The Salary.com cost of living calculator estimate is based on data related to five general categories: housing, food, healthcare, transportation, and energy. These are the universally recognized core components of any cost of living estimate and represent those expenses that apply to everyone. Obviously, there may be other factors that could contribute to your particular cost of living situation and not everyone has the same spending habits. For example, education and/or childcare costs might not apply to everyone, but for those who have those expenses, they could be significant and should be considered. We are providing additional data around those topics that can be helpful to gauge your particular situation. The Salary.com cost of living calculator is unique in that it also incorporates current salary data for thousands of jobs specific to a chosen home or work location to provide a more refined estimate of the cost of living variations. You can see how your job and your salary will be impacted by a change of location. If you live in one location but work in another, the cost of living calculator will make those adjustments to provide an accurate estimate of the change in COL. The Salary.com cost of living calculator helps you to make living cost comparisons easily and quickly.

The Salary.com cost of living calculator estimate is based on data related to five general categories: housing, food, healthcare, transportation, and energy. These are the universally recognized core components of any cost of living estimate and represent those expenses that apply to everyone. Obviously, there may be other factors that could contribute to your particular cost of living situation and not everyone has the same spending habits. For example, education and/or childcare costs might not apply to everyone, but for those who have those expenses, they could be significant and should be considered. We are providing additional data around those topics that can be helpful to gauge your particular situation. The Salary.com cost of living calculator is unique in that it also incorporates current salary data for thousands of jobs specific to a chosen home or work location to provide a more refined estimate of the cost of living variations. You can see how your job and your salary will be impacted by a change of location. If you live in one location but work in another, the cost of living calculator will make those adjustments to provide an accurate estimate of the change in COL. The Salary.com cost of living calculator helps you to make living cost comparisons easily and quickly.

Cost of Living in Port Arthur, TX 2025

-12% | Lower Than National Avg.

73% | Higher Than State Avg.

Port Arthur's 2025 cost of living is $2175 per month for singles and $4788 per month for families of four. Living costs in Port Arthur are 12% lower than the U.S. national average and 73% higher than Texas's state average. This reflects a 1% increase from 2024. The primary drivers of Port Arthur's cost of living are soaring housing costs, elevated transportation expenses, and rising food prices. See how Port Arthur's cost of living affects your budget or salary needs with Salary.com's free Cost of Living Calculator.

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How does Port Arthur's cost of living compare to the national average in 2025?

Living in Port Arthur is less expensive than the national average, with housing costs 20.6 % lower at $953 per month for a single person and $1747 per month for a family of four. Food expenses run 3.0 % below average at $388 monthly for an individual and $1261 for a family, while energy, transportation and healthcare costs are 10.6 % lower at about $782 per month for one person and $1756 for a household. These costs bring the total monthly expenses to $2123 for a single person and $4764 for a family of four, making Port Arthur one of America's least expensive cities.

Expense Category	Average Monthly Expense Single Person	Average Monthly Expense Family of Four	Port Arthur compare to: U.S. Average
Housing	953	1747	-20.6%
Food	388	1261	-3.0%
Energy	154	264	-11.9%
Transportation	334	709	-16.6%
Healthcare	294	783	-2.1%

How does the cost of living compare when moving from other major cities to Port Arthur?

Port Arthur's 2025 cost of living is 115% lower than San Francisco, 63% less than Washington, 34% below Miami , 28% lower than Chicago, 74% less than Boston , and 99% below New York. Essential for evaluating relocation costs and salary needs in Port Arthur.

Move From	Move To	Cost of Living Comparison
San Francisco, CA	Port Arthur	-115.0%
Washington, DC	Port Arthur	-63.0%
Miami, FL	Port Arthur	-34.0%
Chicago, IL	Port Arthur	-28.0%
Boston, MA	Port Arthur	-74.0%
New York, NY	Port Arthur	-99.0%
Dallas, TX	Port Arthur	-22.0%

About Port Arthur, TX

Port Arthur is a city in Jefferson County within the Beaumont–Port Arthur metropolitan area of the U.S. state of Texas. A small portion extends into Orange County. It is 90 mi (140 km) east of Houston. It is host to the largest oil refinery in the United States (the 600,000 bpd Saudi Aramco - Motiva Enterprises refinery). The population of Port Arthur was 53,818 at the 2010 census, down from 57,755 at the 2000 census. Early attempts at settlements in the area had all failed. However, in 1895, Arthur Stilwell founded Port Arthur, and the town quickly grew. Port Arthur was incorporated as a city...

Source: Wikipedia (as of 04/11/2019). Read more from Wikipedia

Comments about the cost of living in Port Arthur, TX

What stores are known for lower grocery prices?

Stores like Lidl are known to offer low prices. Shopping there can considerably reduce cost of living, as the prices in grocery stores can vary a lot. ( 2025-07-24 salary.com )

Are there good recreational opportunities in or near Port Arthur, TX?

Port Arthur, TX does not have a major sports team, but don’t worry, check out local colleges and high school sports schedules. These games usually have very cheap tickets and the spirit and enthusiasm of the crowd often makes up for the level of skill. ( 2025-07-24 salary.com )

Are there any good ways to save money on Cable TV and internet service in Port Arthur, TX?

The average cost of internet access in the U.S. is $66.20 per month. There are many providers and various packages that are offered, many that bundle internet, cable, and phone together. Pricing for various packages can vary a lot even in the same location. You should evaluate the options based on your usage and preferences and pick the best fit for your needs. One tip to reduce this cost and your overall cost of living, is to get cable service from another source like Direct TV, Netflix, Sling, Amazon Prime or others. ( 2025-07-24 salary.com )

I am moving with children, what should I do to make the move less stressful for them and myself?

Adults find that moving can sometimes be an emotional and stressful experience. Children, who don’t have the maturity, independence, and understanding of a parent may be even more sensitive to a move. If they are old enough to understand, include the children in making plans for the move. When moving to a distant place, help your children learn about the new area. Check out the website for Port Arthur, Texas to find opportunities and activities in the new location like parks, beaches, museums, or playgrounds that kids will enjoy and look forward to visiting. ( 2025-07-24 salary.com )

Is the cost of electricity in Port Arthur, Texas expected to change in the future?

The cost of electricity in Texas has gone up by 1.883% in the past year. It is possible that electric rates may fluctuate depending on consumption rates, government regulations and even the weather. ( 2025-07-24 salary.com )

What kind of child care is available in Port Arthur, Texas and what is the cost?

The estimated average annual cost for child care in Port Arthur, Texas (based on state average), is $8759. This cost is ranked NO. 31 nationally. Some employers have company provided day care centers that let you bring your child to work with you and receive care on site. Some colleges and universities with Childhood Education programs also may have day care centers available at reduced costs, so you should explore those possibilities to see if you can reduce your child care expense. ( 2025-07-24 salary.com )

Should I plan on spending a lot on rent in Port Arthur,TX?

In Port Arthur,TX, my friend pays $640 for a large 2 bedroom apartment. Since he has 2 children, he needs to have a large apartment. ( 2025-07-24 salary.com )

Are there fun things to in Port Arthur, Texas that are free or don’t cost a lot?

Looks for areas of Port Arthur, Texas where there is a large student population. In those areas you will be sure to find lots of free or cheap events to go to and plenty of cheap places to eat. Familiarize yourself with the places where students hang out, and take advantage of discounted or bargain prices, you are sure to be able to keep your cost of living reasonable. Look at the website for Port Arthur, TX to find recommendations for activities that are available and unique to the area. ( 2025-07-24 salary.com )

Will I have to pay a lot in taxes if I move to Port Arthur, Texas?

The sales tax for Port Arthur is 6.25%. This is the tax that you will pay on things that you buy. ( 2025-07-24 salary.com )

Cost of living in Port Arthur, Texas is important, but what about the weather?

The weather in Port Arthur is ideal. Based on data collected by NOAA National Climatic Data Center, Port Arthur is considered to have one of the most favorable climates in the country based on comfort and number of days with clear skies. You will enjoy living in Port Arthur, Texas. ( 2025-07-24 salary.com )

Can you save money using public transport?

You could save up to $1,000 per year, depending on your location, by using public transport instead of driving. Not only will you reduce the stress of driving and finding a place to park once you reach your destination, your car and tires will last longer, and you will spend less on gas. A side benefit is that you may be able to relax, work, or read on the way to work, or get to know and chat with other commuters. Some employers offer employees reduced fee bus or transit passes, so check that out with your employer. ( 2025-07-24 salary.com )

Cost of Living Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Cost of Living index and how is it used?

In the simplest terms, a Cost of Living index is the estimated amount that represents the cost of the basic necessities required for an individual to live. A cost of living or COL estimate may typically include estimates for housing, food, energy, medical care, transportation, taxes, and other necessities. A COL index may be used to measure what the cost difference would be for a person living in a certain location compared to another location. This cost of living comparison helps individuals make decisions about where they would like to live and what they can afford based on the costs in that location. A cost of living comparison can provide guidance about how an increase or decrease in these basic living expenses impacts necessary spending for an individual or a family. ( 2025-07-24 salary.com )

What factors are included in estimating your cost of living?

The Salary.com cost of living calculator estimate is based on data related to five general categories: housing, food, healthcare, transportation, and energy. These are the universally recognized core components of any cost of living estimate and represent those expenses that apply to everyone. Obviously, there may be other factors that could contribute to your particular cost of living situation and not everyone has the same spending habits. For example, education and/or childcare costs might not apply to everyone, but for those who have those expenses, they could be significant and should be considered when you evaluate your cost of living comparison. ( 2025-07-24 salary.com )

The Salary.com cost of living calculator is unique in that it also incorporates current salary data for thousands of jobs specific to a chosen home or work location to provide a more refined estimate of the cost of living variations. You can see how your job and your salary will be impacted by a change of location. If you live in one location but work in another, the cost of living calculator will make those adjustments to provide an accurate estimate of the change in COL. The Salary.com cost of living calculator helps you to make cost of living comparisons cost comparisons easily and quickly. ( 2025-07-24 salary.com )

See how much you can get when it is an hourly pay

Use our Salary Converter Tool, a user-friendly resource designed to see how much your salary will be if converted into hourly/weekly/biweekly/monthly/yearly pay. With just a few clicks, you can gain valuable insights into your earning potential, ensuring you make informed financial decisions.

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Last Update: 2025-07-24