Dallas vs Washington: cost of living compared
Washington is 45% more expensive than Dallas overall. Dallas (TX) has no state income tax; DC tops out around 8.5%.
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
Moving between Dallas and Washington involves a substantial shift in overall expenses. Washington's cost of living is considerably higher than Dallas's, which is closer to the national average. This significant difference is primarily driven by housing costs, which stand out as much more expensive in the nation's capital compared to the Texas metro.
Housing
Both buying and renting are noticeably more expensive in Washington. Median home prices are substantially higher there, as are typical rents for a one-bedroom apartment. Dallas offers more accessible housing options, often featuring larger homes and lots. Property taxes and insurance costs can also vary, impacting the total cost of homeownership in each location.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses for transportation, food, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods and services are all higher in Washington. A key difference is the absence of a state income tax in Texas, which can significantly impact take-home pay compared to Washington's income tax. Utility costs are roughly similar, though slightly higher in Washington.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Dallas offers a generally warmer climate with hot summers and mild winters, while Washington experiences all four distinct seasons. Washington has a more extensive public transit system, leading to a longer average commute time but also more options for getting around without a car. Dallas is known for its sprawling layout, while Washington is denser with a more urban feel.
Bottom line
A move from Dallas to Washington will generally mean a much higher household budget, particularly due to housing and the presence of a state income tax. Conversely, moving from Washington to Dallas would likely free up a significant portion of your income. Consider the trade-offs between cost savings and the distinct lifestyle and amenities each metro offers.
| Measure | Dallas, TX | Washington, DC |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 105 | 152 |
| Housing index | 99 | 155 |
| Transportation index | 104 | 138 |
| Food index | 98 | 112 |
| Healthcare index | 102 | 112 |
| Utilities index | 105 | 108 |
| Misc index | 98 | 118 |
| Median home price | $358,000 | $548,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,450/mo | $2,350/mo |
| Average commute | 29 min | 38 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Washington home with the True Cost Calculator.