Houston, TX vs Lowell, MA: 88 vs 119

$1,313/mo ↓ 18%

Median Rent

$1,603/mo ↑ 22%

$62,894/yr ↓ 17%

Median Income

$76,205/yr ↑ 21%

$253,400 ↓ 36%

Home Value

$395,100 ↑ 56%

$1,316/mo ↓ 21%

Owner Costs

$1,672/mo ↑ 27%

2,300,419

Population

114,799

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Lowell, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 119 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $290/month cheaper in Houston, saving renters about $3,480/year.

Median household income is $13,311/year higher in Lowell. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $395,100 in Lowell.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Houston residents a significant tax advantage over Massachusetts's 9.0% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Lowell — common questions

Is Houston or Lowell cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Houston is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 119 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Lowell?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Lowell it's $1,603/month — a difference of $290/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Lowell?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $76,205 in Lowell. Median household income is $13,311/year higher in Lowell.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Massachusetts?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Houston or Lowell?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Lowell has a cost index of 119 with rent of $1,603/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Houston, TX vs Lowell, MA (2026)

Houston

Lowell

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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