Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $32,053
Population: 372,624
Median Income: $75,413
Population: 978,908
When comparing Cleveland and Austin, the overall cost of living differs by 38.5%. Austin carries a cost index of 108 compared to Cleveland's 78, meaning your dollar stretches 28% further in Cleveland.
Housing is where the most significant gap appears between these two cities. Cleveland has a housing index of 58 compared to Austin's 120. This 62-point difference translates to substantial monthly savings on rent or mortgage payments in Cleveland.
Cleveland is more affordable for: Housing, Food & Groceries, Transportation, Healthcare, Utilities, Entertainment.
Austin is more affordable for: Taxes.
If you earn $60,000 in Cleveland, you would need $83,077 in Austin to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $138,462.
The median household income in Cleveland is $32,053 compared to $75,413 in Austin. Austin has higher incomes, though the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: Cleveland scores 3/10 while Austin scores 7/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: Austin enjoys better weather with a score of 6/10 versus Cleveland's 3/10.
Job Market: Austin has the stronger job market (9/10) compared to Cleveland (5/10).
Cleveland 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.
