Leander, TX vs. Pflugerville, TX: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Which Austin suburb gives you more for your money – Leander or Pflugerville? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Leander and Pflugerville. It’s perfect for families relocating to the Austin area, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living in these two popular suburbs in 2025.
Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical housing costs compare between Leander and Pflugerville:
| Housing Type | Leander | Pflugerville |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $450,000 | $425,000 |
| Mortgage Payment (20% down) | $2,150/month | $2,025/month |
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,800/month | $1,700/month |
🏆 Winner: Pflugerville. Housing costs are about 5-10% lower in Pflugerville compared to Leander. A household moving from Leander to Pflugerville might save $200-300 per month on housing alone.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities. Expect to pay around $150-200 per month for electricity, water, and gas for a typical home. Both have similar climates, so heating and cooling needs are comparable.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are nearly identical in Leander and Pflugerville.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery and restaurant prices are comparable in both cities, though Pflugerville has slightly lower costs overall. Budget around $400-500 per month for groceries for a family of four. A meal at a casual restaurant runs about $12-15 per person in either city.
🏆 Winner: Pflugerville, but only by a small margin. Expect to pay 3-5% less for groceries and dining out.
Taxes and Fees
Property taxes are the main difference here. Leander has a property tax rate of 2.2% while Pflugerville is lower at 1.9%. For a $400K home, that’s a difference of about $1200 per year. Both cities have similar HOA fees, typically ranging from $30-100 per month.
🏆 Winner: Pflugerville. The lower property tax rate can add up to significant savings for homeowners.
Cost Summary
| Category | Leander | Pflugerville |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Mortgage) | $2,150 | $2,025 |
| Utilities | $180 | $180 |
| Groceries | $500 | $475 |
| Transportation | $150 | $150 |
| Taxes (Property) | $825 | $675 |
| Misc | $400 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,205 | $3,905 |
Note: All income and cost figures are expressed in gross monthly amounts (before taxes). Consult a tax professional for take-home pay calculations.
Lifestyle Fit
While Pflugerville is more affordable overall, Leander offers more space and a quieter suburban feel. Leander homes are typically newer and larger. However, Pflugerville is more walkable and has better access to shopping, dining and entertainment. Pflugerville is about 10°F warmer than Leander in the summer months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Leander more affordable than Pflugerville?
No, Pflugerville has a lower overall cost of living, mainly due to more affordable housing and lower property taxes.
Which city has lower rent?
Pflugerville has slightly lower rental rates, with a typical 2BR apartment costing about $100 less per month compared to Leander.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Pflugerville. The median home price is about $25K lower than Leander, and property taxes are also lower.
Conclusion
While both Leander and Pflugerville are popular Austin suburbs, Pflugerville comes out ahead in terms of affordability. Housing costs, property taxes, and even groceries are meaningfully lower. However, Leander can still be a great fit for those wanting a quieter lifestyle and newer, larger homes.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your personal budget and preferences. We recommend calculating your detailed monthly budget for Leander and reviewing the full cost of living breakdown to determine if the area fits your finances. If you’re preparing for a move, be sure to compare moving company costs and options to get the best deal.