Cost of Living: Austin, TX vs Allen, TX (2026)

Austin

Texas
134
VS

Allen

Texas
137

Austin is 2% cheaper than Allen.

$1,655/mo ↓ 12%
Median Rent
$1,877/mo ↑ 13%
$91,461/yr ↓ 29%
Median Income
$129,130/yr ↑ 41%
$512,700 ↑ 19%
Home Value
$429,900 ↓ 16%
$1,747/mo ↓ 16%
Owner Costs
$2,083/mo ↑ 19%
967,862
Population
107,684

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
0%
6.25%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
1.6%
Property Tax
1.6%

Affordability

21.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
17.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Austin, TX and Allen, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 134 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $222/month cheaper in Austin, saving renters about $2,664/year.

Median household income is $37,669/year higher in Allen. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Austin is $512,700 compared to $429,900 in Allen.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Austin vs Allen — common questions

Is Austin or Allen cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Austin is cheaper to live in with an index of 134 compared to 137 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Austin and Allen?
Median rent in Austin is $1,655/month and in Allen it's $1,877/month — a difference of $222/month.
Which city has higher income, Austin or Allen?
Median household income is $91,461 in Austin and $129,130 in Allen. Median household income is $37,669/year higher in Allen.
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 Austin or Allen?
It depends on your priorities. Austin has a cost index of 134 with median rent of $1,655/mo, while Allen has a cost index of 137 with rent of $1,877/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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