Is Houston or Austin more affordable?
Houston has a median rent of $1,250/month, while Austin is $1,415/month. Houston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Houston, TX vs Austin, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Houston and Austin.
3
Houston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Austin wins
TX
Houston
vs
TX
Austin
Overview
2,304,580
Population
944,658
$52,338
Median Income
+50.9%$78,965✓
Cost of Living
$1,250✓
Median Rent / mo
+13.2%$1,415
$265,000✓
Median Home Price
+43.9%$381,400
29%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
None
State Income Tax
None
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
77°F
Avg High Temp
71.28°F
57°F
Avg Low Temp
68.16°F
204 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
50"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Houston, TX
Houston is a city in Texas with a population of 2,304,580.
Read full Houston guide →Who should choose
Austin, TX
Austin is a city in Texas with a population of 944,658.
Read full Austin guide →Houston vs Austin — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Houston or Austin?
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 Houston and Austin?
Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Houston: 77°F. Avg high in Austin: 71.28°F
Which city is better for families — Houston or Austin?
Houston. Austin. 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.