Baytown, TX vs. Pearland, TX: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to the Houston area? This article provides a cost of living comparison: Baytown vs Pearland. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Baytown vs Pearland in 2025.
Here’s a rapid-fire comparison to kick things off:
- 🏠 Median home price: $40K lower in Baytown
- 🍽️ Groceries: 5% cheaper in Pearland
- ⚡ Utilities: $20/month less in Baytown
- 🚗 Gas prices: 10¢/gal higher in Pearland
Now let’s dive into the details, using gross monthly income figures (pre-tax).
Housing Costs: Baytown vs Pearland
Housing is the biggest factor in most cost of living comparisons. Here’s how Baytown and Pearland stack up:
| Housing Type | Baytown | Pearland |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $180,000 | $220,000 |
| Mortgage (20% down) | $1,080/mo | $1,320/mo |
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $950 | $1,100 |
🏆 Winner: Baytown. Homes are about $40,000 cheaper in Baytown compared to Pearland, and rents are roughly $150/month lower.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Summers are hot in both cities. Here’s what to expect for monthly utility bills:
- Baytown: $180 (summer), $120 (winter)
- Pearland: $200 (summer), $140 (winter)
🏆 Winner: Baytown. Utility costs average about $20/month less in Baytown vs Pearland.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are fairly similar between the two cities. Expect to spend around $300-400 per month for a single person in either Baytown or Pearland. Eating out is also comparable, with a meal at a casual restaurant running about $12-15.
One notable difference: Gas prices tend to be about 10 cents per gallon higher in Pearland.
🏆 Winner: Slight edge to Baytown due to lower gas prices, but groceries and dining out are neck and neck.
Taxes and Fees
Property taxes are a bit higher in Pearland (2.5% vs 2.3% in Baytown). HOA fees are common in both cities, typically ranging from $20-50/month. In Baytown, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash pickup.
🏆 Winner: Baytown. Lower property tax rates give Baytown the advantage here.
Cost of Living Summary: Baytown vs Pearland
| Category | Baytown | Pearland |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,080 | $1,320 |
| Utilities | $150 | $170 |
| Groceries | $350 | $330 |
| Transportation | $60 | $70 |
| Taxes | 2.3% | 2.5% |
| Misc | $200 | $200 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $1,840 | $2,090 |
Lifestyle Fit: Baytown vs Pearland
While Baytown wins on cost of living, Pearland has some lifestyle advantages:
- Pearland has more public transportation options, making it easier to get around without a car.
- Pearland is a bit closer to central Houston, meaning shorter commutes for some.
- Baytown has more of a small-town feel, while Pearland is a rapidly growing suburb.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Baytown more affordable than Pearland?
Yes, Baytown has a lower overall cost of living, especially when it comes to housing. See our full breakdown of living costs in Baytown.
Which city has lower rent?
Rents are about $150/month cheaper in Baytown on average. A typical 2BR apartment rents for $950 in Baytown vs $1,100 in Pearland.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Baytown has lower home prices, with the median home costing about $40,000 less than in Pearland. For a full breakdown, see our guide to average monthly expenses in Baytown.
Conclusion
For those prioritizing affordability, Baytown comes out ahead in this cost of living comparison. Housing costs are significantly lower, and you’ll save on utilities, taxes, and gas as well. A household moving from Pearland to Baytown might save $400/month on housing alone.
However, Pearland has the edge on location and lifestyle amenities. It’s closer to central Houston and has better public transit.
Ultimately, the choice comes down to your budget and priorities. We hope this comparison of the cost of living in Baytown vs Pearland has helped inform your decision! Be sure to check out our other cost of living breakdowns for cities across Texas.