Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
40% cheaper
Houston is 40% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $45,000 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 San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Houston costs $250,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $550,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Houston versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Houston scores 94 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Houston (96) are lower than San Diego (107). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Houston is $52,338 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Houston.
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