Moving from Los Angeles, CA to Dallas, TX
Thinking about moving from Los Angeles, CA to Dallas, TX? Overall prices are 11% lower in Dallas, TX than in Los Angeles, CA, making Dallas, TX the more affordable of the two. This guide breaks down housing, income, taxes, and climate using the latest US government data so you can plan your relocation budget with realistic numbers rather than guesswork.
Salary calculator
How much would you need to earn in Dallas, TX to maintain your standard of living from Los Angeles, CA?
Equivalent salary in Dallas, TX
$66,988
You could earn $8,012 less (11% lower) and break even.
Based on BEA Regional Price Parity (cost index) for each metro area. This estimates overall purchasing power; it does not account for taxes or take-home pay differences.
Housing
Median rent is 24% lower in Dallas ($1,472) than in Los Angeles ($1,933). The typical home value is 65% lower in Dallas ($320,700) than in Los Angeles ($921,200). Factor in moving costs, deposits, and the gap between advertised and median rents when you set a housing budget.
Income & jobs
Median household income is 14% lower in Dallas ($70,518) than in Los Angeles ($81,939). After adjusting pay for local prices, a typical paycheck goes further in Los Angeles, CA.
Taxes
State tax figures for this route are still being compiled.
Climate & air quality
Average air quality index is 44% higher in Dallas (55.0) than in Los Angeles (31.0). Lower AQI means cleaner air on a typical day, though seasonal wildfire smoke and pollen can shift this.
Quick numbers
Metric
Los Angeles
CA
Dallas
TX
Median rent
Median home value
Median income
Cost index
Sources: US Census ACS · BEA Regional Price Parities
Frequently asked questions
Is Dallas, TX cheaper than Los Angeles, CA?
Yes. Dallas, TX has an overall cost index of 102.5 versus 114.7 in Los Angeles, CA — about 11% cheaper overall.
How much is rent in Dallas, TX?
The median gross rent in Dallas is $1,472 per month (US Census ACS).
What salary do you need in Dallas, TX?
Median household income in Dallas is $70,518. Use the salary calculator on this page to convert your current Los Angeles pay into the equivalent you'd need in Dallas.