Cost of Living: Houston, TX vs Atlanta, GA 2026

$1,313/mo ↓ 19%

Median Rent

$1,617/mo ↑ 23%

$62,894/yr ↓ 23%

Median Income

$81,938/yr ↑ 30%

$253,400 ↓ 40%

Home Value

$420,600 ↑ 66%

$1,316/mo ↓ 22%

Owner Costs

$1,695/mo ↑ 29%

2,300,419

Population

499,287

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Atlanta, GA, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 122 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $304/month cheaper in Houston, saving renters about $3,648/year.

Median household income is $19,044/year higher in Atlanta. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $420,600 in Atlanta.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Houston residents a significant tax advantage over Georgia's 5.49% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Atlanta — common questions

Is Houston or Atlanta cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Houston is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 122 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Atlanta?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Atlanta it's $1,617/month — a difference of $304/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Atlanta?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $81,938 in Atlanta. Median household income is $19,044/year higher in Atlanta.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Georgia?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.

Should I move to Houston or Atlanta?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Atlanta has a cost index of 122 with rent of $1,617/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Houston, TX vs Atlanta, GA (2026)

Houston

Atlanta

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions