Bronx, NY and Arlington, TX– two cities with distinctive characters and attributes. The Bronx is famous as one of the five boroughs of the iconic city of New York and embeds a rich history, diverse culture, and bustle typical of a large city. On the other hand, Arlington, located across the country in Texas, is a charming metropolis that boasts warmer weather, ample recreational activities, and a more relaxed pace of life. Here, we provide a comprehensive comparison of these two cities, focusing on various aspects valuable to potential relocators and tourists alike.
The crime rate in Bronx, NY tends to be higher than that in Arlington, TX. It's important to note though that crime varies by neighborhood. In Bronx, the southern areas generally have higher crime rates. In terms of safety, visitors and newcomers are advised to remain vigilant and follow general urban safety guidelines. In Arlington, while the city isn't immune to crime, the rate is generally lower than Bronx. Residents and visitors generally report feeling safe, especially in the well-policed tourist areas.
Cost of Living
In terms of the cost of living, Bronx is significantly more expensive than Arlington. This includes everything from housing, food, transportation, to daily goods and services. The high cost of living is one factor that might deter potential residents. On the other hand, Arlington enjoys a relatively low cost of living, making it an attractive choice for those looking for affordability without sacrificing big-city opportunities.
Income Tax
On the backdrop of its high cost of living, residents of Bronx also have to contest with both state and city income taxes. On the other hand, Texas residents, including those in Arlington, benefit from having no state income tax.
Property Tax
Property taxes in Bronx, NY are generally higher than in Arlington, TX. This is driven by the higher property values in the borough and the complex property tax system of New York City. Conversely, while Texas does have among the highest property tax rates in the US, Arlington's lower property values can make these taxes more bearable.
Sales Tax
New York City, including the Bronx, has a relatively high sales tax rate, currently at 8.875%, which may affect the cost of purchases. Arlington, located in Texas, a state known for having no income tax, has a sales tax rate of about 8.25%.
Income
Type
Bronx
Arlington
Estimated median household income
$43,011
$59,889
Estimated per capita income
$23,354
$31,722
Cost of living index (U.S. average is 100)
172.8
95.9
If you make $50,000 in Arlington, you will have to make $90,094 in Bronx to maintain the same standard of living.
Geographical Conditions
The Bronx, bordered by the East and Hudson Rivers, offers a waterfront ambiance with several beautiful parks. Arlington, by comparison, is landlocked, but it features rolling hills and is situated between the larger cities of Dallas and Fort Worth.
Geographical information
Type
Bronx
Arlington
Land area
42 sq. miles
95.8 sq. miles
Population density
32,928 people per sq. mile
4,099.3 people per sq. mile
Relative area comparison
Bronx, NY Arlington, TX
Education
There is a rich selection of schools in Bronx, with hundreds of public and private options, including some of the nation's top universities like Fordham University. However, large class sizes in public schools are often a concern. Arlington, on the other hand, has a commendable education system with a lower student-to-teacher ratio. The city is home to the University of Texas at Arlington and several good local school districts.
As part of the New York City, the Bronx boasts a diverse economy with sectors like healthcare, education, and retail trade providing a large number of jobs. Despite having high living costs, the potential for high income exists, especially in specialized roles. Arlington's economy is robust, with major sectors including manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. The city also enjoys lower unemployment rates compared to national averages.
Biggest Employers
In Bronx, many are employed by Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx-Lebanon Hospital Center, Department of Education, and city government. Conversely, Arlington's job landscape is dominated by major employers like Texas Health Resources, Arlington Independent School District, the University of Texas at Arlington, and the local government.
In Bronx (Bronx County), 91.9% voted for Democrats and 8.1% for Republicans in 2012 Presidential Election. In Arlington (Tarrant County), 41.4% voted for Democrats and 57.1% for Republicans.
Elections
Type
Democrats
Republicans
Other
Year
Bronx
Arlington
Bronx
Arlington
Bronx
Arlington
2020
83.7%
49.3%
16.0%
49.1%
0.3%
1.6%
2016
88.6%
43.2%
9.5%
51.8%
2.0%
5.0%
2012
91.9%
41.4%
8.1%
57.1%
0.0%
1.4%
2008
89.0%
43.8%
11.0%
55.5%
0.0%
0.7%
2004
82.9%
37.0%
16.5%
62.5%
0.6%
0.5%
2000
86.5%
36.9%
11.8%
60.9%
1.7%
2.3%
1996
85.8%
41.6%
10.5%
50.9%
3.7%
7.5%
Breakdown of population affiliated with a religious congregation
Type
Adherents
Congregations
Religion
Bronx
Arlington
Bronx
Arlington
CATHOLIC CHURCH
25.5%
11.1%
11.5%
1.9%
MUSLIM ESTIMATE
2.8%
2.2%
3.9%
0.9%
AMERICAN BAPTIST CHURCHES IN THE USA
0.7%
0.0%
4.4%
0.1%
SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH
0.7%
0.4%
6.5%
1.6%
EPISCOPAL CHURCH
0.4%
0.3%
3.7%
0.8%
SOUTHERN BAPTIST CONVENTION
0.2%
17.3%
2.4%
33.3%
LUTHERAN CHURCH
0.1%
0.5%
0.6%
0.9%
Weather
As for weather, Bronx and Arlington are vastly different. Bronx experiences all four seasons, with hot, humid summers and chilly, potentially snowy winters. Some people appreciate this variety, while others might find the harsh winters difficult. In contrast, Arlington is characterized by a warmer climate, with mild winters and hot, humid summers. The warmer year-round temperatures in Arlington can be appealing to many people, especially those who enjoy outdoor activities.
Weather and climate
Type
Bronx
Arlington
Temperature - Average
54.7°F
65°F
Humidity - Average morning or afternoon humidity
67.2%
71.4%
Humidity - Differences between morning and afternoon humidity
26.4%
34%
Humidity - Maximum monthly morning or afternoon humidity
75.6%
82%
Humidity - Minimum monthly morning or afternoon humidity
49.2%
48%
Precipitation - Yearly average
47 in
37.9 in
Snowfall - Yearly average
54.5 in
4.2 in
Clouds - Number of days clear of clouds
16.5%
22.7%
Sunshine amount - Average
60.2%
66.6%
Sunshine amount - Differences during a year
20%
20%
Sunshine amount - Maximum monthly
64%
74%
Sunshine amount - Minimum monthly
44%
54%
Wind speed - Average
10.7 mph
10.3 mph
Average climate in Bronx, New York
Average climate in Arlington, Texas
Air pollution
Type
AQI
CO
NO2
OZONE
PB
PM10
PM25
SO2
Year
Bronx
Arlington
Bronx
Arlington
Bronx
Arlington
Bronx
Arlington
Bronx
Bronx
Bronx
Arlington
Bronx
Arlington
2018
102
86
0.31
N/A
15.8
5.8
24.4
27.1
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
7.4
9.4
0.6
0.4
2017
100
86
0.04
N/A
15.7
6.2
24.6
27.2
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
7.0
9.1
0.6
0.3
2016
98
76
0.30
N/A
16.4
6.3
24.6
25.5
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
7.2
8.2
0.8
0.2
2015
105
80
0.28
N/A
18.0
6.5
23.6
24.8
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
8.6
8.6
1.4
0.3
2014
99
78
0.32
0.22
18.0
6.8
23.6
26.6
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
8.4
9.3
1.7
0.3
2013
103
96
0.39
0.25
18.9
6.4
23.5
27.2
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
9.3
11.0
2.1
0.2
2012
104
108
0.44
0.26
18.8
7.8
23.9
30.3
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
9.7
10.5
3.1
0.3
2011
113
96
0.46
0.23
20.9
8.2
22.1
30.7
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
11.6
9.5
4.5
0.6
2010
113
76
0.53
0.23
20.2
8.9
23.7
27.7
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
10.8
8.4
4.7
0.7
2009
107
91
0.53
0.25
22.3
8.7
19.5
29.5
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
10.8
8.5
5.4
0.5
2008
114
92
0.53
0.25
23.3
9.6
19.9
25.8
0.013
N/A
N/A
N/A
12.1
10.7
5.9
0.5
2007
122
95
0.60
0.30
24.6
10.6
19.1
24.6
0.016
N/A
N/A
N/A
13.2
9.8
7.0
0.5
2006
120
102
0.50
0.34
25.0
10.4
18.9
29.7
0.018
N/A
N/A
N/A
12.8
9.9
7.0
0.8
2005
115
110
0.60
0.34
27.0
11.7
17.8
28.4
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
11.3
9.3
1.0
2004
109
90
0.62
0.39
25.6
10.8
16.7
25.4
0.030
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
8.8
0.9
2003
110
97
0.75
0.40
27.4
11.1
17.1
27.2
0.022
N/A
26.9
N/A
N/A
N/A
8.9
1.0
2002
124
97
0.67
0.37
27.9
11.8
17.4
25.8
0.008
N/A
25.0
N/A
N/A
N/A
8.6
0.6
2001
126
88
0.66
0.48
30.0
14.7
17.8
25.0
0.020
N/A
22.8
N/A
N/A
N/A
10.0
1.1
2000
115
104
0.68
0.55
29.4
14.5
16.0
26.2
0.022
N/A
22.2
N/A
N/A
N/A
10.2
1.3
Natural disasters
Type
Bronx
Arlington
Tornado activity compared to U.S. average
58.3%
254.3%
Earthquake activity compared to U.S. average
31%
558.3%
Natural disasters compared to U.S. average
14%
23%
Transportation
Transportation is where the Bronx exhibits a significant advantage. The NYC subway system provides extensive coverage, and there are numerous bus routes. However, traffic can be a big concern. Arlington, however, relies heavily on cars, and the public transit system is limited. The city is also spread out, making commuting times potentially longer.
Transport
Type
Bronx
Arlington
Amtrak stations nearby
3
2
FAA registered aircraft
39
362
FAA registered aircraft manufacturers and dealers
0
5
Means of transportation to work
Type
Bronx
Arlington
Bicycle
0.2%
0.2%
Bus
15.6%
0%
Carpooled
9.3%
11.9%
Car alone
27%
85%
Motorcycle
0%
0.1%
Railroad
2%
0%
Streetcar
0.2%
0%
Subway
34.6%
0%
Taxicab
1.3%
0%
Walked
7.2%
1.4%
Average travel time to work
Type
Bronx
Arlington
Average
44.2 min
26.1 min
Real Estate
The real estate sector in the Bronx can be significantly more costly than in Arlington due to the city's population density and high demand. Bronx offers a mix of apartments, condos, and single-family homes. Arlington's real estate market, while growing, still offers more affordable options, including spacious single-family homes and apartments.
Neighborhoods
Bronx is home to a variety of diverse neighborhoods, each with its unique character. From the historic charm of City Island to the vibrant culture of South Bronx, there's something for everyone. Arlington, although smaller, offers a variety of neighborhoods, from the bustling downtown to more peaceful suburban communities, like Southwest Arlington.
Houses and residents
Type
Bronx
Arlington
Houses
490,659
156,653
Average household size (people)
2.8
2.7
Houses occupied
463,212 (94.4%)
146,888 (93.8%)
Houses occupied by owners
90,522 (19.5%)
78,883 (53.7%)
Houses occupied by renters
372,690 (80.5%)
68,005 (46.3%)
Median rent asked for vacant for-rent units
$1,273
$1,609
Median price asked for vacant for-sale houses and condos
$708,992
$199,415
Estimated median house or condo value
$465,000
$254,700
Median number of rooms in apartments
3.7
4.1
Median number of rooms in houses and condos
5.1
6.5
Renting percentage
80.7%
42.6%
Housing density (houses/condos per square mile)
11,675
1,634.9
Household income disparities
50.2%
43.9%
Housing units without a mortgage
12,021 (34%)
948 (2%)
Housing units with both a second mortgage and home equity loan
105 (0.3%)
1,684 (3.6%)
Housing units with a mortgage
23,339 (66%)
46,456 (98%)
Housing units with a home equity loan
2,053 (5.8%)
0 (0%)
Housing units with a second mortgage
2,159 (6.1%)
1,967 (4.1%)
Housing units lacking complete kitchen facilities
1.4%
1.7%
Housing units lacking complete plumbing facilities
Self-employed workers in own not incorporated business
16,572
10,953
State government workers
14,515
6,771
Unpaid family workers
1,000
396
Industries and Occupations
In the Bronx, the major industries include healthcare, education, social assistance, and retail trade. These sectors also dominate major occupations, with a significant number of residents employed as office and administrative support workers. Meanwhile, the leading industries in Arlington include manufacturing, logistics, and professional services. Many residents hold jobs in office and administrative support roles, management, and transportation.
The Bronx is home to numerous renowned health institutions, including Montefiore Medical Center and Bronx-Lebanon Hospital Center. Arlington's healthcare system is also robust, with leading facilities like Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital.
Health (county statistics)
Type
Bronx
Arlington
General health status score of residents in this county from 1 (poor) to 5 (excellent)
Being part of the bustling metropolis of New York City, the Bronx benefits from extensive infrastructure, including a comprehensive public transportation system, considerable healthcare facilities, and numerous recreational and leisure areas. However, heavy traffic and congestion can be a challenge. In contrast, Arlington's infrastructure, while less extensive than The Bronx, is still highly developed and continuously improving. However, public transportation is limited compared to the Bronx.
Infrastructure
Type
Bronx
Arlington
Hospitals
57
39
TV stations
30
25
Bank branches located here
118
74
Bank institutions located here
24
23
Main business address for public companies
2
2
Drinking water stations with no reported violations in the past
1
0
Drinking water stations with reported violations in the past
4
2
Schools
School facilities
Type
Bronx
Arlington
Private elementary/middle schools
54
11
Private high schools
20
10
Public elementary/middle schools
285
81
Public high schools
155
18
Colleges/Universities
9
12
Culture and Food
The Bronx is a melting pot of cultures, offering a rich tapestry of experiences. The area is famous for its diverse range of food, from Little Italy's quaint eateries to the global cuisine of Arthur Avenue. Arlington offers a Texan twist, with BBQ joints, Mexican food, and a burgeoning food truck scene.
Sports Teams
New York City is home to a myriad of professional sports teams, with Bronx being the home of one of the most renowned globally, The New York Yankees. Arlington is not left behind; it's the home of the Texas Rangers (MLB) and the Dallas Cowboys (NFL).