Cost of Living in Round Rock, TX: What to Expect

Round Rock, TX, a rapidly growing city in Central Texas, attracts people from all over the country due to its proximity to Austin and family-friendly atmosphere. As one of the key cities in the Austin-Round Rock-Georgetown metropolitan area, understanding the cost of living is crucial for those considering a move here. 

Whether you’re planning to buy a home or rent an apartment, it’s essential to budget for housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, and more. Let’s break down the cost of living in Round Rock, TX, to help you make informed decisions.

Housing Costs in Round Rock, TX

The Round Rock, TX housing market has seen some notable trends in 2024. The median home price stands at approximately $450,000, with a median price per square foot of $217. While this is a slight decrease from last year, it still reflects Round Rock’s competitive market. 

Homes are selling after an average of 79 days on the market, with many selling just under the asking price. Prices range widely based on neighborhood, with more luxurious homes in areas like Forest Creek listed for over $700,000, while more affordable homes can be found for as low as $299,000.

Utilities Expenses in Round Rock

Utility costs in Round Rock, TX, have risen slightly in recent years, reflecting the growing demand and infrastructure needs of the area. On average, residents can expect to pay around $233.90 per month for electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage services. 

These expenses can vary depending on the size of the home and individual usage. Internet and cable services add to these costs, with an average price of $68.15 per month for a reliable connection.

Food and Grocery Prices

In Round Rock, TX, grocery prices have seen a slight increase in 2024, with some staple items remaining affordable while others are more expensive than the national average. For example, a gallon of milk costs around $4.03, while a dozen eggs are priced at approximately $2.81. 

Bread prices hover around $3.01 per loaf, and beef can cost up to $6.34 per pound depending on the cut. Other essentials like chicken fillets are priced at an average of $5.70 per pound, and a pound of potatoes costs about $1.05.

Healthcare Costs

Healthcare costs in Round Rock, TX, are higher than the national average, making them a significant component of the local cost of living. The average cost of a visit to a general practitioner in Round Rock is around $111, while a trip to the optometrist can cost approximately $142. 

For dental services, expect to pay about $117 per visit. These rates reflect the slightly higher-than-average healthcare expenses in the region, which are driven by both service demand and the quality of care available.

Education and Childcare

Education and childcare in Round Rock, TX, are highly regarded, offering a range of options for families. Round Rock Independent School District (RRISD) serves over 50,000 students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12, with more than 90 languages spoken within the district, reflecting the city’s diversity. 

The district is ranked as one of the top school systems in Texas and includes 35 elementary schools, 11 middle schools, and 7 high schools. It also provides opportunities for students to earn college credits through partnerships with Austin Community College and Texas State University.

Recreation and Entertainment

Round Rock, TX, offers a variety of recreational and entertainment options for residents and visitors. One of the highlights is Old Settlers Park, a massive 670-acre space known for hosting community events, sports tournaments, and family outings. 

This park features multiple sports fields, picnic areas, a fishing lake, and even a water park, making it a central hub for outdoor activities. The city also boasts several specialized parks like the Play for All Abilities Park and the Dog Depot Dog Park, ensuring accessibility and enjoyment for people of all abilities and pet lovers.

Miscellaneous Expenses

Miscellaneous expenses in Round Rock, TX, are generally in line with national averages, though some categories stand out. On average, residents spend around 19% of their income on miscellaneous items, which include entertainment, personal services, clothing, and dining out. 

For example, a typical movie ticket costs about $13.71, and a haircut averages $28.52. If you enjoy dining out, restaurant meals range widely, with casual spots offering affordable options but higher-end venues pushing the cost up.

When it comes to personal care and services, Round Rock residents can expect to pay about $14.62 for dry cleaning, and a trip to a beauty salon could set you back $59.60. Clothing expenses vary, with a men’s shirt costing approximately $37.00 and a pair of women’s slacks around $34.85. These everyday expenses highlight the importance of budgeting for not only housing and groceries but also the smaller costs that add up over time.

Income and Job Market

Round Rock, TX, boasts a robust job market with steady growth across multiple sectors. The city has become a hub for technology, healthcare, and manufacturing, driven by major employers like Dell Technologies and Amazon. 

As of 2024, Round Rock was ranked as one of the top cities for economic growth, showcasing a 46% increase in GDP and significant job creation. The city’s strategic investments in infrastructure and its business-friendly environment have contributed to making it an attractive location for businesses and job seekers alike.

Read more: What is career cluster?

Is Round Rock, Texas a Good Place to Live?

Round Rock, TX, continues to be recognized as one of the best places to live in the U.S., and for good reason. Its close proximity to Austin, about 20 miles away, makes it a desirable location for people who want suburban living with easy access to the opportunities and entertainment that a larger city provides. 

Round Rock’s economy is thriving, with major employers like Dell Technologies, Ascension Seton Williamson, and Baylor Scott & White Healthcare providing ample job opportunities across various sectors like tech, healthcare, and education. This economic growth has made the city especially attractive to young professionals and families alike.

If you’re considering moving to Round Rock, hiring professional Round Rock’s trusted movers can greatly simplify the transition. A moving company not only ensures your belongings are safely transported but also helps you get settled into the city smoothly. 

Moving experts can introduce you to various parts of the city, including the best commuting routes or public transport options, making it easier to navigate and explore your new surroundings.

Written by Billy Guteng. October 15, 2024

Billy is a content writer for Kukun. He was born in France, and has lived in multiple cities around the world ever since. He loves art, design and architecture as well as construction and real estate.