Cost of Living: Abilene, TX vs Downey, CA 2026

$1,106/mo ↓ 42%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 71%

$62,720/yr ↓ 28%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 39%

$178,900 ↓ 75%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 307%

$1,114/mo ↓ 44%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 79%

127,130

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Abilene, TX and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 71 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $786/month cheaper in Abilene, saving renters about $9,432/year.

Median household income is $24,680/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Abilene is $178,900 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Abilene residents a significant tax advantage over California's 13.3% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Abilene vs Downey — common questions

Is Abilene or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Abilene is cheaper to live in with an index of 71 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Abilene and Downey?

Median rent in Abilene is $1,106/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $786/month.

Which city has higher income, Abilene or Downey?

Median household income is $62,720 in Abilene and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $24,680/year higher in Downey.

How do taxes compare between Texas and California?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Abilene or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Abilene has a cost index of 71 with median rent of $1,106/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Abilene, TX vs Downey, CA (2026)

Abilene

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions