Round Rock, TX vs. Georgetown, TX: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to the Austin, TX area? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Round Rock and nearby Georgetown. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life costs of these two cities in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Round Rock and Georgetown stack up for common housing options:
| Housing Type | Round Rock | Georgetown |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,600 | $1,450 |
| 3BR Home Mortgage | $2,200 | $1,900 |
🏆 Winner: Georgetown. Housing costs tend to be 10-15% lower in Georgetown compared to Round Rock.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities. The average household in Round Rock pays around $180 per month for electricity, water, and gas. In Georgetown, the typical utility bill is closer to $160.
Both cities experience hot Texas summers, so expect higher A/C usage from June through September. Many residents take advantage of free nights and weekend plans from the electric company to save.
🏆 Winner: Georgetown has a slight edge on utility costs, but the difference is minimal.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery and restaurant prices are comparable in Round Rock and Georgetown. A gallon of milk runs about $3.50 in both cities, while a meal at a mid-range restaurant for two typically costs $50-60.
One notable difference: Round Rock’s slightly lower sales tax rate of 8.25% vs. Georgetown’s 8.5%. Over time, that quarter-percent can add up on daily purchases.
🏆 Winner: Round Rock, but only by a small margin thanks to its lower sales tax.
4. Taxes and Fees
Property taxes are a significant expense for homeowners in both Round Rock and Georgetown. The average effective property tax rate is 2.2% in Round Rock and 2.25% in Georgetown. On a $300,000 home, that’s a difference of $150 per year.
Many neighborhoods also have Homeowners Association (HOA) fees. In Round Rock, these often include amenities like community pools and trash service. Georgetown HOAs may cover exterior maintenance and landscaping. Budget $50-300 per month, depending on the community.
🏆 Winner: Round Rock’s slightly lower property taxes give it the advantage.
5. Cost Summary
To sum it all up, here’s a side-by-side comparison of major living costs in Round Rock and Georgetown:
| Cost Category | Round Rock | Georgetown |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR mortgage) | $2,200 | $1,900 |
| Utilities | $180 | $160 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $200 | $200 |
| Taxes (property) | $550 | $560 |
| Miscellaneous | $400 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,930 | $3,620 |
Keep in mind these are averages based on gross monthly income (pre-tax). Your actual budget may vary. For more insights, check out these Monthly Budget Examples for Round Rock Residents.
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Georgetown offers a lower overall cost of living, Round Rock has some compelling lifestyle advantages:
- Closer proximity to Austin for commuters and city access
- More major employers and job opportunities
- Slightly more diverse population
On the other hand, many prefer Georgetown for its:
- Charming town square and historic buildings
- Abundance of parks and green space
- Quieter, small-town feel
The July heat index averages 5°F cooler in Georgetown than Round Rock. However, both cities offer plenty of swimming holes and shady trails to beat the heat.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Round Rock more affordable than Georgetown?
A: Not quite. Georgetown has lower housing and utility costs, making it slightly more affordable overall. However, Round Rock’s lower sales tax means some purchases are cheaper there.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Georgetown rental prices tend to be 5-10% lower than comparable apartments in Round Rock.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Georgetown takes the lead on home prices, with the typical mortgage payment coming in a few hundred dollars less per month than Round Rock.
8. The Bottom Line
While Georgetown has the edge on affordability, both of these Austin suburbs offer a high quality of life at a lower cost than the city itself. A family moving from Austin to Georgetown could potentially save over $500 per month on housing alone.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your family’s priorities. Young professionals may prefer Round Rock for its job market and proximity to Austin. Growing families might favor Georgetown’s small-town atmosphere and lower home prices.
Whichever you choose, you’ll enjoy the benefits of living in the greater Austin metropolitan area. For more information, read our full Cost of Living in Round Rock (2025 Guide).