Cost of Living in Austin, Texas
Austin combines a strong job market with no state income tax, though housing has risen sharply. Here is a breakdown of the cost of living in Austin — housing, taxes, and category-by-category indices.
Cost of living in Austin, TX
Austin has an overall cost-of-living index of 122 (national average = 100). The Texas state income-tax rate is approximately 0%.
Median home price: $596,000. Median rent (2BR): $2,490 (1BR $2,130, 3BR $3,270).
| Category | Index (US avg = 100) |
|---|---|
| Housing | 142 |
| Utilities | 115 |
| Transportation | 119 |
| Groceries | 112 |
| Healthcare | 110 |
| Childcare | 124 |
| Dining Out | 120 |
| Entertainment | 118 |
| Insurance | 113 |
| Consumer Goods | 111 |
Relocation score: 6.4 / 10 (affordability 5.4, housing 4.7, taxes 10).
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Austin expensive to live in?
- Austin sits above the national average overall, driven by housing, but remains far cheaper than coastal tech hubs like San Francisco or New York. Texas’ lack of a state income tax improves take-home pay.
- What salary do you need to live comfortably in Austin?
- A comfortable salary depends on household size and housing choice. Use the calculator above to model an equivalent salary based on your current city and lifestyle.
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