Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
4% cheaper
Houston is 4% more affordable than Phoenix. A $75,000 salary in Phoenix is equivalent to $72,000 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 · Arizona salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Houston has a housing index of 89 while Phoenix sits at 102 (national average = 100). The median home in Houston costs $250,000 compared to $350,000 in Phoenix, a difference of $100,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Houston versus $1,400 in Phoenix.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Houston scores 94 while Phoenix scores 99.
Healthcare costs in Houston (96) are higher than Phoenix (95). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Houston is $52,338 compared to $57,459 in Phoenix. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Houston.
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