Moving from New Haven to Houston (2026)

Houston has a COL index of 95 vs 110 for New Haven (100 = US average). You'd pay about 14% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$523/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
11095
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,800$1,350
per month
State tax
7%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,303$4,741
per month

Salary needed in Houston to match your New Haven lifestyle

Based on the 14% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in New HavenEquivalent in Houston
$40K$34,545
$50K$43,182
$60K$51,818
$75K$64,773
$80K$69,091
$100K$86,364
$120K$103,636
$150K$129,545

Monthly budget at $75K — New Haven vs Houston

ExpenseNew HavenHouston
Monthly take-home$4,303$4,741
1BR rent$1,800$1,350
Groceries$410$357
Transport$82$90
Utilities$198$175
Internet$70$65
Left after essentials$1,743$2,704

Frequently asked questions

Is Houston cheaper than New Haven?

Yes. Houston has a cost of living index of 95 vs 110 for New Haven (100 = US average). That's about 14% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from New Haven to Houston?

On a $75K salary, moving from New Haven to Houston could save roughly $523/month on core expenses. That's ~$6,276/year.

What salary do I need in Houston to match my New Haven lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in New Haven, you'd need roughly $64,773/year in Houston. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

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