Cost of Living: Abilene, TX vs College Station, TX (2026)

Abilene

Texas
71
VS

College Station

Texas
91

Abilene is 20% cheaper than College Station.

$1,106/mo ↓ 5%
Median Rent
$1,168/mo ↑ 6%
$62,720/yr ↑ 21%
Median Income
$51,776/yr ↓ 17%
$178,900 ↓ 45%
Home Value
$326,500 ↑ 83%
$1,114/mo ↓ 11%
Owner Costs
$1,251/mo ↑ 12%
127,130
Population
122,280

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
0%
6.25%
Sales Tax
6.25%
1.6%
Property Tax
1.6%

Affordability

21.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
27.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Abilene, TX and College Station, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 71 and 91 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $62/month cheaper in Abilene, saving renters about $744/year.

Median household income is $10,944/year higher in Abilene. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Abilene is $178,900 compared to $326,500 in College Station.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Texas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Abilene vs College Station — common questions

Is Abilene or College Station cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Abilene is cheaper to live in with an index of 71 compared to 91 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Abilene and College Station?
Median rent in Abilene is $1,106/month and in College Station it's $1,168/month — a difference of $62/month.
Which city has higher income, Abilene or College Station?
Median household income is $62,720 in Abilene and $51,776 in College Station. Median household income is $10,944/year higher in Abilene.
How do taxes compare between Texas and Texas?
Both cities are in Texas and share the same state tax rates: 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.
Should I move to Abilene or College Station?
It depends on your priorities. Abilene has a cost index of 71 with median rent of $1,106/mo, while College Station has a cost index of 91 with rent of $1,168/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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