Atlanta vs Houston

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Houston is roughly 24% more affordable than Atlanta (index 73 vs 96, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Houston
More affordable overall
24% cheaper than Atlanta · Cost index: 73 vs 96

Head-to-Head Stats

96Cost Index73
4,464Median Income /mo5,094
44Safety Index19
24Income Tax %0
95Internet (Mbps)145
250Coworking /mo250

Price Breakdown

AtlantaCategoryHouston
$1,800/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
25% ← cheaper
$1,350/month
$1.2/liter
Meal for One
17% cheaper →
$1.45/liter
$15/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
20% ← cheaper
$12/meal
$95/month
Monthly Transit Pass
37% ← cheaper
$60/month
$220/month
Utilities (Monthly)
9% ← cheaper
$200/month
$120/visit
Doctor Visit
19% cheaper →
$148/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Atlanta

Internet95 Mbps
Coworking$250/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability72/100

Houston

Internet145 Mbps
Coworking$250/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishhigh
Communitygrowing
Walkability45/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Atlanta cheaper than Houston?

Houston is cheaper than Atlanta. Houston has a cost of living index of 73/100 compared to 96/100 for Atlanta, making it roughly 24% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Houston than Atlanta?

Houston is approximately 24% cheaper than Atlanta based on cost index scores (73 vs 96, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Atlanta could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,281/month in Houston.

What is the rent comparison between Atlanta and Houston?

In Atlanta, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1,800/month. In Houston, the equivalent is around $1,350/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — Atlanta or Houston?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Atlanta offers 95 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$250/month. Houston offers 145 Mbps and coworking at ~$250/month. Houston has a cost advantage of 24%.

What is the average income in Atlanta vs Houston?

The median net monthly salary in Atlanta is approximately $4,464 USD, compared to $5,094 USD in Houston.

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