Choosing where to live in North Texas often comes down to balancing affordability, lifestyle, and amenities. For homebuyers considering Waxahachie, Dallas, Plano, or Frisco, understanding the cost of living can make a big difference in the decision-making process. Below, we break down the numbers and highlight the key differences between these four communities.
Waxahachie: Small-Town Charm with Affordable Living
Waxahachie offers a cost-of-living index that ranges from 98 to 104.4, depending on the source—meaning it’s close to the national average and in some cases slightly more affordable. City-Data lists its December 2024 index at 98.6, while BestPlaces calculates it at 104.4.
Housing in Waxahachie is one of its strongest affordability factors. With lower median home prices than Dallas, Plano, or Frisco, many families find they can get more space for their money. LivingCost.org estimates a single person spends around $2,193 per month, including about $1,398 for rent and utilities. BestPlaces suggests a comfortable annual income in Waxahachie is about $47,600 for singles and $62,640 for families.
Bottom line: Waxahachie is ideal for those who want small-town charm, historic neighborhoods, and lower housing costs without sacrificing access to the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex.
Dallas: Urban Amenities at a Midrange Price
Dallas, as the largest city in this comparison, offers a diverse mix of neighborhoods, jobs, and cultural opportunities. While housing can be more expensive in certain areas, BestPlaces reports that Dallas is 7.4% cheaper overall than Plano, with median home prices around 40% lower than in its northern suburb.
IndexYard data shows average 2-bedroom rents at $1,800 in Dallas compared to $2,100 in Plano. Groceries in Dallas are 1.7% cheaper than in Plano, though restaurant prices can be about 5% higher.
Bottom line: Dallas strikes a balance between cost and convenience. It’s more affordable than the upscale suburbs while still offering easy access to jobs, entertainment, and transportation.
Plano: Upscale Suburb with a Price Tag to Match
Plano is consistently ranked among the best places to live in the U.S., thanks to its top-rated schools, corporate headquarters, and master-planned neighborhoods. This quality of life comes at a higher cost. Housing in Plano is roughly 14–17% more expensive than in Dallas, with 2-bedroom rentals averaging $2,100 and 3-bedroom mortgages around $2,900/month.
While Plano has a higher cost of living, its median household income—about $108,594—helps offset the expense for many residents. Daily living costs like groceries and utilities trend slightly above Dallas averages.
Bottom line: Plano is a premium option for families and professionals seeking excellent schools, safety, and amenities, but it requires a higher housing budget.
Frisco: Premium Living in a Growing City
Frisco has rapidly transformed from a quiet suburb to one of the fastest-growing cities in the country. Along with its growth has come higher prices. Housing costs are 23.5% higher than Plano’s, with median property values around $721,000 compared to Plano’s $542,000. This makes Frisco the most expensive city in this comparison.
Frisco’s appeal lies in its award-winning schools, modern infrastructure, sports venues, and high-end shopping and dining. Many consider the higher cost worth the investment for the lifestyle benefits.
Bottom line: Frisco offers a luxury suburban experience, but buyers should be prepared for the highest housing and overall living costs among the four cities.
Cost of Living Comparison Table
| City | Cost of Living vs U.S. Avg | Housing Cost | Key Takeaways |
| Waxahachie | Near average (98–104.4) | Most affordable | Historic charm, lower housing costs |
| Dallas | Slightly above average | Midrange | Urban access, more affordable than suburbs |
| Plano | Higher than Dallas | Premium | Top schools, corporate job market |
| Frisco | Highest overall | Most expensive | Fast growth, luxury amenities |
Which City Is Right for You?
If affordability and small-town atmosphere are top priorities, Waxahachie is hard to beat. Dallas offers city convenience without the highest price tag. Plano and Frisco are best suited for those willing to pay more for premium amenities, schools, and community features.
No matter which city you’re considering, working with a knowledgeable local real estate team can help you find the perfect home that fits both your budget and lifestyle.