Houston, TX vs Seattle, WA: 88 vs 196

$1,313/mo ↓ 34%

Median Rent

$1,998/mo ↑ 52%

$62,894/yr ↓ 48%

Median Income

$121,984/yr ↑ 94%

$253,400 ↓ 72%

Home Value

$912,100 ↑ 260%

$1,316/mo ↓ 41%

Owner Costs

$2,220/mo ↑ 69%

2,300,419

Population

741,440

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Seattle, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 196 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $685/month cheaper in Houston, saving renters about $8,220/year.

Median household income is $59,090/year higher in Seattle. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $912,100 in Seattle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Seattle — common questions

Is Houston or Seattle cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Houston is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 196 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Seattle?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Seattle it's $1,998/month — a difference of $685/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Seattle?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $121,984 in Seattle. Median household income is $59,090/year higher in Seattle.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Washington?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.

Should I move to Houston or Seattle?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Seattle has a cost index of 196 with rent of $1,998/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Houston, TX vs Seattle, WA (2026)

Houston

Seattle

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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