Houston, TX vs Buffalo, NY: 88 vs 61

$1,313/mo ↑ 33%

Median Rent

$989/mo ↓ 25%

$62,894/yr ↑ 31%

Median Income

$48,050/yr ↓ 24%

$253,400 ↑ 66%

Home Value

$152,300 ↓ 40%

$1,316/mo ↑ 42%

Owner Costs

$929/mo ↓ 29%

2,300,419

Population

276,397

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Buffalo, NY, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 61 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $324/month cheaper in Buffalo, saving renters about $3,888/year.

Median household income is $14,844/year higher in Houston. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $152,300 in Buffalo.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Houston residents a significant tax advantage over New York's 10.9% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Buffalo — common questions

Is Houston or Buffalo cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Buffalo is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 88 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Buffalo?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Buffalo it's $989/month — a difference of $324/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Buffalo?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $48,050 in Buffalo. Median household income is $14,844/year higher in Houston.

How do taxes compare between Texas and New York?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax.

Should I move to Houston or Buffalo?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Buffalo has a cost index of 61 with rent of $989/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Houston, TX vs Buffalo, NY (2026)

Houston

Buffalo

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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