Houston, TX vs Irvine, CA: 88 vs 256

$1,313/mo ↓ 55%

Median Rent

$2,893/mo ↑ 120%

$62,894/yr ↓ 51%

Median Income

$129,647/yr ↑ 106%

$253,400 ↓ 77%

Home Value

$1,115,400 ↑ 340%

$1,316/mo ↓ 55%

Owner Costs

$2,904/mo ↑ 121%

2,300,419

Population

308,160

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Irvine, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 256 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,580/month cheaper in Houston, saving renters about $18,960/year.

Median household income is $66,753/year higher in Irvine. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $1,115,400 in Irvine.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Irvine — common questions

Is Houston or Irvine cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Houston is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 256 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Irvine?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Irvine it's $2,893/month — a difference of $1,580/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Irvine?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $129,647 in Irvine. Median household income is $66,753/year higher in Irvine.

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 Irvine?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Irvine has a cost index of 256 with rent of $2,893/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Houston

Irvine

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons