Is Seattle or Austin more affordable?
Seattle has a median rent of $1,801/month, while Austin is $1,415/month. Austin is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Seattle, WA vs Austin, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Seattle and Austin.
1
Seattle wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Austin wins
WA
Seattle
vs
TX
Austin
Overview
726,054
Population
944,658
$105,391✓
Median Income
-25.1%$78,965
Cost of Living
$1,801
Median Rent / mo
-21.4%$1,415✓
$767,500
Median Home Price
-50.3%$381,400✓
21%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
None
State Income Tax
None
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
49.82°F
Avg High Temp
71.28°F
46.72°F
Avg Low Temp
68.16°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
N/A
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city in Washington with a population of 726,054.
Read full Seattle guide →Who should choose
Austin, TX
Austin is a city in Texas with a population of 944,658.
Read full Austin guide →Seattle vs Austin — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Seattle or Austin?
Washington has no state income tax. Texas has no state income tax. Both have the same state income tax rate.
What is the weather difference between Seattle and Austin?
Avg high in Seattle: 49.82°F. Avg high in Austin: 71.28°F
Which city is better for families — Seattle or Austin?
Seattle. Austin. 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.