Cost of Living: Houston, TX vs Pearland, TX (2026)

Houston

Texas
88
VS

Pearland

Texas
121

Houston is 33% cheaper than Pearland.

$1,313/mo ↓ 25%
Median Rent
$1,759/mo ↑ 34%
$62,894/yr ↓ 44%
Median Income
$112,470/yr ↑ 79%
$253,400 ↓ 23%
Home Value
$330,900 ↑ 31%
$1,316/mo ↓ 33%
Owner Costs
$1,962/mo ↑ 49%
2,300,419
Population
125,983

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
0%
6.25%
Sales Tax
6.25%
1.6%
Property Tax
1.6%

Affordability

25.1%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Pearland, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $446/month cheaper in Houston, saving renters about $5,352/year.

Median household income is $49,576/year higher in Pearland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $330,900 in Pearland.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Texas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Pearland — common questions

Is Houston or Pearland cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Houston is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 121 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Houston and Pearland?
Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Pearland it's $1,759/month — a difference of $446/month.
Which city has higher income, Houston or Pearland?
Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $112,470 in Pearland. Median household income is $49,576/year higher in Pearland.
How do taxes compare between Texas and Texas?
Both cities are in Texas and share the same state tax rates: 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.
Should I move to Houston or Pearland?
It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Pearland has a cost index of 121 with rent of $1,759/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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