Is Houston or San Diego more affordable?
Houston has a median rent of $1,250/month, while San Diego is $2,100/month. Houston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Houston, TX vs San Diego, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Houston and San Diego.
3
Houston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
San Diego wins
TX
Houston
vs
CA
San Diego
Overview
2,304,580
Population
1,386,932
$52,338
Median Income
+52.3%$79,685✓
Cost of Living
$1,250✓
Median Rent / mo
+68.0%$2,100
$265,000✓
Median Home Price
+194.3%$780,000
29%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
77°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
57°F
Avg Low Temp
55°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
266 days✓
50"
Annual Rainfall
12"
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
San Diego, CA
San Diego is a city in California with a population of 1,386,932.
Read full San Diego guide →Houston vs San Diego — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Houston or San Diego?
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 San Diego?
Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. San Diego gets 266 sunny days/year. Avg high in Houston: 77°F. Avg high in San Diego: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Houston or San Diego?
Houston. San Diego. 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.