Quick answer
Overall prices in the Houston, TX metro were 98.6 vs 103.3 in Phoenix, AZ in 2024 (US = 100), so Houston is 4.5% less expensive than Phoenix; housing rents differ by 14% (104.5 vs 121.2). A $75,000 income in Houston buys about what $78,564 buys in Phoenix, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Houston | Phoenix | Houston vs Phoenix |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 98.6 | 103.3 | -4.5% |
| Goods | 100.6 | 95.0 | +5.9% |
| Housing (rents) | 104.5 | 121.2 | -13.8% |
| Utilities | 95.3 | 93.3 | +2.1% |
| Other services | 95.6 | 104.0 | -8.1% |
| All items, 2008 | 99.4 | 105.7 | -5.9% |
| $50,000 in Houston equals in Phoenix | $52,376 | ||
| $100,000 in Houston equals in Phoenix | $104,752 | ||
| $150,000 in Houston equals in Phoenix | $157,128 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.