Houston, Texas, is a city that offers a unique blend of Southern charm and urban sophistication. Known for its rich diversity, world-class food scene, and dynamic economy, Houston attracts people from all over the globe. Not sure if H-Town is for you? Read on to find out what to expect if you’re considering a move to the Houston area in 2024.
You know it from: Reality Bites, Terms of Endearment, Friday Night Lights
Average 1 bedroom rent: $1,273 | Houston apartments for rent, Houston houses for rent
Average home price: $349,055 | Houston homes for sale
Average cost of full-service moving services: $105/hr for 2 movers
Average cost to rent a moving truck: $19 – $39/day
Top industries: Trade Transportation & Utilities, Professional & Business Services, Educational & Health Services
Move here for: The food, world class museums, the diversity
Be sure to bring: A raincoat, air conditioner, and your appetite
1. Houston’s weather can be extreme.
Houston is notorious for its hot and humid climate, especially in the summer months. Temperatures can easily soar above 90°F, with humidity levels to match. However, the city also experiences occasional severe weather, including floods, thunderstorms, and hurricanes. Unfortunately, frequent power outages have also become an issue over the past several years so investing in a generator or solar power might be a good idea if you’re buying a house in Houston. Regardless, it’s absolutely crucial to prepare for both the heat and the potential for natural disasters by investing in good air conditioning and having an emergency plan in place.
Moving Tip: There are some neighborhoods in Houston that are especially susceptible to flooding so be sure to do your research on flood plains and ask your local realtor about it when house hunting!
2. The food scene is diverse and incredible.
Ask locals the best thing about living in Houston and most of them will tell you its the food. Houston is a culinary haven with a plethora of dining options that reflect its cultural diversity. From Tex-Mex at Ninfa’s on Navigation to Vietnamese cuisine at Crawfish & Noodles, the food here is both varied and delicious. The city is also known for its barbecue, with spots like Killen’s Barbecue offering mouth-watering smoked meats. Whether you’re a foodie or just love to eat, Houston’s food scene will not disappoint.
Moving Tip: Some of the best food in Houston comes from tiny hole in the wall eateries. Try Oishii for japanese food or Al’s Quick Stop for gyros.
3. Public transportation has its limitations.
While Houston does have a public transportation system, with a TransitScore of 36/100 it is not as extensive as those in other major cities. The METRO rail and bus services are useful, but many areas are still best accessed by car. If you’re planning to rely on public transit, consider living in neighborhoods like Midtown or the Museum District, which are better connected.
4. Houston’s job market is robust.
Houston boasts a strong job market, particularly in industries such as energy, healthcare, and aerospace. Major employers include ExxonMobil, Texas Medical Center, and NASA’s Johnson Space Center. The city’s diverse economy and relatively low unemployment rate make it an attractive destination for job seekers.
5. The cost of living is relatively affordable.
Compared to other large metropolitan areas, Houston offers a lower cost of living. Housing, in particular, is more affordable, with a wide range of options from apartments in Montrose to suburban homes in The Woodlands. Everyday expenses like groceries and utilities are also more budget-friendly, making Houston an economically attractive option.
6. Traffic congestion is a daily struggle.
Houston’s rapid growth has led to significant traffic congestion. Major highways like I-45 and I-10 often experience heavy traffic during peak hours. Commuting can be time-consuming, so consider living closer to your workplace or exploring alternative transportation methods, such as carpooling or biking, to mitigate the stress of daily traffic.
7. Houston is home to numerous parks and green spaces.
Despite its urban sprawl, Houston offers plenty of green spaces for outdoor enthusiasts. Memorial Park, Buffalo Bayou Park, and Hermann Park provide excellent venues for jogging, cycling, and picnicking. These parks are well-maintained and offer a green respite from the hustle and bustle of Houston life.
8. The city is culturally diverse.
Houston is one of the most diverse cities in the United States, with over 145 languages spoken by residents. This cultural richness is reflected in the city’s festivals, neighborhoods, and dining options. Areas like Chinatown, Mahatma Gandhi District, and Little Saigon showcase the city’s multicultural fabric, making it a vibrant place to live and explore.
9. Houston has a thriving arts and theater scene.
The Houston Theater District is second only to New York City in terms of concentration of seats in one geographic area. The city is home to the Houston Symphony, Houston Ballet, and Alley Theatre, among others. With venues like the Wortham Theater Center and the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, there’s always a show to catch.
10. Sports are a big deal here.
Houston residents are passionate about their sports teams. The city is home to the Houston Texans (NFL), Houston Rockets (NBA), and Houston Astros (MLB). Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan or just enjoy the occasional game, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to cheer on the local teams at venues like NRG Stadium and Minute Maid Park.
11. Housing options are varied.
Houston offers a wide range of housing options to suit different lifestyles and budgets. Whether you prefer a high-rise apartment in Downtown, a historic home in The Heights, or a sprawling suburban house in Katy, there’s something for everyone.
Moving Tip: The housing market is generally competitive, so it’s a good idea to act quickly when you find a place you like.
12. Education opportunities abound.
Houston is home to several top-notch educational institutions, including Rice University and the University of Houston. The city also has a strong public and private school system.
13. The medical center is world-renowned.
The Texas Medical Center in Houston is the largest medical complex in the world. It is renowned for its cutting-edge research and high-quality patient care. Facilities like MD Anderson Cancer Center and Houston Methodist Hospital attract patients from all over the globe. If healthcare access is a priority, Houston is an excellent place to be.
14. Houston’s nightlife is vibrant.
From trendy bars in Midtown to live music venues in the Heights, Houston offers a lively nightlife scene. Popular spots include Axelrad Beer Garden, House of Blues, and Numbers Night Club. Whether you enjoy dancing, live music, or just a good cocktail, Houston’s nightlife has something to offer.
15. It’s a pet-friendly city.
Houston is a great city for pet owners, with numerous dog parks and pet-friendly establishments. The city has over 40 dog parks, including the popular Johnny Steele Dog Park. Many restaurants and cafes, such as Barnaby’s Cafe, also welcome pets, making it easy to include your furry friend in your daily activities.
Methodology: Average rent prices sourced from Rent.com July 2024. Home prices sourced from Redfin July 2024. Average moving costs sourced from MoveBuddha. Employment data sourced from City Data.com