Houston, TX vs Downey, CA: 88 vs 169

$1,313/mo ↓ 31%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 44%

$62,894/yr ↓ 28%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 39%

$253,400 ↓ 65%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 187%

$1,316/mo ↓ 34%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 52%

2,300,419

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $579/month cheaper in Houston, saving renters about $6,948/year.

Median household income is $24,506/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Houston residents a significant tax advantage over California's 13.3% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Downey — common questions

Is Houston or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Houston is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Downey?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $579/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Downey?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $24,506/year higher in Downey.

How do taxes compare between Texas and California?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Houston or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Houston, TX vs Downey, CA (2026)

Houston

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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