Pharr鈥檚 ranking as the best small city for working women is aided by the fact that female employees here earn 112 percent of men鈥檚 average income. Housing costs are also extremely low in Pharr. The city has a growing population base and experienced a 10 percent increase between 2009 and 2011. Due to its close proximity to the Mexico border, Pharr acts as an international gateway for trade and commerce.
John Clanton/AP,Tulsa World/File
In this photo taken on Thursday, May 29, 2014, English teacher Loretta Hight packs up folders in her classroom at Sapulpa High School in Sapulpa, Olka. In Pharr, Texas, women make 112 percent more than men.