Is Indianapolis or Houston more affordable?
Indianapolis has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Houston is $1,250/month. Indianapolis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Indianapolis, IN vs Houston, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Indianapolis and Houston.
2
Indianapolis wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Houston wins
IN
Indianapolis
vs
TX
Houston
Overview
887,642
Population
2,304,580
$51,225
Median Income
+2.2%$52,338✓
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+25.0%$1,250
$225,000✓
Median Home Price
+17.8%$265,000
23%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
3.15%
State Income Tax
None✓
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.25%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
42°F
Avg Low Temp
57°F
186 days
Sunny Days / Year
204 days✓
42"
Annual Rainfall
50"
Who should choose
Indianapolis, IN
Indianapolis is a city in Indiana with a population of 887,642.
Read full Indianapolis guide →Who should choose
Houston, TX
Houston is a city in Texas with a population of 2,304,580.
Read full Houston guide →Indianapolis vs Houston — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Indianapolis or Houston?
Indiana has a 3.15% state income tax. Texas has no state income tax. Houston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Indianapolis and Houston?
Indianapolis gets 186 sunny days/year. Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Indianapolis: 62°F. Avg high in Houston: 77°F
Which city is better for families — Indianapolis or Houston?
Indianapolis. Houston. 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.