Houston, TX vs Tempe, AZ: 88 vs 120

$1,313/mo ↓ 19%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↑ 24%

$62,894/yr ↓ 19%

Median Income

$77,643/yr ↑ 23%

$253,400 ↓ 40%

Home Value

$421,900 ↑ 66%

$1,316/mo ↓ 15%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↑ 18%

2,300,419

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $310/month cheaper in Houston, saving renters about $3,720/year.

Median household income is $14,749/year higher in Tempe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Tempe — common questions

Is Houston or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Houston is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Tempe?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $310/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Tempe?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $14,749/year higher in Tempe.

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 Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Tempe has a cost index of 120 with rent of $1,623/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Houston

Tempe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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