Is Houston or Seattle more affordable?
Houston has a median rent of $1,250/month, while Seattle is $1,801/month. Houston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Houston, TX vs Seattle, WA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Houston and Seattle.
3
Houston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Seattle wins
TX
Houston
vs
WA
Seattle
Overview
2,304,580
Population
726,054
$52,338
Median Income
+101.4%$105,391✓
Cost of Living
$1,250✓
Median Rent / mo
+44.1%$1,801
$265,000✓
Median Home Price
+189.6%$767,500
29%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
None
State Income Tax
None
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
77°F
Avg High Temp
49.82°F
57°F
Avg Low Temp
46.72°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
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city in Washington with a population of 726,054.
Read full Seattle guide →Houston vs Seattle — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Houston or Seattle?
Texas has no state income tax. Washington has no state income tax. Both have the same state income tax rate.
What is the weather difference between Houston and Seattle?
Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Houston: 77°F. Avg high in Seattle: 49.82°F
Which city is better for families — Houston or Seattle?
Houston. Seattle. 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.