Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
40% cheaper
Austin is 40% more affordable than Irvine. A $75,000 salary in Irvine is equivalent to $45,084 in Austin.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Texas salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Austin has a housing index of 123 while Irvine sits at 294 (national average = 100). The median home in Austin costs $430,000 compared to $1,050,000 in Irvine, a difference of $620,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Austin versus $3,000 in Irvine.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Austin scores 96 while Irvine scores 108.
Healthcare costs in Austin (97) are lower than Irvine (109).
Median household income in Austin is $75,413 compared to $108,038 in Irvine. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Austin.
Amazon affiliate links