Houston, TX vs. Pearland, TX: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Homebuyers in the Houston area could save over $500 per month on their mortgage by choosing Pearland over Houston proper. This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Houston and Pearland. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of living in Houston vs Pearland in 2025.
Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference between Houston and Pearland. Here’s how typical housing costs compare:
| Housing Type | Houston | Pearland |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $325,000 | $275,000 |
| Mortgage Payment* | $2,108 | $1,581 |
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,650 | $1,400 |
*Assumes 10% down, 30-year fixed @ 4.5% APR
🏆 Winner: Pearland. Homebuyers could save over $500/month on their mortgage in Pearland compared to Houston. Renters can also find cheaper apartments in Pearland.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between Houston and Pearland. Expect to pay around $150-$250/month for electricity, water, gas, and trash services for a typical home. [Can You Afford to Live in Houston? Monthly Budget Guide](/houston-tx/monthly-budget/)
Both cities experience hot summers, so air conditioning usage drives up electric bills from June through September. Winter heating costs are mild.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are comparable between Houston and Pearland.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs and everyday expenses like dining out, entertainment, and goods are very similar between Houston and Pearland. Expect to budget around $400-$600/month per adult for groceries and incidentals. [Cost of Living in Houston – Housing, Groceries, Taxes & More](/houston-tx/cost-overview/)
One notable difference: gas prices tend to be about 5% cheaper in Pearland than in central Houston. For heavy commuters, this can add up to $20-$30/month in savings.
🏆 Winner: Pearland, but only slightly. Lower gas prices give Pearland a minor edge.
Taxes and Fees
Texas has no state income tax, so your take-home pay will be the same in either city. However, some key differences in local taxes and fees:
- Property Taxes: Houston’s property tax rate is 2.31% vs. 2.72% in Pearland
- Sales Tax: Houston charges 8.25% on goods and services vs. 8.00% in Pearland
- Tolls: Houston has more toll roads, which can add up for daily commuters
🏆 Winner: Houston. Lower property taxes and fewer tolls make Houston slightly cheaper tax-wise, despite the higher sales tax.
Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Houston | Pearland |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $2,108 | $1,581 |
| Utilities | $200 | $200 |
| Groceries | $500 | $500 |
| Transportation | $200 | $180 |
| Taxes | 2.31% | 2.72% |
| Misc | $500 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,508 | $2,961 |
Lifestyle Fit
The cost savings of living in Pearland come with some lifestyle tradeoffs compared to Houston:
- Longer Commutes: Pearland is a 20-30 minute drive from central Houston
- Less Walkability: Most errands require a car in suburban Pearland
- Fewer Urban Amenities: Houston offers more dining, nightlife, and cultural attractions
However, Pearland offers perks like larger homes, less noise and traffic, and highly-rated schools that appeal to families. Houston averages 5°F hotter than Pearland in the summer months.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Houston more affordable than Pearland? No, Pearland has a lower overall cost of living, mainly due to cheaper housing.
- Which city has lower rent? Apartments are around 15% cheaper in Pearland than comparable units in Houston.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? The median home price in Pearland is about $50,000 less than in Houston. Mortgage payments are around $500/month lower in Pearland.
Conclusion
While both great places to live, Pearland offers a significantly lower cost of living than Houston – mostly due to more affordable housing. A household moving from Houston to Pearland could save over $500 per month on housing alone.
Pearland is ideal for families who prioritize space, schools and savings – and don’t mind a suburban lifestyle. Young professionals, singles and urbanites may prefer renting in Houston for its big-city amenities, despite the higher costs.
Considering other Texas cities? Check out our cost of living comparisons for major metros like Dallas, San Antonio and Austin.