Moving from Austin to Laredo (2026)

Laredo has a COL index of 79 vs 122 for Austin (100 = US average). You'd pay about 35% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$908/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
12279
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,800$950
per month
State tax
NoneNone
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,741
per month

Salary needed in Laredo to match your Austin lifestyle

Based on the 35% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in AustinEquivalent in Laredo
$40K$25,902
$50K$32,377
$60K$38,852
$75K$48,566
$80K$51,803
$100K$64,754
$120K$77,705
$150K$97,131

Monthly budget at $75K — Austin vs Laredo

ExpenseAustinLaredo
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,741
1BR rent$1,800$950
Groceries$372$338
Transport$50$35
Utilities$170$168
Internet$65$58
Left after essentials$2,284$3,192

Frequently asked questions

Is Laredo cheaper than Austin?

Yes. Laredo has a cost of living index of 79 vs 122 for Austin (100 = US average). That's about 35% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Austin to Laredo?

On a $75K salary, moving from Austin to Laredo could save roughly $908/month on core expenses. That's ~$10,896/year.

What salary do I need in Laredo to match my Austin lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Austin, you'd need roughly $48,566/year in Laredo. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only