Is New Orleans or Houston more affordable?
New Orleans has a median rent of $1,150/month, while Houston is $1,250/month. New Orleans is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
New Orleans, LA vs Houston, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between New Orleans and Houston.
3
New Orleans wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Houston wins
LA
New Orleans
vs
TX
Houston
Overview
383,997
Population
2,304,580
$42,996
Median Income
+21.7%$52,338✓
Cost of Living
$1,150✓
Median Rent / mo
+8.7%$1,250
$215,000✓
Median Home Price
+23.3%$265,000
32%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
4.25%
State Income Tax
None✓
9.45%
Local Tax Rate
8.25%
Climate & Weather
77°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
59°F
Avg Low Temp
57°F
218 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
204 days
64"
Annual Rainfall
50"
Who should choose
New Orleans, LA
New Orleans is a city in Louisiana with a population of 383,997.
Read full New Orleans guide →Who should choose
Houston, TX
Houston is a city in Texas with a population of 2,304,580.
Read full Houston guide →New Orleans vs Houston — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — New Orleans or Houston?
Louisiana has a 4.25% state income tax. Texas has no state income tax. Houston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between New Orleans and Houston?
New Orleans gets 218 sunny days/year. Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in New Orleans: 77°F. Avg high in Houston: 77°F
Which city is better for families — New Orleans or Houston?
New Orleans. 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.