Choosing between Houston and Austin? You're not alone — it's one of the most common relocation comparisons in the US. The numbers tell a clear story: Houston comes in 16% more affordable overall, with a cost index of 96 compared to Austin's 112. But raw numbers only tell part of the story. This comparison breaks down exactly where each city saves you money — and where it costs more.
Key Cost Comparisons
Cost of Living
Home Services
Business Startup Costs
Insurance
Legal Services
Salaries & Jobs
The Verdict
Houston wins 37 out of 38 cost categories.Austin has higher costs but wins 0 categories — typically due to higher wages and urban demand.
Explore Each City
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Houston or Austin more affordable in 2026?
Houston is 16% more affordable than Austin overall. Houston wins 37 out of 38 cost categories we track, making it the better choice for budget-conscious movers. However, Austin may offer higher salaries in certain industries that can offset the higher living costs.
How do housing costs compare between Houston and Austin?
Housing is typically one of the biggest cost differences between Houston (cost index: 96) and Austin (cost index: 112). The city with the lower cost index generally offers more affordable rent and home prices, though specific neighborhoods within each city can vary significantly from the averages shown here.
What is the cost of living index for Houston vs Austin?
Houston's cost of living index is 96, while Austin's is 112. A score of 100 represents the national average, so Houston is below average and Austin is above average. These indices are based on BLS and Census Bureau data covering housing, services, insurance, and other major expense categories.