Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $75,413
Population: 978,908
Median Income: $53,420
Population: 1,547,253
When comparing Austin and San Antonio, the overall cost of living differs by 20.4%. Austin carries a cost index of 108 compared to San Antonio's 86, meaning your dollar stretches 20% further in San Antonio.
Housing is where the most significant gap appears between these two cities. San Antonio has a housing index of 78 compared to Austin's 120. This 42-point difference translates to substantial monthly savings on rent or mortgage payments in San Antonio.
San Antonio is more affordable across all categories.
San Antonio is more affordable for: Housing, Food & Groceries, Transportation, Healthcare, Utilities, Entertainment, Taxes.
If you earn $60,000 in Austin, you would need $47,778 in San Antonio to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $79,630.
The median household income in Austin is $75,413 compared to $53,420 in San Antonio. While Austin has higher incomes, the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: Austin scores 7/10 while San Antonio scores 6/10 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 San Antonio's (6/10).
San Antonio 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.
