Seattle vs Austin: Cost of Living

17%

Seattle is about 17% more expensive than Austin overall.

How Seattle Compares to Austin

Category by category

Renting ▲ 13%
Buying ▲ 66%
Goods ▲ 16%
Services ▲ 20%

Key Facts

SeattleAustin
Median Rent$2,007/mo$1,770/mo
Median Home$950,800$571,000
Median Income$118,745$90,430
State Income TaxNoneNone
Sales Tax10.25%8.25%

Housing: The Biggest Difference

Austin has the lower median home price by $379,800. Monthly rent is $237/month cheaper in Austin.

Compare With Your Salary

Sources: Housing from Census ACS 2024. Goods and services from BEA Regional Price Parities 2023. Taxes from Tax Foundation. Full disclaimer.

Seattle vs Austin FAQ

Rent is $237/month cheaper in Austin. Seattle's median rent is $2,007/month, while Austin's is $1,770/month. Source: Census ACS 2024.

Austin has the lower median home price at $571,000, saving $379,800 compared to Seattle. Source: Census ACS 2024.