San Antonio, TX vs Austin, TX: 82 vs 134

$1,258/mo ↓ 24%

Median Rent

$1,655/mo ↑ 32%

$62,917/yr ↓ 31%

Median Income

$91,461/yr ↑ 45%

$219,700 ↓ 57%

Home Value

$512,700 ↑ 133%

$1,235/mo ↓ 29%

Owner Costs

$1,747/mo ↑ 41%

1,458,954

Population

967,862

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Antonio, TX and Austin, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 82 and 134 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $397/month cheaper in San Antonio, saving renters about $4,764/year.

Median household income is $28,544/year higher in Austin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Antonio is $219,700 compared to $512,700 in Austin.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Antonio vs Austin — common questions

Is San Antonio or Austin cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, San Antonio is cheaper to live in with an index of 82 compared to 134 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Antonio and Austin?

Median rent in San Antonio is $1,258/month and in Austin it's $1,655/month — a difference of $397/month.

Which city has higher income, San Antonio or Austin?

Median household income is $62,917 in San Antonio and $91,461 in Austin. Median household income is $28,544/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 San Antonio or Austin?

It depends on your priorities. San Antonio has a cost index of 82 with median rent of $1,258/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.

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

San Antonio

Austin

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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