Texas Cost of Living: What You Really Need to Know in 2025

When people talk about the Texas cost of living, the total amount of money needed to cover basic expenses like housing, food, transportation, and taxes in the state of Texas. Also known as Texas living expenses, it varies wildly depending on whether you're in Austin, Dallas, Houston, or a small town in West Texas. Unlike states with strict rent controls, Texas lets markets decide prices — which means your paycheck might stretch further in Amarillo but vanish fast in Austin.

The biggest surprise? Austin rent prices, the monthly cost to lease an apartment in Austin, Texas, which has surged due to population growth and tech industry demand aren’t just high — they’re climbing faster than most of the country. In 2025, a one-bedroom in central Austin hits $2,100+, while a similar unit in San Antonio runs closer to $1,400. Then there’s Texas property taxes, the annual fees paid by homeowners based on their property’s assessed value, which are among the highest in the U.S. because Texas has no state income tax. That means your monthly rent might be lower than in New York, but your property tax bill could be twice as high if you buy.

Don’t forget Texas housing market, the current state of buying and renting homes across Texas, shaped by migration, construction rates, and economic shifts. It’s not just about how much you pay — it’s about what you get. A 600sqft 2BHK in Dallas might feel cramped, but in Austin, it’s considered standard. And if you’re thinking of moving for work, check what salary you actually need. A $70K job in Houston might feel like a luxury, but in Austin, it barely covers rent, groceries, and gas. Texas cost of living isn’t one number — it’s a puzzle of rent, taxes, utilities, and transportation costs that change with every city line.

What you’ll find below are real, up-to-date guides on what rent looks like in Texas cities, how much you need to earn to survive, where property taxes bite hardest, and what’s actually worth paying extra for. No fluff. Just facts from people who’ve lived it.