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

Arlington

Texas
95
VS

Denton

Texas
100

Arlington is 5% cheaper than Denton.

$1,389/mo ↑ 3%
Median Rent
$1,344/mo ↓ 3%
$73,519/yr ≈ Same
Median Income
$73,719/yr ≈ Same
$276,400 ↓ 15%
Home Value
$325,700 ↑ 18%
$1,420/mo ↓ 3%
Owner Costs
$1,461/mo ↑ 3%
394,769
Population
146,987

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
21.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Arlington, TX and Denton, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 95 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $200/year higher in Denton. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Arlington is $276,400 compared to $325,700 in Denton.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Arlington vs Denton — common questions

Is Arlington or Denton cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Arlington is cheaper to live in with an index of 95 compared to 100 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Arlington and Denton?
Median rent in Arlington is $1,389/month and in Denton it's $1,344/month — a difference of $45/month.
Which city has higher income, Arlington or Denton?
Median household income is $73,519 in Arlington and $73,719 in Denton. Median household income is $200/year higher in Denton.
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 Denton?
It depends on your priorities. Arlington has a cost index of 95 with median rent of $1,389/mo, while Denton has a cost index of 100 with rent of $1,344/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Arlington details → View Denton details →

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