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Houston, Texas

Cost of Living in Houston

Detailed cost of living data — sourced from authoritative datasets and normalized for direct comparison.

Cost of Living in Houston, Texas

The cost of living in Houston is generally considered budget-friendly compared to many other major U.S. cities. As of September 2024, the average cost of living in Houston was only 2% higher than the state average and a notable 6% lower than the national average, according to RentCafe®. Housing costs, in particular, are a significant factor in Houston's affordability, being approximately 17% less than the U.S. average as of September 2024. While utilities can sometimes be higher than the national average due to the privatized energy market, residents have options to shop for providers, potentially customizing plans to suit their budgets.

Monthly Costs

Average Rent
$1,800
Groceries
$682
Utilities
$253
Transport
$348
Healthcare
$141
Cost Index
93

Detailed Breakdown

Gym membership (monthly)
$50.00
Entertainment
Cinema ticket
$11.00
Entertainment
Restaurant meal (mid-range)
$25.00
Food
Monthly groceries
$682.00
Food
Doctor visit (without insurance)
$100.00
Healthcare
1BR Apartment (city centre)
$2,300.00
Housing
2BR Apartment (city centre)
$3,000.00
Housing
Home purchase (per sq ft)
$200.00
Housing
Monthly transit pass
$80.00
Transport
Gas per gallon (USD)
$3.20
Transport
Electricity + internet (monthly)
$253.00
Utilities

About Houston, Texas

Houston, often referred to as 'Space City' due to its strong ties to NASA's Johnson Space Center, is a sprawling metropolis in Texas known for its diverse economy, cultural attractions, and relatively affordable cost of living. The city boasts a rich history rooted in the energy industry, which continues to be a major economic driver. People are drawn to Houston for its abundant job opportunities, particularly in sectors like healthcare, energy, and aerospace, as well as its vibrant culinary scene and diverse communities. Its strategic location near the Gulf of Mexico also contributes to its unique climate and port activity.

About Texas

Texas, known as the "Lone Star State," is characterized by its vast and diverse landscapes, ranging from eastern forests to western deserts, and a strong sense of cultural identity. Its economy is one of the largest and most diverse in the United States, driven by major industries such as energy (oil, natural gas, and renewables), information technology, aerospace, defense, manufacturing, and agriculture. Living in Texas generally offers a lower cost of living compared to the national average, with housing expenses being approximately 16% lower. The climate varies significantly across the state, from humid subtropical in the east to semi-arid in the west, with notoriously hot summers, especially in southern cities, and mild to cool winters. The lifestyle often blends urban amenities with a strong appreciation for outdoor activities, Texan heritage, and a generally pro-business environment.