Houston, TX vs Austin, TX: 88 vs 134

$1,313/mo ↓ 21%

Median Rent

$1,655/mo ↑ 26%

$62,894/yr ↓ 31%

Median Income

$91,461/yr ↑ 45%

$253,400 ↓ 51%

Home Value

$512,700 ↑ 102%

$1,316/mo ↓ 25%

Owner Costs

$1,747/mo ↑ 33%

2,300,419

Population

967,862

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Austin, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 134 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $342/month cheaper in Houston, saving renters about $4,104/year.

Median household income is $28,567/year higher in Austin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $512,700 in Austin.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Texas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Austin — common questions

Is Houston or Austin cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Houston is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 134 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Austin?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Austin it's $1,655/month — a difference of $342/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Austin?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $91,461 in Austin. Median household income is $28,567/year higher in Austin.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Texas?

Both cities are in Texas and share the same state tax rates: 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.

Should I move to Houston or Austin?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Austin has a cost index of 134 with rent of $1,655/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Houston, TX vs Austin, TX (2026)

Houston

Austin

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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