The cost of living in Texas is approximately 6% to 9% lower than the national average. It can vary considerably by city, housing choice, transportation needs, and lifestyle. Austin and Dallas typically have higher investment requirements, whilst El Paso and Lubbock may be less expensive.
The average monthly cost of living in Texas for a single person varies between USD 1,100-1,500 (approximately INR 1.06L to 1.45L), including accommodation; expenses can reach USD 2,000-3,500 (approximately INR 1.93L-3.37L) per month when you travel to this country.
In this article, we will go through the average cost of living in Texas by type of profile, rent, food, transportation, utilities, health services, expenses for moving, and some helpful hints on budgeting in Texas.
Average Cost of Living in Texas
The biggest part of the average cost of living in Texas is related primarily to housing, food, transportation, utilities, health care, and personal spending. One major variable that differentiates cities may be related to housing costs and transportation costs.
The average monthly expenses for one person in Texas may be estimated using the following table:
Expense
Approximate Monthly Cost (USD/Approximately in INR)
The monthly budget varies with the student's age, single working individual budget, or family budget. The amount per person is affected most by accommodation, transportation, healthcare, and household size.
Cost of Living in Texas for Students
The cost of living in Texas for international students can be managed by opting for shared accommodation, cooking, making use of student discounts, and selecting cities with lower rent prices.
In addition to tuition, it will cost a student living in student accommodation or shared accommodation about USD 1,600-2,600 (approximately INR 1.54L-2.51L) per month to live normally.
Cost of Living in Texas for Families
The family will usually require a greater budget due to the need for more space as well as extra costs for childcare, education, health, groceries, and transportation.
Depending on the housing and childcare needs of the family, the requirement for them is approximately USD 4,500-7,000 (approximately INR 4.34L-6.75L) monthly.
Cost of Living in Texas for Working Professionals
For working professionals, there could be issues with higher expenses for their private home, transport to work, meals, insurance, and entertainment. Other costs (as seen in low-public-transport cities) can also increase that percentage in public transport.
The average budget for a single professional is around USD 2,500-4,000 (approximately INR 2.41L-3.86L) monthly, which comprises accommodation.
Cost of Living in Major Cities in Texas
The average monthly cost of living in Texas varies greatly among the major cities. Generally, houses in Austin cost more per month, whereas houses in El Paso and Lubbock are less expensive.
The following estimates incorporate a range of rent prices for a 1-bedroom unit plus regular living costs, and offer a convenient city-to-city comparison:
City
Approximate Monthly Cost (USD/Approximately in INR)
Austin
USD 2,327-4,127 (INR 2.24L-3.98L)
Dallas
USD 2,526-3,726 (INR 2.44L-3.59L)
Houston
USD 2,225-3,225 (INR 2.15L-3.11L)
San Antonio
USD 2,074-3,177 (INR 2.00L-3.06L)
Fort Worth
USD 2,363-3,163 (INR 2.28L-3.05L)
El Paso
USD 1,856-2,405 (INR 1.79L-2.32L)
Lubbock
USD 1,775-2,575 (INR 1.71L-2.48L)
Key Points:
Austin: This is one of the most expensive cities for housing in Texas; prices range from USD 1,000-2,400 (approximately INR 96,420-2.31L) for one-bedroom rent. This could increase the cost of living in the city for people and make it more cost-effective.
Dallas: The three main categories that affect the average cost of living in Dallas Texas are housing, commuting, food, and transportation. The present valuation of rents for a one-bedroom is approximately USD 1,200-2,350 (approximately INR 1,16,000-2,27,000).
Houston: There are more choices of accommodation in Houston, and one-bedroom rents range between USD 1,200-2,000 (approximately INR 1.16L-1.93L). Additional expenses such as transportation to work and driving to and from work may also impact overall expenses.
San Antonio: In general, San Antonio is cheaper than Austin and Dallas, especially in terms of housing. One-bedroom rents range from USD 897-2,000 (approximately INR 86,496-1.93L).
Fort Worth: Fort Worth may be a cheaper choice in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area. One-bedroom rents range from around USD 1,000-1,800 (approximately INR 96,420-1.74L).
El Paso: El Paso comes in the list of more affordable big cities, with one-bedroom apartments of USD 781-1330 (approximately INR 75,316-1.28L). This may make living in Texas more affordable for students and working individuals.
Lubbock: The cost of living in Lubbock Texas can be relatively manageable, as the rent of a 1-bedroom apartment is around USD 700-1200 (approximately INR 67,494-1.16L). Students seeking more affordable options have a viable choice here.
The largest portion of the Texas cost of living is accommodation. The average rental price for a one-bedroom apartment is USD 710-1,860 (approximately INR 68,450-1,79L), with Dallas and Austin being the most expensive cities. Housing rates are different across cities depending on the number of rooms and on whether it is a shared or private rental apartment.
The attached cost data gives the following rental ranges:
Accommodation Type
Approximate Monthly Cost (USD/Approximately in INR)
Tenants can save on rent by dividing housing and utility costs with shared accommodation. There are also student houses and studio apartments available, which are popular housing choices for international students.
How often you cook, go to the market, and eat out are some of the factors that determine the cost of food. Children are likely to spend less money when they prepare food on their own and look around for food they can buy.
The cost of groceries for a single person may be from USD 300-500 (approximately INR 28,926-48,210) monthly, although this can increase to higher figures for specific diets or high levels of takeout.
Grocery Prices in Texas
The attached price data provides the following ranges for commonly purchased groceries:
Grocery Item
Approximate Monthly Cost (USD/Approximately in INR)
It's easy to spend a lot of money at restaurants and takeout, which can add up to your monthly budget. Depending on the city and restaurant type, restaurant meals vary. In all larger metropolitan areas, there are more restaurant options spread across a range of prices.
Restaurant Expense
Approximate Monthly Cost (USD/Approximately in INR)
Transportation is cheaper in Texas than in some US states, although these costs will differ by city and lifestyle. The average cost of periodic transport is a transport ticket of USD 40-150 (approximately INR 3,857-14,463), and vehicle ownership or car rental covers fuel costs, insurance, and maintenance.
The attached cost data gives the following transportation ranges:
Transportation Expense
Approximate Monthly Cost (USD/Approximately in INR)
In cities like Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio, buses offer better service than cars, and in suburban areas, perhaps a car is the best fit for commuters.
Utilities, Internet and Mobile Costs in Texas
Texas summers can lead to a spike in power and cooling costs as well, especially in a home with an air conditioning unit and a large home. Other factors such as apartment size and usage, as well as some services in the rent, can influence utility costs.
The attached data provides the following monthly ranges:
Utility or Communication Expense
Approximate Monthly Cost (USD/Approximately in INR)
Hence, utility and communication bills can be around USD 225-690 (approximately INR 21,695-66,530) monthly, depending on the usage and the number of persons involved in the accommodation.
Healthcare and Insurance in Texas
Depending on whether a health plan is available, treatment can vary based on insurance coverage, healthcare provider, and the healthcare system. Before coming to university, international students are advised to review the policy on insurance coverage for international students.
Below are indicative ranges from which estimates are made for budgeting:
Healthcare Expense
Approximate Cost (USD/Approximately in INR)
Health insurance
USD 150-400 per month (INR 14,463-38,568)
Doctor/primary-care visit
USD 50-200 (INR 4,821-19,284)
Specialist consultation
USD 100-400 (INR 9,642-38,568)
Urgent care
USD 75-250 (INR 7,232-24,105)
Emergency care
USD 500-5,000+ (INR 48,210-4.82L+)
Prescription medicines
USD 15-100+ (INR 1,446-9,642+)
Routine dental care
USD 100-500+ (INR 9,642-48,210+)
Universities in USA, especially Texas, need to have a health insurance policy that meets a certain requirement, depending on the policy they are offered and the educational setting, and will be subject to waiver requirements as well. Students should check their university's current policy when budgeting.
Other Living Expenses in Texas
Other monthly expenses depend on the amount spent on entertainment, clothes, childcare, fitness, travelling, and other personal expenses. These may be lower for students who use campus facilities and discounts.
The attached cost data gives the following examples:
Texas offers a relatively affordable lifestyle compared to many US states, but it is still significantly more expensive than India. The cost of living in Texas for international students is USD 710-1,860 (approximately INR 68,450-1,79L) per month, which is about 70-80% higher than what students typically spend in India.
The following table provides an indicative comparison with major Indian cities:
Expense
Approximate Monthly Cost in Texas (USD/Approximately in INR)
Approximate Monthly Cost in Major Indian Cities (INR)
Accommodation
USD 710-1,200 (INR 68,458-1.16L)
INR 15,000-65,000
Food and groceries
USD 300-500 (INR 28,926-48,210)
INR 8,000-20,000
Transportation
USD 40-150 (INR 3,857-14,463)
INR 1,500-6,000
Healthcare
USD 150-400 (INR 14,463-38,568) Insurance budget
INR 1,000-8,000+ depending on insurance and treatment
Overall monthly expenses
USD 2,000-3,500 (INR 1.93L-3.37L) including accommodation
Around INR 30,000-1L+ depending on city and lifestyle
Rentals in Mumbai are expensive, as compared to rentals in Hyderabad, which are comparatively cheaper, and rentals in Bengaluru and Delhi are kept at a middle range depending upon the locality and type of rentals.
One-Time Costs When Moving to Texas
The relocation costs to Texas include an initial fixed cost, as well as monthly living costs. First-time expenses can include housing deposits, home or household purchases, groceries, communication setup, and getting transportation.
The following table covers common one-time expenses:
One-Time Expense
Approximate Cost (USD/Approximately in INR)
Security deposit
USD 710-1,200+ (INR 68,458-1.16L+) depending on rent and lease terms
First month's rent
USD 710-1,200 (INR 68,458-1.16L) for the attached one-bedroom range
Furniture and household essentials
USD 300-1,500 (INR 28,926-1.45L)
Initial groceries
USD 150-300 (INR 14,463-28,926)
Mobile/SIM setup
USD 25-90 (INR 2,410-8,678)
Airport transportation
USD 30-100 (INR 2,893-9,642)
University-related setup
USD 100-500 (INR 9,642-48,210)
They may have a lower start-up if they are living in a community house and a much higher start-up if they are considering purchasing a vehicle.
If you want to study in USA but are worried about the costs, then go through:
A few tips to keep your Texas wallet healthy are to select the right city to live in, make smart daily spending decisions, compare home prices, and reduce transportation costs.
See how the city you can afford relates to your college/workplace.
Research areas before moving into a rental home.
If a house share is an option, use it to reduce costs on rent and utilities
Increasingly, find a place close to your campus or place of work.
Use the public transport area, if available.
Prepare food at home and don't eat out a lot.
Compare the stores for grocery items and then buy from them in the neighborhood.
Prevent unnecessary car expenses, such as pooling cars or looking into car insurance alternatives.
Check out student rates for travel, lodging, and other activities.
Planning a budget before moving can assist a student, job seeker, and family in getting some understanding of how they can spend money each month. These are the fixed expenses listed first, followed by flexible and unforeseen expenses.
Step 1: Identify the costs involved with your rehabilitation
Rent is probably one of the costliest monthly bills you may have in Texas, so it's best to start with it.
Step 2: Estimate food and grocery expenses
Create a food budget according to how much you cook, and then have another amount if you eat out.
Step 3: Make a list of costs of food and groceries
Make your grocery budget based on the kinds of food that you cook and have an "at-home" food budget.
Step 4: Compute the sum of the money
Work out the costs of public transport, petrol, car insurance, car maintenance, and car parking/rideshare for the area.
Step 5: Add in utilities and communication
Add the cost of Internet, electricity, water, mobile phone, heating & cooling (not included).
Step 6: Emergency and one-time expenses
Save extra funds for medical and travel emergencies, home improvements, deposits, and unexpected expenses.
Conclusion
Some cities are more affordable than others, and the overall Texas cost of living depends on the type of living and housing. Around USD 1,100-1,500 (approximately INR 1.06L-1.45L) per month can be spent for a single person; accounting for rent, it can be USD 2,000-3,500 (approximately INR 1.93L-3.37L) per month. More often than not, the housing prices are higher in Austin and Dallas, and the prices are typically lower in El Paso and Lubbock.
The cost of living for international students is around USD 1,600-2,600 (approximately INR 1.54L-2.51L) per month, which can be considered a reasonable starting point (excluding tuition). Shared housing and cooking for yourself can cut expenses, and if you need to move between different locations, you can cut costs. This makes the average monthly cost of living in Texas more manageable by comparing costs between cities and planning for the one-time moving expenses and healthcare needs.
On average, Texas is less expensive than other cities and states in United States, but prices differ when comparing locations. A single person can spend about USD 1,100-1,500 (approximately INR 1.06L-1.45L) per month (excluding rent), with total spending on expenses of USD 2,000-3,500 (approximately INR 1.93L-3.37L) per month.
Which city in Texas has the lowest cost of living?
Among the most economical cities in Texas are Lubbock and El Paso. The one-bedroom apartment in Lubbock is probably cheaper at around USD 700-1200 (approximately INR 67,494-1.16L making it popular among students and budget-conscious tenants.
Which state has the lowest cost of living in US?
Texas is generally affordable, but some states are truly the least expensive, like Mississippi, Arkansas, and Oklahoma, where residents may enjoy a lower cost of living, with housing and groceries being particularly affordable.
What is the cost of living in Texas for Indian students?
The monthly expenses for international students in Texas are estimated to be about USD 1,600-2,600 (approximately INR 1.54L-2.51L) per month. This typically includes the cost of housing options, meals, transportation, utilities, and other regular costs, but not tuition.
How does the cost of living in Texas compare to India?
Since there are several categories in which Texas is much more costly than India, the difference is quite dramatic. The total cost of living in this country is USD 2,000-3,500 (approximately INR 1.93L-3.37L) per month, and it can be significantly lower in major Indian cities.
How can students save money while living in Texas?
By sharing living space, making their own meals, using public transportation (as often as possible), going to the cheapest grocery stores, enjoying student discounts, and heading to more affordable cities, such as Lubbock or El Paso, students can save money.
What are typical monthly expenses for a family in Texas?
A rough estimate of the cost for a family of four is USD 4,500-7,000 (approximately INR 4.34L-6.75L) per month. The main monthly expenses are housing, childcare, food, healthcare, and transport. The five biggest expenses are food, health, child care, shelter, and transportation.
How much does healthcare cost in Texas?
Share of coverage and medical requirements are two factors that will impact health care costs. The cost of medical insurance is somewhere between USD 150-400 (approximately INR 14,463-38,568) per month, plus further fees when visiting doctors, obtaining medicine, and consulting specialists.
How much does transportation cost in Texas?
There is a relatively low cost of transportation. Passes for long-term public transport usually range from USD 40-150 (approximately INR 3,857-14,463) per month. In addition to the parking charges, car owners need to consider spending on fuel, insurance, and maintenance.
How does the cost of living in New Jersey vs Texas compare?
New Jersey's price level is generally higher than Texas, especially for housing. Many cities around Texas compete to be the most affordable. For some students, professionals, and families trying to control living costs, Texas offers lower rental costs in many cities.
How does the cost of living in Colorado vs Texas compare?
In many instances, Colorado is more expensive than Texas, particularly in big cities, where accommodation prices are higher. Generally, housing and living expenses are cheaper in Texas than in other parts of the country, but there are exceptions depending on lifestyle, location, the need for transportation, etc.
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