Thinking about packing your bags and heading to Texas in 2025? Or maybe you’re already there and wondering if it’s still a good deal? Either way, let’s dive into the real talk about the cost of living in Texas this year. We’ll break down everything from housing and groceries to healthcare and gas prices—basically, everything you need to know before you decide if Texas is the right fit for your wallet in 2025.
What’s the Buzz About Living in Texas?
Texas has long been known as a land of opportunity, wide-open spaces, friendly folks, and, historically, affordable living. But with recent population booms and economic shifts, things are starting to look a bit different. So, how much does it really cost to live in Texas in 2025?
Cost of Living Overview: Texas in 2025
Let’s get the big picture first.
- Overall cost of living in Texas is about 5-7% lower than the national average.
- Some cities, like Austin and Dallas, are more expensive than others like Lubbock or El Paso.
- Housing still takes the biggest bite out of your budget.
But don’t worry—we’re breaking this down step-by-step.
Housing Costs in Texas 2025
Housing is the heavyweight champion of living expenses. Here’s how it’s shaping up this year.
Rent Prices in Major Cities
Want to rent a one-bedroom in 2025?
| City | Average Monthly Rent |
|---|---|
| Austin | $1,900 |
| Dallas | $1,600 |
| Houston | $1,450 |
| San Antonio | $1,300 |
| El Paso | $1,050 |
Yep, Austin’s getting pricey—blame the tech boom.
Buying a Home in Texas
Planning to buy? Here’s the median home price in 2025:
- Austin: $540,000
- Dallas: $440,000
- Houston: $410,000
- San Antonio: $375,000
- El Paso: $290,000
The good news? You can still find affordable homes in smaller towns and suburbs.
Grocery Costs in Texas
You gotta eat, right?
Here’s what the average grocery bill looks like for a single person:
- Monthly groceries: $300 to $400
- Family of four: $900 to $1,200
Common Grocery Prices in 2025
- Milk (1 gallon): $3.80
- Eggs (dozen): $4.25
- Bread (loaf): $2.50
- Chicken (1 lb): $3.85
- Apples (1 lb): $1.80
Texas is doing okay in this department. Grocery inflation has cooled down compared to 2022-2023.
Transportation and Gas Prices
With everything bigger in Texas, you’ll probably need a car.
Gas Prices in 2025
- State average per gallon: $3.35
That’s actually cheaper than the national average, so you’re in luck!
Public Transport Options
- Dallas (DART), Houston (METRO), Austin (CapMetro)
- Monthly pass: $50 to $85
- Not very extensive statewide—you’ll want your own wheels.
Utilities and Internet Bills
Monthly Utility Bills (For a 915 sq. ft apartment)
- Electricity, water, gas, garbage: $175 to $250
- Internet (unlimited): $60 to $85
Electricity can spike during those scorching Texas summers when your A/C is working overtime.
Healthcare Costs in Texas
Healthcare isn’t exactly cheap in 2025—but it’s not the worst either.
- Average monthly premium (individual): $550
- Doctor’s visit (out-of-pocket): $120
- Dental cleaning: $100 to $150
Texas has a mix of public clinics and private providers. Always shop around if you don’t have employer coverage.
Education Costs
If you’ve got kids or you’re planning to study, listen up.
Public Schools
- Free, but some fees for supplies, sports, and programs
- Quality varies by district—bigger cities = more options
College Tuition in 2025
- In-state public universities: $10,000 – $13,000 per year
- Private universities: $30,000 – $45,000 per year
Still cheaper than California or New York!
Entertainment & Lifestyle
Let’s talk about the fun stuff!
Going Out
- Movie ticket: $13
- Fast food meal: $10 to $12
- Dinner at a mid-range restaurant: $25 to $35 per person
Gym Memberships
- Basic gym: $30/month
- Premium/chain gyms: $60 to $90/month
Texas is big on outdoor life too—hiking, BBQs, live music… plenty of low-cost fun.
Income and Jobs in Texas
So, what’s the paycheck situation like?
Average Salaries in 2025
- Median household income: $74,000
- Software Developer: $110,000
- Teacher: $58,000
- Nurse: $75,000
- Retail Associate: $32,000
Texas has a low unemployment rate and plenty of job opportunities in tech, healthcare, energy, and logistics.
Taxes in Texas (Good News!)
Here’s a Texas-sized perk:
- No state income tax!
That alone puts extra cash in your pocket compared to other states.
But don’t get too excited—property taxes can be high. Sales tax is around 8.25% in most areas.
Best Cities for Budget Living in Texas 2025
Most Affordable Cities
- El Paso – Low housing costs, close-knit community
- Lubbock – Great for students and families
- Corpus Christi – Affordable beach living
- Waco – Small town charm, lower prices
If you’re not tied to a big city job, you can live comfortably in these budget-friendly gems.
Is Texas Still Affordable in 2025?
Let’s sum it up:
- Yes, Texas is still affordable—especially compared to coastal states.
- But it really depends on where in Texas you choose to live.
- Big cities are pricier, while smaller towns keep it cozy for your wallet.
Tips to Save Money While Living in Texas
Here are a few smart moves:
- Live outside major city centers
- Use public transport if you can
- Shop local farmer’s markets
- Take advantage of free outdoor activities
- Compare utility providers to get the best deals
Living smart can stretch your budget further, no matter the city.
Conclusion: Should You Move to Texas in 2025?
If you’re looking for a place that blends opportunity, comfort, and affordability, Texas still checks a lot of boxes. Sure, it’s not dirt-cheap like it used to be—but compared to many other places in the U.S., it’s still a solid deal.
Whether you’re eyeing a new job, a quieter lifestyle, or just more sunshine, Texas might just be the move you’ve been waiting for. Just do your homework, pick the right city, and budget wisely.
FAQs About Cost of Living in Texas 2025
1. Is Texas cheaper to live in than California or New York?
Absolutely. Texas is still far more affordable in terms of housing, taxes, and groceries compared to those coastal giants.
2. Which Texas city is the most expensive in 2025?
Austin takes the crown. Its booming tech scene has driven housing and overall costs up.
3. Is there really no income tax in Texas?
Yep, that’s true! Texas doesn’t collect state income tax, which can be a huge money-saver.
4. Can I live in Texas without a car?
You can in cities like Dallas or Austin, but public transportation is limited. Having a car is usually more practical.
5. What’s the average monthly budget for a single person in Texas?
On average, a single person can live comfortably on $2,500 to $3,200/month, depending on the city and lifestyle.
Need help comparing Texas cities or budgeting your move? I’ve got your back—just ask!