Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
5% cheaper
Houston is 5% more affordable than Las Vegas. A $75,000 salary in Las Vegas is equivalent to $71,287 in Houston.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Texas salaries · Nevada salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Houston has a housing index of 89 while Las Vegas sits at 106 (national average = 100). The median home in Houston costs $250,000 compared to $350,000 in Las Vegas, a difference of $100,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Houston versus $1,400 in Las Vegas.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Houston scores 94 while Las Vegas scores 101.
Healthcare costs in Houston (96) match Las Vegas (96). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Houston is $52,338 compared to $56,415 in Las Vegas. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Houston.
Amazon affiliate links