Is Houston or Salt Lake City more affordable?
Houston has a median rent of $1,250/month, while Salt Lake City is $1,450/month. Houston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Houston, TX vs Salt Lake City, UT
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Houston and Salt Lake City.
3
Houston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Salt Lake City wins
TX
Houston
vs
UT
Salt Lake City
Overview
2,304,580
Population
199,723
$52,338
Median Income
+10.8%$58,000✓
Cost of Living
$1,250✓
Median Rent / mo
+16.0%$1,450
$265,000✓
Median Home Price
+81.1%$480,000
29%
Rent-to-Income %
30%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
4.65%
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
77°F
Avg High Temp
65°F
57°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
222 days✓
50"
Annual Rainfall
17"
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
Salt Lake City, UT
Salt Lake City is a city in Utah with a population of 199,723.
Read full Salt Lake City guide →Houston vs Salt Lake City — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Houston or Salt Lake City?
Texas has no state income tax. Utah has a 4.65% state income tax. Houston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Houston and Salt Lake City?
Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Salt Lake City gets 222 sunny days/year. Avg high in Houston: 77°F. Avg high in Salt Lake City: 65°F
Which city is better for families — Houston or Salt Lake City?
Houston. Salt Lake City. 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.