Katy, TX vs San Marcos, TX

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. San Marcos is 19.5% cheaper than Katy. With a cost index of 96 vs 115, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from San Marcos to Katy should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Katy is $1,609/month compared to $1,299/month in San Marcos — a 24% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: San Marcos is more affordable at $269,700 median vs $376,800.

Median household income in Katy is $107,332 compared to $51,030 in San Marcos (+110.3%). While Katy is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Katy spend roughly 18% of their income on rent, less than the 30.5% in San Marcos. The Katy ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (71.1°F vs 69.6°F). Katy receives more rainfall at 49.7" per year compared to 31.3" in San Marcos.