Austin vs Salt Lake City: cost of living compared
Salt Lake City is 8% cheaper than Austin overall. Austin (TX) has no state income tax; UT tops out around 4.65%.
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 Salt Lake City reveals a noticeable difference in overall cost of living. Austin tends to be more expensive across the board, with housing costs being a significant factor contributing to this difference. While some categories show only a slight variation, others present a more substantial gap, making Salt Lake City generally more budget-friendly. This overall trend is consistent across most spending areas, impacting a household's financial planning.
Housing
When it comes to housing, Austin's rental market is noticeably more expensive for a typical one-bedroom unit, though median home purchase prices are roughly similar in both metros. The cost of owning a home, including property taxes and insurance, can vary significantly. Austin's housing index is higher, suggesting that other housing-related expenses or the broader market dynamics contribute to a greater overall cost compared to Salt Lake City.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses show Salt Lake City as generally more affordable. Transportation costs are noticeably lower there, and utilities, food, and healthcare also tend to be less expensive. A key financial difference is state income tax; Utah has one, while Texas does not, which can impact take-home pay. These factors combine to make routine spending in Salt Lake City generally more economical than in Austin.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, lifestyle differences are notable. Austin offers a warm, often humid climate with a bustling, fast-paced atmosphere, known for its vibrant cultural scene and tech industry. Salt Lake City, nestled near mountains, experiences distinct four seasons with drier air, offering abundant outdoor recreation and a generally more relaxed pace. Commute times are typically shorter in Salt Lake City, influencing daily routines and travel.
Bottom line
For those weighing a move, Salt Lake City generally offers a more economical daily existence, primarily driven by lower costs for transportation, utilities, and a more affordable rental market. While median home purchase prices are comparable, the absence of state income tax in Austin could offset some other higher costs for certain households. Ultimately, the choice depends on prioritizing overall budget savings versus specific lifestyle preferences and climate considerations.
| Measure | Austin, TX | Salt Lake City, UT |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 118 | 108 |
| Housing index | 132 | 127 |
| Transportation index | 109 | 89 |
| Food index | 102 | 98 |
| Healthcare index | 102 | 98 |
| Utilities index | 112 | 95 |
| Misc index | 102 | 95 |
| Median home price | $498,000 | $498,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,750/mo | $1,550/mo |
| Average commute | 30 min | 24 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Salt Lake City home with the True Cost Calculator.