Houston, TX vs Long Beach, CA: 88 vs 169

$1,313/mo ↓ 27%

Median Rent

$1,803/mo ↑ 37%

$62,894/yr ↓ 25%

Median Income

$83,969/yr ↑ 34%

$253,400 ↓ 67%

Home Value

$762,200 ↑ 201%

$1,316/mo ↓ 30%

Owner Costs

$1,890/mo ↑ 44%

2,300,419

Population

458,491

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Long Beach, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $490/month cheaper in Houston, saving renters about $5,880/year.

Median household income is $21,075/year higher in Long Beach. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $762,200 in Long Beach.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Long Beach — common questions

Is Houston or Long Beach 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 Long Beach?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Long Beach it's $1,803/month — a difference of $490/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Long Beach?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $83,969 in Long Beach. Median household income is $21,075/year higher in Long Beach.

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 Long Beach?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Long Beach has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,803/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Houston

Long Beach

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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