Cost of Living in Houston
Houston has one of the most competitive costs of living for individuals and families. The cost of living in Houston is about a quarter below national average for families and even lower compared to other metropolitan areas. One of the primary reasons that the city experiences lower cost of living is that it has a lower average utility cost, lower health care cost, lower grocery cost and a competitive housing market, making the city one of the most affordable cities in which to reside. Housing within Houston is roughly 29% lower than other major metropolitan cities in the United States.
The median household income for Houston families in 2019 was roughly $69,000, making the city an affordable option for residents and for those who are looking to move into the area.
A listing of price ranges for the average cost of living in Houston:
Accommodation
For a family with two children and looking for a 3-bedroom apartment, the average cost is around $2,500, averaging $ 1,600 in the outskirts to $ 3,000 in the River Oaks or Galleria area.
A single-family home sells currently on average for around $257,000.
Utility bills include electricity, gas, and water and range around $ 200 – 300 for a 3-bedroom apartment.
Food
Basic food products are generally higher in the U.S. than in other countries, particularly for fruits and vegetables but below the national average in Houston (due to close proximity to countries and states producing food and the fact that Houston has a port). Prices vary by store and depending on items currently on sale. The prices for fruits and vegetables also vary by season and weather conditions in the major production states such as California and Florida. A standard list of products and their costs are rough:
- Milk: $2.99 – 1 gal
- Butter: $ 2.50
- Eggs: $ 1.50
- Bread: $ 2.50
- Rice: $ 2.00
- Potatoes: $ 3.00 per lbs
- Orange Juice: $3.00
- Coffee: $ 3.50
- Apples: $ 1.89 per lbs
- Bananas: $ 0.99 per lbs
- Lettuce: $ 1.29 per head
- Tomatoes: $ 1.29 per lbs
- Bottled Water: $0.99 – 1 gal
- Sliced Cheese: $ 3.50
- Sliced Meat: $ 3.00
Transport
Transport is one of the highest costs when living in Houston as one has to own a car and maintain it. The average cost of commuting is about 20% of annual income but no more than the national average. Depending on oil prices, gas pump prices range from $2.30 to $3.30 per gallon of regular fuel. Diesel prices are slightly higher. While gas prices are lower than the national average, the distances drove the large city of Houston to offset this cost.
The average taxi ride costs around $ 50 for a distance of about 25 miles.
There are no monthly bus passes but a METRO Fare card costs roughly around $40 a month for discounted commuting by bus.
Entertainment/Pleasure/Leisure
To entertain in your free time, the average prices, which vary by location, are:
- Movie tickets: $ 10
- Movie with Popcorn and a Drink: $ 18
- Meal for 2 in a luxury restaurant: $ 90
- Meal for 4 in an average family restaurant: $ 40
- Theatre/Orchestra tickets: $ 70
- Gym Membership: $30 per month
- Entry price in Reliant Center/Convention Center expos and shows: $20
- Sports event ticket: $ 20
- Open-air Concert ticket: $ 20
- Indoor Concert ticket: $ 80
General Living
General living costs are also below the national average:
- Cable TV: $ 70/mo
- Internet: $ 40/mo
- Mobile phone: $ 70/mo
- Landline phone: $ 30/mo
- Dry Cleaning: $2.50/shirt or pants, $5.00/dress
- Babysitter: $30/hour
- Tutoring: $40/hour
- House cleaning: $ 65 for a 3-bedroom house
- Yardwork/Mowing: $30
- Retail tax: $6.25 for Texas, add 1% for within Harris Country and 1% for within Houston
- Daycare: $ 200/mo
- Private school fees: $ 10,000/year
