Choosing between Houston and San Antonio? You're not alone — it's one of the most common relocation comparisons in the US. The numbers tell a clear story: San Antonio comes in 6% more affordable overall, with a cost index of 90 compared to Houston's 96. 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
San Antonio wins 37 out of 38 cost categories.Houston has higher costs but wins 0 categories.
Explore Each City
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Houston or San Antonio more affordable in 2026?
San Antonio is 6% more affordable than Houston overall. San Antonio wins 37 out of 38 cost categories we track, making it the better choice for budget-conscious movers. However, Houston may offer higher salaries in certain industries that can offset the higher living costs.
How do housing costs compare between Houston and San Antonio?
Housing is typically one of the biggest cost differences between Houston (cost index: 96) and San Antonio (cost index: 90). 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 San Antonio?
Houston's cost of living index is 96, while San Antonio's is 90. A score of 100 represents the national average, so Houston is below average and San Antonio is below average. These indices are based on BLS and Census Bureau data covering housing, services, insurance, and other major expense categories.