Garland, TX vs. Frisco, TX: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Moving from Frisco to Garland could save a typical household over $500 per month on housing alone in 2025. This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Garland and nearby Frisco. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living in Garland vs Frisco in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference between Garland and Frisco. Typical housing costs:
| Housing Type | Garland | Frisco |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,450 | $1,950 |
| 3BR Home Mortgage | $1,750 | $2,400 |
🏆 Winner: Garland. Housing costs are significantly lower in Garland compared to Frisco.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities. Typical monthly utility bills:
- Electricity: $120-180 (higher in summer)
- Water/Sewer/Trash: $80-100
- Internet: $60-80
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are comparable in Garland and Frisco.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are about 5% lower in Garland compared to Frisco. Eating out is also slightly cheaper – a meal at an inexpensive restaurant averages $12 in Garland vs $14 in Frisco.
🏆 Winner: Garland has a slight edge for grocery and daily living costs.
4. Taxes and Fees
Garland has a lower property tax rate of 2.7% compared to Frisco’s 2.9%. However, Frisco has no city income tax while Garland has a 1% income tax. HOA fees tend to be higher in Frisco.
🏆 Winner: Garland for lower property taxes and HOA fees, but Frisco for no city income tax.
5. Cost Summary
| Category | Garland | Frisco |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,450 – $1,750 | $1,950 – $2,400 |
| Utilities | $260 – $360 | $260 – $360 |
| Groceries | $350 | $370 |
| Transportation | $60 | $60 |
| Taxes | 2.7% property tax + 1% income tax | 2.9% property tax |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,120 – $2,520 | $2,640 – $3,190 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
Garland offers a lower cost of living and more affordable housing, but Frisco has highly-rated schools, upscale amenities, and a booming economy. Frisco is one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., while Garland has a more established feel.
7. FAQ
- Is Garland more affordable than Frisco? Yes, the cost of living is lower in Garland, especially for housing.
- Which city has lower rent? Garland has lower apartment rents on average.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Home prices and mortgages are significantly lower in Garland compared to Frisco.
8. Conclusion
Garland offers a meaningfully lower cost of living compared to nearby Frisco, with potential savings of $500 or more per month, mainly due to lower housing costs. Frisco has some advantages like top schools and a rapidly growing economy, but budget-conscious households will likely find Garland more affordable.
To see how your budget could look in Garland, check out these Monthly Budget Examples for Garland Residents. For a full overview, see the Cost of Living in Garland (2025 Guide).