Dallas, TX vs. Frisco, TX: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Deciding between Dallas and Frisco, TX? This cost of living comparison breaks down the key differences in housing, utilities, groceries and more as of 2025. Whether you’re relocating for work, buying a home, or renting an apartment, see which North Texas city fits your lifestyle and budget best.
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1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in the cost of living in Dallas and Frisco. Here’s how typical rent and home prices compare:
| Housing | Dallas | Frisco |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,850 | $2,100 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $450,000 | $650,000 |
🏆 Winner: Dallas. You’ll pay around 12% less for an apartment and 30% less to buy a home in Dallas proper vs. Frisco.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are fairly similar between the two cities, but Dallas has a slight edge:
- Expect around $180/month for basic utilities in a Dallas apartment vs. $200 in Frisco
- Air conditioning costs more in the summer due to Dallas’s urban heat island effect
- Both cities offer free recycling and comparable water/sewer rates
🏆 Winner: Dallas, but only by about $20/month on average.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries, dining out, and everyday purchases cost about the same in Dallas and Frisco. One surprise: Frisco has 8% cheaper grocery prices according to C2ER data, likely due to lower retail rents.
🏆 Winner: Frisco, but it’s nearly a toss-up. Your monthly budget in Dallas will go about as far as in Frisco for food and daily expenses.
4. Taxes and Fees
While neither city has income tax, Frisco has higher property taxes and HOA fees:
- Dallas property tax rate: 2.72% vs. Frisco: 2.93%
- Many Frisco neighborhoods have HOAs from $100-400/month
- Dallas has more properties with low or no HOA
🏆 Winner: Dallas. The typical homeowner will pay over $1,000/year more in property taxes and HOA fees in Frisco.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Monthly Cost | Dallas | Frisco |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR home) | $2,600 | $3,400 |
| Utilities | $180 | $200 |
| Groceries | $400 | $370 |
| Transportation | $130 | $140 |
| Taxes & Fees (Prorated) | $1,100 | $1,300 |
| Misc Costs | $500 | $550 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,910 in Dallas | $5,960 in Frisco |
Figures are estimates based on pre-tax monthly income for a 3BR home. Actual costs will vary.
6. Lifestyle Fit
Frisco offers more space, highly-rated schools, and a quieter suburban feel. But Dallas boasts better walkability, shorter commutes, and a wider range of housing options. Summers are also 3°F cooler on average in Dallas.
7. FAQ
Q: Is Dallas more affordable than Frisco?
A: Yes, the cost of living is about 18% lower in Dallas, mainly due to cheaper housing.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Typical rent is around 12% lower in Dallas for a 2BR apartment.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Dallas home prices are roughly 30% lower than in Frisco for a comparable 3BR.
8. Conclusion
While both are great places to live, Dallas comes out ahead in this cost of living comparison. A family moving from Frisco to Dallas could save over $1,000 per month on housing and taxes alone. However, Frisco remains popular for its top-notch schools, safe neighborhoods, and suburban lifestyle.
Ultimately, the cheaper choice depends on your budget, housing needs, and lifestyle priorities. Be sure to compare detailed cost of living breakdowns for each city before deciding where to live in the Dallas metro area.