Moving from Albany to Houston (2026)
Houston has a COL index of 95 vs 92 for Albany (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 3% more for the same lifestyle.
Pay ~$61 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
9295
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,400$1,350
per month
State tax
6.9%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,309$4,741
per month
Salary needed in Houston to match your Albany lifestyle
Based on the 3% cost of living increase between the two cities.
| Your salary in Albany | Equivalent in Houston |
|---|---|
| $40K | $41,304 |
| $50K | $51,630 |
| $60K | $61,957 |
| $75K | $77,446 |
| $80K | $82,609 |
| $100K | $103,261 |
| $120K | $123,913 |
| $150K | $154,891 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Albany vs Houston
| Expense | Albany | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,309 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $1,400 | $1,350 |
| Groceries | $380 | $357 |
| Transport | $68 | $90 |
| Utilities | $185 | $175 |
| Internet | $65 | $65 |
| Left after essentials | $2,211 | $2,704 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Houston cheaper than Albany?
No. Houston has a cost of living index of 95 vs 92 for Albany (100 = US average). That's about 3% more expensive.
How much will I save moving from Albany to Houston?
On a $75K salary, moving from Albany to Houston could save roughly $61/month on core expenses. That's ~$732/year.
What salary do I need in Houston to match my Albany lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Albany, you'd need roughly $77,446/year in Houston. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Houston to AlbanyAlbany vs Houston — full comparisonAlbany cost of livingHouston cost of living
Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only