Cost of Living in Denison, TX
Denison cost of living index: 70.7 (below the US average). Median home price: $239,000.
Updated 2026 • Based on 2 local zip codes
📍 Some data sourced from nearby metro area
% below the national average
Housing
Data from 2 zip codes
Housing costs in Denison, TX based on real market data from 2 local zip codes.
When considering a move to Denison, TX, the current housing index stands at 59.35, suggesting a moderately competitive market. With a median home price of 239000.0, purchasing a home remains an attainable option compared to renting. The average monthly rent for a 2-bedroom apartment is 1212.5, while a 2-bedroom house averages . Depending on your financial situation, you may want to evaluate the long-term benefits of buying versus renting, especially given the potential for property appreciation in this market. Overall, Denison presents a viable choice for living affordability.
Last updated: January 2026
Utilities
The cost of utilities such as electricity, natural gas, and other services can significantly impact the overall cost of living.
Living in Denison, TX could entail variable utility costs. Electricity costs sit at $14.47, while natural gas is priced at $26.29 per Thousand Cubic Feet. Expect to budget about $235.0 monthly for other services like water and garbage.
Cost Breakdown by Category
Local Income & Economy in Denison, TX
How far does your money go in Denison? Understanding the relationship between income and cost of living is key to evaluating affordability.
How We Calculate Adjusted Purchasing Power in Denison
The adjusted purchasing power shows what a Denison, TX household income is actually worth after accounting for local prices. We calculate it using the formula: Purchasing Power = Median Income ÷ Cost of Living Index × 100
For Denison, that's $58,930 ÷ 70.7 × 100 = $83,352. This means a household earning the median income in Denison has the equivalent buying power of $83,352 in a city where the cost of living index equals the national baseline of 100.
Denison is well below the national cost of living average at 70.7, making it one of the more affordable places to live in TX. The median income of $58,930 has an effective purchasing power of $83,352 — a meaningful boost that allows residents to save more, invest in real estate, or enjoy a higher standard of living compared to expensive metro areas.
Combined with a low poverty rate of 10% and healthy job market (4.7% unemployment), Denison offers strong value for families, investors, and anyone looking to relocate to a city where income goes further.
💡 Purchasing power is calculated by dividing the local median household income by the cost of living index and multiplying by 100. A result higher than the nominal income means your money goes further; a lower result means local prices erode your earnings. The US baseline cost of living index is 100.
Pros & Cons of Living in Denison
Pros
- • Friendly residents overall
- • Festivals and events hosted
- • Family-friendly environment
- • Diverse local restaurants
- • Plenty of outdoor activities
- • Growing job market
- • Low cost of living
- • Access to nearby lake
- • Good local schools available
- • Close-knit community vibe
Cons
- • Less cultural diversity
- • Some schools underperforming
- • Limited shopping selections
- • Far from major cities
- • Limited nightlife options
- • Higher crime rates reported
- • Economic growth is slow
- • Fewer activities for teens
- • Political views may clash
- • Public transport criticism
💡City Insights
Denison scores 9/10 for affordability, 5/10 for safety, and 5/10 for family-friendliness — an good overall profile. Its strongest aspect is affordability, making it particularly suitable for budget-conscious buyers. This balanced profile makes Denison worth considering for various lifestyle priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Denison, TX? ▼
The cost of living in Denison, TX is 29% lower than the national average, with a cost of living index of 71 (where 100 represents the U.S. average). Housing typically accounts for the largest portion of living expenses. See full cost of living breakdown →
How much does it cost to buy or rent a home in Denison, TX? ▼
In Denison, TX, The median home price is $239,000. requiring approximately $94,071 annual income to afford. Average rent is $1,212/month (requiring ~$48,500/year income). The local median household income is $58,930, making homeownership attainable for typical residents. Explore Denison real estate data →
Is Denison, TX a safe place to live? ▼
Denison, TX is average in terms of safety, with crime rates near the national average. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood. View detailed Denison crime statistics →
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Denison, TX? ▼
To live comfortably in Denison, TX and afford a median-priced home of $239,000, you would typically need a household income of $59,750 to $74,688 per year. The local median household income is $58,930. Renting requires approximately $48,500/year (at $1,212/month). See full affordability analysis →
What are the best neighborhoods in Denison, TX? ▼
The best neighborhoods in Denison, TX depend on your priorities. For families, look for areas near top-rated schools with lower crime rates. For affordability, neighborhoods throughout the city offer good value since the median home price of $239,000 is below the national average.
How are the taxes in Denison, TX? ▼
Tax rates in Denison, TX include state and local components. The cost of living index of 71 suggests a lower overall tax and expense burden cost environment compared to the national average. View detailed Denison tax information →
How does Denison, TX compare to nearby cities? ▼
Denison, TX offers a more affordable alternative to nearby communities. With a cost of living index of 71, median home prices of $239,000, and a crime rate of 0 per 1,000 residents, you can compare these metrics side-by-side. Use the compare feature to evaluate specific cities.
What is the weather like in Denison, TX? ▼
Weather in Denison, TX varies by season. Climate data varies by season. View detailed Denison climate & environment data →
What factors affect cost of living in Denison, TX? ▼
The main factors affecting cost of living in Denison, TX include housing costs (the biggest factor), utilities, groceries, transportation, and healthcare. Local taxes and the overall economic conditions also play a role.
Housing Costs by Zip Code
Detailed housing data across 2 zip codes in Denison, TX.
| Zip Code | Median Home Price | Avg Rent | 2BR Rent | For Sale | For Rent |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75020 | $239,000 | $1,549/mo | $1,250/mo | 373 | 128 |
| 75021 | $239,000 | $1,397/mo | $1,175/mo | 123 | 46 |
Explore More About Denison, TX
📅 Last Updated: January 2026
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (ACS), Bureau of Labor Statistics, Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER), Zillow, Redfin