Houston, TX vs Tacoma, WA: 88 vs 126

$1,313/mo ↓ 18%

Median Rent

$1,597/mo ↑ 22%

$62,894/yr ↓ 25%

Median Income

$83,857/yr ↑ 33%

$253,400 ↓ 44%

Home Value

$454,600 ↑ 79%

$1,316/mo ↓ 25%

Owner Costs

$1,747/mo ↑ 33%

2,300,419

Population

220,482

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Tacoma, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 126 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $284/month cheaper in Houston, saving renters about $3,408/year.

Median household income is $20,963/year higher in Tacoma. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $454,600 in Tacoma.

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Tacoma — common questions

Is Houston or Tacoma 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 Tacoma?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Tacoma it's $1,597/month — a difference of $284/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Tacoma?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $83,857 in Tacoma. Median household income is $20,963/year higher in Tacoma.

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 Tacoma?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Tacoma has a cost index of 126 with rent of $1,597/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Houston

Tacoma

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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