Moving from Toledo to Houston (2026)

Houston has a COL index of 95 vs 81 for Toledo (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 17% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$354 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8195
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,050$1,350
per month
State tax
3.5%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,522$4,741
per month

Salary needed in Houston to match your Toledo lifestyle

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

Your salary in ToledoEquivalent in Houston
$40K$46,914
$50K$58,642
$60K$70,370
$75K$87,963
$80K$93,827
$100K$117,284
$120K$140,741
$150K$175,926

Monthly budget at $75K — Toledo vs Houston

ExpenseToledoHouston
Monthly take-home$4,522$4,741
1BR rent$1,050$1,350
Groceries$357$357
Transport$58$90
Utilities$160$175
Internet$58$65
Left after essentials$2,839$2,704

Frequently asked questions

Is Houston cheaper than Toledo?

No. Houston has a cost of living index of 95 vs 81 for Toledo (100 = US average). That's about 17% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Toledo to Houston?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Houston run about $354/month more than Toledo. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Toledo, you'd need roughly $87,963/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