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

Austin

Texas
134
VS

Killeen

Texas
75

Austin is 79% more expensive than Killeen.

$1,655/mo ↑ 44%
Median Rent
$1,147/mo ↓ 31%
$91,461/yr ↑ 57%
Median Income
$58,339/yr ↓ 36%
$512,700 ↑ 162%
Home Value
$196,000 ↓ 62%
$1,747/mo ↑ 49%
Owner Costs
$1,176/mo ↓ 33%
967,862
Population
156,144

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
23.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Austin, TX and Killeen, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 134 and 75 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $508/month cheaper in Killeen, saving renters about $6,096/year.

Median household income is $33,122/year higher in Austin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Austin is $512,700 compared to $196,000 in Killeen.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Austin vs Killeen — common questions

Is Austin or Killeen cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Killeen is cheaper to live in with an index of 75 compared to 134 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Austin and Killeen?
Median rent in Austin is $1,655/month and in Killeen it's $1,147/month — a difference of $508/month.
Which city has higher income, Austin or Killeen?
Median household income is $91,461 in Austin and $58,339 in Killeen. Median household income is $33,122/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 Killeen?
It depends on your priorities. Austin has a cost index of 134 with median rent of $1,655/mo, while Killeen has a cost index of 75 with rent of $1,147/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Austin details → View Killeen details →

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