Houston, TX vs Worcester, MA: 88 vs 104

$1,313/mo ↓ 7%

Median Rent

$1,415/mo ↑ 8%

$62,894/yr ↓ 7%

Median Income

$67,544/yr ↑ 7%

$253,400 ↓ 25%

Home Value

$339,500 ↑ 34%

$1,316/mo ↓ 13%

Owner Costs

$1,521/mo ↑ 16%

2,300,419

Population

205,501

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Worcester, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 104 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $102/month cheaper in Houston, saving renters about $1,224/year.

Median household income is $4,650/year higher in Worcester. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $339,500 in Worcester.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Houston residents a significant tax advantage over Massachusetts's 9.0% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Worcester — common questions

Is Houston or Worcester cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Houston is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 104 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Worcester?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Worcester it's $1,415/month — a difference of $102/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Worcester?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $67,544 in Worcester. Median household income is $4,650/year higher in Worcester.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Massachusetts?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Houston or Worcester?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Worcester has a cost index of 104 with rent of $1,415/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Houston, TX vs Worcester, MA (2026)

Houston

Worcester

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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