Houston, TX vs Portland, OR: 88 vs 138

$1,313/mo ↓ 18%

Median Rent

$1,596/mo ↑ 22%

$62,894/yr ↓ 29%

Median Income

$88,792/yr ↑ 41%

$253,400 ↓ 55%

Home Value

$557,600 ↑ 120%

$1,316/mo ↓ 26%

Owner Costs

$1,771/mo ↑ 35%

2,300,419

Population

642,715

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Portland, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 138 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $283/month cheaper in Houston, saving renters about $3,396/year.

Median household income is $25,898/year higher in Portland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $557,600 in Portland.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Houston residents a significant tax advantage over Oregon's 9.9% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Portland — common questions

Is Houston or Portland cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Houston is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 138 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Portland?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Portland it's $1,596/month — a difference of $283/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Portland?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $88,792 in Portland. Median household income is $25,898/year higher in Portland.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Oregon?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Houston or Portland?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Portland has a cost index of 138 with rent of $1,596/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Houston, TX vs Portland, OR (2026)

Houston

Portland

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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