Cost of Living in Austin, TX (2026) (2026)

Austin is a booming tech and creative hub with no state income tax. Known for its live music scene, outdoor lifestyle, and rapidly growing economy, it attracts young professionals nationwide.

Avg 1BR Rent

$1,504

Avg 2BR Rent

$1,918

State Tax

None

Median Income

$93,658

Affordability Rating

Tight

AffordableTightExpensive

$1,750/mo rent on $70K in Austin

Rent Affordability by Salary in Austin

Salary	Take-Home	Max Rent (30%)	After Expenses
$50k	$3,524	$1,250	$538	Details
$60k	$4,194	$1,500	$958	Details
$70k	$4,804	$1,750	$1,318	Details
$80k	$5,390	$2,000	$1,654	Details
$90k	$5,976	$2,250	$1,990	Details
$100k	$6,563	$2,500	$2,327	Details

Monthly Cost Breakdown in Austin

Average 1BR Rent$1,504

Utilities$184

Groceries$373

Transportation$902

Healthcare$277

Total Monthly Essentials$3,240

Living in Austin: What to Expect

Austin is where tech meets tacos. The city pulses with live music, craft breweries, and a culture that values creativity and outdoor living along Lady Bird Lake.

Best Neighborhoods for Renters

East Austin is the creative heart with eclectic eateries, while Cedar Park and Round Rock offer more space and lower rents north of downtown.

Getting Around

Traffic on I-35 is infamous. Many tech workers commute from suburbs, and remote work has become the unofficial solution to Austin gridlock.