Carrollton is considered moderately affordable in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment around $1,700 and slightly lower utility costs compared to the national average.
Housing Costs in Carrollton
Housing is typically the largest expense for Carrollton residents. In 2025, the average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Carrollton is approximately $1,700 per month. Prices can vary based on the neighborhood, age of the property, and included amenities. Newer apartments in desirable areas like Austin Ranch may cost upwards of $2,000 monthly.
For those looking to purchase a home, the median price for a 3-bedroom single-family house in Carrollton is around $350,000 as of 2025. This translates to an estimated monthly mortgage payment of $2,100, assuming a 30-year fixed loan with 20% down. Some popular neighborhoods for buyers include:
- Highlands of Carrollton: Mostly 1990s homes, median price $325K
- Indian Creek: Mix of 1980s and newer builds, median price $375K
- Carrollton Heights: Older homes from 1960s-1980s, median price $275K
About 30% of Carrollton neighborhoods have Homeowners Associations (HOAs), with monthly dues typically ranging from $30 to $100. Factor in this extra cost if considering an HOA community.
Utility Costs
Carrollton residents can expect to pay around $180 per month for basic utilities like electricity, natural gas, water, and trash for a 1,000 square foot apartment. Larger homes will have higher utility bills. Here’s a rough breakdown:
| Utility | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $110 |
| Natural gas | $30 |
| Water + Sewer | $55 |
| Trash | $25 |
Internet service costs an additional $60-$80 monthly. Expect cooling costs to rise by 20-30% in the hot summer months. Overall, utility costs in Carrollton are 5-10% below the national average.
Groceries and Food
Carrollton residents spend an average of $350 per person monthly on groceries and dining out. A gallon of milk costs around $3.50, while a loaf of bread is about $2.80. Eating a meal at an inexpensive restaurant averages $14, with fast food combo meals costing $8.
To feed a family of four in Carrollton, budget at least $1,100 per month for groceries, household items, and occasional meals out. Cooking most meals at home is more affordable than frequently dining out.
Taxes and Fees
Carrollton’s property tax rate is 2.72%, slightly higher than the national average of 1.1%. For a $350,000 home, annual property taxes would be approximately $9,520. Texas has no state income tax, which can help offset the higher property taxes for some households.
Sales tax in Carrollton is 8.25%, combining the 6.25% Texas state tax and 2% in local taxes. Vehicle registration fees in Denton County (which includes Carrollton) are $51.75 per year for most passenger vehicles.
Monthly Cost of Living
Here’s a sample monthly budget for different household sizes in Carrollton, based on average expenses (in gross income, before taxes):
| Expense | Single Adult | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (rent) | $1,300 | $1,700 | $2,100 |
| Utilities | $180 | $220 | $320 |
| Groceries | $350 | $700 | $1,100 |
| Transportation | $300 | $500 | $800 |
| Healthcare | $250 | $500 | $800 |
| Other necessities | $420 | $650 | $1,000 |
| Monthly Total | $2,800 | $4,270 | $6,120 |
To live comfortably, a single adult in Carrollton needs a gross monthly income of at least $2,800. For a couple, aim for $4,300 per month. To support a family of four, household income should be in the range of $6,100 monthly. Keep in mind, these figures are pre-tax. Budgeting 30% of gross income for housing is a good benchmark.
Lifestyle Factors
Carrollton offers a suburban lifestyle with relatively easy access to jobs and amenities in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Commute times for Carrollton residents average 25-30 minutes, with most people driving. Public transit options are limited.
Newer master-planned communities like Austin Ranch and Trinity Mills provide extensive amenities, but also come with higher price tags. More affordable options can be found in the city’s older neighborhoods, which tend to have smaller homes and fewer community features. Access to parks, trails, and green spaces is good throughout Carrollton.
Carrollton is known for its strong public school system, which is a draw for families. The city also has a diverse population and a variety of international dining options. However, entertainment and nightlife are more limited compared to Dallas proper.
Frequently Asked Questions
What salary do you need to live in Carrollton, TX?
To live comfortably, aim for a gross monthly income of $2,800 for a single adult, $4,300 for a couple, or $6,100 for a family of four. This factors in housing, food, utilities, and other necessities.
Is Carrollton cheaper than Dallas?
Yes, the cost of living in Carrollton is about 10% lower than in Dallas proper. Housing costs in particular tend to be more affordable in Carrollton.
What are the top 3 costs that surprise newcomers to Carrollton?
- High property tax rates of 2.72% (vs. 1.1% national average)
- Toll roads that can add up for commuters
- Rising home prices in newer master-planned communities
Are utilities expensive in Carrollton?
Utility costs in Carrollton are actually 5-10% lower than the national average. However, cooling costs do increase in the hot summer months.
What’s the sales tax rate in Carrollton?
Carrollton has an 8.25% sales tax, which includes the 6.25% Texas state tax and an additional 2% in local taxes.
How much is childcare in Carrollton?
Childcare costs around $1,100 per month for an infant and $800 for a preschooler. After-school care for an older child averages $450 monthly.
What are the most and least expensive neighborhoods in Carrollton?
Some of the pricier areas are master-planned communities like Austin Ranch, Highlands at Denton, and Trinity Mills. More affordable options include older neighborhoods like Carrollton Heights, Woodlake, and Crosby.