Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $119,136
Population: 873,965
Median Income: $56,019
Population: 2,304,580
When comparing San Francisco and Houston, the overall cost of living differs by 59.8%. San Francisco carries a cost index of 224 compared to Houston's 90, meaning your dollar stretches 60% further in Houston.
Housing is where the most significant gap appears between these two cities. Houston has a housing index of 82 compared to San Francisco's 295. This 213-point difference translates to substantial monthly savings on rent or mortgage payments in Houston.
Houston is more affordable across all categories.
Houston is more affordable for: Housing, Food & Groceries, Transportation, Healthcare, Utilities, Entertainment, Taxes.
If you earn $60,000 in San Francisco, you would need $24,107 in Houston to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $40,179.
The median household income in San Francisco is $119,136 compared to $56,019 in Houston. While San Francisco has higher incomes, the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: San Francisco scores 5/10 while Houston scores 5/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: San Francisco has an edge in climate with a 8/10 weather score compared to Houston's 5/10.
Job Market: San Francisco's job market (9/10) is stronger than Houston's (7/10).
Houston is the more affordable option overall, but cost is just one factor in deciding where to live. Consider your career opportunities, family needs, and lifestyle preferences alongside the financial comparison. San Francisco may justify its higher costs with a thriving job market that many residents find worthwhile.
