Houston vs Austin

Houston is cheaper to live in overall. Houston has a cost of living index of 95 while Austin has an index of 119, where 100 represents the US national average. Austin is 25% more expensive than Houston overall.

The median 1-bedroom rent in Houston is $1,350 per month compared to $1,800 in Austin. The median home price in Houston is $265,000 versus $510,000 in Austin. Housing is typically the largest factor in cost of living differences between cities.

Houston has a cost of living index of 95 and Austin has an index of 119, both measured against a US national average of 100. An index above 100 means more expensive than the national average — below 100 means cheaper.

To maintain the same purchasing power as a salary in Houston, multiply by 1.25. For example a $75,000 salary in Houston is equivalent to approximately $93,947 in Austin.

Houston has a median household income of $56,019 per year versus $80,954 in Austin. Higher incomes must be weighed against cost of living. Use the Dayblip salary tools to see specific job salaries in both cities.

Whether moving from Houston to Austin is worthwhile depends on your salary, lifestyle, and priorities. Austin is 25% more expensive overall — with the biggest difference in housing. Use the Dayblip cost of living calculator to enter your specific salary and see the exact dollar impact.