Cost of Living in Denton, TX: The Complete Guide (2025)

So, you're thinking of making Denton, Texas home? Good decision! There's something about this quirky college town with its legendary music scene, charming downtown square, and down-to-earth people that gets under your skin. I moved here five years ago for what I thought would be a temporary pit stop and, well, I'm still here—and still discovering new things to adore about it.

Whether you're looking at Denton for school at UNT or TWU, a slower-paced alternative to Dallas, or just drawn to its artsy vibe, having a handle on what it actually costs to live here will enable you to make your decision (and budget) with assurance.

Let's add up the actual costs of daily life in this North Texas jewel, from tacos to taxes and everything in between.

Cost of Living Summary in Denton, TX by Household Type

Here's the overview of what different households can anticipate before we dive into the nitty-gritty:

Single Individuals

As a single individual in Denton, you can live comfortably on $45,000-$55,000 a year. I've also known people who can make it on less, particularly if they can snag a good apartment deal or aren't opposed to roommates. If you're just out of college and are accustomed to student living, the adjustment won't be too rough on your finances.

Couples

Couples benefit from the charm of shared expenses (one Netflix subscription, one electric bill, you get the idea). A combined income of $65,000-$75,000 generally allows you to live comfortably here—comfortably enough for date nights at the local craft breweries and maybe a weekend getaway here and there.

Families with Children

For the families with kids, it gets a bit more expensive (shock, shock). A family of four typically needs $85,000-$100,000 for a comfortable life with some soccer leagues, some Boca 31 dinners, and maybe even putting something away for college. The good news? Denton has excellent public schools, making things simpler.

Retirees

Retirees tend to find Denton's costs quite reasonable, especially if you've already killed off the mortgage beast. Your annual costs will typically be in the $40,000-$60,000 zone, depending on how often you want to take the grandkids out for a treat to Beth Marie's ice cream and how many medical specialists you need to see.

Is Denton Expensive to Live In?

Let's get real with you: Denton won't break the bank like Austin or drain your bank account like Dallas, but it isn't rural-Texas cheap either.

On the cost of living index (where 100 is the national average), Denton rings in at about 95—that's to say, it's about 5% cheaper than the average American city. Not bad.

When my friends from Austin visit, they are amazed at what I'm paying for my two-bedroom apartment. When my cousin from rural East Texas visits, she believes I'm living in luxury. It's all relative.

The sweet aspect of Denton is that you get cultural amenities, great food, and big-city access without the big-city sticker shock. As my neighbor likes to say, "You're paying for the vibe," and I believe it's an even exchange.

Housing Costs in Denton

And now let's talk about putting a roof over your head, which will probably be your most significant expense unless you have a serious habit for craft beer or vintage vinyl.

Rental Costs

The local rental market does the university dance—prices and availability ebb and flow with the school year. August is madness; December and May are your friends if you're looking for deals.

What You'll Really Pay in Monthly Rent:

Studio apartment: $850-$1,000 (more if it's one of those shiny new buildings downtown)

1-bedroom apartment: $950-$1,200 (the sweet spot for young professionals)

2-bedroom apartment: $1,100-$1,500 (perfect for roommates or couples who need an office)

3-bedroom apartment: $1,400-$1,900 (family area)

Single-family house: $1,600-$2,500 (depending on whether you want old-school charm or new construction)

Pro tip from a local: The further away from the universities you are, the more bang for your buck. But then you'll miss out on being in walking distance of Harvest House to catch live music, so it's a trade-off.

Home Purchase Prices

If you're looking to put down roots (and I don't blame you—this town is lovely), here's the real estate reality:

Home Buying Reality Check:

Median home price: Around $315,000 (up from last year, but still reasonable)

Starter homes: $200,000-$275,000 (they exist, but you have to be quick! )

Mid-range homes: $275,000-$450,000 (where most of the inventory is)

Luxury homes: $450,000+ (for when you're ready for that media room and backyard pool)

Property taxes will take a bite—a little under 2.2% of your home's value annually. That's the Texas way: no state income tax, but they getcha with property taxes instead.

My colleague bought her first home last year in the Southridge area for $260,000. It needed some cosmetic remodeling, but she's psyched on the investment (and her mortgage is less than her previous rent).

Groceries

The good news about grocery shopping in Denton? Options! The slightly less good news? It's not dramatically cheaper than anywhere else.

A solo shopper can budget $250-$350 a month for groceries, and a family of four can budget $700-$900. I'm somewhere in the middle and spend about $400 a month, but I have a weakness for pricey cheese from Weinberger's Deli.

Where the Locals Shop:

Budget warriors: Aldi and Walmart are your best bet

Middle-of-the-roaders: Kroger and Albertsons have good sales and loyalty programs

Organic devotees: Whole Foods and Natural Grocers when you're feeling fancy

Community supporters: Denton Community Market (seasonal) for local products and produce

Insider tip: Download the Flashfood app to score discounted groceries at Kroger, and stop by the Denton Community Market right before close for farmers' best deals who don't want to cart their produce home.

Utilities

Ugh, Texas utilities—where you spend the summer watching your electric meter spin like a ceiling fan on high.

Monthly Damage to Expect:

Electricity: $120-$200 (July and August will have you crying)

Water/Sewer/Trash: $70-$100 (less if you're in an apartment)

Internet: $50-$80 (shop around, we've got several providers)

Cell phone: $50-$100 per line (same wherever)

Streaming services: $30-$80 (because who pays for cable anymore?)

All in all, expect $250-$400 a month for a typical 2-bedroom apartment, depending on your affection for air conditioning. My own strategy: ceiling fans, blackout curtains, and acceptance of the reality that summer in Texas simply involves being a little sweaty part of the time.

Healthcare

Nobody moves to Denton for the health care (sorry, medical people), but we're not in the health care boondocks either.

The city has good choices:

Medical City Denton

Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Denton

A few urgent care centers for when you do something stupid (just talking from experience here)

No insurance, and a basic doctor's visit is $100-$200, while an ER visit will bankrupt you at $1,000+.

With insurance (which you should absolutely have), monthly premiums will be in the ballpark of:

Individual: $350-$500

Family: $800-$1,200

My neighbor is a nurse at Medical City and swears on their care, although she also recommends not going to the ER on university weekends if humanly possible.

Transportation

Denton is trying to be less car-friendly, but let's be real—having a ride makes things a whole lot easier.

Car Owner Reality:

Gas: Generally 5-10% below national averages (a small Texas bonus)

Insurance: Budget $1,500-$1,800 annually (higher if under 25)

Registration/Inspection: Approximately $80 annually (a Texas tradition)

Maintenance: $500-$1,000 annually (cross your fingers nothing major breaks)

Car-Free Options:

Denton County Transportation Authority (DCTA) runs adequate bus service

The A-train connects to Dallas for commuters

Cycling is becoming increasingly viable with new bike lanes

Walking is pleasant in the central districts

I tried to be car-less my first year here and lasted six months before I broke down. Now I have a sensible sedan and use the bus when parking downtown would be a nightmare.

Miscellaneous Goods and Services

The good stuff! Because life isn't all about bill paying (even if sometimes it really feels that way).

Entertainment That Won't Break You:

Movie at Alamo Drafthouse: $10-$15 (plus whatever tasty food you're tempted to have)

Dinner at Barley & Board or LSA Burger: $15-$25 per person

Coffee at Jupiter House or West Oak: $4-$6

Live music at Rubber Gloves or Dan's Silverleaf: $5-$20 cover

Keeping Up Appearances:

Haircut: $20-$60 (from Great Clips to the upscale salons on the Square)

Gym membership: $30-$70 monthly (from Planet Fitness to the boutique gyms)

Dry cleaning: $3-$6 per item (because you can't always wear denim)

My personal budget includes a "Denton fun fund" of about $200 a month. It covers a few dinners out, coffee shop work sessions, and attending local band performances. Well worth the investment in quality of life terms.

What Salary Do I Need to Live Comfortably in Denton, TX?

The magic number question! Experts say that housing should never be more than 30% of your income, and that's a good rule of thumb here.

Real Talk on Comfortable Living:

Single person: $45,000-$55,000 annually

Couple: $65,000-$75,000 annually

Family of four: $85,000-$100,000 annually

My social group encompasses this entire range. Individuals at the lower end of the range have roommates or smaller apartments. Individuals at the higher end of the range have extras like regular weekend trips and better restaurants. Almost everyone thinks they're getting good value for what they're spending.

Hidden Costs of Living in Denton

Let me provide you with some of the costs that surprised me when I moved here:

Seasonal Budget Busters:

Summer electricity bills that double your winter usage

Allergies! Budget for antihistamines, March through November

University move-in/move-out seasons mean temporary price hikes on services

University Town Reality:

Rent prices that mysteriously increase near campus

Game day traffic and associated headaches

Back-to-school crowds at all of the stores in August

Local Quirks:

Downtown parking can be difficult (and ticketed)

Water rationing during drought years

Property tax reassessments that sometimes come with unwelcome surprises

The bright side? Most locals are happy to share their fixes for these problems if you just ask.

Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Denton

Not all Denton addresses are equal to your wallet:

Southeast Denton - Older character homes, up-and-coming neighborhood. My colleague bought here last year and loves the diversity and community spirit.

North Denton - Some newer developments with reasonable prices and easy access to I-35.

Idiot's Hill - That's really what locals refer to as its name! Close to downtown with more reasonably priced housing than you'd expect. It's named that way because the neighborhood is a little elevated (and perhaps because UNT professors once lived there).

Southridge - Families with good-sized yards, good value. My sister's family recently purchased here and adores the local elementary school.

Vintage - Blend of apartments and smaller homes, good location without the high price tag.

Every neighborhood has a character. Take a Saturday and drive around, get coffee at various local establishments, and determine which place feels like home.

Compare Denton, TX Cost of Living

Context is useful, so let's contrast Denton:

Versus Dallas:

Housing: About 20% lower (and with infinitely better parking)

Transportation: Similar costs, but less time in traffic

Groceries: About 3% lower

Stress levels: Immeasurably lower (okay, that's subjective)

Versus Austin:

Housing: About 30% lower (this gap grows every year)

Overall: About 15-20% lower-cost

Cool factor: We hold our own, thank you very much

Versus Area Small Towns:

Slightly higher than Sanger or Krum

Cheaper than Flower Mound or Highland Village

More to do than any of them

As someone who's resided in both Denton and Dallas, I can speak to the mental health benefit of not having to drive an hour through traffic in either direction. That's worth something.

Moving to Denton: Budgeting Guide

Considering joining us? Here's what you need to budget:

First Month's Hit to Your Finances:

Security deposits: Usually one month's rent (sometimes more for pets)

Utility connections: $50-$200 to turn everything on

Moving costs: $500-$3,000, depending on how far you're moving from

Setting Up House:

Furniture: $1,000 (thrifty shopping) to $5,000+ (all new)

Kitchen essentials: $200-$500 (more if you actually cook)

Cleaning supplies: $50-$100 (welcome to adulthood)

Local Money-Saving Resources:

Denton Public Library: Free books, movies, events, and Wi-Fi

DATCU Credit Union: Local banking with rates better than the big banks

UNT/TWU community resources: From free concerts to low-cost dental clinics

When I moved here, I severely underbudgeted moving costs. Do as I say and not as I do, and get several quotes if you're hiring movers!

Conclusion: Is Denton a Good Investment?

Having lived here for five years now, my answer is a definite yes. Denton offers itself as a unique sweet spot: college town energy, genuine Texas friendliness, arts community, and Dallas-Fort Worth proximity without big city headaches.

It's not the cheapest place you could live in Texas, but it's phenomenal bang for your buck. Where else can you go see Grammy-winning jazz musicians on Wednesday, get world-class tacos on Thursday, go to an amazing independent bookstore on Friday, and still afford rent?

As my favorite barista puts it: "Denton keeps it weird enough to be interesting, but normal enough that you can still save for retirement."

Whether you're drawn to the universities, the music scene, or just a city with real character, Denton is inviting you, without bankrupting you.

Resources for Further Research

Still unsure? Check out:

Denton Chamber of Commerce website

UNT and TWU housing resources (even if you're not a student)

We Denton Do It blog, for local flavor

Denton Record-Chronicle for local news

Local Facebook groups (the Buy Nothing Denton group saved my budget many times over)

Note: All figures are approximations as of early 2025 and may vary based on your individual circumstances, specific neighborhoods, and fluctuations in the economy. Your mileage—and your electric bill—may vary.