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

Austin

Texas
134
VS

Arlington

Texas
95

Austin is 41% more expensive than Arlington.

$1,655/mo ↑ 19%
Median Rent
$1,389/mo ↓ 16%
$91,461/yr ↑ 24%
Median Income
$73,519/yr ↓ 20%
$512,700 ↑ 85%
Home Value
$276,400 ↓ 46%
$1,747/mo ↑ 23%
Owner Costs
$1,420/mo ↓ 19%
967,862
Population
394,769

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
22.7%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Austin, TX and Arlington, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 134 and 95 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $266/month cheaper in Arlington, saving renters about $3,192/year.

Median household income is $17,942/year higher in Austin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Austin is $512,700 compared to $276,400 in Arlington.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Austin vs Arlington — common questions

Is Austin or Arlington cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Arlington is cheaper to live in with an index of 95 compared to 134 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Austin and Arlington?
Median rent in Austin is $1,655/month and in Arlington it's $1,389/month — a difference of $266/month.
Which city has higher income, Austin or Arlington?
Median household income is $91,461 in Austin and $73,519 in Arlington. Median household income is $17,942/year higher in Austin.
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 Arlington?
It depends on your priorities. Austin has a cost index of 134 with median rent of $1,655/mo, while Arlington has a cost index of 95 with rent of $1,389/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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