Austin vs Seattle: cost of living compared
Seattle is 31% more expensive than Austin overall. Neither TX nor WA 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 Seattle reveals a notable difference in the overall cost of living, with Austin presenting a more budget-friendly option. The primary factor driving this disparity is housing, which is considerably more expensive in Seattle. While other categories like transportation and food also show Austin as more affordable, the housing market creates the most significant gap in expenses between these two dynamic cities.
Housing
Housing costs, whether buying or renting, are substantially higher in Seattle compared to Austin. Median home prices in Seattle are much greater, and monthly rents for a one-bedroom apartment also reflect a significant premium. Beyond the mortgage or rent, property taxes and insurance costs can vary, but the initial outlay for housing is a major differentiator. Austin offers a mix of housing types, while Seattle often features more dense urban living.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses generally lean towards Austin being more affordable. Transportation costs are lower in Austin, though average commute times are roughly similar. Food and healthcare expenses are also more favorable in Austin. Interestingly, utilities are a bit more expensive in Austin. Both states do not levy a broad state income tax, which simplifies the tax landscape for residents in either metro.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, a move between these metros brings distinct lifestyle changes. Austin offers a warm climate with hot summers, while Seattle is known for its mild, wet climate and abundant natural beauty. Austin's character often feels more spread out, with a focus on outdoor activities and a vibrant cultural scene. Seattle, conversely, is a denser urban environment with extensive public transit options and a strong connection to its surrounding mountains and water.
Bottom line
For households considering a move between Austin and Seattle, the impact on the budget is substantial. Austin generally offers a more accessible entry point for housing and lower everyday expenses across most categories. While Seattle provides a unique urban experience and access to different natural amenities, its significantly higher cost of living, primarily driven by housing, means a household's financial planning will need to account for a much larger budget to maintain a similar standard of living.
| Measure | Austin, TX | Seattle, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 118 | 155 |
| Housing index | 132 | 192 |
| Transportation index | 109 | 123 |
| Food index | 102 | 112 |
| Healthcare index | 102 | 112 |
| Utilities index | 112 | 105 |
| Misc index | 102 | 118 |
| Median home price | $498,000 | $748,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,750/mo | $2,350/mo |
| Average commute | 30 min | 33 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Seattle home with the True Cost Calculator.