Is Salt Lake City or Houston more affordable?
Salt Lake City has a median rent of $1,450/month, while Houston is $1,250/month. Houston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Salt Lake City, UT vs Houston, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Salt Lake City and Houston.
2
Salt Lake City wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Houston wins
UT
Salt Lake City
vs
TX
Houston
Overview
199,723
Population
2,304,580
$58,000✓
Median Income
-9.8%$52,338
Cost of Living
$1,450
Median Rent / mo
-13.8%$1,250✓
$480,000
Median Home Price
-44.8%$265,000✓
30%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
4.65%
State Income Tax
None✓
7.75%
Local Tax Rate
8.25%
Climate & Weather
65°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
57°F
222 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
204 days
17"
Annual Rainfall
50"
Who should choose
Salt Lake City, UT
Salt Lake City is a city in Utah with a population of 199,723.
Read full Salt Lake City guide →Who should choose
Houston, TX
Houston is a city in Texas with a population of 2,304,580.
Read full Houston guide →Salt Lake City vs Houston — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Salt Lake City or Houston?
Utah has a 4.65% state income tax. Texas has no state income tax. Houston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Salt Lake City and Houston?
Salt Lake City gets 222 sunny days/year. Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Salt Lake City: 65°F. Avg high in Houston: 77°F
Which city is better for families — Salt Lake City or Houston?
Salt Lake City. 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.