Cost of Living in Houston
United States • Pop: 2.3M
Houston offers the lowest costs among major cities with no state income tax.
No state income taxVery affordableEnergy sector hubDiverse economy
Cost
Index
Index
52
Rent
Index
Index
45
Avg Net Salary
$3,900/mo
Cost Breakdown vs NYC (Index 100)
Overall Cost
52
48% cheaperRent
45
55% cheaperGroceries
82
18% cheaperRestaurants
80
20% cheaperTransport
108
8% pricierUtilities
100
Same as NYCSalary Equivalence
How much you'd need to earn in Houston to match a NYC salary
| NYC Salary | Equivalent in Houston | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| $50,000 | $26,000 | Save $24,000 |
| $75,000 | $39,000 | Save $36,000 |
| $100,000 | $52,000 | Save $48,000 |
| $125,000 | $65,000 | Save $60,000 |
| $150,000 | $78,000 | Save $72,000 |
| $200,000 | $104,000 | Save $96,000 |
Living in Houston: What to Expect
Houston has a cost of living index of 52, meaning it is 48% cheaper than NYC in overall living costs.
The average net monthly salary in Houston is approximately $3,900 ($3,900 when converted to USD).
Cost Breakdown
- Rent: Index of 45
- Groceries: Index of 82
- Restaurants: Index of 80
- Transport: Index of 108
- Utilities: Index of 100
Key highlights: No state income tax, Very affordable, Energy sector hub, Diverse economy.
Use our US salary calculator to see your take-home pay, or compare with other cities.