salaryAbout the sameBased on official 2024 price levels from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
I need in Houston to live the same way.
🏠 Rent per month
$1,932
$1,533
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,941
$1,499
💵 Families earn per year
$101,010
$69,901
🔑 Buying a house
$555,300
$277,800
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
98.1
98.6
🏛️ Property tax per year
$8,024
$4,198
⚡ Electric bill per month
$134
$157
👥 People living there
979,539
2,328,253
Commute to work
23.7 min
27.2 min
College degree
59.6%
36.6%
Own their home
43.4%
42.1%
Below poverty line
12%
19.9%
Unemployment
4.7%
6.9%
Bottom line
- Pick Austin for higher incomes, shorter commutes, a more educated workforce and 2 more.
- Pick Houston for lower rent, cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Austin | Houston | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Server (Waiter/Waitress) | $27,260 | $22,080 | -19% in Houston |
| Market Research Analyst | $80,460 | $67,370 | -16% in Houston |
| Cashier | $33,940 | $29,350 | -14% in Houston |
| Police Officer | $82,290 | $74,570 | -9% in Houston |
| Computer Systems Analyst | $104,590 | $113,440 | +8% in Houston |
| Medical Assistant | $45,820 | $42,110 | -8% in Houston |
| Customer Service Representative | $43,720 | $40,380 | -8% in Houston |
| Retail Salesperson | $33,860 | $31,340 | -7% in Houston |
Frequently asked questions
Is Austin or Houston cheaper to live in?
Austin and Houston cost about the same once rent and everyday costs are combined.
What salary do I need in Houston to match $60,000 in Austin?
About $60,344 a year gives the same standard of living in Houston.
Where do people earn more, Austin or Houston?
The typical household earns $101,010 in Austin and $69,901 in Houston, 45% more in Austin.