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

Houston

Texas
88
VS

Denton

Texas
100

Houston is 12% cheaper than Denton.

$1,313/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,344/mo ↑ 2%
$62,894/yr ↓ 15%
Median Income
$73,719/yr ↑ 17%
$253,400 ↓ 22%
Home Value
$325,700 ↑ 29%
$1,316/mo ↓ 10%
Owner Costs
$1,461/mo ↑ 11%
2,300,419
Population
146,987

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
0%
6.25%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
1.6%
Property Tax
1.6%

Affordability

25.1%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Denton, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $10,825/year higher in Denton. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $325,700 in Denton.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Denton — common questions

Is Houston or Denton cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Houston is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 100 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Houston and Denton?
Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Denton it's $1,344/month — a difference of $31/month.
Which city has higher income, Houston or Denton?
Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $73,719 in Denton. Median household income is $10,825/year higher in Denton.
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 Denton?
It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Denton has a cost index of 100 with rent of $1,344/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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