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

Austin

Texas
134
VS

Midland

Texas
99

Austin is 35% more expensive than Midland.

$1,655/mo ↑ 18%
Median Rent
$1,407/mo ↓ 15%
$91,461/yr ≈ Same
Median Income
$91,169/yr ≈ Same
$512,700 ↑ 72%
Home Value
$298,600 ↓ 42%
$1,747/mo ↑ 19%
Owner Costs
$1,468/mo ↓ 16%
967,862
Population
133,998

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
18.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Austin, TX and Midland, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 134 and 99 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $248/month cheaper in Midland, saving renters about $2,976/year.

Median household income is $292/year higher in Austin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Austin is $512,700 compared to $298,600 in Midland.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Austin vs Midland — common questions

Is Austin or Midland cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Midland is cheaper to live in with an index of 99 compared to 134 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Austin and Midland?
Median rent in Austin is $1,655/month and in Midland it's $1,407/month — a difference of $248/month.
Which city has higher income, Austin or Midland?
Median household income is $91,461 in Austin and $91,169 in Midland. Median household income is $292/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 Midland?
It depends on your priorities. Austin has a cost index of 134 with median rent of $1,655/mo, while Midland has a cost index of 99 with rent of $1,407/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Austin details → View Midland details →

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