Dallas, TX vs. Plano, TX: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Which city wins on cost: Dallas or Plano? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison to help you decide. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life expenses of living in Dallas vs Plano in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).
1. Housing Costs
Here’s how typical housing costs compare between Dallas and Plano:
| Housing Type | Dallas | Plano |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Rent) | $1,800 | $2,100 |
| 3BR Home (Mortgage) | $2,400 | $2,900 |
🏆 Winner: Dallas. Housing costs an estimated 14-17% less in Dallas compared to Plano.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Expect utility bills to range from $180-250/month in Dallas and $200-280/month in Plano. Both cities experience hot summers, so air conditioning usage peaks from June-September. Plano’s utility assistance programs can help offset costs for qualifying households.
🏆 Winner: Dallas. Utility costs average about 10% lower in Dallas.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are fairly comparable between the two cities. Budget around $400/month per adult for groceries in either Dallas or Plano. Eating out is about 5% cheaper in Dallas, with entrees averaging $12-18 vs $14-20 in Plano.
🏆 Winner: Dallas, but only slightly. Groceries and daily expenses are neck and neck.
4. Taxes and Fees
Property taxes hover around 2.2% in Dallas and 2.4% in Plano. HOA fees are common in both cities, typically ranging from $200-500/month. One quirk: many Dallas neighborhoods have special assessments that can add to monthly housing costs.
🏆 Winner: Dallas. Lower property taxes give it the edge, despite special assessments in some areas.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Dallas | Plano |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR) | $2,400 | $2,900 |
| Utilities | $220 | $240 |
| Groceries | $400 | $420 |
| Transportation | $180 | $160 |
| Taxes & Fees | $600 | $700 |
| Misc Expenses | $400 | $450 |
| Est. Monthly Total | $4,200 | $4,870 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Dallas is more affordable overall, Plano offers more spacious housing, lower crime rates, and better schools. However, Dallas boasts shorter commutes, a thriving arts scene, and unbeatable Tex-Mex food. Plano averages 5°F cooler than Dallas in the peak of summer.
7. FAQ
- Q: Is Dallas more affordable than Plano?
A: Yes, the cost of living is about 14% lower in Dallas compared to Plano. - Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Typical rent for a 2BR apartment is around $1,800 in Dallas vs $2,100 in Plano. - Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Mortgage costs for a 3BR home average $2,400/month in Dallas and $2,900/month in Plano.
8. Conclusion
Overall, Dallas comes out ahead on affordability, while Plano offers a quieter suburban lifestyle and top-notch schools. Young professionals on a tighter budget may prefer Dallas, while families craving space might feel at home in Plano.
Choosing between the two? Drill down on the details with our guides on affording the cost of living in Dallas or the real cost of living in Dallas in 2025. The numbers don’t lie!