Is Chicago or Houston more affordable?
Chicago has a median rent of $1,209/month, while Houston is $1,250/month. Chicago is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Chicago, IL vs Houston, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Chicago and Houston.
2
Chicago wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Houston wins
IL
Chicago
vs
TX
Houston
Overview
2,742,119
Population
2,304,580
$65,781✓
Median Income
-20.4%$52,338
Cost of Living
$1,209✓
Median Rent / mo
+3.4%$1,250
$277,600
Median Home Price
-4.5%$265,000✓
22%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
4.95%
State Income Tax
None✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.25%
Climate & Weather
54.12°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
49.03°F
Avg Low Temp
57°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
204 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
50"
Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Who should choose
Houston, TX
Houston is a city in Texas with a population of 2,304,580.
Read full Houston guide →Chicago vs Houston — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Chicago or Houston?
Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Texas has no state income tax. Houston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Chicago and Houston?
Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F. Avg high in Houston: 77°F
Which city is better for families — Chicago or Houston?
Chicago. 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.