Cost of Living in Plano, TX

With a cost of living index of 126, Plano, TX is a notably expensive place to live. Living here is 26% more expensive than the national average and 39% above the Texas state average of 88. As a major city with a population of 287,339, Plano offers a wide range of housing options, employment opportunities, and urban amenities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Plano's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,792 (36% above the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $440,600 (45% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 4.1x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Plano is $108,649, which is 45% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 20% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. While incomes are above average, they more than offset the higher cost of living.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Plano. The area sees an average annual temperature of 65°F, with summers averaging 83°F and winters around 47°F. Annual rainfall totals 38.3 inches spread over roughly 90 days. The mild climate is a draw for many residents and keeps utility costs moderate year-round.

Everyday prices in the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area tend to run above the national average. Out of 6 common grocery and utility items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 5 are priced higher than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.