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

Austin

Texas
134
VS

Denton

Texas
100

Austin is 34% more expensive than Denton.

$1,655/mo ↑ 23%
Median Rent
$1,344/mo ↓ 19%
$91,461/yr ↑ 24%
Median Income
$73,719/yr ↓ 19%
$512,700 ↑ 57%
Home Value
$325,700 ↓ 36%
$1,747/mo ↑ 20%
Owner Costs
$1,461/mo ↓ 16%
967,862
Population
146,987

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
21.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Austin, TX and Denton, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 134 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $311/month cheaper in Denton, saving renters about $3,732/year.

Median household income is $17,742/year higher in Austin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Austin is $512,700 compared to $325,700 in Denton.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Austin vs Denton — common questions

Is Austin or Denton cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Denton is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 134 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Austin and Denton?
Median rent in Austin is $1,655/month and in Denton it's $1,344/month — a difference of $311/month.
Which city has higher income, Austin or Denton?
Median household income is $91,461 in Austin and $73,719 in Denton. Median household income is $17,742/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 Denton?
It depends on your priorities. Austin has a cost index of 134 with median rent of $1,655/mo, while Denton has a cost index of 100 with rent of $1,344/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Austin details → View Denton details →

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