Houston, TX vs Jersey City, NJ: 88 vs 148

$1,313/mo ↓ 31%

Median Rent

$1,902/mo ↑ 45%

$62,894/yr ↓ 34%

Median Income

$94,813/yr ↑ 51%

$253,400 ↓ 53%

Home Value

$534,500 ↑ 111%

$1,316/mo ↓ 34%

Owner Costs

$2,006/mo ↑ 52%

2,300,419

Population

289,691

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Jersey City, NJ, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 148 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $589/month cheaper in Houston, saving renters about $7,068/year.

Median household income is $31,919/year higher in Jersey City. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $534,500 in Jersey City.

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 Jersey City — common questions

Is Houston or Jersey City cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Houston is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 148 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Jersey City?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Jersey City it's $1,902/month — a difference of $589/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Jersey City?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $94,813 in Jersey City. Median household income is $31,919/year higher in Jersey City.

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 Jersey City?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Jersey City has a cost index of 148 with rent of $1,902/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Houston

Jersey City

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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