Is Austin or Houston more affordable?
Austin has a median rent of $1,415/month, while Houston is $1,250/month. Houston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Austin, TX vs Houston, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Austin and Houston.
1
Austin wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Houston wins
TX
Austin
vs
TX
Houston
Overview
944,658
Population
2,304,580
$78,965✓
Median Income
-33.7%$52,338
Cost of Living
$1,415
Median Rent / mo
-11.7%$1,250✓
$381,400
Median Home Price
-30.5%$265,000✓
22%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
None
State Income Tax
None
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.25%
Climate & Weather
71.28°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
68.16°F
Avg Low Temp
57°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
204 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
50"
Who should choose
Austin, TX
Austin is a city in Texas with a population of 944,658.
Read full Austin guide →Who should choose
Houston, TX
Houston is a city in Texas with a population of 2,304,580.
Read full Houston guide →Austin vs Houston — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Austin or Houston?
Texas has no state income tax. Texas has no state income tax. Both have the same state income tax rate.
What is the weather difference between Austin and Houston?
Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Austin: 71.28°F. Avg high in Houston: 77°F
Which city is better for families — Austin or Houston?
Austin. Houston. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.