San Antonio, TX vs Arlington, TX: 82 vs 95

$1,258/mo ↓ 9%

Median Rent

$1,389/mo ↑ 10%

$62,917/yr ↓ 14%

Median Income

$73,519/yr ↑ 17%

$219,700 ↓ 21%

Home Value

$276,400 ↑ 26%

$1,235/mo ↓ 13%

Owner Costs

$1,420/mo ↑ 15%

1,458,954

Population

394,769

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Antonio, TX and Arlington, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 82 and 95 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $131/month cheaper in San Antonio, saving renters about $1,572/year.

Median household income is $10,602/year higher in Arlington. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Antonio is $219,700 compared to $276,400 in Arlington.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Antonio vs Arlington — common questions

Is San Antonio or Arlington cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, San Antonio is cheaper to live in with an index of 82 compared to 95 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Antonio and Arlington?

Median rent in San Antonio is $1,258/month and in Arlington it's $1,389/month — a difference of $131/month.

Which city has higher income, San Antonio or Arlington?

Median household income is $62,917 in San Antonio and $73,519 in Arlington. Median household income is $10,602/year higher in Arlington.

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 San Antonio or Arlington?

It depends on your priorities. San Antonio has a cost index of 82 with median rent of $1,258/mo, while Arlington has a cost index of 95 with rent of $1,389/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: San Antonio, TX vs Arlington, TX (2026)

San Antonio

Arlington

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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