Cheapest Cities Near Houston (2026)

Houston has a cost of living index of 95 (US avg = 100). Here are 8 more affordable metros to consider as alternatives.

More affordable alternatives

1
Flint, MI19% cheaper
COL: 771BR: $880/moSave $470/mo on rent
2
McAllen, TX18% cheaper
COL: 781BR: $950/moSave $400/mo on rent
3
Jackson, MS17% cheaper
COL: 791BR: $1,000/moSave $350/mo on rent
4
Springfield, MO17% cheaper
COL: 791BR: $950/moSave $400/mo on rent
5
Laredo, TX17% cheaper
COL: 791BR: $950/moSave $400/mo on rent
6
Evansville, IN16% cheaper
COL: 801BR: $990/moSave $360/mo on rent
7
Topeka, KS16% cheaper
COL: 801BR: $940/moSave $410/mo on rent
8
El Paso, TX16% cheaper
COL: 801BR: $1,050/moSave $300/mo on rent

Houston at a glance

95
COL index
100 = US avg
$1,350
1BR rent
per month
$280K
Home price
median
None
State tax
income

Cities with similar cost of living

COL index sourced from Numbeo, Zillow, and BLS data ยท Q1 2026 ยท For general guidance only