Is Portland or Houston more affordable?
Portland has a median rent of $1,406/month, while Houston is $1,250/month. Houston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Portland, OR vs Houston, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Portland and Houston.
1
Portland wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Houston wins
OR
Portland
vs
TX
Houston
Overview
647,176
Population
2,304,580
$78,476✓
Median Income
-33.3%$52,338
Cost of Living
$1,406
Median Rent / mo
-11.1%$1,250✓
$462,800
Median Home Price
-42.7%$265,000✓
21%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
9.90%
State Income Tax
None✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.25%
Climate & Weather
50.49°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
46.76°F
Avg Low Temp
57°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
204 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
50"
Who should choose
Portland, OR
Portland is a city in Oregon with a population of 647,176.
Read full Portland guide →Who should choose
Houston, TX
Houston is a city in Texas with a population of 2,304,580.
Read full Houston guide →Portland vs Houston — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Portland or Houston?
Oregon has a 9.90% state income tax. Texas has no state income tax. Houston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Portland and Houston?
Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Portland: 50.49°F. Avg high in Houston: 77°F
Which city is better for families — Portland or Houston?
Portland. Houston. 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.