Highlands, TX vs West, TX

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. West is 25% cheaper than Highlands. With a cost index of 74 vs 92, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from West to Highlands should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Highlands is $1,364/month compared to $929/month in West — a 47% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: West is more affordable at $164,700 median vs $191,400.

Median household income in Highlands is $54,524 compared to $52,292 in West (+4.3%). Highlands does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Highlands spend roughly 30% of their income on rent, more than the 21.3% in West.