Houston vs Jacksonville: cost of living compared
Jacksonville is 3% cheaper than Houston overall. Neither TX nor FL has a state income tax.
Indexes use a US average of 100: below 100 is cheaper than the national average. Housing and transportation are derived from median home prices, rents and commute times; figures come from BLS, Census ACS, Numbeo and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.
The big picture
Jacksonville generally presents a slightly lower overall cost of living compared to Houston. This difference is largely driven by more affordable everyday expenses like groceries, healthcare, and transportation in Jacksonville. However, housing costs, both for purchasing and renting, are noticeably higher in Jacksonville, which can significantly impact a household's budget despite other savings.
Housing
Housing costs are a key differentiator, with Houston offering more affordable options for both homeownership and renting. The median home price and typical rent for a one-bedroom apartment are both lower in Houston. In Florida, homeowners insurance premiums can be substantial, and flood insurance may be necessary. Property taxes in Florida reset to market value upon sale, and many communities have additional HOA or CDD fees.
Taxes and everyday costs
Neither state imposes a state income tax, which is a significant advantage for residents in both metros. For daily expenses, Jacksonville tends to be more budget-friendly. Groceries, healthcare, and transportation costs are all comparatively lower in Jacksonville. Utilities, however, are somewhat more expensive there, while miscellaneous goods and services are slightly less costly.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Houston is a vast, sprawling city with a humid subtropical climate, known for its diverse economy and extensive highway system, leading to longer average commutes. Jacksonville also has a humid subtropical climate, but its coastal location offers a different feel. Commute times are generally shorter in Jacksonville. Both metros experience hurricane season, and coastal areas in Florida face specific considerations for flood risk.
Bottom line
For those considering a move, Houston typically offers a more accessible housing market, which can be a major financial benefit. However, Jacksonville provides savings on many day-to-day necessities, including food, healthcare, and getting around. The decision hinges on whether the potential housing savings in Houston outweigh the consistent, albeit smaller, daily expense reductions found in Jacksonville, especially considering Florida's unique homeownership costs.
| Measure | Houston, TX | Jacksonville, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 98 | 95 |
| Housing index | 84 | 91 |
| Transportation index | 109 | 96 |
| Food index | 95 | 92 |
| Healthcare index | 98 | 95 |
| Utilities index | 108 | 105 |
| Misc index | 92 | 88 |
| Median home price | $298,000 | $318,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,250/mo | $1,400/mo |
| Average commute | 31 min | 27 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Jacksonville home with the True Cost Calculator.