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

Garland

Texas
96
VS

McKinney

Texas
138

Garland is 30% cheaper than McKinney.

$1,525/mo ↓ 17%
Median Rent
$1,841/mo ↑ 21%
$74,717/yr ↓ 38%
Median Income
$120,273/yr ↑ 61%
$248,900 ↓ 43%
Home Value
$439,500 ↑ 77%
$1,445/mo ↓ 31%
Owner Costs
$2,101/mo ↑ 45%
245,298
Population
202,314

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
18.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Garland, TX and McKinney, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 96 and 138 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $316/month cheaper in Garland, saving renters about $3,792/year.

Median household income is $45,556/year higher in McKinney. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Garland is $248,900 compared to $439,500 in McKinney.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Garland vs McKinney — common questions

Is Garland or McKinney cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Garland is cheaper to live in with an index of 96 compared to 138 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Garland and McKinney?
Median rent in Garland is $1,525/month and in McKinney it's $1,841/month — a difference of $316/month.
Which city has higher income, Garland or McKinney?
Median household income is $74,717 in Garland and $120,273 in McKinney. Median household income is $45,556/year higher in McKinney.
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 McKinney?
It depends on your priorities. Garland has a cost index of 96 with median rent of $1,525/mo, while McKinney has a cost index of 138 with rent of $1,841/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Garland details → View McKinney details →

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