Is Boston or Houston more affordable?
Boston has a median rent of $1,783/month, while Houston is $1,250/month. Houston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boston, MA vs Houston, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boston and Houston.
1
Boston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Houston wins
MA
Boston
vs
TX
Houston
Overview
672,814
Population
2,304,580
$81,744✓
Median Income
-36.0%$52,338
Cost of Living
$1,783
Median Rent / mo
-29.9%$1,250✓
$610,400
Median Home Price
-56.6%$265,000✓
26%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
5.00%
State Income Tax
None✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.25%
Climate & Weather
45.41°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
42.48°F
Avg Low Temp
57°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
204 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
50"
Who should choose
Boston, MA
Boston is a city in Massachusetts with a population of 672,814.
Read full Boston guide →Who should choose
Houston, TX
Houston is a city in Texas with a population of 2,304,580.
Read full Houston guide →Boston vs Houston — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boston or Houston?
Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. Texas has no state income tax. Houston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boston and Houston?
Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F. Avg high in Houston: 77°F
Which city is better for families — Boston or Houston?
Boston. 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.