Moving from Houston, TX to Austin, TX
Thinking about moving from Houston, TX to Austin, TX? Overall prices are 0% higher in Austin, TX than in Houston, TX, making Houston, TX the more affordable of the two. This guide breaks down housing, income, taxes, and climate using the latest US government data so you can plan your relocation budget with realistic numbers rather than guesswork.
Salary calculator
How much would you need to earn in Austin, TX to maintain your standard of living from Houston, TX?
Equivalent salary in Austin, TX
$75,029
You'd need $29 more (0% higher).
Based on BEA Regional Price Parity (cost index) for each city's metro area. A rough estimate of overall purchasing power, not tax or take-home pay.
Housing
Median rent is 21% higher in Austin ($1,655) than in Houston ($1,313). The typical home value is 51% higher in Austin ($512,700) than in Houston ($253,400). Factor in moving costs, deposits, and the gap between advertised and median rents when you set a housing budget.
Income & jobs
Median household income is 31% higher in Austin ($91,461) than in Houston ($62,894). After adjusting pay for local prices, a typical paycheck goes further in Austin, TX.
Taxes
The top state income tax rate is about the same in both cities. State sales tax is about the same in both cities. Remember that local taxes and your specific bracket change the real picture (Tax Foundation, 2024).
Climate & air quality
Average air quality index is 10% lower in Austin (47.0) than in Houston (52.0). Lower AQI means cleaner air on a typical day, though seasonal wildfire smoke and pollen can shift this.
Frequently asked questions
Is Austin, TX cheaper than Houston, TX?
No. Austin, TX is about 0% more expensive overall (cost index 98.8 vs 98.8).
How much is rent in Austin, TX?
The median gross rent in Austin is $1,655 per month (US Census ACS).
What salary do you need in Austin, TX?
Median household income in Austin is $91,461. Use the salary calculator on this page to convert your current Houston pay into the equivalent you'd need in Austin.