Is Houston or Phoenix more affordable?
Houston has a median rent of $1,250/month, while Phoenix is $1,650/month. Houston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Houston, TX vs Phoenix, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Houston and Phoenix.
3
Houston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Phoenix wins
TX
Houston
vs
AZ
Phoenix
Overview
2,304,580
Population
1,608,139
$52,338
Median Income
+18.5%$62,000✓
Cost of Living
$1,250✓
Median Rent / mo
+32.0%$1,650
$265,000✓
Median Home Price
+58.5%$420,000
29%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
2.50%
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
8.60%
Climate & Weather
77°F
Avg High Temp
86°F
57°F
Avg Low Temp
63°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
299 days✓
50"
Annual Rainfall
8"
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
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is a city in Arizona with a population of 1,608,139.
Read full Phoenix guide →Houston vs Phoenix — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Houston or Phoenix?
Texas has no state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Houston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Houston and Phoenix?
Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Phoenix gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Houston: 77°F. Avg high in Phoenix: 86°F
Which city is better for families — Houston or Phoenix?
Houston. Phoenix. 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.