Cost of Living: Arlington, TX vs Allen, TX (2026)

Arlington

Texas
95
VS

Allen

Texas
137

Arlington is 31% cheaper than Allen.

$1,389/mo ↓ 26%
Median Rent
$1,877/mo ↑ 35%
$73,519/yr ↓ 43%
Median Income
$129,130/yr ↑ 76%
$276,400 ↓ 36%
Home Value
$429,900 ↑ 56%
$1,420/mo ↓ 32%
Owner Costs
$2,083/mo ↑ 47%
394,769
Population
107,684

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

22.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
17.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Arlington, TX and Allen, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 95 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $488/month cheaper in Arlington, saving renters about $5,856/year.

Median household income is $55,611/year higher in Allen. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Arlington is $276,400 compared to $429,900 in Allen.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Arlington vs Allen — common questions

Is Arlington or Allen cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Arlington is cheaper to live in with an index of 95 compared to 137 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Arlington and Allen?
Median rent in Arlington is $1,389/month and in Allen it's $1,877/month — a difference of $488/month.
Which city has higher income, Arlington or Allen?
Median household income is $73,519 in Arlington and $129,130 in Allen. Median household income is $55,611/year higher in Allen.
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 Arlington or Allen?
It depends on your priorities. Arlington has a cost index of 95 with median rent of $1,389/mo, while Allen has a cost index of 137 with rent of $1,877/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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