Is Houston or Sacramento more affordable?
Houston has a median rent of $1,250/month, while Sacramento is $1,650/month. Houston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Houston, TX vs Sacramento, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Houston and Sacramento.
3
Houston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Sacramento wins
TX
Houston
vs
CA
Sacramento
Overview
2,304,580
Population
524,943
$52,338
Median Income
+16.0%$60,715✓
Cost of Living
$1,250✓
Median Rent / mo
+32.0%$1,650
$265,000✓
Median Home Price
+88.7%$500,000
29%
Rent-to-Income %
33%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
8.75%
Climate & Weather
77°F
Avg High Temp
73°F
57°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
269 days✓
50"
Annual Rainfall
18"
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
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento is a city in California with a population of 524,943.
Read full Sacramento guide →Houston vs Sacramento — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Houston or Sacramento?
Texas has no state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Houston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Houston and Sacramento?
Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Sacramento gets 269 sunny days/year. Avg high in Houston: 77°F. Avg high in Sacramento: 73°F
Which city is better for families — Houston or Sacramento?
Houston. Sacramento. 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.