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

Arlington

Texas
95
VS

Lubbock

Texas
75

Arlington is 27% more expensive than Lubbock.

$1,389/mo ↑ 22%
Median Rent
$1,137/mo ↓ 18%
$73,519/yr ↑ 22%
Median Income
$60,487/yr ↓ 18%
$276,400 ↑ 40%
Home Value
$197,900 ↓ 28%
$1,420/mo ↑ 20%
Owner Costs
$1,179/mo ↓ 17%
394,769
Population
261,078

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
22.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Arlington, TX and Lubbock, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 95 and 75 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $252/month cheaper in Lubbock, saving renters about $3,024/year.

Median household income is $13,032/year higher in Arlington. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Arlington is $276,400 compared to $197,900 in Lubbock.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Arlington vs Lubbock — common questions

Is Arlington or Lubbock cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Lubbock is cheaper to live in with an index of 75 compared to 95 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Arlington and Lubbock?
Median rent in Arlington is $1,389/month and in Lubbock it's $1,137/month — a difference of $252/month.
Which city has higher income, Arlington or Lubbock?
Median household income is $73,519 in Arlington and $60,487 in Lubbock. Median household income is $13,032/year higher in Arlington.
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 Lubbock?
It depends on your priorities. Arlington has a cost index of 95 with median rent of $1,389/mo, while Lubbock has a cost index of 75 with rent of $1,137/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Arlington details → View Lubbock details →

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