As one of the fastest-growing cities in America, Austin is known for its tech boom, live music, and outdoor lifestyle. But what about the cost of living in Austin? Whether you’re relocating to Austin for work, family, or a lifestyle upgrade, it’s important to understand how far your money goes in Austin versus other major metro areas.
We’ve compiled a side-by-side comparison of Austin’s cost of living index with the top 25 U.S. metropolitan areas, using a national average baseline of 100.
Cost of Living in Austin vs. Top 25 U.S. Cities
When considering the Cost of Living in Austin, it’s essential to take into account various key expenses that significantly impact residents. The index below reflects a range of essential expenses, including housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, and healthcare.
A number above 100 indicates that these costs are higher than the national average, which is crucial for potential movers or current residents to understand. For instance, housing costs in Austin have seen a notable increase, often surpassing the national average, primarily due to the city’s booming tech industry and population growth. On the other hand, some categories, like transportation, may be more affordable compared to other major cities.
Austin’s Position on the Affordability Scale
Austin’s cost of living index stands at 101.6, which is just above the national average. This positions the city in a unique and competitive middle ground. While it is more affordable compared to major metropolitan areas such as San Francisco, Boston, and Seattle, it is still pricier than many Midwestern and Southern cities like Indianapolis, San Antonio, and Houston.
This balance makes Austin an attractive option for those seeking a vibrant urban lifestyle without the exorbitant costs associated with coastal cities. The city’s blend of cultural offerings, job opportunities, and quality of life continues to draw residents, despite the rising costs. Additionally, individuals considering a move to Austin should weigh not only housing costs but also factors like transportation, groceries, and healthcare to get a comprehensive view of the overall cost of living.
Full Cost of Living Comparison by Metro Area
Below is a list of the top 25 U.S. metro areas compared to Austin using the Cost of Living Index (National Average = 100). A higher number means a higher cost of living.
Metro Area – Cost of Living Index
—————————————-
- Atlanta, GA – 104.7
- Austin, TX – 101.6
- Boston, MA – 150.0
- Charlotte, NC – 101.3
- Chicago, IL – 120.1
- Dallas, TX – 103.2
- Denver, CO – 114.8
- Houston, TX – 95.4
- Indianapolis, IN – 92.5
- Las Vegas, NV – 108.3
- Los Angeles, CA – 142.3
- Miami, FL – 117.4
- Minneapolis, MN – 106.9
- New York, NY – 148.9
- Orlando, FL – 99.7
- Philadelphia, PA – 110.2
- Phoenix, AZ – 102.4
- Portland, OR – 121.3
- Riverside, CA – 118.5
- San Antonio, TX – 89.3
- San Diego, CA – 139.2
- San Francisco, CA – 170.2
- San Jose, CA – 152.3
- Seattle, WA – 136.4
- Tampa, FL – 100.4
- Washington, DC – 148.1
Key takeaways on the Cost of Living in Austin
The cost of living in Austin sits in a sweet spot: it’s far more affordable than major tech hubs such as San Jose (index 152.3), San Francisco (170.2), and Boston (150.0), yet it does run higher than nearby Texas cities like Houston (95.4), Dallas (103.2), and San Antonio (89.3). For many newcomers, that slight premium is balanced by Texas’ no-state-income-tax advantage, Austin’s robust job market, and the city’s widely recognized quality of life.
For more details on relocation planning, check out our related articles:
– Why move to Austin
– Most affordable cities near Austin
– Austin ranks #4 among best cities to start a career
Making a move to Austin? We are here to help! Request your FREE Austin Relocation Guide!
