Richardson, TX vs. Plano, TX: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to the Dallas suburbs of Richardson or Plano? Here’s a rapid-fire cost of living comparison to help you decide:
- 🏘️ Median home price: $495K in Richardson vs. $575K in Plano
- ⚡ Average utility bill: $180/month in Richardson vs. $205 in Plano
- 🛒 Groceries for family of 4: $950/month in Richardson vs. $1,020 in Plano
- 🏦 Property tax rate: 1.9% in Richardson vs. 2.1% in Plano
For a detailed breakdown of the cost of living in Richardson vs Plano, read on. This article is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Richardson vs Plano in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference between Richardson and Plano. Here’s how typical housing costs compare:
| Housing Type | Richardson | Plano |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $495,000 | $575,000 |
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,800 | $2,100 |
| 3BR Home Mortgage | $2,600 | $3,000 |
🏆 Winner: Richardson. Housing costs about 15% less in Richardson compared to Plano.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities, but Richardson has a slight edge:
- Richardson: $180/month average
- Plano: $205/month average
Expect higher A/C bills in the summer than winter heating costs. Both cities offer energy-saving programs.
🏆 Winner: Richardson, but only by about $25/month.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries and everyday items cost about 5-7% less in Richardson compared to Plano:
- Richardson: $950/month for a family of 4
- Plano: $1,020/month for a family of 4
Restaurant prices are nearly identical. Gas prices and transportation costs are also a toss-up.
🏆 Winner: Richardson, but the difference is minor for most households.
4. Taxes and Fees
Richardson has a slightly lower property tax rate of 1.9% vs. 2.1% in Plano. But Plano’s city services are top-notch. HOA fees are similar, around $50-200/month.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Lower property taxes in Richardson are offset by Plano’s excellent city services.
5. Cost Summary
| Category | Richardson | Plano |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $2,600 | $3,000 |
| Utilities | $180 | $205 |
| Groceries | $950 | $1,020 |
| Transportation | $550 | $575 |
| Taxes | 1.9% | 2.1% |
| Misc | $500 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,780 | $5,300 |
Note: All income figures are expressed as gross monthly income (pre-tax).
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Plano is a bit pricier, it offers more space, highly-rated schools, and an easier commute to many offices. Richardson is more walkable and closer to Dallas.
Plano averages 2°F hotter than Richardson in July. But both cities enjoy over 230 sunny days per year.
7. FAQs
Q: Is Richardson more affordable than Plano?
A: Yes, the cost of living is about 10% lower in Richardson. Housing is the biggest difference.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Richardson. The average rent for a 2BR apartment is $1,800 in Richardson vs. $2,100 in Plano.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Richardson. The median home price is $495,000 in Richardson compared to $575,000 in Plano.
8. Conclusion
Overall, Richardson offers a lower cost of living, while Plano provides more space and top-tier schools. Young professionals may prefer Richardson’s walkability and proximity to Dallas. Growing families often favor Plano’s excellent schools and larger homes.
Budgeting for your lifestyle? Check out these sample monthly budgets for Richardson in 2025. Or see an overview of housing, groceries, taxes and more in Richardson.
Considering other Dallas suburbs? Browse our cost of living comparisons for popular cities in Texas.