Planning a monthly budget
A local monthly estimate of $3,504 gives you the starting point, with housing taking the largest share.
- Housing
- $1,544
- Utilities (in rent)
- $302
- Food
- $460/mo
- Transportation
- $1,064/mo
- Healthcare
- $436
Utilities are included in housing so they are not added twice. The separate Utilities row is a reference estimate.
How the total can change
A traveler style stay, a couple household, and long term rent answer different planning questions.
- Comfortable Living
- $5,071
- Cost of Living for Couple
- $5,018
- Typical 1BR Rent
- $1,544
Moderate
Good
Very Good
Everyday expenses
Dining, transportation, taxes, and car needs can change how the monthly budget feels.
- Dining Out
- $235/mo
- Need for a Car
- Required
- Property Taxes
- High
- Overall Feel
- Moderate
- Residents 65+ Below Poverty Level
- 11.0%
- 65+ Householder — Renter Occupied
- 30.6%
- 65+ Households With High Housing Costs
- 38.2%
- Median Household Income, Householder 65+
- $71,429
Excellent
Sources
The budget value gives a starting point for everyday spending. Housing, healthcare, safety, and climate can change what feels comfortable for a household.
Housing mix, exchange rates, healthcare needs, car ownership, and travel style can move a real monthly budget materially.
- U.S. Census Bureau; U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Used for Comfortable Living, Cost of Living for Couple, Minimum Needed, Overall Feel
- U.S. Census Bureau
Used for Typical 1BR Rent
- Housing Authority of the City of Austin
Used for Utilities
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Used for Groceries, Transportation
- USDA Food Plans + OpenStreetMap dining POIs
Used for Dining Out
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency National Walkability Index
Used for Need for a Car
Checked 2026-07-10
- U.S. Census Bureau
Used for Property Taxes
- U.S. Census Bureau
Used for Residents 65+ Below Poverty Level
- U.S. Census Bureau
Used for 65+ Householder — Renter-Occupied
- U.S. Census Bureau
Used for 65+ Households With High Housing Costs
- U.S. Census Bureau
Used for Median Household Income, Householder 65+
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