Houston, TX vs Dallas, TX: 88 vs 97

$1,313/mo ↓ 6%

Median Rent

$1,403/mo ↑ 7%

$62,894/yr ↓ 7%

Median Income

$67,760/yr ↑ 8%

$253,400 ↓ 14%

Home Value

$295,300 ↑ 17%

$1,316/mo ↓ 7%

Owner Costs

$1,409/mo ↑ 7%

2,300,419

Population

1,299,553

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Dallas, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 97 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $90/month cheaper in Houston, saving renters about $1,080/year.

Median household income is $4,866/year higher in Dallas. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $295,300 in Dallas.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Dallas — common questions

Is Houston or Dallas cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Houston is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 97 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Dallas?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Dallas it's $1,403/month — a difference of $90/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Dallas?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $67,760 in Dallas. Median household income is $4,866/year higher in Dallas.

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 Dallas?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Dallas has a cost index of 97 with rent of $1,403/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Houston

Dallas

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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