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

Arlington

Texas
95
VS

Mesquite

Texas
89

Arlington is 7% more expensive than Mesquite.

$1,389/mo ↓ 1%
Median Rent
$1,407/mo ↑ 1%
$73,519/yr ↑ 2%
Median Income
$71,843/yr ↓ 2%
$276,400 ↑ 22%
Home Value
$226,500 ↓ 18%
$1,420/mo ↑ 3%
Owner Costs
$1,383/mo ↓ 3%
394,769
Population
148,848

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
23.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Arlington, TX and Mesquite, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 95 and 89 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $1,676/year higher in Arlington. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Arlington is $276,400 compared to $226,500 in Mesquite.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Arlington vs Mesquite — common questions

Is Arlington or Mesquite cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Mesquite is cheaper to live in with an index of 89 compared to 95 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Arlington and Mesquite?
Median rent in Arlington is $1,389/month and in Mesquite it's $1,407/month — a difference of $18/month.
Which city has higher income, Arlington or Mesquite?
Median household income is $73,519 in Arlington and $71,843 in Mesquite. Median household income is $1,676/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 Mesquite?
It depends on your priorities. Arlington has a cost index of 95 with median rent of $1,389/mo, while Mesquite has a cost index of 89 with rent of $1,407/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Arlington details → View Mesquite details →

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