Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
47% cheaper
Fort Worth is 47% more affordable than Irvine. A $75,000 salary in Irvine is equivalent to $40,028 in Fort Worth.
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. Fort Worth has a housing index of 87 while Irvine sits at 294 (national average = 100). The median home in Fort Worth costs $270,000 compared to $1,050,000 in Irvine, a difference of $780,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Fort Worth versus $3,000 in Irvine.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Fort Worth scores 96 while Irvine scores 108.
Healthcare costs in Fort Worth (100) are lower than Irvine (109).
Median household income in Fort Worth is $62,187 compared to $108,038 in Irvine. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Fort Worth.
Amazon affiliate links