Houston, TX vs San Antonio, TX: 88 vs 82

$1,313/mo ↑ 4%

Median Rent

$1,258/mo ↓ 4%

$62,894/yr ≈ Same

Median Income

$62,917/yr ≈ Same

$253,400 ↑ 15%

Home Value

$219,700 ↓ 13%

$1,316/mo ↑ 7%

Owner Costs

$1,235/mo ↓ 6%

2,300,419

Population

1,458,954

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and San Antonio, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 82 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $55/month cheaper in San Antonio, saving renters about $660/year.

Median household income is $23/year higher in San Antonio. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $219,700 in San Antonio.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs San Antonio — common questions

Is Houston or San Antonio cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, San Antonio is cheaper to live in with an index of 82 compared to 88 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and San Antonio?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in San Antonio it's $1,258/month — a difference of $55/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or San Antonio?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $62,917 in San Antonio. Median household income is $23/year higher in San Antonio.

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 San Antonio?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while San Antonio has a cost index of 82 with rent of $1,258/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Houston, TX vs San Antonio, TX (2026)

Houston

San Antonio

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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