Is Austin or Fresno more affordable?
Austin has a median rent of $1,415/month, while Fresno is $1,100/month. Fresno is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Austin, TX vs Fresno, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Austin and Fresno.
2
Austin wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Fresno wins
TX
Austin
vs
CA
Fresno
Overview
944,658
Population
542,107
$78,965✓
Median Income
-39.7%$47,625
Cost of Living
$1,415
Median Rent / mo
-22.3%$1,100✓
$381,400
Median Home Price
-16.1%$320,000✓
22%
Rent-to-Income %
28%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.35%
Climate & Weather
71.28°F
Avg High Temp
78°F
68.16°F
Avg Low Temp
53°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
272 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
11"
Who should choose
Austin, TX
Austin is a city in Texas with a population of 944,658.
Read full Austin guide →Who should choose
Fresno, CA
Fresno is a city in California with a population of 542,107.
Read full Fresno guide →Austin vs Fresno — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Austin or Fresno?
Texas has no state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Austin wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Austin and Fresno?
Fresno gets 272 sunny days/year. Avg high in Austin: 71.28°F. Avg high in Fresno: 78°F
Which city is better for families — Austin or Fresno?
Austin. Fresno. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.