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

Arlington

Texas
95
VS

Richardson

Texas
128

Arlington is 26% cheaper than Richardson.

$1,389/mo ↓ 24%
Median Rent
$1,825/mo ↑ 31%
$73,519/yr ↓ 24%
Median Income
$96,257/yr ↑ 31%
$276,400 ↓ 32%
Home Value
$405,600 ↑ 47%
$1,420/mo ↓ 21%
Owner Costs
$1,796/mo ↑ 26%
394,769
Population
118,269

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
22.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Arlington, TX and Richardson, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 95 and 128 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $436/month cheaper in Arlington, saving renters about $5,232/year.

Median household income is $22,738/year higher in Richardson. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Arlington is $276,400 compared to $405,600 in Richardson.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Arlington vs Richardson — common questions

Is Arlington or Richardson cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Arlington is cheaper to live in with an index of 95 compared to 128 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Arlington and Richardson?
Median rent in Arlington is $1,389/month and in Richardson it's $1,825/month — a difference of $436/month.
Which city has higher income, Arlington or Richardson?
Median household income is $73,519 in Arlington and $96,257 in Richardson. Median household income is $22,738/year higher in Richardson.
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 Richardson?
It depends on your priorities. Arlington has a cost index of 95 with median rent of $1,389/mo, while Richardson has a cost index of 128 with rent of $1,825/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Arlington details → View Richardson details →

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