Houston, TX vs Surprise, AZ: 88 vs 126

$1,313/mo ↓ 32%

Median Rent

$1,917/mo ↑ 46%

$62,894/yr ↓ 33%

Median Income

$93,371/yr ↑ 48%

$253,400 ↓ 36%

Home Value

$396,000 ↑ 56%

$1,316/mo ↓ 17%

Owner Costs

$1,587/mo ↑ 21%

2,300,419

Population

149,519

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Surprise, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 126 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $604/month cheaper in Houston, saving renters about $7,248/year.

Median household income is $30,477/year higher in Surprise. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $396,000 in Surprise.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Houston residents a significant tax advantage over Arizona's 2.5% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Surprise — common questions

Is Houston or Surprise cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Houston is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 126 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Surprise?

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

Which city has higher income, Houston or Surprise?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $93,371 in Surprise. Median household income is $30,477/year higher in Surprise.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Arizona?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Houston or Surprise?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Surprise has a cost index of 126 with rent of $1,917/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Houston, TX vs Surprise, AZ (2026)

Houston

Surprise

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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