Is Arlington or Houston more affordable?
Arlington has a median rent of $1,300/month, while Houston is $1,250/month. Houston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Arlington, TX vs Houston, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Arlington and Houston.
2
Arlington wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Houston wins
TX
Arlington
vs
TX
Houston
Overview
394,266
Population
2,304,580
$58,154✓
Median Income
-10.0%$52,338
Cost of Living
$1,300
Median Rent / mo
-3.8%$1,250✓
$290,000
Median Home Price
-8.6%$265,000✓
27%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
None
State Income Tax
None
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
8.25%
Climate & Weather
77°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
55°F
Avg Low Temp
57°F
229 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
204 days
36"
Annual Rainfall
50"
Who should choose
Arlington, TX
Arlington is a city in Texas with a population of 394,266.
Read full Arlington guide →Who should choose
Houston, TX
Houston is a city in Texas with a population of 2,304,580.
Read full Houston guide →Arlington vs Houston — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Arlington or Houston?
Texas has no state income tax. Texas has no state income tax. Both have the same state income tax rate.
What is the weather difference between Arlington and Houston?
Arlington gets 229 sunny days/year. Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Arlington: 77°F. Avg high in Houston: 77°F
Which city is better for families — Arlington or Houston?
Arlington. 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.