Is Austin, TX Affordable in 2026?
Yes, Austin is affordable.
On a $70K salary, you'll have $1,318 left after rent and essentials. Austin offers good value for money.
Avg 1BR Rent
$1,504
Min Comfortable Salary
$60k
State Tax
None
Median Income
$93,658
Affordability Rating
TightAustin affordability on $70K (30% rule)
How Much Salary Do You Need in Austin?
What It's Really Like to Live in Austin
Austin is where tech meets tacos. The city pulses with live music, craft breweries, and a culture that values creativity and outdoor living along Lady Bird Lake.
Austin used to be a bargain, but the tech boom has pushed prices up significantly. It still beats San Francisco, but "Keep Austin Affordable" is now more wish than reality.
Where to Live
East Austin is the creative heart with eclectic eateries, while Cedar Park and Round Rock offer more space and lower rents north of downtown.
Getting Around
Traffic on I-35 is infamous. Many tech workers commute from suburbs, and remote work has become the unofficial solution to Austin gridlock.