Articles
April 5, 2023

The History of Harlingen and Its Connection to the Corporate Housing Market

Explore Harlingen's historical roots and discover how its past has shaped the city's corporate housing market for visiting professionals.

BlueCoop Corporate Housing in McAllen, Edinburg, Pharr, Mission, Weslaco, and Harlingen Texas

Harlingen's RIch Historical Roots

Harlingen, a city steeped in history and situated in the middle of the Rio Grande Valley, has experienced significant growth and development throughout the years. Founded in the early 20th century, Harlingen's strategic location and vibrant culture have contributed to its evolution into a thriving business hub, creating a strong demand for corporate housing. In this article, we'll explore Harlingen's rich history and how it has shaped the city's corporate housing market.

The Early Days of Harlingen

Harlingen was founded in 1904 by Lon C. Hill, a visionary who saw the potential in the area's fertile land and advantageous position along the Rio Grande River. The city was named after the Dutch city of Harlingen, as the region's canal system reminded Hill of the Netherlands. Initially, Harlingen's economy was primarily based on agriculture, with the city becoming a major center for citrus production and processing.

The Arrival of the Railroad

The arrival of the St. Louis, Brownsville, and Mexico Railway in 1904 was a turning point for Harlingen. The railroad connected the city to other markets in Texas and beyond, allowing for the export of agricultural products and the import of goods and people. This connection to the wider world spurred economic growth and development in the city, attracting new businesses and residents.

The Military Influence

During World War II, Harlingen was chosen as the site for the Harlingen Army Airfield, which later became the Harlingen Air Force Base. This military presence brought a new wave of growth to the city, as service members and their families moved to the area. Although the base closed in the early 1960s, its impact on Harlingen's development and infrastructure is still evident today.

History - Valley International Airport

Harlingen's Modern Transformation

Over the years, Harlingen has transformed from a predominantly agricultural community into a diverse city with a strong business sector. Today, Harlingen is home to a variety of industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and retail. The city's strategic location along major highways and its proximity to the Mexican border make it an attractive destination for businesses seeking to capitalize on international trade opportunities.

The Evolution of Corporate Housing in Harlingen

As Harlingen's business sector has grown, so too has the demand for corporate housing. Professionals and their families seeking temporary accommodations have found corporate housing to be a more comfortable and convenient alternative to traditional hotels. This has led to the development of a robust corporate housing market in Harlingen, offering a wide range of options to cater to different needs and preferences.

Corporate housing in Harlingen provides numerous benefits, such as:
  1. Spacious accommodations: Corporate housing units often come fully furnished and offer more space than typical hotel rooms, including separate living, dining, and sleeping areas.
  2. Home-like amenities: Corporate housing often includes features like fully-equipped kitchens, in-unit laundry facilities, and high-speed internet access, making extended stays more comfortable and convenient.
  3. Flexible lease terms: Unlike traditional rental properties, corporate housing typically offers flexible lease terms, allowing professionals to find accommodations that suit their temporary stay requirements.
  4. Cost-effectiveness: Corporate housing often provides better value for money compared to extended stays in hotels, especially when considering the additional space and amenities available.
Harlingen being situation in the middle of the Rio Grande Valley makes it perfect for those who have business all over the Valley.

Connecting Harlingen's History to the Corporate Housing Market

Harlingen's rich history and strategic location have contributed to its evolution into a thriving business hub, creating a strong demand for corporate housing. Professionals seeking temporary accommodations in the city can find a wide range of options that cater to their needs, offering a comfortable and convenient home away from home during their stay. As Harlingen continues to grow and attract new businesses, the corporate housing market is well-positioned to meet the needs of the city's