Austin vs Dallas: cost of living compared
Dallas is 11% cheaper than Austin overall. Neither TX nor TX has a state income tax.
Indexes use a US average of 100: below 100 is cheaper than the national average. Housing and transportation are derived from median home prices, rents and commute times; figures come from BLS, Census ACS, Numbeo and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.
The big picture
Austin generally presents a higher cost of living compared to Dallas. The overall expenses in Austin are noticeably greater than the national average, while Dallas is closer to the national benchmark. This difference is primarily driven by housing costs, which are significantly higher in Austin. Other categories like transportation and utilities also contribute to Austin's pricier environment, making it a more expensive place to reside overall.
Housing
Housing is where the most substantial cost difference lies. Both buying a home and renting a one-bedroom apartment are considerably more expensive in Austin than in Dallas. Dallas offers housing costs that are roughly in line with the national average, whereas Austin's housing expenses are well above it. While Texas has no state income tax, property taxes can be a significant ownership cost in both metros, alongside insurance and potential HOA fees.
Taxes and everyday costs
When it comes to daily expenses, Dallas tends to be more budget-friendly. Food and miscellaneous goods and services are somewhat cheaper in Dallas, while healthcare costs are roughly similar in both cities. Transportation expenses are higher in Austin, though both metros rely heavily on personal vehicles. Utilities are also more expensive in Austin. Neither city has a state income tax, which is a consistent benefit for residents in both locations.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Austin is known for its rolling hills and a more relaxed, outdoors-oriented vibe, often with a slightly more humid climate. Dallas, a larger metropolitan area, offers a more urban, sprawling environment with a generally flatter landscape. Both cities experience hot summers, but Dallas can have slightly more extreme weather. Getting around in both metros typically requires a car, though Dallas has a more extensive public transit system. Commute times are comparable, but Dallas's larger footprint can mean longer distances.
Bottom line
Moving between these two Texas metros will have a clear impact on your household budget. A move to Austin from Dallas would likely mean a noticeable increase in overall expenses, primarily due to significantly higher housing costs. Conversely, relocating from Austin to Dallas would generally result in more affordable living, particularly for housing. For other categories like food, utilities, and transportation, Dallas also offers some savings, making it the more economical choice.
| Measure | Austin, TX | Dallas, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 118 | 105 |
| Housing index | 132 | 99 |
| Transportation index | 109 | 104 |
| Food index | 102 | 98 |
| Healthcare index | 102 | 102 |
| Utilities index | 112 | 105 |
| Misc index | 102 | 98 |
| Median home price | $498,000 | $358,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,750/mo | $1,450/mo |
| Average commute | 30 min | 29 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Dallas home with the True Cost Calculator.