Quick answer
Overall prices in the Houston, TX metro were 98.6 vs 102.6 in Philadelphia, PA in 2024 (US = 100), so Houston is 3.8% less expensive than Philadelphia; housing rents differ by 8% (104.5 vs 113.1). A $75,000 income in Houston buys about what $77,985 buys in Philadelphia, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Houston | Philadelphia | Houston vs Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 98.6 | 102.6 | -3.8% |
| Goods | 100.6 | 96.8 | +3.9% |
| Housing (rents) | 104.5 | 113.1 | -7.6% |
| Utilities | 95.3 | 114.4 | -16.7% |
| Other services | 95.6 | 103.1 | -7.2% |
| All items, 2008 | 99.4 | 106.4 | -6.6% |
| $50,000 in Houston equals in Philadelphia | $51,990 | ||
| $100,000 in Houston equals in Philadelphia | $103,980 | ||
| $150,000 in Houston equals in Philadelphia | $155,969 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.