Is Fresno or Houston more affordable?
Fresno has a median rent of $1,100/month, while Houston is $1,250/month. Fresno is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Fresno, CA vs Houston, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Fresno and Houston.
2
Fresno wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Houston wins
CA
Fresno
vs
TX
Houston
Overview
542,107
Population
2,304,580
$47,625
Median Income
+9.9%$52,338✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+13.6%$1,250
$320,000
Median Home Price
-17.2%$265,000✓
28%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
None✓
8.35%
Local Tax Rate
8.25%
Climate & Weather
78°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
53°F
Avg Low Temp
57°F
272 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
204 days
11"
Annual Rainfall
50"
Who should choose
Fresno, CA
Fresno is a city in California with a population of 542,107.
Read full Fresno guide →Who should choose
Houston, TX
Houston is a city in Texas with a population of 2,304,580.
Read full Houston guide →Fresno vs Houston — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Fresno or Houston?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. Texas has no state income tax. Houston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Fresno and Houston?
Fresno gets 272 sunny days/year. Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Fresno: 78°F. Avg high in Houston: 77°F
Which city is better for families — Fresno or Houston?
Fresno. 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.