Houston, the fourth most populous city in the US with 2.3 million residents, is a melting pot of cultures and languages. Its proximity to Mexico has resulted in 39% of its population speaking Spanish. Additionally, Houston is a linguistic mosaic, with over 145 languages spoken, ranking it third in the US for language diversity. This linguistic diversity is a reflection of its large international community, contributing to Houston's status as the most diverse metropolitan area in Texas.
The city's history dates back to 1836 when it was founded and named in honor of General Sam Houston, a key figure in Texas's independence from Mexico. Initially serving as the state's capital and a primary trading center, Houston has since evolved into a significant global city. Notably, it hosts the world's largest medical city, the Texas Medical Center, and NASA’s Johnson Space Center, a pivotal location for human spaceflight.
Today, Houston's appeal lies in its combination of urban amenities, diverse population, and strong job market. It's a city that keeps pace with global trends, making it an attractive place to live. For entertainment, Houstonians enjoy a vibrant nightlife, six professional sports teams, and a plethora of award-winning restaurants, ensuring there's always something exciting to do in the city.
Cost of Living in Houston, TX
Living in Houston, TX generally costs about 1% more than the Texas average, yet it's 8% less expensive compared to the national average. Housing in Houston is notably more affordable, being 17% lower than the average across the U.S. Utility expenses in Houston align closely with the national average.
When considering everyday essentials, Houston offers some financial relief. Grocery expenses are approximately 2% lower than the national average, and clothing costs also tend to be around 2% less in Houston compared to other parts of the country.
Healthcare, including services like doctor visits and dental care, is more budget-friendly in Houston, costing about 6% less than the U.S. average. Additionally, discretionary spending, which covers areas like entertainment and grooming services, is generally 2% cheaper in Houston, TX.
Here's the breakdown of living expenses by category according to NerdWallet:
Median 2-bedroom apartment rent: $1,249
Median home price (3BR, 2BA): $359,272
Gas (per gallon): $3.11
Median household salary: $44,124
You can find out more about the cost of living in Houston, TX, and even calculate costs in comparison to other cities at NerdWallet or Payscale.
What is it like living in Houston?
Houston has evolved into a global city, featuring a mix of urban amenities, diverse population, and a strong job market, making it a trendy and desirable living destination. Residents of Houston enjoy a wide range of entertainment, from bustling nightlife to six professional sports teams, and an array of award-winning restaurants. Here’s why you’ll like Houston if you decide to move there:
Booming Job Market: Houston's job market is flourishing, with booming industries like oil and gas exploration, petroleum refining, medical research, and high-tech sectors including aerospace. The city even offers opportunities to work with NASA.
Dynamic Food Scene: Houston's culinary landscape is diverse and dominant, featuring everything from classic barbeque and Tex-Mex to Viet-Cajun Crawfish and dishes by James Beard award-winning chefs. Renowned restaurants like Nancy's Hustle, TRIS, and Indigo add to its rich food culture.
Unique Urban Planning: One of Houston's unique features is its lack of zoning laws, leading to the development of eclectic and exciting neighborhoods.
Proximity to the Beach: The warm waters of the Texas Gulf Coast are just a 45-minute drive away, making it easy for Houston residents to enjoy beach outings without the need for long trips.
Rich Museum Culture: Houston boasts a thriving Museum District with 19 museums spread over four walkable zones, including the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston and the Houston Museum of Natural Sciences.
Hub for Higher Education: The city is a center for higher education with over 40 colleges and universities, including the University of Houston, Rice University, and Texas Southern University, the largest historically black university in Texas.
Ready to book your move to Houston, TX?
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