Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
38% cheaper
Houston is 38% more affordable than Long Beach. A $75,000 salary in Long Beach is equivalent to $46,452 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 · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Houston has a housing index of 89 while Long Beach sits at 236 (national average = 100). The median home in Houston costs $250,000 compared to $700,000 in Long Beach, a difference of $450,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Houston versus $2,200 in Long Beach.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Houston scores 94 while Long Beach scores 106.
Healthcare costs in Houston (96) are lower than Long Beach (103). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Houston is $52,338 compared to $60,567 in Long Beach. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Houston.
Amazon affiliate links