Is Houston or Arlington more affordable?
Houston has a median rent of $1,250/month, while Arlington is $1,300/month. Houston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Houston, TX vs Arlington, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Houston and Arlington.
2
Houston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Arlington wins
TX
Houston
vs
TX
Arlington
Overview
2,304,580
Population
394,266
$52,338
Median Income
+11.1%$58,154✓
Cost of Living
$1,250✓
Median Rent / mo
+4.0%$1,300
$265,000✓
Median Home Price
+9.4%$290,000
29%
Rent-to-Income %
27%
Taxes
None
State Income Tax
None
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
8.25%
Climate & Weather
77°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
57°F
Avg Low Temp
55°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
229 days✓
50"
Annual Rainfall
36"
Who should choose
Houston, TX
Houston is a city in Texas with a population of 2,304,580.
Read full Houston guide →Who should choose
Arlington, TX
Arlington is a city in Texas with a population of 394,266.
Read full Arlington guide →Houston vs Arlington — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Houston or Arlington?
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 Houston and Arlington?
Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Arlington gets 229 sunny days/year. Avg high in Houston: 77°F. Avg high in Arlington: 77°F
Which city is better for families — Houston or Arlington?
Houston. Arlington. 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.