Missouri City, TX vs. Katy, TX: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Which Houston suburb gives you more for your money – Missouri City or Katy? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Missouri City and Katy, perfect for families relocating to the Houston area, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone wanting to compare the real-life monthly costs of living in these two cities in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).
Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how typical housing expenses compare between Missouri City and Katy:
| Housing Type | Missouri City | Katy |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,450 | $1,600 |
| Median 3BR House Price | $325,000 | $375,000 |
🏆 Winner: Missouri City. Housing costs an average of 10-15% less in Missouri City compared to Katy.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are another important consideration. In Missouri City, expect to pay around $180 per month for electricity, water, and gas for a 2BR apartment. Costs are about 5% higher in Katy, averaging $190 monthly.
Both cities experience hot Texas summers, so budget more for A/C from June through September. Enrolling in an off-peak energy plan can help manage summer bills.
🏆 Winner: Missouri City edges out Katy with slightly lower utility costs.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery prices are fairly comparable between the two suburbs. Budget around $350-$400 per month for groceries for a single person, or $800-$1000 for a family of four. Eating out is also similarly priced, with a basic meal out costing $12-15 per person in both cities.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and daily living costs are nearly identical in Missouri City and Katy.
Taxes and Fees
Both Missouri City and Katy benefit from Texas’ lack of state income tax. However, property taxes are relatively high to make up for it. Expect property tax rates around 2.3% in Missouri City and 2.5% in Katy. For a $350,000 home, that’s a difference of about $60 per month.
Missouri City has slightly lower water and trash service fees than Katy as well. HOA fees are common in both areas, typically ranging from $30-80 per month.
🏆 Winner: Missouri City has a slight edge with lower property taxes and city fees.
Cost Summary
| Expense | Missouri City | Katy |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR House) | $1,900 | $2,200 |
| Utilities | $220 | $230 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $130 | $140 |
| Taxes & Fees | $625 | $780 |
| Misc Expenses | $400 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,675 | $4,150 |
Lifestyle Fit
While Missouri City is more affordable overall, Katy offers some advantages that may be worth the extra cost for certain lifestyles. Katy is known for its top-rated schools, making it popular with families. It also has more shopping, dining and recreational amenities.
On the other hand, Missouri City tends to offer more square footage for the price, with larger lots and more spacious homes common. It’s also a bit closer to downtown Houston, saving on commute time. Missouri City averages a 35 minute drive to central Houston, while Katy takes 45+ minutes in traffic.
FAQ
- Is Missouri City more affordable than Katy? Yes, Missouri City is about 10-15% cheaper than Katy overall.
- Which city has lower rent? Rents are around 10% lower in Missouri City vs Katy.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Home prices are roughly 15% less in Missouri City compared to Katy.
Conclusion
While both Missouri City and Katy offer a high quality of life, Missouri City comes out ahead in terms of affordability. A household moving from Katy to Missouri City might save $400-500 per month on housing and taxes alone. However, Katy remains popular for its schools, amenities and newer housing stock, which may be worth the premium for some.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your family’s priorities and lifestyle. We recommend visiting both areas in person if possible. For more info, check out our full guides on the cost of living in Missouri City and how much you need to live comfortably in Missouri City.