Austin, TX vs Long Beach, CA: 134 vs 169

$1,655/mo ↓ 8%

Median Rent

$1,803/mo ↑ 9%

$91,461/yr ↑ 9%

Median Income

$83,969/yr ↓ 8%

$512,700 ↓ 33%

Home Value

$762,200 ↑ 49%

$1,747/mo ↓ 8%

Owner Costs

$1,890/mo ↑ 8%

967,862

Population

458,491

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Austin, TX and Long Beach, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 134 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $148/month cheaper in Austin, saving renters about $1,776/year.

Median household income is $7,492/year higher in Austin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Austin is $512,700 compared to $762,200 in Long Beach.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Austin residents a significant tax advantage over California's 13.3% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Austin vs Long Beach — common questions

Is Austin or Long Beach cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Austin is cheaper to live in with an index of 134 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Austin and Long Beach?

Median rent in Austin is $1,655/month and in Long Beach it's $1,803/month — a difference of $148/month.

Which city has higher income, Austin or Long Beach?

Median household income is $91,461 in Austin and $83,969 in Long Beach. Median household income is $7,492/year higher in Austin.

How do taxes compare between Texas and California?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Austin or Long Beach?

It depends on your priorities. Austin has a cost index of 134 with median rent of $1,655/mo, while Long Beach has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,803/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Austin, TX vs Long Beach, CA (2026)

Austin

Long Beach

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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