Is San Antonio more expensive than Houston?

San Antonio is 0.9% cheaper than Houston overall. Rent is 12.6% lower, groceries 1.9% more expensive, and restaurants 8.8% cheaper.

Which city has better purchasing power, Houston or San Antonio?

Houston has a purchasing power index of 176.5 while San Antonio has 161.9 (NYC = 100). Houston offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇺🇸 Houston vs 🇺🇸 San Antonio

2026

San Antonio is 0.9% cheaper

Category	🇺🇸 Houston	🇺🇸 San Antonio	Difference
Cost of Living	64.8	64.2	-0.9%
Rent	39.6	34.6	-12.6%
Groceries	67.7	69.0	+1.9%
Restaurants	70.6	64.4	-8.8%
Purchasing Power	176.5	161.9	-8.3%

Data verified Q1 2026 · Source: Numbeo cost-of-living indices (NYC = 100 baseline) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

Add your salary for a personalized comparison

See exact tax differences, net income, and savings potential.

80k Salary 100k Salary

Explore

🇺🇸 Cost of Living in Houston

Explore

🇺🇸 Cost of Living in San Antonio

Explore

🇺🇸 Should I Move to Houston?

Explore

🇺🇸 Should I Move to San Antonio?