Cost of Living in Texas

Texas is one of the most popular states in the USA and a major higher education hub for international students. Knowing more about the cost of living in Texas is imperative for you to zero in on the right budget for living expenses during your time here. Here is a brief overview of the average living expenses in Texas that will help you get a better idea of what to expect. 

Average Cost of Living in Texas 

The average cost of living in Texas is around US$45,114, which was the 15th lowest figure in the country for Q1 2023. Most towns in the state have living costs lower than the US$47,915 national average, with a few exceptions like Dallas, Austin, Plano, and Gainesville. The monthly costs are around US$3,760 in the state. 

Cost of Living in Texas against Number of Family Members 

The monthly cost to live in Texas is the following, as per the number of family members (estimated for Dallas, without rent): 

List of Necessary Items with Their Cost

The cost of living in Texas for Indians and other international residents depends on several necessities too. Here is a closer look for your perusal (taking Dallas as an example):  

Average Rent in Texas

Rentals contribute immensely to the average living cost in Texas. Here is an idea for your perusal (taking Dallas as an example): 

• 1 bedroom apartment in city center- US$1,600-2,400
• 3 bedroom apartment in city center- US$2,900-5,400
• 1 bedroom apartment outside city center- US$1,200-1,900
• 3 bedroom apartment outside city center- US$2,000-3,760

Study Cost and University Tuition Fee 

Your study costs are also major contributors to the average living expenses in Texas. Here is a general idea for your perusal (taking the University of Texas as an example): 

• Undergraduate, Full-Time- US$10,858-13,576 (Fall & Spring Semesters)
• Graduate, Full-Time- US$8,684-10,848 (Fall & Spring Semesters)

Average costs may hover around US$724-776 for books and supplies for a similar duration. 

Transportation Costs in Texas

Here is an estimate of transportation costs in Texas: 

• One-way local transportation ticket- US$2-5
• Monthly pass- US$50-100
• Taxi fare (1 km)- US$0.68-3.11
• Gasoline (1 liter)- US$0.72-1.06

Cost of Utilities and Bills in Texas

The average cost of utilities in Texas (heating, electricity, garbage, water, and cooling) is approximately US$148.68-359.44 per month. Internet costs hover around US$55-112 per month while mobile phone costs are around US$43-110. 

Affordable Cities to Live in Texas

Here are some of the most affordable cities to live in Texas: 

• El Paso- Located along the borders of Texas, Mexico, and New Mexico, this is a big city with several attractions for residents. The approximate monthly rent is US$730 while average property values are around US$130,900 here. 
• Cedar Park- Cedar Park is located near downtown Austin, within the Texas Hill Country. Average property values stand at around US$258,200 here while approximate monthly rentals are US$1,318. 
• Galveston- A charming town on the beachfront, it has average monthly rentals of US$1,102. Approximate property values here are US$163,300. 
• Pearland- It is a Houston suburb with reasonable monthly rentals of US$1,342 and property values of US$208,900. 
• Frisco- A suburb of Dallas, it has average property values of US$335,900 with monthly rentals of US$1,396. 

If you are planning to live and study in the state in future, it is a great idea to know more about the cost of living in Texas. From study costs and transportation expenses to utilities and rentals, this guide will help you plan your living expenses  before your arrival.