Houston, TX vs Mesa, AZ: 88 vs 107

$1,313/mo ↓ 11%

Median Rent

$1,478/mo ↑ 13%

$62,894/yr ↓ 20%

Median Income

$78,779/yr ↑ 25%

$253,400 ↓ 30%

Home Value

$364,300 ↑ 44%

$1,316/mo ↓ 6%

Owner Costs

$1,404/mo ↑ 7%

2,300,419

Population

507,478

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Mesa, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 107 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $165/month cheaper in Houston, saving renters about $1,980/year.

Median household income is $15,885/year higher in Mesa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $364,300 in Mesa.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Houston residents a significant tax advantage over Arizona's 2.5% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Mesa — common questions

Is Houston or Mesa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Houston is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 107 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Mesa?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Mesa it's $1,478/month — a difference of $165/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Mesa?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $78,779 in Mesa. Median household income is $15,885/year higher in Mesa.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Arizona?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Houston or Mesa?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Mesa has a cost index of 107 with rent of $1,478/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Houston, TX vs Mesa, AZ (2026)

Houston

Mesa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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