Is Houston or Tampa more affordable?
Houston has a median rent of $1,250/month, while Tampa is $1,700/month. Houston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Houston, TX vs Tampa, FL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Houston and Tampa.
2
Houston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Tampa wins
TX
Houston
vs
FL
Tampa
Overview
2,304,580
Population
400,753
$52,338
Median Income
+8.6%$56,842✓
Cost of Living
$1,250✓
Median Rent / mo
+36.0%$1,700
$265,000✓
Median Home Price
+41.5%$375,000
29%
Rent-to-Income %
36%
Taxes
None
State Income Tax
None
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
7.50%
Climate & Weather
77°F
Avg High Temp
81°F
57°F
Avg Low Temp
61°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
246 days✓
50"
Annual Rainfall
47"
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
Tampa, FL
Tampa is a city in Florida with a population of 400,753.
Read full Tampa guide →Houston vs Tampa — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Houston or Tampa?
Texas has no state income tax. Florida has no state income tax. Both have the same state income tax rate.
What is the weather difference between Houston and Tampa?
Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Tampa gets 246 sunny days/year. Avg high in Houston: 77°F. Avg high in Tampa: 81°F
Which city is better for families — Houston or Tampa?
Houston. Tampa. 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.