Brownsville, TX vs Odessa, TX: 54 vs 83

$906/mo ↓ 31%

Median Rent

$1,322/mo ↑ 46%

$48,675/yr ↓ 33%

Median Income

$73,030/yr ↑ 50%

$122,400 ↓ 41%

Home Value

$208,000 ↑ 70%

$830/mo ↓ 34%

Owner Costs

$1,251/mo ↑ 51%

188,023

Population

114,080

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Brownsville, TX and Odessa, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 54 and 83 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $416/month cheaper in Brownsville, saving renters about $4,992/year.

Median household income is $24,355/year higher in Odessa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Brownsville is $122,400 compared to $208,000 in Odessa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Brownsville vs Odessa — common questions

Is Brownsville or Odessa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Brownsville is cheaper to live in with an index of 54 compared to 83 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Brownsville and Odessa?

Median rent in Brownsville is $906/month and in Odessa it's $1,322/month — a difference of $416/month.

Which city has higher income, Brownsville or Odessa?

Median household income is $48,675 in Brownsville and $73,030 in Odessa. Median household income is $24,355/year higher in Odessa.

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 Brownsville or Odessa?

It depends on your priorities. Brownsville has a cost index of 54 with median rent of $906/mo, while Odessa has a cost index of 83 with rent of $1,322/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Brownsville, TX vs Odessa, TX (2026)

Brownsville

Odessa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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