Moving from Tacoma to Houston (2026)

Houston has a COL index of 95 vs 114 for Tacoma (100 = US average). You'd pay about 17% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$533/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
11495
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,900$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 Tacoma lifestyle

Based on the 17% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in TacomaEquivalent in Houston
$40K$33,333
$50K$41,667
$60K$50,000
$75K$62,500
$80K$66,667
$100K$83,333
$120K$100,000
$150K$125,000

Monthly budget at $75K — Tacoma vs Houston

ExpenseTacomaHouston
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,741
1BR rent$1,900$1,350
Groceries$399$357
Transport$90$90
Utilities$118$175
Internet$63$65
Left after essentials$2,171$2,704

Frequently asked questions

Is Houston cheaper than Tacoma?

Yes. Houston has a cost of living index of 95 vs 114 for Tacoma (100 = US average). That's about 17% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Tacoma to Houston?

On a $75K salary, moving from Tacoma to Houston could save roughly $533/month on core expenses. That's ~$6,396/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Tacoma, you'd need roughly $62,500/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