Choosing between Abilene and Arlington? You're not alone — it's one of the most common relocation comparisons in the US. The numbers tell a clear story: Abilene comes in 14% more affordable overall, with a cost index of 82 compared to Arlington's 96. But raw numbers only tell part of the story. This comparison breaks down exactly where each city saves you money — and where it costs more.
Key Cost Comparisons
Cost of Living
Home Services
Business Startup Costs
Insurance
Legal Services
Salaries & Jobs
Who Benefits From Each City?
The "better" city depends on your situation. Here's how different profiles stack up:
Remote Worker
→ AbileneIf your salary doesn't depend on location, Abilene's 14% lower costs translate directly into more savings or disposable income. Your paycheck goes further without a pay cut.
Young Professional
→ AbileneBoth cities are moderately priced, but Abilene's lower costs help you build savings earlier in your career when compound growth matters most.
Family with Kids
→ AbileneFamilies face multiplied costs — housing, groceries, healthcare, and transportation all scale with household size. Abilene's 14% advantage compounds across every budget category.
Small Business Owner
→ AbileneLower operating costs in Abilene mean lower break-even points. Rent, utilities, insurance, and labor all come in cheaper, giving new businesses more runway to reach profitability.
Retiree
→ AbileneOn a fixed income, every percentage point matters. Abilene's lower healthcare, housing, and everyday costs help retirement savings last longer.
The Verdict
Abilene wins 29 out of 38 cost categories.Arlington has higher costs but wins 9 categories.
Explore Each City
Explore Specific Costs
Dive deeper into specific cost topics for each city:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Abilene or Arlington more affordable in 2026?
Abilene is 14% more affordable than Arlington overall. Abilene wins 29 out of 38 cost categories. However, Arlington may offer higher salaries in certain industries that can offset higher living costs.
What is the cost of living index for Abilene vs Arlington?
Abilene's cost of living index is 82; Arlington's is 96. A score of 100 represents the national average. Abilene is below average; Arlington is below average. These figures are derived from BLS and Census data.
How do housing costs compare between Abilene and Arlington?
Housing is typically the biggest cost difference between these cities. Abilene (index: 82) and Arlington (index: 96) differ by 14% overall, with housing costs often diverging even more than the average. Check the Cost of Living section above for specific figures.
Which city is better for remote workers?
For remote workers earning a location-independent salary, Abilene is the clear winner. The 14% cost advantage means more of your paycheck goes to savings or discretionary spending. Arlington makes more sense if your employer adjusts pay upward for that market.
About This Comparison
Limitations: This comparison uses modeled data based on cost-of-living indices. Actual costs may vary based on neighborhood, timing, provider, and individual circumstances. Salary data reflects median full-time employment; contract and freelance rates differ. Last updated: March 2026.