Moving from Spokane to Houston (2026)

Houston has a COL index of 95 vs 91 for Spokane (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 4% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$26 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
9195
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,400$1,350
per month
State tax
NoneNone
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,741
per month

Salary needed in Houston to match your Spokane lifestyle

Based on the 4% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in SpokaneEquivalent in Houston
$40K$41,758
$50K$52,198
$60K$62,637
$75K$78,297
$80K$83,516
$100K$104,396
$120K$125,275
$150K$156,593

Monthly budget at $75K — Spokane vs Houston

ExpenseSpokaneHouston
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,741
1BR rent$1,400$1,350
Groceries$372$357
Transport$62$90
Utilities$115$175
Internet$62$65
Left after essentials$2,730$2,704

Frequently asked questions

Is Houston cheaper than Spokane?

No. Houston has a cost of living index of 95 vs 91 for Spokane (100 = US average). That's about 4% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Spokane to Houston?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Houston run about $26/month more than Spokane. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Spokane, you'd need roughly $78,297/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