Austin, TX vs Kent, WA: 134 vs 145

$1,655/mo ↓ 10%

Median Rent

$1,833/mo ↑ 11%

$91,461/yr ↑ 1%

Median Income

$90,416/yr ↓ 1%

$512,700 ↓ 5%

Home Value

$537,500 ↑ 5%

$1,747/mo ↓ 9%

Owner Costs

$1,915/mo ↑ 10%

967,862

Population

135,015

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Austin, TX and Kent, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 134 and 145 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $178/month cheaper in Austin, saving renters about $2,136/year.

Median household income is $1,045/year higher in Austin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Austin is $512,700 compared to $537,500 in Kent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Austin vs Kent — common questions

Is Austin or Kent cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Austin is cheaper to live in with an index of 134 compared to 145 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Austin and Kent?

Median rent in Austin is $1,655/month and in Kent it's $1,833/month — a difference of $178/month.

Which city has higher income, Austin or Kent?

Median household income is $91,461 in Austin and $90,416 in Kent. Median household income is $1,045/year higher in Austin.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Washington?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.

Should I move to Austin or Kent?

It depends on your priorities. Austin has a cost index of 134 with median rent of $1,655/mo, while Kent has a cost index of 145 with rent of $1,833/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Austin, TX vs Kent, WA (2026)

Austin

Kent

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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