Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
12% cheaper
Little Rock is 12% more affordable than Houston. A $75,000 salary in Houston is equivalent to $65,625 in Little Rock.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Texas salaries · Arkansas salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Houston has a housing index of 89 while Little Rock sits at 62 (national average = 100). The median home in Houston costs $250,000 compared to $170,000 in Little Rock, a difference of $80,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Houston versus $950 in Little Rock.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Houston scores 94 while Little Rock scores 94.
Healthcare costs in Houston (96) are higher than Little Rock (90).
Median household income in Houston is $52,338 compared to $47,638 in Little Rock. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Little Rock.
Amazon affiliate links