Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
41% cheaper
Houston is 41% more affordable than Boston. A $75,000 salary in Boston is equivalent to $44,444 in Houston.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Massachusetts salaries · Texas salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Boston has a housing index of 242 while Houston sits at 89 (national average = 100). The median home in Boston costs $620,000 compared to $250,000 in Houston, a difference of $370,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,800 in Boston versus $1,400 in Houston.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Boston scores 108 while Houston scores 94.
Healthcare costs in Boston (118) are higher than Houston (96).
Median household income in Boston is $76,298 compared to $52,338 in Houston. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Houston.
Amazon affiliate links