Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
25% cheaper
Houston is 25% more affordable than Riverside. A $75,000 salary in Riverside is equivalent to $56,250 in Houston.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Texas salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Houston has a housing index of 89 while Riverside sits at 155 (national average = 100). The median home in Houston costs $250,000 compared to $500,000 in Riverside, a difference of $250,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Houston versus $1,800 in Riverside.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Houston scores 94 while Riverside scores 103.
Healthcare costs in Houston (96) are lower than Riverside (102). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Houston is $52,338 compared to $67,068 in Riverside. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Houston.
Amazon affiliate links