La Joya received its name

from a near-by lake which the

Spanish ranchers called La Joya.

La Joya means “the Jewel” in

English. These ranchers, settled in

the area around 1750 and

cultivated the area into a

prosperous farming and ranching

community. The beautiful lakes

are still there, however, many of

the lakes ended up on private

property.

La Joya was established in 1926 but,

due to the Great Depression, became

dormant in 1929.

In 1965 La Joya was incorporated

under Type C-General Law

government. The city is located at the

southwest end of Hidalgo County, on

Expressway 83, as you head

towards the long winding roads of

Starr County.

     Mission Statement

The City of La Joya is committed to providing a safe environment, cost effective facilities, infrastructure and other services that meet the needs of our community. Through well-planned development, our city is committed to ensuring an exceptional quality of life.