Real Estate in Houston, TX
Updated 2026 • Housing market data from 170 zip codes • Redfin data through January 2026
📊 Houston, TX Market Activity
The Houston housing market shows a median sale price of $270,000, -2.0% lower than last year. The price per square foot is $174, below the national median of ~$215/sqft, down -2.0% year-over-year. Homes in Houston spend a median of 73 days on market, longer than the national median of 42 days — giving buyers more negotiation room.
🏘️ Houston Rental Market
The average rent in Houston, TX is $2,027 per month. A 2-bedroom apartment rents for approximately $1,607/month, while a 3-bedroom home averages $2,235/month.
📦 Houston Housing Supply & Demand
There are 7,410 new listings and 9,230 active properties on the market.
🏆 Houston Market Competitiveness
Homes in Houston sell for an average of 96.0% of their asking price. About 10% of properties sell above list price, indicating relatively low bidding pressure.
On average, homes sell for 96.0% of the asking price
10% of sales closed above asking, % at or below
📋 Housing Overview
Houston, TX Housing Market Insights
Delve into the specifics of the real estate market in this area. Understanding key metrics such as the median home price of 279990, the balance between renting (58%) and owning (42%), and a population of 2302878 provides valuable insights for potential buyers, sellers, and investors. It is important to note that neighborhood characteristics can vary drastically, and decisions should not solely rely on data available without visiting. Many factors can differ, so do consider inspecting areas in-person to avoid potential mismatches in choice.
Rent vs. Buy Analysis
With a median home price of $279,990 and average rents of $2,027/month, the median household income of $60,440 provides context for affordability in Houston. Whether you're looking to buy property in Houston or invest in Houston real estate, understanding the price-to-rent ratio helps determine if renting or owning makes more financial sense for your situation. A 2-bedroom apartment rents for approximately $1,607/month, while a 3-bedroom house averages $2,235/month.
Economy & What Drives Houston Real Estate
Real estate values in Houston, TX are driven by local employment, school quality, and quality of life. The cost of living index of 92.7 (U.S. average = 100) reflects the overall affordability of the area. With a median household income of $60,440, residents have moderate purchasing power. Proximity to major employers, universities, and transportation corridors directly influences home values and demand across Houston neighborhoods.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- •Warm weather all year round
- •Plenty of family-friendly activities
- •Active arts and music scene
- •Vibrant nightlife options available
- •Numerous parks and green spaces
- •Good job market for many fields
- •Diverse culture and activities
- •Great food scene in the city
- •Relatively low cost of living
- •Strong sense of community support
Cons
- •Limited public transportation options
- •Public schools can be lacking
- •Income inequality in neighborhoods
- •High humidity and heat levels
- •Political divide in local views
- •Some areas show racial tensions
- •Reports of high crime rates
- •Traffic congestion is frequent
- •Healthcare access can be uneven
- •Risk of flooding in some areas
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Houston, TX? ▼
The cost of living in Houston, TX is 7% lower than the national average, with a cost of living index of 93 (where 100 represents the U.S. average). Housing typically accounts for the largest portion of living expenses. See full cost of living breakdown →
How much does it cost to buy or rent a home in Houston, TX? ▼
In Houston, TX, The median home price is $279,990. requiring approximately $102,855 annual income to afford. Average rent is $2,027/month (requiring ~$81,068/year income). The local median household income is $60,440, making homeownership attainable for typical residents. Explore Houston real estate data →
Is Houston, TX a safe place to live? ▼
Houston, TX is an area where crime rates exceed the national average. The crime rate is 56.6 per 1,000 residents. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood. View detailed Houston crime statistics →
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Houston, TX? ▼
To live comfortably in Houston, TX and afford a median-priced home of $279,990, you would typically need a household income of $69,998 to $87,497 per year. The local median household income is $60,440. Renting requires approximately $81,068/year (at $2,027/month). See full affordability analysis →
Is Houston, TX growing? ▼
Houston, TX has a population of 2,302,878. As a mid-to-large city, population trends depend on local housing development, job growth, and quality of life factors. The affordable housing market and competitive job market attract new residents. See Houston population demographics →
What are the best neighborhoods in Houston, TX? ▼
The best neighborhoods in Houston, TX depend on your priorities. For families, look for areas near top-rated schools with lower crime rates. For affordability, neighborhoods throughout the city offer good value since the median home price of $279,990 is below the national average. Explore Houston on our interactive map →
What is the commute like in Houston, TX? ▼
Commute times in Houston, TX vary by neighborhood and workplace location. As a larger metro area, most residents rely on personal vehicles, though public transit options may be available. The affordable cost of living may allow for housing closer to employment centers. Explore commute times on our map →
How are the taxes in Houston, TX? ▼
Tax rates in Houston, TX include state and local components. The cost of living index of 93 suggests a lower overall tax and expense burden cost environment compared to the national average. View detailed Houston tax information →
How does Houston, TX compare to nearby cities? ▼
Houston, TX offers a more affordable alternative to nearby communities. With a cost of living index of 93, median home prices of $279,990, and a crime rate of 56.58 per 1,000 residents, you can compare these metrics side-by-side. Use the compare feature to evaluate specific cities.
What is the weather like in Houston, TX? ▼
Weather in Houston, TX varies by season. Climate data varies by season. View detailed Houston climate & environment data →
Is it better to rent or buy in Houston, TX? ▼
With a median home price of $279,990 and average rents of $2,027/month, the price-to-rent ratio in Houston is 11.5x. This favors buying, as monthly mortgage payments may be comparable to or lower than rent. See full cost analysis →
What is the price per square foot in Houston, TX? ▼
The median price per square foot in Houston is $174, which is 19% below the national median of ~$215/sqft. This reflects the area's demand, construction costs, and proximity to employment centers.
How fast do homes sell in Houston, TX? ▼
Homes in Houston spend a median of 73 days on market before going under contract. This indicates homes take longer than the national median of 42 days, giving buyers more negotiating room. View full market data →
Explore More About Houston, TX
📅 Last Updated: January 2026
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, Zillow, Redfin