Highlands, TX vs Murphy, TX

The cost of living difference between Highlands, TX and Murphy, TX is dramatic. Highlands is 41.7% cheaper than Murphy, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Highlands has a cost index of 92 while Murphy sits at 158, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Highlands is $1,364/month compared to $2,640/month in Murphy — a 48% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Highlands is more affordable at $191,400 median vs $508,500.

Median household income in Highlands is $54,524 compared to $165,109 in Murphy (-67%). While Murphy is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Highlands spend roughly 30% of their income on rent, more than the 19.2% in Murphy.

Climate-wise, Highlands is notably warmer with an average of 71.1°F compared to 65°F in Murphy. Highlands receives more rainfall at 55.6" per year compared to 38.3" in Murphy.