Austin is slightly more expensive than the average American city. However, the city encompasses much more than what it costs to live there. Learn the realistic cost of living for a couple in Austin, what contributes to that amount, and how you can make living in Texas’s capital more affordable.
Factors That Make Up a Realistic Cost of Living for a Couple in Austin
Beyond a doubt, Austin can be an expensive place to live compared to other parts of Texas. Austinites need to make just under $60,000 per year for singles — around $110,000 for families — to live comfortably.
Luckily, several major companies are moving to Austin with plans to bring new, high-paying jobs to the metro area. Additionally, some costs fall below the national and state averages. Take a look at the factors that make up the average cost of living in Austin.
Housing
Most couples will pay between $1,390 and $1,470 for a one-bedroom apartment in the Austin metro area. You’ll pay more to be in the heart of downtown and less for a place on the outskirts.
Staying at an RV park is a great way to keep housing costs under control. They make ideal short-term housing for travel nurses and other professionals in the city for work assignments. Many of the construction companies working on the city’s expansion projects find that RVs make great temporary housing for work crews.
Full-time RVers will find great options in the city, including Austin RV Park. With monthly sites starting under $900, it is significantly less expensive than a downtown apartment. Plus, you have a little more space between you and your neighbors.
Utilities
Utility costs run at about the national average. Realistic cost ranges for a couple in Austin are:
- Electric: $60 – $150
- Internet: $50 – $100
- Trash: $25 – $35
- Water: $10 – $30
How much of each you use will determine where your bills fall on the spectrum. For example, you can expect to pay higher electric bills in the summer when you are running the a/c all day.
Transportation
Most Austinites travel by personal vehicle. Gas prices in the city tend to be lower than the national average. You can also buy a monthly pass or individual rides on the Capital Metro system, which includes limited bus and rail options.
Groceries
Everyone needs to eat. And, while Austin is known as an excellent place for foodies, sometimes you want to eat at home. A couple can realistically expect to pay around $300 per month for groceries, with that amount increasing slightly with household size.
Entertainment
One of the greatest parts about living in Austin is the nearly endless supply of amazing activities and entertainment options. Consider taking advantage of the many low-cost and free activities in Austin to keep your extra spending under control. Whether you want to hit the bike trails or tour the state Capital, you are sure to find entertainment options that won’t break the bank.
Keep the Cost of Living for a Couple in Austin Realistic at Austin RV Park
Austin RV Park provides safe, affordable housing for short- and long-term residents. With easy access to downtown, we offer an excellent way to help you maintain a realistic cost of living for a couple in Austin without missing out on all of the city’s great activities. Contact us today to book your space.