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

Arlington

Texas
95
VS

Plano

Texas
132

Arlington is 28% cheaper than Plano.

$1,389/mo ↓ 22%
Median Rent
$1,792/mo ↑ 29%
$73,519/yr ↓ 32%
Median Income
$108,649/yr ↑ 48%
$276,400 ↓ 37%
Home Value
$440,600 ↑ 59%
$1,420/mo ↓ 22%
Owner Costs
$1,829/mo ↑ 29%
394,769
Population
287,339

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
19.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Arlington, TX and Plano, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 95 and 132 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $403/month cheaper in Arlington, saving renters about $4,836/year.

Median household income is $35,130/year higher in Plano. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Arlington is $276,400 compared to $440,600 in Plano.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Arlington vs Plano — common questions

Is Arlington or Plano cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Arlington is cheaper to live in with an index of 95 compared to 132 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Arlington and Plano?
Median rent in Arlington is $1,389/month and in Plano it's $1,792/month — a difference of $403/month.
Which city has higher income, Arlington or Plano?
Median household income is $73,519 in Arlington and $108,649 in Plano. Median household income is $35,130/year higher in Plano.
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 Plano?
It depends on your priorities. Arlington has a cost index of 95 with median rent of $1,389/mo, while Plano has a cost index of 132 with rent of $1,792/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Arlington details → View Plano details →

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