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

Arlington

Texas
95
VS

Midland

Texas
99

Arlington is 4% cheaper than Midland.

$1,389/mo ↓ 1%
Median Rent
$1,407/mo ↑ 1%
$73,519/yr ↓ 19%
Median Income
$91,169/yr ↑ 24%
$276,400 ↓ 7%
Home Value
$298,600 ↑ 8%
$1,420/mo ↓ 3%
Owner Costs
$1,468/mo ↑ 3%
394,769
Population
133,998

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
18.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Arlington, TX and Midland, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 95 and 99 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $17,650/year higher in Midland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Arlington is $276,400 compared to $298,600 in Midland.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Arlington vs Midland — common questions

Is Arlington or Midland cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Arlington is cheaper to live in with an index of 95 compared to 99 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Arlington and Midland?
Median rent in Arlington is $1,389/month and in Midland it's $1,407/month — a difference of $18/month.
Which city has higher income, Arlington or Midland?
Median household income is $73,519 in Arlington and $91,169 in Midland. Median household income is $17,650/year higher in Midland.
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 Midland?
It depends on your priorities. Arlington has a cost index of 95 with median rent of $1,389/mo, while Midland has a cost index of 99 with rent of $1,407/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Arlington details → View Midland details →

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