Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $75,413
Population: 978,908
Median Income: $56,831
Population: 1,343,573
When comparing Austin and Dallas, the overall cost of living differs by 11.1%. Austin carries a cost index of 108 compared to Dallas's 96, meaning your dollar stretches 11% further in Dallas.
Housing is where the most significant gap appears between these two cities. Dallas has a housing index of 95 compared to Austin's 120. This 25-point difference translates to substantial monthly savings on rent or mortgage payments in Dallas.
Austin is more affordable for: Transportation, Healthcare, Utilities.
Dallas is more affordable for: Housing, Food & Groceries, Entertainment.
If you earn $60,000 in Austin, you would need $53,333 in Dallas to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $88,889.
The median household income in Austin is $75,413 compared to $56,831 in Dallas. While Austin has higher incomes, the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: Austin scores 7/10 while Dallas scores 5/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: Both cities score similarly for weather at 6/10.
Job Market: Austin's job market (9/10) is stronger than Dallas's (8/10).
Dallas is the more affordable option overall, but cost is just one factor in deciding where to live. Consider your career opportunities, family needs, and lifestyle preferences alongside the financial comparison. Austin may justify its higher costs with a thriving job market that many residents find worthwhile.
