Cost of Living: Los Angeles, CA vs Houston, TX
Analyzing index metrics between Los Angeles and Houston relative to the US average baseline (100). Los Angeles is estimated to be 50% more expensive overall than Houston. Rental housing in Houston runs about 44% lower than in Los Angeles.
Side-by-Side Index Breakdown
| Index Category | Los Angeles, CA | Houston, TX | Difference for Houston |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Cost of Living | 150 | 100 | -33% |
| Rent Index | 170 | 95 | -44% |
| Home Price Index | 190 | 110 | -42% |
| Utilities | 115 | 98 | -15% |
| Groceries | 130 | 99 | -24% |
| Transportation | 135 | 97 | -28% |
| Healthcare | 120 | 100 | -17% |
Los Angeles, CA
Read a complete breakdown of rent distributions, home pricing indexes, utility rates, and local services in Los Angeles.
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: Los Angeles, CA vs Houston, TX
This side-by-side cost-of-living comparison analyzes the financial differences between Los Angeles, CA (overall index 150) and Houston, TX (overall index 100). Los Angeles, CA is estimated to be 50% more expensive overall than Houston, TX. Use this data to plan your monthly budget and compare housing, transit, utility, and grocery expenses.