Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
12% cheaper
Dallas is 12% more affordable than Tacoma. A $75,000 salary in Tacoma is equivalent to $66,026 in Dallas.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Texas salaries · Washington salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Dallas has a housing index of 104 while Tacoma sits at 140 (national average = 100). The median home in Dallas costs $310,000 compared to $400,000 in Tacoma, a difference of $90,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,500 in Dallas versus $1,600 in Tacoma.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Dallas scores 97 while Tacoma scores 105. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Dallas (100) are lower than Tacoma (106). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Dallas is $54,747 compared to $58,974 in Tacoma. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Dallas.
Amazon affiliate links