Dallas vs Jacksonville: cost of living compared
Jacksonville is 10% cheaper than Dallas 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
Jacksonville generally offers a more affordable cost of living compared to Dallas. The overall difference is noticeable, primarily driven by lower housing expenses in Jacksonville. While some categories like utilities are roughly similar, most other spending areas, including food and transportation, also contribute to Jacksonville's more budget-friendly profile. This makes Jacksonville an attractive option for those seeking to stretch their household budget further.
Housing
Housing costs are a key differentiator, with both median home prices and typical rental rates being lower in Jacksonville. While Dallas housing is close to the national average, Jacksonville's is noticeably below. However, prospective homeowners in Florida should factor in potentially higher homeowners insurance premiums, the possibility of flood insurance, and common community fees. Property taxes in Florida also reset to market value upon sale, impacting new buyers.
Taxes and everyday costs
Both Texas and Florida do not levy a state income tax, which is a significant advantage for residents in either metro. Beyond that, daily expenses for transportation, groceries, and healthcare are generally more affordable in Jacksonville. Utilities, however, are quite similar between the two cities. This means that routine spending on essentials and getting around will typically be less demanding on a household budget in Jacksonville.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Dallas offers a bustling inland experience with a hot, humid climate and a well-developed urban sprawl. Transportation often relies on personal vehicles, with average commutes being slightly longer. Jacksonville, a coastal city, also has a hot, humid climate but with the added influence of the Atlantic. It generally feels less dense, and commutes are typically a bit shorter. Jacksonville residents must also be prepared for hurricane season, which can bring significant weather events.
Bottom line
For those weighing a move, Jacksonville presents a clear advantage in overall affordability, largely due to its more economical housing market. While both metros benefit from no state income tax, daily expenses like food and transportation are also generally lower in Jacksonville. Prospective residents should balance these savings against Florida's specific housing ownership costs and the seasonal weather risks, which can impact a household budget differently than in Dallas.
| Measure | Dallas, TX | Jacksonville, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 105 | 95 |
| Housing index | 99 | 91 |
| Transportation index | 104 | 96 |
| Food index | 98 | 92 |
| Healthcare index | 102 | 95 |
| Utilities index | 105 | 105 |
| Misc index | 98 | 88 |
| Median home price | $358,000 | $318,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,450/mo | $1,400/mo |
| Average commute | 29 min | 27 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Jacksonville home with the True Cost Calculator.