Abilene, TX vs Lubbock, TX

Abilene, TX and Lubbock, TX have a very similar cost of living, with only a 3.3% difference in their overall index. Abilene scores 80 while Lubbock scores 83 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Abilene is $1,106/month compared to $1,137/month in Lubbock — a 3% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Abilene is more affordable at $178,900 median vs $197,900.

Median household income in Abilene is $62,720 compared to $60,487 in Lubbock (+3.7%). Abilene offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Abilene spend roughly 21.2% of their income on rent, less than the 22.6% in Lubbock.