Houston, TX vs Anchorage, AK: 88 vs 113

$1,313/mo ↓ 10%

Median Rent

$1,453/mo ↑ 11%

$62,894/yr ↓ 36%

Median Income

$98,152/yr ↑ 56%

$253,400 ↓ 33%

Home Value

$375,900 ↑ 48%

$1,316/mo ↓ 22%

Owner Costs

$1,698/mo ↑ 29%

2,300,419

Population

289,069

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Anchorage, AK, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 113 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $140/month cheaper in Houston, saving renters about $1,680/year.

Median household income is $35,258/year higher in Anchorage. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $375,900 in Anchorage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Anchorage — common questions

Is Houston or Anchorage cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Houston is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 113 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Anchorage?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Anchorage it's $1,453/month — a difference of $140/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Anchorage?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $98,152 in Anchorage. Median household income is $35,258/year higher in Anchorage.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Alaska?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Alaska has 0% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 1.04% property tax.

Should I move to Houston or Anchorage?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Anchorage has a cost index of 113 with rent of $1,453/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Houston, TX vs Anchorage, AK (2026)

Houston

Anchorage

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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