Where is Elsa, Texas

Written and Fact-checked by | Updated On: August 5, 2026

Elsa is a city in the Rio Grande Valley of South Texas, located in Hidalgo County about 30 miles northwest of McAllen. The community sits in the fertile Lower Rio Grande Valley and is surrounded by agricultural land and citrus-growing areas. Elsa is known for its strong farming heritage, close-knit neighborhoods, and location near major Valley cities and wildlife areas.

Location Map of Elsa, Hidalgo County, Texas

Where is Elsa Located in Hidalgo County, Texas

About Map: The map shows the location of Elsa in Hidalgo County, in the U.S. state of Texas.

Elsa Map, Texas

About Elsa Map: The Google Map highlights the location of Elsa in Hidalgo County, Texas. Use the zoom, satellite, and street-view options to explore the city's neighborhoods, roads, and nearby places.

Where is Elsa Located?

Elsa is a city located in Hidalgo County, Texas, the United States. It lies in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of South Texas, about 30 miles northwest of McAllen and roughly 20 miles east of Edinburg. Weslaco is about 15 miles southeast, while Mercedes is approximately 12 miles south. Elsa is located at approximately 26.29° North latitude and 97.99° West longitude. The 2020 Census recorded 5,728 residents. The city covers about 1.85 square miles, or 4.79 square kilometers. Elsa developed as an agricultural community in the early 20th century and remains closely connected to farming and produce production. The surrounding Lower Rio Grande Valley is known for citrus groves, vegetables, sugarcane, and other crops. Nearby natural attractions include the Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge and the Rio Grande, both of which support a wide range of birds and wildlife. Elsa's location provides convenient access to McAllen, Edinburg, Weslaco, and other communities across the Rio Grande Valley.

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Elsa City Facts

FactDetails
CityElsa
StateTexas
CountyHidalgo County
CountryUnited States
RegionRio Grande Valley, South Texas
Incorporated1940
Founded1927
Total Area1.85 sq mi (4.79 sq km)
Land Area1.84 sq mi (4.77 sq km)
Water Area0.01 sq mi (0.03 sq km)
ElevationAbout 59 feet (18 m)
Population (2023 estimate)Approximately 5,800
Population (2020 Census)5,728
Population Density3,113 people per sq mi
Time ZoneCentral Time Zone (CST/CDT)
ZIP Codes78543
Area Code956
Major HighwaysU.S. Route 83, Texas State Highway 107 and Texas State Highway 495 nearby
Public TransitValley Metro public transportation
Major AttractionsSanta Ana National Wildlife Refuge, Rio Grande Valley, Hidalgo County parks, nearby citrus-growing areas
Official Websitehttps://www.cityofelsa.net/

Distance from Elsa, TX to Nearby Cities

  • Edcouch, TX – 2 miles (3 km)
  • La Villa, TX – 4 miles (6 km)
  • Monte Alto, TX – 6 miles (10 km)
  • Edinburg, TX – 20 miles (32 km)
  • Weslaco, TX – 15 miles (24 km)
  • Mercedes, TX – 12 miles (19 km)
  • Donna, TX – 12 miles (19 km)
  • San Juan, TX – 22 miles (35 km)
  • Pharr, TX – 24 miles (39 km)
  • McAllen, TX – 30 miles (48 km)
  • Harlingen, TX – 35 miles (56 km)
  • Mission, TX – 34 miles (55 km)
  • Raymondville, TX – 38 miles (61 km)
  • Brownsville, TX – 55 miles (89 km)
  • South Padre Island, TX – 60 miles (97 km)
  • Rio Grande City, TX – 62 miles (100 km)
  • Laredo, TX – 125 miles (201 km)
  • Corpus Christi, TX – 145 miles (233 km)
  • San Antonio, TX – 275 miles (443 km)
  • Houston, TX – 320 miles (515 km)

Top Attractions in Elsa

  • Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge – A major wildlife refuge in the Rio Grande Valley known for birdwatching, hiking trails, native plants, and diverse wildlife.
  • Rio Grande Valley – The surrounding region offers birding, nature trails, citrus groves, and agricultural landscapes.
  • Rio Grande – The river forms the international border farther south and supports wildlife habitats and outdoor recreation throughout the Valley.
  • Hidalgo County Historical Museum – A nearby museum in Edinburg preserving the history and culture of the Rio Grande Valley.
  • Quinta Mazatlan World Birding Center – A historic estate and birding destination in nearby McAllen with gardens and native wildlife habitat.
  • Estero Llano Grande State Park – A nearby state park in Weslaco featuring wetlands, walking trails, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing.
  • World Birding Center – A network of nature sites across the Rio Grande Valley that provides excellent opportunities to see native and migratory birds.
  • National Butterfly Center – A major butterfly habitat and nature destination near Mission featuring gardens, trails, and native Valley plants.
  • McAllen Nature Center – A natural area in McAllen with trails and native South Texas habitat.

Airports Near Elsa

  • Mid Valley Airport (T65) – 11 miles
  • Valley International Airport (HRL) – 35 miles
  • McAllen International Airport (MFE) – 32 miles
  • Edinburg International Airport (EBG) – 22 miles
  • Brownsville/South Padre Island International Airport (BRO) – 59 miles

Sources:

Population and area data sourced from the United States Census Bureau (2020 Census). General city information referenced from the official Elsa city website and local government records.

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