Round Rock, TX vs. San Marcos, 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 San Marcos. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living in Round Rock vs San Marcos in 2025. All income figures are expressed as gross monthly income (pre-tax).
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how typical rent and mortgage costs compare for Round Rock and San Marcos:
| Housing Type | Round Rock | San Marcos |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,450 | $1,250 |
| Median 3BR House Price | $450,000 | $375,000 |
🏆 Winner: San Marcos. Housing costs an estimated 14% less in San Marcos compared to Round Rock.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills can add up. Here’s what you might expect to pay monthly in Round Rock vs San Marcos:
- Round Rock: $180-$220
- San Marcos: $150-$200
Both cities experience hot Texas summers, so expect higher AC bills June through September. San Marcos offers more public utility options to help manage costs.
🏆 Winner: San Marcos has slightly lower utility costs on average.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Weekly grocery and restaurant costs are fairly comparable between the two cities. Budget around $100-$150 per person per week for groceries in either location.
One notable difference: San Marcos sales tax is 8.25% vs 8.75% in Round Rock, which can add up on daily purchases.
🏆 Winner: San Marcos edges out Round Rock for daily expenses due to lower sales tax.
4. Taxes and Fees
Property taxes are steep in both cities but slightly higher in Round Rock:
- Round Rock property tax rate: 2.23%
- San Marcos property tax rate: 2.12%
In Round Rock, HOA fees often include services like landscaping, trash, and amenities that could cost extra in San Marcos.
🏆 Winner: It’s close, but San Marcos has a slight edge for lower property taxes.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Round Rock | San Marcos |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,450 | $1,250 |
| Utilities | $200 | $175 |
| Groceries | $500 | $500 |
| Transportation | $60 | $50 |
| Misc | $250 | $225 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,460 | $2,200 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
Cost is just one factor in choosing where to live. Consider these lifestyle differences:
- Round Rock offers more space and newer construction, while San Marcos is more walkable
- San Marcos has more public transportation options to nearby cities
- Round Rock is 10°F cooler than San Marcos in the peak of summer
7. FAQs
Is Round Rock more affordable than San Marcos?
Overall, San Marcos has a lower cost of living than Round Rock by an estimated $260 per month. Housing and utilities tend to be cheaper in San Marcos.
Which city has lower rent?
Typical rent is about 14% lower in San Marcos compared to Round Rock. You can rent a 2BR apartment for around $1,250 in San Marcos vs $1,450 in Round Rock.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Median home prices are about 17% lower in San Marcos. A typical 3BR house costs around $375,000 in San Marcos compared to $450,000 in Round Rock.
8. Conclusion
While both Round Rock and San Marcos offer a high quality of life, San Marcos comes out ahead for cost of living. Housing, utilities, and daily expenses tend to be more affordable in San Marcos.
Round Rock may be worth the premium for families seeking more space, newer homes, and cooler summers. San Marcos is ideal for those prioritizing walkability and public transit.
Budgeting for your lifestyle? Check out our Monthly Budget Examples for Round Rock Residents and Cost of Living in Round Rock (2025 Guide) for more insights.