Is Houston or New Orleans more affordable?
Houston has a median rent of $1,250/month, while New Orleans is $1,150/month. New Orleans is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Houston, TX vs New Orleans, LA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Houston and New Orleans.
2
Houston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
New Orleans wins
TX
Houston
vs
LA
New Orleans
Overview
2,304,580
Population
383,997
$52,338✓
Median Income
-17.8%$42,996
Cost of Living
$1,250
Median Rent / mo
-8.0%$1,150✓
$265,000
Median Home Price
-18.9%$215,000✓
29%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
4.25%
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
9.45%
Climate & Weather
77°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
57°F
Avg Low Temp
59°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
218 days✓
50"
Annual Rainfall
64"
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
New Orleans, LA
New Orleans is a city in Louisiana with a population of 383,997.
Read full New Orleans guide →Houston vs New Orleans — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Houston or New Orleans?
Texas has no state income tax. Louisiana has a 4.25% state income tax. Houston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Houston and New Orleans?
Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. New Orleans gets 218 sunny days/year. Avg high in Houston: 77°F. Avg high in New Orleans: 77°F
Which city is better for families — Houston or New Orleans?
Houston. New Orleans. 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.