Houston, TX vs Nashville, TN: 88 vs 110

$1,313/mo ↓ 12%

Median Rent

$1,486/mo ↑ 13%

$62,894/yr ↓ 16%

Median Income

$75,197/yr ↑ 20%

$253,400 ↓ 34%

Home Value

$383,100 ↑ 51%

$1,316/mo ↓ 11%

Owner Costs

$1,471/mo ↑ 12%

2,300,419

Population

684,298

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Nashville, TN, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 110 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $173/month cheaper in Houston, saving renters about $2,076/year.

Median household income is $12,303/year higher in Nashville. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $383,100 in Nashville.

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Nashville — common questions

Is Houston or Nashville cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Houston is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 110 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Nashville?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Nashville it's $1,486/month — a difference of $173/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Nashville?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $75,197 in Nashville. Median household income is $12,303/year higher in Nashville.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Tennessee?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Tennessee has 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax.

Should I move to Houston or Nashville?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Nashville has a cost index of 110 with rent of $1,486/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Houston, TX vs Nashville, TN (2026)

Houston

Nashville

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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