Little Elm is considered moderately affordable in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment around $1,750 and slightly lower utility and grocery costs compared to the national average.
Housing Costs in Little Elm
Housing options in Little Elm span a range of prices and styles, from apartments and townhomes to single-family houses. Rent for a typical 2-bedroom apartment averages $1,750 per month as of 2025, while a 3-bedroom house has a median purchase price around $350,000.
Prices vary by neighborhood, with newer developments like Union Park and Sunset Pointe commanding higher costs. Older neighborhoods near the city center, such as Lakefront and Hilltown, tend to offer more affordable options. Many single-family neighborhoods have optional HOA fees averaging $50-100 per month.
Here’s a comparison of typical housing costs across Little Elm:
| Neighborhood | 2-Bed Apartment Rent | 3-Bed House Price |
|---|---|---|
| Union Park | $1,900 | $400,000 |
| Lakefront | $1,600 | $325,000 |
| Hilltown | $1,500 | $300,000 |
Utilities and Energy Bills
Basic utility costs in Little Elm, including electricity, gas, water, and trash, average around $180 per month for a 2-bedroom apartment. Expect cooling costs to rise in the hot summer months. High-speed internet adds another $60-80 monthly.
Here’s an estimated utility breakdown for a couple in Little Elm:
- Electricity: $90
- Gas: $30
- Water/Sewer/Trash: $60
- Internet: $70
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs in Little Elm are on par with the national average. Expect to spend around $350 per month per person on groceries and household items. A gallon of milk averages $3.50, while a loaf of bread is about $2.75.
Dining out costs vary, but a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant typically runs $50-60. A McDonald’s combo meal is around $8.
Taxes and Hidden Fees
Little Elm has a property tax rate of 2.2%, slightly above the national average. For a $350,000 home, annual property taxes would be approximately $7,700. Texas has no state income tax, but sales tax in Little Elm is 8.25% on most purchases.
Vehicle registration fees are $50-80 annually, depending on the type of vehicle. Many neighborhoods have additional HOA fees, typically $50-100 per month.
Monthly Budget Summary
| Expense | Single | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent/Mortgage) | $1,400 | $1,750 | $2,200 |
| Utilities | $150 | $180 | $250 |
| Groceries | $350 | $700 | $1,200 |
| Transportation | $200 | $300 | $400 |
| Other (Entertainment, Dining Out, Etc.) | $400 | $600 | $800 |
| Total | $2,500 | $3,530 | $4,850 |
Note: All figures are gross monthly income (pre-tax) estimates. Actual budgets may vary.
Lifestyle Considerations
Little Elm offers a suburban lifestyle with relatively affordable housing compared to nearby cities like Frisco or Plano. Commute times to major employment centers in the DFW area average 30-40 minutes.
Residents enjoy access to outdoor recreation at Little Elm Park and Lewisville Lake. The city has several community parks, trails, and sports facilities. Shopping and dining options are readily available at places like The Lakefront at Little Elm.
Newer neighborhoods like Union Park offer larger homes and more amenities, but come with higher price tags and longer commutes. Older areas closer to the city center provide more affordable options with the tradeoff of smaller lot sizes and older home construction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Little Elm?
To live comfortably, a couple in Little Elm should aim for a combined gross monthly income of at least $4,200. For a family of four, a combined income of $5,800 or more is recommended.
Is Little Elm cheaper than Frisco?
Yes, the cost of living in Little Elm is generally 10-15% lower than in Frisco, particularly when it comes to housing. A similar home in Little Elm might cost $50,000-75,000 less than in Frisco.
Are utilities expensive in Little Elm?
Utility costs in Little Elm are slightly below the national average. Expect to pay around $180 per month for basic utilities for a 2-bedroom apartment, with costs rising during summer due to higher AC usage.
How much are property taxes in Little Elm?
The property tax rate in Little Elm is 2.2% as of 2025. For a home valued at $350,000, annual property taxes would be around $7,700. This is slightly higher than the national average but in line with many other DFW suburbs.
What are the most expensive parts of living in Little Elm?
Housing is the biggest expense for most Little Elm residents, followed by groceries, childcare, and transportation. Newer neighborhoods with amenities command higher housing costs. Texas’ high property tax rates can also add significantly to homeownership expenses.