Is Houston or Dallas more affordable?
Houston has a median rent of $1,250/month, while Dallas is $1,450/month. Houston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Houston, TX vs Dallas, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Houston and Dallas.
2
Houston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Dallas wins
TX
Houston
vs
TX
Dallas
Overview
2,304,580
Population
1,304,379
$52,338
Median Income
+4.6%$54,747✓
Cost of Living
$1,250✓
Median Rent / mo
+16.0%$1,450
$265,000✓
Median Home Price
+17.0%$310,000
29%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
None
State Income Tax
None
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
8.25%
Climate & Weather
77°F
Avg High Temp
76°F
57°F
Avg Low Temp
54°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
234 days✓
50"
Annual Rainfall
38"
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
Dallas, TX
Dallas is a city in Texas with a population of 1,304,379.
Read full Dallas guide →Houston vs Dallas — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Houston or Dallas?
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 Dallas?
Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Dallas gets 234 sunny days/year. Avg high in Houston: 77°F. Avg high in Dallas: 76°F
Which city is better for families — Houston or Dallas?
Houston. Dallas. 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.