Allen, TX vs. Frisco, TX: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Which city gives you more for your money – Allen or Frisco? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison to help families relocating to the Dallas area, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life monthly expenses of living in Allen vs Frisco in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference between Allen and Frisco. Here’s how typical rent and mortgage costs compare:
| Housing Type | Allen | Frisco |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,650 | $1,850 |
| Median 3BR House Price | $450,000 | $550,000 |
🏆 Winner: Allen. Housing costs an estimated 10-20% less in Allen compared to Frisco.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are fairly similar between the two cities. Expect to pay around $200-250 per month for electricity, gas, water, and trash service for a typical home. Costs may be 10-20% higher in the peak of summer when air conditioning usage spikes.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are comparable between Allen and Frisco.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery prices and everyday expenses like gas, dining out, and household goods are nearly identical in Allen and Frisco. Both cities have ample access to major retailers and discount stores.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Expect to budget about the same for groceries and daily expenses in either city.
4. Taxes and Fees
Property taxes are the main difference when it comes to local taxes and fees:
- Allen property tax rate: 2.1%
- Frisco property tax rate: 2.3%
For a $500K home, that’s a difference of about $1,000 per year. HOA fees tend to be similar, typically ranging from $30-100/month.
🏆 Winner: Allen. The lower property tax rate gives Allen a slight edge.
5. Cost Summary
| Expense Category | Allen | Frisco |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR house) | $2,800 | $3,400 |
| Utilities | $250 | $250 |
| Groceries | $800 | $800 |
| Transportation | $500 | $500 |
| Taxes & Fees | $1,000 | $1,100 |
| Misc Expenses | $650 | $650 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $6,000 | $6,700 |
Figures above are estimates based on gross monthly income (pre-tax) for a typical family of four.
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Allen is more affordable overall, Frisco offers more extensive public parks, trails, and recreation options that may appeal to some families. Frisco also has more upscale shopping and dining. However, Allen tends to offer more space and square footage for the money when it comes to housing.
7. FAQ
Is Allen more affordable than Frisco?
Yes, Allen is an estimated 10-15% cheaper than Frisco overall, primarily due to lower housing and property tax costs.
Which city has lower rent?
Rental costs are typically 10-20% lower in Allen vs Frisco for a comparable apartment or home.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Allen has a lower median price point for a single family home and slightly lower property taxes, making it more affordable for homebuyers.
8. Conclusion
While both Allen and Frisco are excellent places to live, Allen comes out ahead in this cost of living comparison. A household moving from Frisco to Allen might save $400 per month on housing alone. To see a more detailed breakdown, check out our guide on how much it costs to live in Allen each month.
However, the best fit depends on your family’s lifestyle needs and priorities. Be sure to compare other factors like schools, commute times, and local amenities in addition to the cost of living.