Houston, TX vs Oakland, CA: 88 vs 195

$1,313/mo ↓ 32%

Median Rent

$1,917/mo ↑ 46%

$62,894/yr ↓ 35%

Median Income

$97,369/yr ↑ 55%

$253,400 ↓ 73%

Home Value

$924,700 ↑ 265%

$1,316/mo ↓ 39%

Owner Costs

$2,164/mo ↑ 64%

2,300,419

Population

438,072

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Oakland, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 195 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $604/month cheaper in Houston, saving renters about $7,248/year.

Median household income is $34,475/year higher in Oakland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $924,700 in Oakland.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Oakland — common questions

Is Houston or Oakland cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Houston is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 195 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Oakland?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Oakland it's $1,917/month — a difference of $604/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Oakland?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $97,369 in Oakland. Median household income is $34,475/year higher in Oakland.

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 Oakland?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Oakland has a cost index of 195 with rent of $1,917/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Houston

Oakland

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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