Moving to Houston: 8 Things to Know About Texas’ Fastest-Growing City

Houston is kind of a big deal these days, with newcomers flocking in droves to Texas’ biggest city. According to Forbes, it’s the most popular Texas city for new residents, and more than 90,000 of them arrive every year. 

Now, we would never mess with Texas — we know better than that, y’all — but we have to ask: Is Houston a good place to live? 

Ultimately, you’ll have to decide for yourself. But it’s got a lot going for it. You’ll find a little bit of everything in Houston — world-class dining, successful sports franchises (get yourself a C.J. Stroud jersey), a thriving arts scene, and more. But, as with any move, there are some things you’ll want to know about Houston before you make the leap. Let’s dive into the reasons to move to Houston and what life in the Bayou City is all about.

Moving to Houston: 8 Things to Know

If you’re moving to Houston, do your research (and if you’re moving from California to Texas, learn when it’s appropriate to say y’all). Here are some helpful things to know about moving to Houston. 

1) The cost of living in Houston, TX, is lower than in Dallas and Austin

With the rapid rise of inflation in recent years, you probably have regular conversations with friends about how much things cost — groceries, cars, houses, you name it. But while no city is immune to inflation, Houston today is one of the most affordable big cities in America, beating out cities like Austin, Dallas, and even San Antonio.

For context, someone earning $100,000 in Austin would only need about $77,000 to maintain their lifestyle in Houston, Texas. Moving to Houston may not solve all your money woes, but if you dream of big-city living, Houston is among the most affordable places you could call home. 

2) Houston's job market offers diverse opportunities

Knowing a given city is cheaper than another doesn’t necessarily tell you what it takes to get by. So, what salary do you need to live in Houston? As of September 2024, the average salary in Houston is $69,483. Fortunately, the city’s job market is strong and diverse, offering opportunities across many industries, so you shouldn’t have trouble finding work.

The energy sector, particularly oil and gas, remains a cornerstone of the economy in Houston, but healthcare, aerospace, and technology are also booming there. For instance, Houston is home to the Texas Medical Center, the world’s largest medical complex. This place employs over 120,000 health professionals — that’s a city in itself! 

3) Crime is no small problem in Houston

If you’re thinking about a move to Houston, consider safety. According to NeighborhoodScout, Houston's crime rate is higher than the national average, with a crime index of 2, indicating that the city is safer than only 2 percent of U.S. cities. 

Specifically, the violent crime rate in Houston is 11.35 per 1,000 residents, compared to the national median of 4. Property crimes are also more prevalent, with a rate of 45.98 per 1,000 residents, more than twice the national median of 20.

With that said, crime is almost always localized, and your risk depends heavily on the area in which you choose to live. Prospective residents moving to Houston should do plenty of research on the neighborhood they settle in. You don’t want to find yourself in a regretful situation — and with the right information, you’ll find the perfect spot for you

4) Houston is hot, hot, hot (and humid, too)

If you’re moving to Houston, get ready for some serious heat. Summers here are long, with temperatures often soaring past 90°F and humidity that can make it feel even hotter. The Gulf’s subtropical climate means high humidity levels from June through September, so expect to break a sweat just stepping outside (and to thank the heavens every day for the invention of air conditioning!)

However, Houston’s mild winters are a perk. While many cities bundle up, Houston stays comfortably, with winter highs in the 60s and 70s. And, hey, maybe you’re moving to Houston from a cold place like Brooklyn. That year-round warmth might just be the thing you’re looking for.

5) The Houston housing and rental market offers more for your money

These days, the story of housing in America is complicated. Much of the country has seen the prices of homes skyrocket. If you’re not yet in the market, you might worry you’ll never have the opportunity to get into it. 

But if you’re moving to Houston, it’s a different story. The median home price in Houston sits around $265,842, compared to over $500,000 in Austin. That’s a massive difference! And in a city that already has a low cost of living, the lower real estate prices will help stretch your dollar even further.

6) Houston’s local culture, food, and art scene is unmatched

Houston’s culture is as diverse as its food, with flavors and traditions from around the world. If you’re moving to Houston, you’ll find everything from authentic Vietnamese pho in Asiatown to bold West African dishes at ChòpnBlọk. Then, for art lovers, the Museum District is a must, with the Museum of Fine Arts hosting wonderfully unique experiences like the Culinary Canvas series that blends food and art.

If you’re up for a festival, Houston has you covered, with events like the Bayou City Art Festival, the Houston LatinFest, and the Tomball German Christmas Market. Each one brings its own unique flavor to the city.

7) Entertainment in Houston means sports, theater, and more

If there’s one thing Houston knows how to do, it’s entertain. Sports fans are spoiled here, with the Astros, Rockets, and Texans bringing the heat all year round, plus the Dynamo for all you soccer lovers. 

And if you want to get your horse on, let’s not forget the iconic Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo! Every spring, this legendary event takes over the city, blending rodeo events, live music, carnival rides, and some serious Texas flair. Heck, you might even catch Beyoncé!

Sports and rodeos aside, Houston’s Theater District rivals that of any major city, with Broadway shows, symphonies, ballet, and opera. Add in a thriving live music scene that birthed some of the best rap music ever, and Houston’s entertainment options truly cover it all. (Shout out Pimp C!)

Moving to Houston? Here Are the Best Places to Live

If you’re moving to Houston, you must know one thing — the city is massive, and highways are everywhere. The sprawling metropolis covers approximately 671 square miles with the greater Houston population reaching over 7.5 million. (In case you didn’t know, living in Houston, Texas, means you’re living in the third-largest city in the United States. Yes, it’s bigger than Manhattan or Brooklyn!)

The Woodlands

Located about 28 miles north of downtown Houston, The Woodlands is a master-planned community known for its lush landscapes and family-friendly environment. With top-rated schools, numerous parks, and a variety of shopping and dining options, it's an ideal spot for families seeking suburban living with urban amenities. 

The area also boasts a strong sense of community, with events like The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival and concerts at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. You’ll feel right at home, right away.

Midtown

For young professionals and those seeking an urban lifestyle, Midtown is a vibrant neighborhood situated just southwest of downtown Houston. Known for its lively nightlife, diverse dining scene, and proximity to major employers, Midtown offers a dynamic living experience.

Residents have easy access to public transportation, making commuting a breeze, and the area is rich in cultural attractions, including art galleries and live music venues.

Sugar Land

Approximately 20 miles southwest of downtown Houston, Sugar Land is a rapidly growing suburb that appeals to both families and retirees. Known for its excellent schools, low crime rates, and abundant recreational facilities, Sugar Land offers a high quality of life. 

The area features numerous golf courses, parks, and the Sugar Land Town Square, which hosts community events and provides a variety of shopping and dining options. It could be the perfect place to call home.