Garland, TX vs McKinney, TX

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Garland is 19.7% cheaper than McKinney. With a cost index of 103 vs 128, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Garland to McKinney should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Garland is $1,525/month compared to $1,841/month in McKinney — a 17% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Garland is more affordable at $248,900 median vs $439,500.

Median household income in Garland is $74,717 compared to $120,273 in McKinney (-37.9%). While McKinney is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Garland spend roughly 24.5% of their income on rent, more than the 18.4% in McKinney.

Climate-wise, Garland is notably warmer with an average of 68°F compared to 65°F in McKinney. McKinney receives more rainfall at 38.3" per year compared to 38.3" in Garland.