If you're considering a move, comparing Arlington, Texas, and Irving, Texas, can give you a glimpse of two vibrant cities with their unique charms. While both cities offer southern hospitality, you'll find notable differences, from the economy to culture to real estate, that could significantly affect your decision. However, the choice between the two will rely heavily on your priorities and preferences.
Distance between
Arlington, TX and
Irving, TX : 13.4 miles
Arlington's population is larger by 55%. Its population has grown by 59,817 people (18.0%) since 2000. The population of Irving has grown by 62,583 people (32.7%) during that time.
Both Arlington and Irving show a higher crime rate than the national average. Statistically, Arlington has a slightly higher rate in both violent and property crimes compared to Irving. But overall, both cities are dedicating resources to reduce the crime rates and improve safety for the residents and tourists alike.
City-data.com crime index counts serious crimes and violent crime more heavily. It adjusts for the number of visitors and daily workers commuting into cities. (higher means more crime, U.S. average = 301.1)
City-data.com crime index counts serious crimes and violent crime more heavily. It adjusts for the number of visitors and daily workers commuting into cities. (higher means more crime, U.S. average = 301.1)
Sex Offenders
According to our data, there are 594 registered sex offenders living in Arlington and 174 registered sex offenders living in . The ratio of residents to sex offenders in Arlington is 661 to 1; the ratio in Irving is 1,369 to 1. The number of registered sex offenders compared to the number of residents is larger in Arlington than in Irving.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Arlington is somewhat lower compared to Irving. While this can vary depending on where you choose to live in the city, generally, groceries, housing, and utilities tend to be cheaper in Arlington. In contrast, Irving's residents might pay a bit more, but they'll also see some economic benefits specific to their city.
Income Tax
In this regard, both cities are on equal footing as Texas does not impose a state income tax. This can be particularly appealing to working individuals and families considering a move to either city.
Property Tax
Both Arlington and Irving have higher than average property taxes compared to the rest of the nation. Arlington's rate is slightly lower than Irving's, though various exemptions and deductions can reduce this tax burden.
Sales Tax
Arlington and Irving both have a city sales tax rate of 2%, on top of Texas' state sales tax rate of 6.25%, making the total sales tax 8.25% in each city. It's important to consider this when planning your budget, whether you're thinking about relocating or just visiting.
Income
Type
Arlington
Irving
Estimated median household income
$59,889
$70,340
Estimated per capita income
$31,722
$36,210
Cost of living index (U.S. average is 100)
95.9
95.5
If you make $50,000 in Irving, you will have to make $50,209 in Arlington to maintain the same standard of living.
Geographical Conditions
Geographically, Arlington and Irving have similar landscapes being part of the Texas plains, with minimal elevation change. However, Arlington boasts some beautiful parks and natural areas making it great for outdoor enthusiasts, whereas Irving has more of an urban setup.
In terms of education, both cities offer numerous public and private school options. Irving, however, does have a higher percentage of residents with a bachelor's degree or higher. The Irving Independent School District is also ranked highly for its educational standards.
While both cities have thriving economies with opportunities in a variety of industries, Irving is home to more Fortune 500 companies, offering more job opportunities, especially in business and IT sectors. On the contrary, Arlington’s economy is more diverse and includes strong entertainment, manufacturing, and education sectors.
Biggest Employers
Arlington's biggest employers include General Motors, the Arlington Independent School District, and the University of Texas at Arlington. Irving hosts several multinational corporations and Fortune 500 companies such as ExxonMobil, Fluor Corporation, and Kimberly-Clark.
There were 976 building permits issued in Arlington in 2012 (744 more than in 2011) compared to 366 building permits issued in Irving in 2012 (26 more than in 2011).
In Arlington (Tarrant County), 41.4% voted for Democrats and 57.1% for Republicans in 2012 Presidential Election. In Irving (Dallas County), 57.3% voted for Democrats and 41.8% for Republicans.
Elections
Type
Democrats
Republicans
Other
Year
Arlington
Irving
Arlington
Irving
Arlington
Irving
2020
49.3%
65.1%
49.1%
33.4%
1.6%
1.4%
2016
43.2%
60.8%
51.8%
34.7%
5.0%
4.5%
2012
41.4%
57.3%
57.1%
41.8%
1.4%
1.0%
2008
43.8%
57.4%
55.5%
42.0%
0.7%
0.6%
2004
37.0%
49.0%
62.5%
50.4%
0.5%
0.5%
2000
36.9%
45.0%
60.9%
52.7%
2.3%
2.4%
1996
41.6%
46.0%
50.9%
46.8%
7.5%
7.2%
Breakdown of population affiliated with a religious congregation
Type
Adherents
Congregations
Religion
Arlington
Irving
Arlington
Irving
SOUTHERN BAPTIST CONVENTION
17.3%
11.0%
33.3%
31.1%
CATHOLIC CHURCH
11.1%
18.9%
1.9%
2.4%
MUSLIM ESTIMATE
2.2%
3.6%
0.9%
1.1%
LUTHERAN CHURCH
0.5%
0.3%
0.9%
0.7%
SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH
0.4%
0.5%
1.6%
1.7%
EPISCOPAL CHURCH
0.3%
1.0%
0.8%
1.5%
EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA
0.3%
0.3%
0.9%
0.9%
Weather
Arlington and Irving share similar weather patterns given their proximity in Texas, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. There's a risk of severe weather, including tornadoes, during spring and summer. If you're a fan of a warm climate, you'll enjoy living in either city.
Weather and climate
Type
Arlington
Irving
Temperature - Average
65°F
65.6°F
Humidity - Average morning or afternoon humidity
71.4%
71.3%
Humidity - Differences between morning and afternoon humidity
34%
34%
Humidity - Maximum monthly morning or afternoon humidity
82%
82%
Humidity - Minimum monthly morning or afternoon humidity
48%
48%
Precipitation - Yearly average
37.9 in
35.2 in
Snowfall - Yearly average
4.2 in
4.2 in
Clouds - Number of days clear of clouds
22.7%
22.8%
Sunshine amount - Average
66.6%
66.6%
Sunshine amount - Differences during a year
20%
20%
Sunshine amount - Maximum monthly
74%
74%
Sunshine amount - Minimum monthly
54%
54%
Wind speed - Average
10.3 mph
10.3 mph
Average climate in Arlington, Texas
Average climate in Irving, Texas
Air pollution
Type
AQI
CO
NO2
OZONE
PB
PM25
SO2
Year
Arlington
Irving
Arlington
Irving
Arlington
Irving
Arlington
Irving
Irving
Arlington
Irving
Arlington
Irving
2018
86
86
N/A
N/A
5.8
5.8
27.1
28.6
N/A
N/A
9.4
9.7
0.4
0.4
2017
86
84
N/A
N/A
6.2
5.7
27.2
28.9
N/A
N/A
9.1
9.1
0.3
0.3
2016
76
81
N/A
N/A
6.3
6.2
25.5
27.3
N/A
N/A
8.2
8.4
0.2
0.2
2015
80
83
N/A
N/A
6.5
6.6
24.8
26.9
N/A
N/A
8.6
8.9
0.3
0.3
2014
78
83
0.22
0.22
6.8
6.4
26.6
28.0
N/A
N/A
9.3
9.9
0.3
0.3
2013
96
96
0.25
0.25
6.4
7.0
27.2
29.1
N/A
N/A
11.0
13.0
0.2
0.2
2012
108
112
0.26
0.26
7.8
8.4
30.3
31.4
N/A
N/A
10.5
12.0
0.3
0.3
2011
96
97
0.23
0.23
8.2
8.9
30.7
31.3
N/A
N/A
9.5
11.9
0.6
0.6
2010
76
76
0.23
0.23
8.9
9.2
27.7
28.5
N/A
N/A
8.4
N/A
0.7
0.7
2009
91
88
0.25
0.25
8.7
9.1
29.5
29.3
N/A
N/A
8.5
N/A
0.5
0.5
2008
92
88
0.25
0.25
9.6
9.8
25.8
29.0
0.121
N/A
10.7
N/A
0.5
0.5
2007
95
94
0.30
0.30
10.6
10.8
24.6
26.0
0.070
N/A
9.8
N/A
0.5
0.3
2006
102
105
0.34
0.34
10.4
10.7
29.7
30.8
0.106
N/A
9.9
N/A
0.8
0.7
2005
110
110
0.34
0.34
11.7
12.7
28.4
30.0
0.142
N/A
11.3
11.1
1.0
0.9
2004
90
96
0.39
0.39
10.8
11.9
25.4
26.6
0.099
N/A
N/A
N/A
0.9
0.8
2003
97
102
0.40
0.40
11.1
13.0
27.2
27.9
0.121
N/A
N/A
N/A
1.0
1.0
2002
97
100
0.37
0.37
11.8
13.6
25.8
26.0
0.080
N/A
N/A
N/A
0.6
0.4
2001
88
100
0.48
0.48
14.7
14.1
25.0
27.2
0.069
N/A
N/A
N/A
1.1
1.0
2000
104
109
0.55
0.55
14.5
14.5
26.2
28.1
0.092
N/A
N/A
N/A
1.3
1.1
Natural disasters
Type
Arlington
Irving
Tornado activity compared to U.S. average
254.3%
255.8%
Earthquake activity compared to U.S. average
558.3%
574.6%
Natural disasters compared to U.S. average
23%
21%
Transportation
Irving has a more robust public transit system including DART rail and bus services. Commuting in Arlington is primarily by private vehicles as it lacks a comprehensive public transit system. However, Arlington does have a Via Rideshare service that operates in certain parts of the city.
Transport
Type
Arlington
Irving
Amtrak stations nearby
2
1
FAA registered aircraft
362
112
FAA registered aircraft manufacturers and dealers
5
5
Means of transportation to work
Type
Arlington
Irving
Bicycle
0.2%
0%
Bus
0%
0.4%
Carpooled
11.9%
9.9%
Car alone
85%
85.5%
Motorcycle
0.1%
0.1%
Railroad
0%
0.4%
Subway
0%
0.1%
Taxicab
0%
0.2%
Walked
1.4%
1.3%
Average travel time to work
Type
Arlington
Irving
Average
26.1 min
31.5 min
Other means
27.6 min
24.2 min
Public transportation
45.1 min
44.1 min
Private vehicle occupancy
Type
Arlington
Irving
Average
1.2
1.2
Drove alone
88.7%
87.2%
In 2 person carpool
7.8%
8.8%
In 3 person carpool
2.2%
2.9%
In 4 person carpool
0.8%
0.7%
In 5-6 person carpool
0.4%
0.3%
How many people usually rode to work in the car, truck or van.
Real Estate
Real estate prices tend to be somewhat more affordable in Arlington than Irving. However, rising property values in both cities suggest strong investment potential. Note that your choice will be influenced by your preferred lifestyle, neighborhood amenities, and proximity to work or school.
Neighborhoods
Both cities offer a variety of neighborhoods ranging from urban to suburban. Irving's Las Colinas neighborhood is known for its upscale living, corporate centers, and cultural attractions. Arlington's neighborhoods, on the other hand, offer a mix of suburban tranquility and urban charm, with well-planned communities like Dalworthington Gardens.
Houses and residents
Type
Arlington
Irving
Houses
156,653
100,800
Average household size (people)
2.7
2.6
Median year apartment built
1983
1987
Median year house/condo built
1984
1983
Length of stay in the house since moving in
13 years
11.7 years
Houses occupied
146,888 (93.8%)
95,309 (94.6%)
Houses occupied by owners
78,883 (53.7%)
34,544 (36.2%)
Houses occupied by renters
68,005 (46.3%)
60,765 (63.8%)
Median rent asked for vacant for-rent units
$1,609
$1,063
Median monthly housing costs
$1,220
$1,330
Median price asked for vacant for-sale houses and condos
$199,415
$665,016
Estimated median house or condo value
$254,700
$274,100
Median numbers of rooms
5.4
4.2
Median number of rooms in apartments
4.1
3.5
Median number of rooms in houses and condos
6.5
6.1
Median house price - detached houses
$265,594
$337,489
Median house price - in 2-unit structures
$415,006
$126,853
Median house price - in 3-to-4-unit structures
$224,044
$134,257
Median house price - in 5 or more unit structures
$131,545
$217,218
Median house price - mobile homes
$92,300
$125,168
Median house price - Townhouses or other attached units
$171,140
$250,693
Median house price - All housing units
$259,527
$321,036
Median house age
37
35
Renting percentage
42.6%
61.6%
Housing density (houses/condos per square mile)
1,634.9
1,499.4
House value disparities
25%
33.7%
Household income disparities
43.9%
42.4%
Median household income for houses/condes with a mortgage
$97,883
$108,487
Median household income for apartments without a mortgage
$67,452
$78,490
Housing units without a mortgage
948 (2%)
261 (1.2%)
Housing units with both a second mortgage and home equity loan
1,684 (3.6%)
547 (2.6%)
Housing units with a mortgage
46,456 (98%)
21,104 (98.8%)
Housing units with a home equity loan
0 (0%)
79 (0.4%)
Housing units with a second mortgage
1,967 (4.1%)
681 (3.2%)
House/condo owner moved in on average (years ago)
13
10
House/condo renter moved in on average (years ago)
1
1
Housing units lacking complete kitchen facilities
1.7%
2.2%
Housing units lacking complete plumbing facilities
1%
1.5%
Housing units in structures
Housing units in structures
Arlington
Irving
One, detached
60.2%
39.8%
One, attached
10.8%
3.8%
Two
1.5%
2.0%
3 or 4
4.3%
5.8%
5 to 9
5.7%
11.3%
10 to 19
7.7%
15.2%
20 to 49
3.3%
7.0%
50 or more
5.2%
13.9%
Mobile homes
1.3%
1.3%
Boats, RVs, vans, etc.
0.1%
0.0%
Median real estate property taxes paid for housing units
Self-employed workers in own not incorporated business
10,953
9,391
State government workers
6,771
2,329
Unpaid family workers
396
283
Industries and Occupations
Arlington has diverse industries including automotive, aerospace, health care, and sports & entertainment, providing a range of occupational possibilities. On the other hand, Irving is dominated by business services, finance, and telecom industries. Thus, Irving might have an edge if you're in a white-collar profession, while Arlington offers a more varied occupational landscape.
Both Arlington and Irving have access to ample healthcare resources, including multiple hospitals and specialty centers. Arlington has the Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital, whereas Irving is serviced by Baylor Scott & White Medical Center.
Health (county statistics)
Type
Arlington
Irving
General health status score of residents in this county from 1 (poor) to 5 (excellent)
Arlington's infrastructure boasts attractions like the AT&T Stadium and Globe Life Park, but lacks a public transportation system. Alternatively, Irving has a comprehensive public transit system, including access to the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART). However, both cities show a commitment to improving infrastructure, such as road networks and public facilities.
Infrastructure
Type
Arlington
Irving
Hospitals
39
12
TV stations
25
26
Arenas or stadiums
1
1
Bank branches located here
74
52
Bank institutions located here
23
20
Main business address for public companies
2
26
Drinking water stations with reported violations in the past
HMDA - Conventional home purchase loans - Applications denied
Year
Arlington
Irving
1999
1,768
1,047
2000
1,198
375
2001
1,140
307
2002
847
239
2003
1,216
722
2004
1,504
647
2005
2,158
1,099
2006
2,107
1,041
2007
1,390
618
2008
558
368
2009
235
179
Culture and Food
Both cities have a rich cultural scene with diverse food options. Arlington is renowned for its Tex-Mex and barbeque joints. Meanwhile, Irving's food scene is incredibly diverse, reflecting its multicultural population, and treats visitors to everything from Mexican to Asian cuisines.
Sports Teams
In terms of professional sports, Arlington has the edge with the Dallas Cowboys (NFL) and Texas Rangers (MLB) stadiums located in the city. The city is a go-to for sports fans. While Irving doesn't have a home team, it's just a short drive away from major sporting events in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Arlington, TX
Irving, TX
Arlington, TX and 
Irving, TX : 13.4 miles
