Cost of Living: Garland, TX vs Allen, TX (2026)

Garland

Texas
96
VS

Allen

Texas
137

Garland is 30% cheaper than Allen.

$1,525/mo ↓ 19%
Median Rent
$1,877/mo ↑ 23%
$74,717/yr ↓ 42%
Median Income
$129,130/yr ↑ 73%
$248,900 ↓ 42%
Home Value
$429,900 ↑ 73%
$1,445/mo ↓ 31%
Owner Costs
$2,083/mo ↑ 44%
245,298
Population
107,684

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

24.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
17.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Garland, TX and Allen, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 96 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $352/month cheaper in Garland, saving renters about $4,224/year.

Median household income is $54,413/year higher in Allen. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Garland is $248,900 compared to $429,900 in Allen.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Garland vs Allen — common questions

Is Garland or Allen cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Garland is cheaper to live in with an index of 96 compared to 137 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Garland and Allen?
Median rent in Garland is $1,525/month and in Allen it's $1,877/month — a difference of $352/month.
Which city has higher income, Garland or Allen?
Median household income is $74,717 in Garland and $129,130 in Allen. Median household income is $54,413/year higher in Allen.
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 Garland or Allen?
It depends on your priorities. Garland has a cost index of 96 with median rent of $1,525/mo, while Allen has a cost index of 137 with rent of $1,877/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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