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

Midland

Texas
99
VS

Odessa

Texas
83

Midland is 16% more expensive than Odessa.

$1,407/mo ↑ 6%
Median Rent
$1,322/mo ↓ 6%
$91,169/yr ↑ 25%
Median Income
$73,030/yr ↓ 20%
$298,600 ↑ 44%
Home Value
$208,000 ↓ 30%
$1,468/mo ↑ 17%
Owner Costs
$1,251/mo ↓ 15%
133,998
Population
114,080

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

18.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.7%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Midland, TX and Odessa, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 99 and 83 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $85/month cheaper in Odessa, saving renters about $1,020/year.

Median household income is $18,139/year higher in Midland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Midland is $298,600 compared to $208,000 in Odessa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Midland vs Odessa — common questions

Is Midland or Odessa cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Odessa is cheaper to live in with an index of 83 compared to 99 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Midland and Odessa?
Median rent in Midland is $1,407/month and in Odessa it's $1,322/month — a difference of $85/month.
Which city has higher income, Midland or Odessa?
Median household income is $91,169 in Midland and $73,030 in Odessa. Median household income is $18,139/year higher in Midland.
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 Midland or Odessa?
It depends on your priorities. Midland has a cost index of 99 with median rent of $1,407/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.
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