HoustonvsMelbourne
Overall
💰+25.0%
Houston is 25.0%more expensive
Rent
🏠+35.4%
Housing is 35.4% higher
Dining
🍽️+21.4%
Restaurants 21.4% pricier
Groceries
🛒+6.7%
Food shopping 6.7% more
Comparing the cost of living between Houston, United States and Melbourne, Australia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Houston is more expensive than Melbourne by approximately 25.0%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Houston are lower than in Melbourne by 26%. A one-bedroom apartment in Houston's city center costs around $1,500, while the same in Melbourne is approximately A$2,200.
Dining out in Houston offers significant savings compared to Melbourne. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $15 in Houston versus A$20 in Melbourne.
Public transportation in Houston is more affordable, with monthly passes at $38 compared to A$170 in Melbourne.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Houston can expect to spend approximately $504 per month (excluding rent), while in Melbourne, the same lifestyle would cost around A$786. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about $1,762 monthly in Houston versus A$2,750 in Melbourne. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Houston to Melbourne, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Melbourne to Houston requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Houston
Melbourne
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Houston more expensive than Melbourne?
Yes, Houston is approximately 25.0% more expensive than Melbourne overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Houston compared to Melbourne?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.3x of your Melbourne salary when living in Houston. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Melbourne, you'd need about $62,500 in Houston for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Houston and Melbourne?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 26%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Houston offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Melbourne provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Houston if you prioritize earning potential, or Melbourne for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Houston vs Melbourne?
In Houston, a single person needs approximately $1,604 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $3,762. In Melbourne, these figures are A$2,486 for singles and A$5,550 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Houston and Melbourne in 2025 shows significant differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Melbourne to maintain your lifestyle from Houston
Calculate Salary Equivalence