Houston, TX vs Fort Lauderdale, FL: 88 vs 132

$1,313/mo ↓ 26%

Median Rent

$1,776/mo ↑ 35%

$62,894/yr ↓ 21%

Median Income

$79,935/yr ↑ 27%

$253,400 ↓ 44%

Home Value

$455,600 ↑ 80%

$1,316/mo ↓ 26%

Owner Costs

$1,778/mo ↑ 35%

2,300,419

Population

183,032

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Fort Lauderdale, FL, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 132 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $463/month cheaper in Houston, saving renters about $5,556/year.

Median household income is $17,041/year higher in Fort Lauderdale. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $455,600 in Fort Lauderdale.

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Fort Lauderdale — common questions

Is Houston or Fort Lauderdale cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Houston is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 132 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Fort Lauderdale?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Fort Lauderdale it's $1,776/month — a difference of $463/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Fort Lauderdale?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $79,935 in Fort Lauderdale. Median household income is $17,041/year higher in Fort Lauderdale.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Florida?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Florida has 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax.

Should I move to Houston or Fort Lauderdale?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Fort Lauderdale has a cost index of 132 with rent of $1,776/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Houston, TX vs Fort Lauderdale, FL (2026)

Houston

Fort Lauderdale

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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