What Is the Average Cost of Living in Dallas, Texas?
Understanding the cost of living in Dallas, Texas, is essential if you’re looking to settle down in the perfect home here for your next chapter in life. Whether you need a larger home, are relocating, or seek a milder climate, Dallas has plenty to offer. From housing to healthcare—and everything in between—here’s a breakdown of what to know about Dallas living expenses. Summary: Cost of Living in Dallas, Texas Comparing Average Home Prices and Rent Costs in Dallas Other Living Expenses in Dallas, Texas Grocery Shopping and Dining Out in Dallas Transportation Options and Fuel Costs in Dallas Healthcare and Insurance Costs in Dallas Utilities, Internet, and Phone Expenses in Dallas Tax Rates in the Dallas Area Recreation Costs in Dallas, Texas Average Salary in Dallas Average Cost of New Construction Homes in Dallas by Neighborhood Conclusion The Dallas cost of living is surprisingly reasonable compared to other major cities. According to RentCafe® as of September 2024, the cost of living in Dallas is just 2% higher than the national average, though it is 11% above the state average. This balance makes living in Dallas an attractive option. To meet the Dallas living wage requirements, a single individual needs an hourly wage of about $22, based on the Living Wage Calculator from MIT® as of February 2024. In a household of two adults and no children, if one person works, then an hourly wage of $29.83 is required. If both adults are employed, each would need to earn $14.91 per hour. For two working adults with two children, each adult should earn an average hourly wage of $25. Whether you plan to purchase a home or explore places to rent, Dallas offers diverse choices to suit your budget and preferences. According to Redfin®, the median home sale price in Dallas is $425K as of December 2024, making the city a potentially appealing place for those looking to buy. For renters, Dallas isn’t short on options. As of February 2024, Apartments.com® reports the average apartment rent in Dallas, Texas, for a one-bedroom is around $1,395 monthly, while a two-bedroom averages $1,844. When budgeting for average living expenses in Dallas, Texas, it’s important to consider more than just housing costs. Everyday essentials like groceries, transportation, and entertainment can significantly impact the overall cost to live in Dallas. Here’s a breakdown of these key categories, alongside other common expenses, to help you better plan your budget. When it comes to essential monthly expenses in Dallas, Texas, food costs in the city align closely with the national average, according to RentCafe in September 2024, so stocking up on groceries won’t stretch your budget too thin. For a household of two working adults and two children, annual grocery expenses average $11,456, according to MIT’s 2024 data. This helps make stocking the pantry with your favorite treats both accessible and affordable. Prefer dining out? Dallas is a haven for food lovers. Whether you’re in the mood for gourmet markets, local diners, or everything in between, the city’s dining scene has it all. Grab a burger and fries at Shake Shack™ for $10–20, or treat yourself to an elegant dining experience at Ocean Prime, where the average cost is around $100 per person. With options for every budget, Dallas offers something delicious for everyone.
Cost of Living in Dallas, Texas
Comparing Average Home Prices and Rent Costs in Dallas
Other Living Expenses in Dallas, Texas
Grocery Shopping and Dining Out in Dallas
Transportation Options and Fuel Costs in Dallas
If you’re behind the wheel often, here’s some good news: Transportation costs in Dallas are 11% below the national average, according to RentCafe. Plus, AAA® reports that as of December 2024, the average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gas is $2.59.
If you prefer public transportation, the DART® (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) system has you covered with flexible fares for frequent riders. For example, a single ride is $2.50, a local day pass starts at $6, and a 31-day pass is $96.
On average, MIT estimates a single person spends about $9,465 per year, while a household of two adults with two children in Dallas should plan to spend about $15,877 annually on transportation—which may include gas and maintenance for your car, public transit, and the occasional Uber™.
Healthcare and Insurance Costs in Dallas
Taking care of your health is always important. Dallas offers access to a robust healthcare system, but you still want to plan for medical expenses. Understanding the Dallas, TX, living cost for these expenses can help you make informed decisions to better protect your health and finances.
On average, households with two adults and two children spend around $9,833 annually on medical care, while these costs for a single adult with no children run approximately $2,923, according to MIT. Health insurance premiums in Dallas vary depending on the provider and plan you choose. As of January 2025, MoneyGeek® reports that monthly premiums range between $314 and $510.
Utilities, Internet, and Phone Expenses in Dallas
Utilities are a big part of the price of living in Dallas, Texas, and are about 12% higher than the national average, according to RentCafe. On average, you'll pay around $225 a month for energy—thanks to the sweltering Texas heat—and phone bills tend to average $207 per month.
For internet and mobile services, MIT estimates that a household with two adults will spend roughly $2,000 annually. In terms of the cost of living in Dallas for a single person, these annual expenses average $1,400. These essential expenses play a significant role in the Dallas cost of living per month, so it's worth factoring them into your budget.
Tax Rates in the Dallas Area
Texas may not have a state income tax, but sales and property taxes are still part of the state’s tax structure. Whether you're a current or prospective Dallas resident, understanding these rates is essential for planning your finances,
As of 2024, the total sales tax rate in Dallas, Texas, is 8.25%, according to Avalara®. That includes the state’s 6.25% sales tax, combined with a 1% city sales tax and an additional 1% transit sales and use tax.
Property taxes in Dallas are on the higher side, based on data from SmartAsset®. The effective property tax rate in Texas is 1.63%, with homeowners paying an average of $3,872 annually. In Dallas specifically, homeowners pay a slightly higher 1.73% effective property tax rate, paying roughly $4,360 annually.
Recreation Costs in Dallas, Texas
Dallas offers a mix of activities and attractions, many of which are affordable—or even free! Here are a few popular options to enjoy without breaking the bank:
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Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden: Stroll through 66 acres of beautifully curated gardens for just $22, or $18 if you’re 65 or older.
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Dallas Museum of Art: Immerse yourself in a vast collection of 24,000 artworks spanning 5,000 years—all at no cost.
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Winspear Opera House: Enjoy an unforgettable evening with stunning performances, from opera and ballet to contemporary theater. Ticket prices vary based on the performance.
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White Rock Lake: Experience nature with hiking trails, bird watching, and scenic views—all free of charge.
No matter your interests, there's something in Dallas for everyone, proving fun doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
Average Salary in Dallas
How do salaries factor into the cost of living in Dallas, TX? According to ZipRecruiter® (December 2024), the average annual salary in Dallas is $66,419. That breaks down to approximately $31.93 per hour, $1,277 per week, or $5,534 per month.
Based on February 2024 data from MIT, the average salary to live comfortably in Dallas for one adult with no children should be about $45,875 annually before taxes. For a household of two adults and two children, a combined income of $103,998 is recommended.
Average Cost of New Construction Homes in Dallas by Neighborhood
Dallas offers a variety of wonderful neighborhoods and suburbs to explore. If you’re factoring a new construction home into your budget, here’s a closer look at the average cost of building a new home in some of the most sought-after areas.
Fort Worth
Blending Southern cowboy charm with modern lifestyle amenities, Fort Worth offers space and a welcoming community vibe. Just over 35 miles from Downtown Dallas, it’s a strong contender for those seeking a close-knit atmosphere. According to NewHomeSource®, new build home prices here range from the upper $200Ks to the mid $700Ks as of December 2024. Our new construction homes in Fort Worth, TX, start in the low $400Ks.
McKinney
Known for its historic downtown and community-oriented atmosphere, McKinney is a rapidly growing area in North Dallas. It features a wide range of new build homes priced from the high $200Ks to the upper $1.1M, per NewHomeSource. Don’t miss out on viewing our new construction homes in McKinney, TX, starting in the low $500Ks.
Celina
If you’re longing for a peaceful escape from the city, Celina might be the perfect fit. This semi-rural suburb offers spacious living and plenty of fresh air. Building a new home here, according to NewHomeSource, starts in the upper $300Ks and can range up to the high $1.2M as of December 2024. Check out our new construction homes in Celina, TX, which start in the mid $400Ks.
Midlothian
Known as the "Cement Capital of Texas," Midlothian combines small-town appeal with a growing housing market, offering homebuyers spacious lots, friendly neighborhoods, and quality schools. New homes here, according to NewHomeSource, range from the low $300Ks to the high $900Ks as of December 2024. Our new construction homes in Midlothian, TX, start in the upper $300Ks.
Little Elm
Located along the shores of Lewisville Lake, Little Elm boasts affordable housing, beautiful water views, and a strong sense of community, perfect for first-time homebuyers or growing households. The cost to build a new home here runs from the upper $300Ks to the upper $1.1M, per NewHomeSource in December 2024. Our new construction homes in Little Elm, TX, start in the low $400Ks.
Pilot Point
With its historic downtown and proximity to Ray Roberts Lake State Park, Pilot Point offers homebuyers a quiet rural setting with easy access to outdoor recreation and modern conveniences. New build houses here, according to NewHomeSource, range from the low $300Ks to the low $400Ks. Our new construction homes in Pilot Point, TX, start in the low $300Ks.
Justin
Home to the iconic Justin Boots and a rich Western heritage, Justin offers homebuyers a relaxed, small-town vibe and is just roughly 42 miles from Dallas and 25 miles from Fort Worth. According to NewHomeSource, as of December 2024, the cost to build a new home in Justin starts in the mid $300Ks and can go up to the high $500Ks. Pulte® new construction homes in Justin, TX, start in the low $400Ks.
Northlake
Rapidly growing and home to a few new construction communities, Northlake appeals to homebuyers looking for modern amenities, new build homes, and a convenient location near major highways. Building a new home here, according to NewHomeSource as of December 2024, starts in the low $400Ks and goes up to the mid $1.4M. Our new construction homes in Northlake, TX, start in the mid $400Ks.
Anna
Offering a small-town feel and a peaceful lifestyle with easy access to the amenities of McKinney and other nearby cities, Anna is ideal for many homebuyers. New build homes here range from the upper $300Ks to the mid $700Ks, per NewHomeSource. Our new construction homes in Anna, TX, start in the upper $300Ks.
Princeton
Located along U.S. Highway 380, Princeton is a growing city that attracts homebuyers with its affordable new construction homes, welcoming community atmosphere, and proximity to Lake Lavon. According to NewHomeSource, as of December 2024, new build home prices here range from the upper $100Ks to the mid $500Ks. Pulte new construction homes in Princeton, TX, start in the mid $300Ks.
Conclusion
The cost of living in Dallas, Texas, is reasonable and offers a nice balance of city life and suburban comfort, making it a wonderful place to call home. Along with the city’s countless recreational opportunities, it’s easy to see why so many choose to plant roots here. Explore the possibilities Dallas has to offer and take the first step toward your next great homeownership adventure.
Explore new construction homes in Dallas, TX, today, or browse more Pulte blogs.
Written By: Jordan Thomson, Freelance Writer
Last Updated: 5/7/25