Houston, TX variant. This is a Houston, TX-specific version of the Home Affordability Calculator, using pre-defined local figures (tax rates, median home and income values, and typical regional costs). For the full formula, methodology, and FAQ, open the main Home Affordability Calculator.
Affording a home in Houston pits the $62,894 median income against a $270,000 median price - a price-to-income ratio of 4.3x.
Can you afford Houston?
The 28% rule caps housing at $1,468/month on the local median income, supporting roughly $290,223 in price - versus the $270,000 Houston median.
Houston is relatively attainable on the local median income.
About Houston, TX
Houston residents pay no state or city income tax, since Texas does not impose a personal income tax, leaving more take-home pay relative to many large cities.
Houston has comparatively affordable home prices and rents, supported by ample land and the city's notable lack of formal zoning laws.
Houston's economy is heavily tied to the energy industry, alongside major medical, aerospace, and shipping sectors.
Worked example: max price on $62,894
28% of $62,894 ÷ 12 ≈ $1,468/month supports about $290,223 at 6.5% with 20% down - compared with the $270,000 median.
Quick reference
- Median home value: $270,000
- Median rent: $1,700/mo
- Median household income: $62,894
- Local sales tax: 8.25%
- Effective property tax rate: 2.31%
- Cost of living index: 97 (US avg = 100)
Frequently Asked Questions
What income do I need to buy in Houston?
To afford the $270,000 median home, you'd typically need well above the $62,894 local median income at current rates.
What is the price-to-income ratio in Houston?
About 4.3x (median home ÷ median income).