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.
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):
Number of Family Members
Estimated Monthly Costs
1
US$1,207.1
2
US$2,414.2
4
US$4,295.7
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):
Name of Item
Estimated Monthly Costs
Bread (500g)
US$2-5.51
Milk (1 liter)
US$0.76-1.13
Cheese (1 kg)
US$6.61-16.51
Rice (1 kg)
US$2.18-6.61
Eggs (12)
US$1.50-7.45
Apples (1 kg)
US$2.20-6.61
Chicken Filets (1 kg)
US$6.61-19.84
Banana (1 kg)
US$1.10-4.41
Tomato (1 kg)
US$1.76-6.61
Oranges (1 kg)
US$1.65-11.02
Onion (1 kg)
$1.96-6.61
Potato (1 kg)
US$1.10-6.61
Water (1.5 liter bottle)
US$1-3
Lettuce (1 head)
US$1.25-3
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.
FAQs
What is the average living cost in Texas?
The average living cost in Texas is approximately US$45,114 per year. It equates to around US$3,760 per month for the residents of the state. It varies, depending on several factors.
Is Texas more expensive than India?
Reports state that maintaining the same lifestyle in Texas, equivalent to earning INR 130,000 in New Delhi, will require approximately INR 526,223 or US$6,332 each month. Other reports also indicate that living costs in Houston are 159% costlier in comparison to Hyderabad.
What is the highest paid job in Texas?
There are several high-paying jobs in Texas including chief executive officers (US$106,634 per year), surgeons (US$196,679 per year), psychiatrists (US$241,729 per year), family and general practitioners (US$163,991 per year), pilots (US$107,990 per year), dentists (US$185,314 per year), nurse anesthesiologists (US$152,260 per year), and petroleum engineers (US$151,420 per year).
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