Austin vs Orlando: cost of living compared
Orlando is 11% cheaper than Austin overall. Neither TX nor FL 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
Comparing Austin and Orlando reveals a noticeable difference in overall living costs. Austin is generally more expensive across the board, with housing being the primary driver of this disparity. While some categories show a smaller gap, the cumulative effect makes Austin the pricier option for residents. This overall cost difference is a key factor for anyone considering a move between these two dynamic cities.
Housing
Housing costs present a significant contrast, with Austin being considerably more expensive for both home purchases and rental properties. In Orlando, while housing is more affordable, potential homeowners should factor in higher insurance premiums, including flood coverage, and the prevalence of community association fees. Property taxes in Florida also reset to market value upon sale, which can impact a new owner's budget.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses for transportation, groceries, healthcare, and utilities are generally more favorable in Orlando. Both states benefit from not having a state income tax, which can be a significant advantage. However, the costs associated with getting around, feeding a household, and managing health and home utilities tend to be lower in Orlando, contributing to a more affordable daily spending experience.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, a move between these metros involves lifestyle shifts. Austin offers a drier, more inland climate, while Orlando has a subtropical environment with distinct wet and dry seasons, including hurricane risks during warmer months. Both cities are car-dependent, though Orlando's traffic can feel less congested. Orlando's development often includes master-planned communities, contrasting with Austin's more organic growth.
Bottom line
For those weighing Austin against Orlando, the financial impact is clear: Orlando generally offers a more budget-friendly environment. The most substantial savings are found in housing, but everyday expenses also contribute to a lower cost of living. While both cities offer unique appeal, a household's budget will stretch further in Orlando, even with considerations like higher insurance costs for homeowners.
| Measure | Austin, TX | Orlando, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 118 | 105 |
| Housing index | 132 | 104 |
| Transportation index | 109 | 104 |
| Food index | 102 | 98 |
| Healthcare index | 102 | 98 |
| Utilities index | 112 | 108 |
| Misc index | 102 | 92 |
| Median home price | $498,000 | $358,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,750/mo | $1,650/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 Orlando home with the True Cost Calculator.