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

Dallas

Texas
97
VS

Austin

Texas
134

Dallas is 28% cheaper than Austin.

$1,403/mo ↓ 15%
Median Rent
$1,655/mo ↑ 18%
$67,760/yr ↓ 26%
Median Income
$91,461/yr ↑ 35%
$295,300 ↓ 42%
Home Value
$512,700 ↑ 74%
$1,409/mo ↓ 19%
Owner Costs
$1,747/mo ↑ 24%
1,299,553
Population
967,862

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
0%
6.25%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
1.6%
Property Tax
1.6%

Affordability

24.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.7%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Dallas, TX and Austin, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 97 and 134 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $252/month cheaper in Dallas, saving renters about $3,024/year.

Median household income is $23,701/year higher in Austin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Dallas is $295,300 compared to $512,700 in Austin.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Dallas vs Austin — common questions

Is Dallas or Austin cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Dallas is cheaper to live in with an index of 97 compared to 134 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Dallas and Austin?
Median rent in Dallas is $1,403/month and in Austin it's $1,655/month — a difference of $252/month.
Which city has higher income, Dallas or Austin?
Median household income is $67,760 in Dallas and $91,461 in Austin. Median household income is $23,701/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 Dallas or Austin?
It depends on your priorities. Dallas has a cost index of 97 with median rent of $1,403/mo, while Austin has a cost index of 134 with rent of $1,655/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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