Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
9% cheaper
Houston is 9% more affordable than Tempe. A $75,000 salary in Tempe is equivalent to $67,925 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 Tempe sits at 114 (national average = 100). The median home in Houston costs $250,000 compared to $400,000 in Tempe, a difference of $150,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Houston versus $1,600 in Tempe.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Houston scores 94 while Tempe scores 100.
Healthcare costs in Houston (96) are higher than Tempe (95). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Houston is $52,338 compared to $56,068 in Tempe. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Houston.
Amazon affiliate links