Cost of Living: Boston, MA vs Houston, TX
Analyzing index metrics between Boston and Houston relative to the US average baseline (100). Boston is estimated to be 55% more expensive overall than Houston. Rental housing in Houston runs about 46% lower than in Boston.
Side-by-Side Index Breakdown
| Index Category | Boston, MA | Houston, TX | Difference for Houston |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Cost of Living | 155 | 100 | -35% |
| Rent Index | 175 | 95 | -46% |
| Home Price Index | 185 | 110 | -41% |
| Utilities | 118 | 98 | -17% |
| Groceries | 135 | 99 | -27% |
| Transportation | 132 | 97 | -27% |
| Healthcare | 125 | 100 | -20% |
Boston, MA
Read a complete breakdown of rent distributions, home pricing indexes, utility rates, and local services in Boston.
Houston, TX
Read a complete breakdown of rent distributions, home pricing indexes, utility rates, and local services in Houston.
Planning a move between these cities?
Cost of living indexes provide a directional guide, but real rent rates, local tax regulations, and commute patterns fluctuate by neighborhood.
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Cost of Living Comparison: Boston, MA vs Houston, TX
This side-by-side cost-of-living comparison analyzes the financial differences between Boston, MA (overall index 155) and Houston, TX (overall index 100). Boston, MA is estimated to be 55% more expensive overall than Houston, TX. Use this data to plan your monthly budget and compare housing, transit, utility, and grocery expenses.