Quick answer
Overall prices in the Houston, TX metro were 98.6 vs 111.9 in San Diego, CA in 2024 (US = 100), so Houston is 11.8% less expensive than San Diego; housing rents differ by 42% (104.5 vs 179.3). A $75,000 income in Houston buys about what $85,082 buys in San Diego, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Houston | San Diego | Houston vs San Diego |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 98.6 | 111.9 | -11.8% |
| Goods | 100.6 | 108.0 | -6.8% |
| Housing (rents) | 104.5 | 179.3 | -41.7% |
| Utilities | 95.3 | 174.2 | -45.3% |
| Other services | 95.6 | 99.6 | -4.0% |
| All items, 2008 | 99.4 | 113.7 | -12.6% |
| $50,000 in Houston equals in San Diego | $56,721 | ||
| $100,000 in Houston equals in San Diego | $113,442 | ||
| $150,000 in Houston equals in San Diego | $170,163 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.