of the top "family friendly" places by Ebony Magazine.

San Marcos also continues to be one of the top tourist destinations in Texas.