Houston, TX vs Elizabeth, NJ: 88 vs 112

$1,313/mo ↓ 10%

Median Rent

$1,463/mo ↑ 11%

$62,894/yr ↓ 2%

Median Income

$63,874/yr ↑ 2%

$253,400 ↓ 36%

Home Value

$393,500 ↑ 55%

$1,316/mo ↓ 15%

Owner Costs

$1,543/mo ↑ 17%

2,300,419

Population

135,887

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Elizabeth, NJ, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 112 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $150/month cheaper in Houston, saving renters about $1,800/year.

Median household income is $980/year higher in Elizabeth. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $393,500 in Elizabeth.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Houston residents a significant tax advantage over New Jersey's 10.75% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Elizabeth — common questions

Is Houston or Elizabeth cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Houston is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 112 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Elizabeth?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Elizabeth it's $1,463/month — a difference of $150/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Elizabeth?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $63,874 in Elizabeth. Median household income is $980/year higher in Elizabeth.

How do taxes compare between Texas and New Jersey?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. New Jersey has 10.75% income tax, 6.625% sales tax, and 2.23% property tax.

Should I move to Houston or Elizabeth?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Elizabeth has a cost index of 112 with rent of $1,463/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Houston, TX vs Elizabeth, NJ (2026)

Houston

Elizabeth

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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