If you’re a homeowner or resident in Frisco, Texas, you’ve probably noticed something unsettling lately: prices seem to be going up everywhere. From your property tax bill to your water statement to the groceries you buy at the store, the cost of living in Frisco is climbing. You’re not imagining it, and you’re definitely not alone.
As a local real estate professional who has called Frisco home for years, I’ve been hearing from neighbors, clients, and friends about these rising costs. So I wanted to take a moment to break down exactly what’s happening, why it’s happening, and most importantly, what you can do about it.
Why Are Prices Rising in Frisco, Texas?
Frisco is one of the fastest-growing cities in America, and with that growth comes both opportunities and challenges. Let’s look at the four main factors driving up the cost of living in our community.
1. Property Taxes in Frisco Are Increasing (Despite Lower Tax Rates)
This one confuses a lot of people, so let me explain. The Frisco City Council and Frisco ISD Board of Trustees have both adopted their budgets and tax rates for the new fiscal year. Here’s the catch: while the city’s tax rate has actually decreased, most homeowners are still seeing higher property tax bills.
Why? Because property values in Frisco have skyrocketed.
Your property tax bill is calculated by multiplying your home’s appraised value by the tax rate. So even if the tax rate goes down slightly, if your home’s value has increased by 10%, 15%, or even 20% (which many Frisco homes have), your overall tax bill will still be higher.
What You Can Do About High Property Taxes in Frisco
The good news is that you have options. If you believe your property has been overvalued by the appraisal district, you have the right to protest your appraisal.
Important Deadlines:
•Collin County residents: File your protest by May 31 or within 30 days of receiving your appraisal notice, whichever is later
•Denton County residents: File by May 15 or within 30 days of receiving your notice, whichever is later
Since Frisco spans both Collin and Denton counties, make sure you know which county your property is in and file with the correct appraisal district.
How to Protest Your Property Appraisal:
1.Gather evidence – Collect recent sales data for comparable homes in your neighborhood, photos of your property showing any issues, and any independent appraisals you may have
2.File a written protest – You can use the forms provided by the appraisal district or write your own letter identifying your property and expressing your disagreement
3.Attend your hearing – Present your evidence at an informal hearing or formal Appraisal Review Board (ARB) hearing
Resources:
If you need help understanding your property value or gathering comparable sales data, feel free to reach out. As a local Frisco real estate agent, I’m happy to help you understand what your home is truly worth in today’s market.
2. Frisco Water Rates Are Going Up
The City of Frisco has proposed water rate increases for 2026, and this is directly tied to rising costs from the North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD). As our region continues to grow and water resources become more strained, these costs are expected to keep climbing.
How to Lower Your Water Bill in Frisco
While we can’t control the rate increases, we can control how much water we use. Here are some practical ways Frisco homeowners can reduce their water consumption and lower their bills:
Indoor Water Savings:
•Fix leaks immediately – A small drip can waste 20 gallons per day. Check your water meter before and after a 2-hour period when no water is being used to detect hidden leaks
•Take shorter showers – Cutting just 2 minutes off your shower can save up to 150 gallons per month
•Run full loads only – Only run your dishwasher and washing machine when they’re completely full
•Install low-flow fixtures – WaterSense labeled showerheads and faucet aerators can save thousands of gallons per year
Outdoor Water Savings (This is BIG in Texas!):
Did you know that outdoor water use can account for up to 70% of household water consumption in Texas during hot months? Here’s how to cut back:
•Water in the early morning – Watering between 4-10 AM reduces evaporation loss
•Raise your mower blade – Cutting grass to at least 3 inches helps it retain moisture
•Use drip irrigation – This delivers water directly to plant roots with minimal waste
•Choose native plants – Texas native and drought-tolerant plants require far less water
•Cover your pool – A pool cover can reduce evaporation by up to 95%
Potential Savings: According to the EPA, the average family spends $1,100 per year on water costs but can save $350 by retrofitting with water-efficient fixtures and appliances.
3. Federal Tariffs Are Quietly Increasing Your Household Expenses
This is the one that surprises most people. You might not have connected the dots between federal trade policy and your household budget, but the impact is real and significant.
In 2025, the average tariff rate on imported goods jumped from 2.6% to 13%. According to research from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, 90% of these tariff costs are being paid by American companies and consumers, not by foreign countries.
What does this mean for Frisco families?
The Tax Foundation estimates that these tariffs cost the average American household an additional $1,000 in 2025, with that number projected to rise to $1,300 in 2026.
What’s affected by tariffs?
•Electronics (TVs, computers, phones)
•Major appliances (refrigerators, washers, dryers)
•Home improvement materials
•Clothing and shoes
•Automobiles and auto parts
•Building materials (adding $1,000+ to new home construction costs)
What Frisco Residents Can Do
While we can’t control federal tariff policy, we can be smarter consumers:
•Comparison shop before making big purchases
•Look for sales on major appliances and electronics
•Consider timing – If you can delay a major purchase, prices may stabilize
•Buy quality – Items that last longer provide better value even if they cost more upfront
4. General Inflation Continues Nationwide
On top of all the local factors, general inflation continues to affect prices for groceries, gas, dining out, and everyday services. When you combine nationwide inflation with Frisco-specific increases in property taxes and water rates, plus the hidden impact of tariffs, it creates a perfect storm of rising costs.
The Frisco Real Estate Market: What This Means for Buyers and Sellers
As a Frisco real estate agent, I’m often asked how these rising costs affect the local housing market. Here’s what I’m seeing:
For Buyers:
Rising property taxes and overall cost of living are important factors to consider when budgeting for a home purchase in Frisco. When calculating what you can afford, don’t just look at the mortgage payment—factor in property taxes (which are higher than many other Texas cities), water bills, and general living expenses.
That said, Frisco remains an incredible place to live with top-rated schools, a thriving economy, excellent amenities, and a strong sense of community. The quality of life here is worth the investment for many families.
For Sellers:
While rising costs might seem like a negative, Frisco’s strong demand continues to support home values. The same factors driving up property appraisals—growth, desirability, excellent schools, and economic opportunity—also mean that homes in Frisco continue to sell well.
If you’re thinking about selling, now is still a strong time in the market. I can provide you with a comprehensive market analysis to help you understand what your home is worth and how to position it for maximum value.
Your Frisco Cost of Living Action Plan
Let’s recap the practical steps you can take right now to manage rising costs in Frisco:
Immediate Actions:
1.✅ Review your property tax appraisal notice when it arrives and protest if the value seems too high (deadline: May 31 for Collin County, May 15 for Denton County)
2.✅ Check for water leaks in your home and fix them immediately
3.✅ Adjust your lawn watering schedule to early morning hours
4.✅ Install low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators (low cost, high impact)
Longer-Term Strategies:
1.✅ Consider replacing old appliances with ENERGY STAR and WaterSense certified models
2.✅ Landscape with native, drought-tolerant plants
3.✅ Budget for higher property taxes and utility costs in your financial planning
4.✅ Comparison shop for major purchases affected by tariffs
Need Help Understanding Your Frisco Property Value?
If you’re concerned about your property tax appraisal or want to understand what your home is truly worth in today’s Frisco real estate market, I’m here to help. As a local real estate professional with deep knowledge of Frisco neighborhoods, I can provide you with:
•Comparative market analysis (CMA) for your home
•Recent sales data for comparable properties in your area
•Insights into Frisco market trends and property values
•Guidance on the property tax protest process
Whether you’re thinking about buying, selling, or simply want to understand your home’s value for tax purposes, I’m always happy to chat with fellow Frisco residents.
Stay Informed About Frisco Real Estate and Cost of Living
The cost of living in Frisco is evolving, and staying informed helps you make better financial decisions. I regularly share updates about the Frisco real estate market, local news, and practical tips for homeowners on my blog and social media.
Connect with me:
•Follow me on social media for regular Frisco updates
•Subscribe to my newsletter for monthly market insights
•Reach out anytime with questions about Frisco real estate
Living in Frisco is an investment in quality of life, excellent schools, and a vibrant community. While costs are rising, there are practical steps we can all take to manage our expenses and continue enjoying everything this amazing city has to offer.
About Neda Dameshghi
Neda Dameshghi is a trusted real estate professional serving Frisco, Prosper, and the surrounding North Texas communities. With deep local knowledge and a commitment to helping clients make informed decisions, Neda provides expert guidance for buyers, sellers, and homeowners navigating the Frisco real estate market.
Contact Neda:
•Website: HousesByNeda.com
469-960-5580
Neda@housesbyneda.com
FAQ: Rising Costs in Frisco, Texas
Q: Why are my Frisco property taxes going up if the tax rate went down?
A: Your property tax bill is calculated by multiplying your home’s appraised value by the tax rate. Even though the tax rate decreased, property values in Frisco have increased significantly, resulting in higher overall tax bills for most homeowners.
Q: When is the deadline to protest my property taxes in Frisco?
A: The deadline depends on which county your property is in. For Collin County, it’s May 31 or 30 days after your appraisal notice is mailed (whichever is later). For Denton County, it’s May 15 or 30 days after your notice is mailed (whichever is later).
Q: How much are federal tariffs costing Frisco families?
A: According to the Tax Foundation, federal tariffs are costing the average American household approximately $1,300 in 2026. This affects prices on electronics, appliances, clothing, building materials, and many other consumer goods.
Q: What’s the best way to lower my water bill in Frisco?
A: Focus on outdoor water use first, as it accounts for up to 70% of household water consumption in Texas. Water in the early morning, raise your mower blade to 3 inches, use drip irrigation, and choose native plants. Indoors, fix leaks immediately and install low-flow fixtures.
Q: Is Frisco still a good place to buy a home despite rising costs?
A: Yes! While costs are rising, Frisco continues to offer exceptional schools, a strong economy, excellent amenities, and high quality of life. When budgeting for a home purchase, factor in property taxes and living expenses, but don’t let rising costs deter you from investing in this outstanding community.
Published: 2/13/2026
Last Updated: 2/13/2026
Category: Frisco Real Estate, Cost of Living, Homeowner Tips