Is Dallas or Houston more affordable?
Dallas has a median rent of $1,450/month, while Houston is $1,250/month. Houston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Dallas, TX vs Houston, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Dallas and Houston.
2
Dallas wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Houston wins
TX
Dallas
vs
TX
Houston
Overview
1,304,379
Population
2,304,580
$54,747✓
Median Income
-4.4%$52,338
Cost of Living
$1,450
Median Rent / mo
-13.8%$1,250✓
$310,000
Median Home Price
-14.5%$265,000✓
32%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
None
State Income Tax
None
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
8.25%
Climate & Weather
76°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
54°F
Avg Low Temp
57°F
234 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
204 days
38"
Annual Rainfall
50"
Who should choose
Dallas, TX
Dallas is a city in Texas with a population of 1,304,379.
Read full Dallas guide →Who should choose
Houston, TX
Houston is a city in Texas with a population of 2,304,580.
Read full Houston guide →Dallas vs Houston — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Dallas 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 Dallas and Houston?
Dallas gets 234 sunny days/year. Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Dallas: 76°F. Avg high in Houston: 77°F
Which city is better for families — Dallas or Houston?
Dallas. 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.