Monterrey vs Houston

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Monterrey is roughly 3% more affordable than Houston (index 31 vs 32, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Monterrey
More affordable overall
3% cheaper than Houston · Cost index: 31 vs 32

Life Power at $3,000/mo

The same salary ranks differently depending on where you live — from Beggar to King.

Head-to-Head Stats

31✓Cost Index32
1,106Median Income /mo3,850✓
52✓Safety Index42
20Income Tax %0✓
86Internet (Mbps)315✓
250✓Coworking /mo274

Price Breakdown

MonterreyCategoryHouston
$1,021/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
17% cheaper →
$1,225/month
$1.7/liter
Meal for One
32% ← cheaper
$1.15/liter
$14/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
$14/meal
$35/month
Monthly Transit Pass
50% cheaper →
$70/month
$110/month
Utilities (Monthly)
39% cheaper →
$180/month
$40/visit
Doctor Visit
67% cheaper →
$120/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Monterrey

Internet86 Mbps
Coworking$250/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishmoderate
Communitygrowing
Walkability70/100

Houston

Internet315 Mbps
Coworking$274/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishhigh
Communitysmall
Walkability42/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Monterrey cheaper than Houston?

Monterrey is cheaper than Houston. Monterrey has a cost of living index of 31/100 compared to 32/100 for Houston (New York = 100), making it roughly 3% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Monterrey than Houston?

Monterrey is approximately 3% cheaper than Houston based on cost index scores (31 vs 32, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Houston could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,897/month in Monterrey.

What is the rent comparison between Monterrey and Houston?

In Monterrey, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1,021/month. In Houston, the equivalent is around $1,225/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Monterrey offers 86 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$250/month. Houston offers 315 Mbps and coworking at ~$274/month. Monterrey has a cost advantage of 3%.

What is the average income in Monterrey vs Houston?

The median net monthly salary in Monterrey is approximately $1,106 USD, compared to $3,850 USD in Houston.

Compare Monterrey with…

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