How Much Do You Save Moving to Houston?
Texas has no state income tax. Compare your total tax burden between Houston and your current city — including property taxes and state income taxes.
Enter Your Numbers
$450,000
$120,000/yr
State + city income tax up to 12.7%
New York City, NY
Annual Savings in Houston
+$930
That's $9,300 over 10 years
Houston, TX
Houston vs All Major Cities
Ranked by how much you'd save annually by choosing Houston.
* Property tax based on $450,000 home value. Income tax based on $120,000 household income at marginal rates. Houston uses ~2.5% effective property tax rate. Actual rates vary by address.
The Full Picture: What to Know
No State Income Tax
Texas has zero state income tax. For a $150k household income, that's $6,000–$13,000+ annually you keep compared to California or New York.
Property Taxes Are Higher
Houston property taxes (2–3%) are higher than many coastal cities. But the overall equation still favors Texas for most mid-to-high earners.
Homestead Exemption
Texas homeowners get a $100,000 homestead exemption off assessed value for school taxes. File within your first year for immediate savings.
MUD Districts
Many Houston suburbs have Municipal Utility District (MUD) fees that add 0.3–1.0% to your rate. They decrease over time as infrastructure is paid off.
Home Prices Are Lower
A $600k home in Houston competes with a $1.2M home in LA or Bay Area. You're buying more house for less money — the savings compound.
Protest Your Taxes
Texas homeowners can protest their assessed value annually. Many Houston homeowners win reductions of 5–15% — an often overlooked benefit.