Thinking about moving to an apartment in Austin, or checking out rentals in Dallas? Both cities offer incredible opportunities, but they have very different lifestyles. Whether you’re drawn to the live music and tech innovation of Austin or the cosmopolitan appeal and business opportunities in Dallas, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each before making the leap. Let’s dive into the key differences in this ApartmentGuide article to help you decide.
How Austin and Dallas stack up in size and population
Austin and Dallas are two of Texas’ largest cities, but they approach urban growth in very different ways. Austin covers around 326 square miles, providing a blend of urban and suburban living with plenty of green spaces and natural beauty. Its spread-out design creates a more relaxed, spacious feel, with a focus on outdoor living. Dallas, on the other hand, occupies about 385 square miles, but its urban center feels more compact and developed, with denser clusters of business districts and residential areas.
In terms of population, Austin is home to about 961,855 residents, while Dallas has roughly 1.3 million. This difference in population means Austin has a density of around 2,960 people per square mile, allowing for more room to breathe and a laid-back lifestyle. Dallas, with its larger population, has a density of about 3,380 people per square mile, giving it a more bustling, urban energy while still offering suburban pockets that provide more space.
Cost of living in Austin vs Dallas
Overall, the cost of living in Dallas is 3% higher than in Austin. Both cities offer a relatively affordable lifestyle compared to other major metropolitan areas, but Dallas tends to be a bit pricier across several key categories.
If you’re trying to decide between moving to Austin or Dallas, understanding how far your money will go in each city can help. Enter your current salary into a cost of living comparison calculator to see how it translates in Austin vs. Dallas, and get a clearer picture of which city might be a better fit for your budget.
Here’s a deeper look at why costs differ between Austin and Dallas across key categories based on cost of living comparison data:
1. Utilities
Utilities in Dallas are a whopping 17% higher than in Austin, with an average energy bill of about $224.87 in Dallas compared to $178.12 in Austin. The hotter summers in Dallas often lead to increased use of air conditioning, pushing energy costs slightly higher than in Austin, where the climate is a bit more moderate.
2. Groceries
Groceries cost about 2% more in Dallas than in Austin. For example, a loaf of bread costs roughly $4.07 in Dallas, compared to $3.95 in Austin. Though both cities benefit from Texas’ agricultural resources, Dallas’ larger size and transportation needs can contribute to slightly higher grocery prices.
3. Transportation
Maintaining a vehicle is generally cheaper in Dallas. For example, tire rotations average around $52.04 in Dallas versus $56.63 in Austin. While this is only about a 2% savings, over time, small differences in car maintenance, gas prices, and toll fees can make a noticeable impact on your overall budget in Dallas.
4. Healthcare
Healthcare in Dallas is approximately 10% more expensive than in Austin. A typical doctor’s visit in Dallas might run you about $140.99, while in Austin, it’s closer to $107.37. Dallas’ larger network of specialized medical services can drive up the cost slightly compared to Austin’s more centralized healthcare system.
5. Lifestyle
Lifestyle-related expenses, such as dining out and entertainment, are roughly 13% higher in Dallas. For instance, a fitness class in Dallas averages around $24.33, while in Austin, you might pay closer to $18.79. Dallas’ larger urban setting tends to drive up the cost of leisure activities slightly, while Austin’s smaller size offers a more laid-back, cost-efficient lifestyle.
Housing in Austin vs Dallas
Both cities provide a variety of housing options, but Dallas generally offers more space for less cost, while Austin’s booming growth has driven up prices, particularly in urban areas.
Housing in Austin
Housing in Austin is a mix of new high-rises, trendy apartments, and classic Texas homes, all within close proximity to green spaces and outdoor activities. Austin’s neighborhoods, such as East Austin and Zilker, provide a balance between city life and a more relaxed, community-oriented environment. Many homes feature large yards, open layouts, and a focus on integrating indoor and outdoor living, making it easy to enjoy the area’s mild climate.
Below is a breakdown of some popular housing options and their cost:
Housing in Dallas
Dallas offers a more traditional urban layout, with a mix of modern downtown high-rises and sprawling suburban developments. The city is known for its larger homes and more affordable housing compared to other major cities in Texas. Dallas neighborhoods such as Deep Ellum and Uptown cater to young professionals, while suburbs like Plano and Frisco attract people looking to settle in more space. Homes in Dallas often come with large backyards, garages, and ample square footage, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more spacious lifestyle.
Below is a breakdown of some popular housing options:
The job market in Austin vs Dallas
Both cities are growing job markets, but Austin is known for its tech boom and innovation, while Dallas offers a more traditional corporate environment with a broader range of industries.
Austin: A growing hub for tech and innovation
Austin has established itself as a major tech hub, often referred to as “Silicon Hills,” with a strong economy driven by technology, startups, and innovation. The city has seen rapid growth in tech companies, from giants like Apple, Dell, and Tesla to numerous smaller startups, making it a magnet for tech talent. With an employment rate of 73% and a median household income of around $89,415, Austin’s job market is thriving, particularly in tech, professional services, and education.
In recent years, the healthcare and clean energy sectors have also gained momentum, adding to the city’s economic diversity. The average hourly wage in Austin is $30.72, with competitive opportunities across industries. Major employers include the University of Texas, IBM, and Oracle, while newer companies like Indeed and VRBO contribute to the city’s tech boom. The creative scene in Austin is also flourishing, supported by the city’s famous music and arts culture, which attracts a variety of professionals in creative industries.
Dallas: A business and corporate powerhouse
Dallas has long been a central hub for business and corporate headquarters, with a diverse economy anchored in finance, healthcare, telecommunications, and professional services. With an employment rate of 66.5% and a median household income of $65,400, Dallas offers a strong job market with a broad range of opportunities. Known for its concentration of corporate headquarters, Dallas is home to major companies like AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments.
The healthcare industry is another major contributor, with leading institutions like Baylor University Medical Center and Texas Health Resources providing thousands of jobs. The average hourly wage in Dallas is $31.66, and the city’s expansive job market attracts professionals in fields ranging from finance and education to tech and real estate. With companies like Toyota, JPMorgan Chase, and ExxonMobil all having significant presences in Dallas, the city is a prime destination for professionals looking to advance their careers in large corporations.
Transportation in Austin vs Dallas
Both cities lean heavily on car use, but Dallas offers a more robust public transit system, while Austin’s transportation infrastructure is gradually adapting to its rapid growth.
Austin’s transportation: Car culture with growing alternatives
Austin’s transportation system is still largely car-dependent, but the city is gradually expanding its public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure. With major highways like I-35 and US-183 running through the city, most residents rely on driving, although Austin’s notorious traffic congestion can make travel times unpredictable. Public transportation, provided by Capital Metro, includes buses and a limited light rail system, though it’s not as widely used as cars. However, as the city continues to grow, there’s an increasing emphasis on alternative transportation options such as biking and ride-sharing services.
Dallas’ transportation: Car-dominant with extensive road networks
Like Austin, Dallas is also a car-centric city, with residents relying on its vast highway network, including I-35E, I-30, and the Dallas North Tollway. Driving is the primary mode of transportation, though Dallas has a more developed public transit system compared to Austin, thanks to the DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) system, which includes buses and light rail. While walking and biking are less common due to the city’s sprawling nature, Dallas has made strides in improving walkability in certain urban districts like Uptown and Deep Ellum.
Travel options in and out of Austin and Dallas
Austin and Dallas both offer various travel options for getting in and out of the cities. While both cities are served by major airports and road systems, the availability of rail and bus travel plays a different role in each. Dallas stands out for its more extensive rail and bus connections, while Austin relies more on air travel and road routes for accessibility.
Austin
- Airports: Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) provides both domestic and international flights.
- Rail: Amtrak’s Texas Eagle connects Austin to cities such as San Antonio, Dallas, and Chicago, though rail travel is less common.
- Buses: Long-distance bus services like Greyhound and Megabus offer travel options to nearby cities, but these are less prominent compared to air and road routes.
Dallas
- Airports: Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Dallas Love Field (DAL) both serve domestic and international travelers.
- Rail: Dallas is well-connected by Amtrak’s Texas Eagle, linking the city to other major hubs like San Antonio, Austin, and Chicago. DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) provides light rail for travel within the metro area.
- Buses: Greyhound and Megabus offer extensive long-distance bus services from Dallas to cities across Texas and the U.S.
Weather and climate
Austin and Dallas share similar weather patterns, with both cities experiencing hot, sunny summers that often exceed 100°F and mild winters with occasional cold fronts. While Austin tends to be slightly more humid, Dallas’ climate experiences drier conditions. Winters in both cities are generally mild, though Dallas sees more ice storms and light snow than Austin. Spring and fall bring pleasant temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities, but Dallas, located in Tornado Alley, is more prone to tornadoes and severe thunderstorms. Austin’s climate, on the other hand, faces a higher risk of flash floods during heavy rain, particularly in the spring. Despite these differences, both cities enjoy plenty of sunshine throughout the year, making them favorable for outdoor living.
Lifestyle and recreational opportunities in Austin and Dallas
What it’s like to live in Austin
Living in Austin means embracing a laid-back lifestyle, with a strong focus on music, outdoor activities, and creativity. Known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” Austin offers a newer cultural scene with live music venues in Texas state, quirky coffee shops, and a bustling food truck culture. Residents enjoy the city’s proximity to nature, often spending weekends paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake, hiking in the Greenbelt, or swimming at Barton Springs Pool. The growing tech scene attracts a diverse and innovative community, while the city’s strong focus on health and wellness can be seen in the many yoga studios, running trails, and outdoor festivals
Indoor Activities:
Outdoor Activities:
Google Street View of Lady Bird Lake
Landmarks and Parks around Austin:
- Zilker Park
- Lady Bird Lake
- Mount Bonnell
- Barton Creek Greenbelt
- Texas State Capitol
- McKinney Falls State Park
- Hamilton Pool Preserve
What it’s like to live in Dallas
Life in Dallas offers a more fast-paced, urban lifestyle with a strong focus on business, arts, and sports. The city has a great social scene, with upscale restaurants, trendy bars, and numerous shopping options in areas like Uptown and Deep Ellum. Dallas also offers a rich arts and cultural scene, with world-class museums, theaters, and a deep connection to history. Sports are a big part of Dallas life, with passionate fans supporting local teams like the Dallas Cowboys and the Dallas Mavericks.
Indoor Activities:
Outdoor Activities:
Google Street View of White Rock Lake
Landmarks and Parks around Dallas:
- Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
- Klyde Warren Park
- The Sixth Floor Museum
- White Rock Lake
- Dealey Plaza
- Pioneer Plaza
- Trinity River Audubon Center
Culture and food in Austin vs Dallas
Dallas and Austin both boast standout food scenes reflecting their unique roots. Dallas blends traditional Texas barbecue and Tex-Mex with modern culinary trends, featuring steakhouses, Korean barbecue, and global fusion cuisine. Events like Taste of Dallas highlight the city’s diverse offerings, from food trucks to upscale dining. Austin, known for its quirky food culture, focuses on tacos, food trucks, and farm-to-table meals. Festivals like Austin Food & Wine showcase the city’s creative approach to dining.
Culturally, Dallas offers a thriving arts scene with institutions like the Dallas Museum of Art and live music in Deep Ellum. Its nightlife ranges from country bars to upscale lounges. Austin, known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” has a more laid-back vibe, with live music everywhere and festivals like South by Southwest and Austin City Limits cementing its cultural reputation. Both cities offer vibrant and unique experiences, from Dallas’ cosmopolitan flair to Austin’s creative energy.
Austin vs Dallas sports scene
While Austin’s sports scene is anchored by college football and a rapidly growing soccer presence, Dallas is home to a variety of professional teams, making it one of Texas’ premier sports cities with a rich history in football, basketball, baseball, and hockey.
Austin:
- Football (NCAA): Texas Longhorns – The University of Texas Longhorns dominate Austin’s sports scene, with their football team being one of the most storied programs in college sports. Game days at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium are a huge part of the city’s culture.
- Soccer (MLS): Austin FC – Austin’s newly established MLS team has quickly gained a passionate fan base, filling Q2 Stadium with electric energy on match days. The team’s vibrant green colors and community-driven spirit have made it a central part of Austin’s sports identity.
- Basketball (NCAA): Texas Longhorns – While football reigns supreme, the Longhorns’ basketball team also enjoys strong support, particularly when March Madness rolls around.
Dallas:
- Football (NFL): Dallas Cowboys – The Cowboys are one of the most iconic teams in the NFL, often referred to as “America’s Team.” With five Super Bowl titles, AT&T Stadium in Arlington is packed with fans for every home game.
- Basketball (NBA): Dallas Mavericks – Led to an NBA Championship in 2011 by Dirk Nowitzki, the Mavericks have a strong following, with Luka Dončić now leading the team into a new era of excitement.
- Basketball (WNBA): Dallas Wings – The Wings are a rising team in the WNBA, with a dedicated fan base in Arlington. Known for their young talent and competitive spirit, the team plays their home games at College Park Center and continues to build excitement in the league.
- Hockey (NHL): Dallas Stars – The Stars are a beloved part of the Dallas sports scene, winning the Stanley Cup in 1999 and continuing to compete at a high level in the NHL.
- Baseball (MLB): Texas Rangers – Just outside of Dallas in Arlington, the Rangers have a loyal fan base and play in the new Globe Life Field, which provides a state-of-the-art baseball experience.
- Soccer (MLS): FC Dallas – Located in nearby Frisco, FC Dallas competes in MLS and has developed a strong youth academy that has produced top talent.