Is Houston or Los Angeles more affordable?
Houston has a median rent of $1,250/month, while Los Angeles is $1,852/month. Houston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Houston, TX vs Los Angeles, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Houston and Los Angeles.
3
Houston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Los Angeles wins
TX
Houston
vs
CA
Los Angeles
Overview
2,304,580
Population
3,898,747
$52,338
Median Income
+32.1%$69,144✓
Cost of Living
$1,250✓
Median Rent / mo
+48.2%$1,852
$265,000✓
Median Home Price
+183.0%$750,000
29%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
9.50%
Climate & Weather
77°F
Avg High Temp
75°F
57°F
Avg Low Temp
58°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
284 days✓
50"
Annual Rainfall
15"
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
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles is a city in California with a population of 3,898,747.
Read full Los Angeles guide →Houston vs Los Angeles — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Houston or Los Angeles?
Texas has no state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Houston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Houston and Los Angeles?
Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Los Angeles gets 284 sunny days/year. Avg high in Houston: 77°F. Avg high in Los Angeles: 75°F
Which city is better for families — Houston or Los Angeles?
Houston. Los Angeles. 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.