Is Seattle or Houston more affordable?
Seattle has a median rent of $1,801/month, while Houston is $1,250/month. Houston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Seattle, WA vs Houston, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Seattle and Houston.
1
Seattle wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Houston wins
WA
Seattle
vs
TX
Houston
Overview
726,054
Population
2,304,580
$105,391✓
Median Income
-50.3%$52,338
Cost of Living
$1,801
Median Rent / mo
-30.6%$1,250✓
$767,500
Median Home Price
-65.5%$265,000✓
21%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
None
State Income Tax
None
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.25%
Climate & Weather
49.82°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
46.72°F
Avg Low Temp
57°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
204 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
50"
Who should choose
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city in Washington with a population of 726,054.
Read full Seattle guide →Who should choose
Houston, TX
Houston is a city in Texas with a population of 2,304,580.
Read full Houston guide →Seattle vs Houston — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Seattle or Houston?
Washington has no state income tax. Texas has no state income tax. Both have the same state income tax rate.
What is the weather difference between Seattle and Houston?
Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Seattle: 49.82°F. Avg high in Houston: 77°F
Which city is better for families — Seattle or Houston?
Seattle. 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.