Cost of Living: Houston, TX vs San Francisco, CA
Analyzing index metrics between Houston and San Francisco relative to the US average baseline (100). San Francisco is estimated to be 90% more expensive overall than Houston. Rental housing in San Francisco runs about 142% higher than in Houston.
Side-by-Side Index Breakdown
| Index Category | Houston, TX | San Francisco, CA | Difference for San Francisco |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Cost of Living | 100 | 190 | +90% |
| Rent Index | 95 | 230 | +142% |
| Home Price Index | 110 | 260 | +136% |
| Utilities | 98 | 120 | +22% |
| Groceries | 99 | 140 | +41% |
| Transportation | 97 | 150 | +55% |
| Healthcare | 100 | 125 | +25% |
Houston, TX
Read a complete breakdown of rent distributions, home pricing indexes, utility rates, and local services in Houston.
San Francisco, CA
Read a complete breakdown of rent distributions, home pricing indexes, utility rates, and local services in San Francisco.
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 San Francisco, CA
This side-by-side cost-of-living comparison analyzes the financial differences between Houston, TX (overall index 100) and San Francisco, CA (overall index 190). San Francisco, CA is estimated to be 90% more expensive overall than Houston, TX. Use this data to plan your monthly budget and compare housing, transit, utility, and grocery expenses.