Cost of Living: Houston, TX vs Cambridge, MA
Analyzing index metrics between Houston and Cambridge relative to the US average baseline (100). Cambridge is estimated to be 60% more expensive overall than Houston. Rental housing in Cambridge runs about 95% higher than in Houston.
Side-by-Side Index Breakdown
| Index Category | Houston, TX | Cambridge, MA | Difference for Cambridge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Cost of Living | 100 | 160 | +60% |
| Rent Index | 95 | 185 | +95% |
| Home Price Index | 110 | 195 | +77% |
| Utilities | 98 | 120 | +22% |
| Groceries | 99 | 138 | +39% |
| Transportation | 97 | 135 | +39% |
| Healthcare | 100 | 128 | +28% |
Houston, TX
Read a complete breakdown of rent distributions, home pricing indexes, utility rates, and local services in Houston.
Cambridge, MA
Read a complete breakdown of rent distributions, home pricing indexes, utility rates, and local services in Cambridge.
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: Houston, TX vs Cambridge, MA
This side-by-side cost-of-living comparison analyzes the financial differences between Houston, TX (overall index 100) and Cambridge, MA (overall index 160). Cambridge, MA is estimated to be 60% more expensive overall than Houston, TX. Use this data to plan your monthly budget and compare housing, transit, utility, and grocery expenses.