The Colony, TX vs. Garland, TX: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Which Dallas suburb gives you more for your money – The Colony or Garland? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between The Colony and Garland. It’s perfect for families relocating to the Dallas area, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living in these two cities in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how The Colony and Garland compare for common housing options:
| Housing Type | The Colony | Garland |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,450 | $1,225 |
| Median 3BR House Price | $325,000 | $280,000 |
🏆 Winner: Garland. Housing costs an estimated 15% less in Garland compared to The Colony.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities. In The Colony, expect to pay around $180 per month for a 1,000 sq ft apartment. Garland utility bills average $165 monthly.
Both cities experience hot Texas summers, so budget more for A/C from June through September. Many electric providers offer free nights and weekend plans to help manage costs.
🏆 Winner: Garland, but only by a slight margin. Utility costs are comparable in both cities.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery and restaurant prices are nearly identical in The Colony and Garland. A gallon of milk averages $3.50 in both cities, while a meal at an inexpensive restaurant is around $12-14.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Day-to-day living costs are very similar.
4. Taxes and Fees
Comparing taxes and city fees:
- The Colony property tax rate: 2.29%
- Garland property tax rate: 2.72%
- The Colony has no state income tax. Garland also has no state income tax.
- Both cities charge a 1% local sales tax on top of the state rate of 6.25%.
🏆 Winner: The Colony. While Garland has lower housing costs, The Colony’s lower property tax rate can add up to savings for homeowners.
5. Cost Summary
| Cost Factor | The Colony | Garland |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | 15% higher | Winner |
| Utilities | Comparable | Slightly lower |
| Groceries | Similar | Similar |
| Transportation | Similar | Similar |
| Taxes | Winner | Higher property tax |
| Misc Costs | Similar | Similar |
Estimated Monthly Total: $4,300 in The Colony, $3,900 in Garland
These figures reflect estimated gross monthly income (pre-tax) needed to maintain an equivalent standard of living. You can view detailed sample monthly budgets for The Colony in 2025 to customize these numbers for your lifestyle.
6. Lifestyle Fit
The Colony offers a newer housing stock and master-planned communities, while Garland provides a more established feel with mature trees and closer proximity to Dallas.
Commuters may prefer Garland for its easy access to I-635 and US-75. The Colony averages a 32-minute drive to Downtown Dallas, compared to 25 minutes from Garland.
Garland’s lower housing costs could allow for a larger yard or more living space on the same budget. However, The Colony’s newer construction may mean lower maintenance costs.
7. FAQ
Q: Is The Colony more affordable than Garland?
A: Garland has a lower overall cost of living, primarily due to more affordable housing. However, The Colony’s lower property taxes can help offset this for homeowners.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Garland has lower average rent prices. A typical 2BR apartment rents for $1,225 in Garland compared to $1,450 in The Colony.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Median home prices are about 15% lower in Garland than The Colony. However, The Colony’s property tax rate is 0.43% lower, which adds up over time.
8. Conclusion
Both The Colony and Garland offer affordable suburban living in the Dallas metro area. Garland comes out ahead on overall cost of living, while The Colony provides newer housing and more master-planned communities.
Young professionals and commuters may prefer Garland for its lower rents and proximity to Dallas. Families seeking newer homes and amenities may find a better fit in The Colony if they can afford the higher housing costs.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your budget, housing needs, and lifestyle priorities. Be sure to check out our full cost of living guide for The Colony for more details to inform your decision.