Houston, TX vs Austin, TX
Compare rent, home prices, and affordability for up to 3 US cities.
The Verdict
Houston, TX is cheaper — a 2-bedroom averages $1,529/mo versus $1,949/mo in Austin, TX, 22% ($420/mo) less. Over a year that is $5,040 more in rent for the same size unit.
Income Needed
To rent a 2-bedroom without exceeding the 30% rule, you need about $77,960/year in Austin, TX versus $61,160/year in Houston, TX — a $16,800 difference in required salary.
Home Prices
The median home costs $264,952 in Houston, TX versus $510,722 in Austin, TX — 93% higher. Buyers priced out of Austin, TX may find Houston, TX more attainable.
Select Cities (2/3)
Houston, TX
Austin, TX
| Metric | Houston TX | Austin TX |
|---|---|---|
| Studio Rent | $1,226✓ | $1,549 |
| 1BR Rent | $1,279✓ | $1,650 |
| 2BR Rent | $1,529✓ | $1,949 |
| 3BR Rent | $2,038✓ | $2,484 |
| 4BR Rent | $2,568✓ | $2,882 |
| Median Home Value | $264,952✓ | $510,722 |
| Price per sqft | — | — |
| Median Income | $80,458✓ | $97,638 |
| Income to Rent 2BR | $61,160/yr✓ | $77,960/yr |