Houston, the most populous city in Texas and the fourth most populous city in the United States is a vibrant metropolis that attracts people from all walks of life. Known for its diversity, Houston offers a high quality of life and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it one of the best places to live in Texas.
Whether you're a young professional seeking job opportunities, a family looking for a safe and friendly environment, or a retiree in search of a city with a warm climate and plenty of activities, Houston has something for everyone.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll go into everything you need to know about moving to Houston, including the cost of living, job market, attractions, weather, real estate, diversity, and the food scene.
Introduction to Life in Houston
The Cost of Living in Houston
Living in Houston is affordable, especially when compared to other major cities in the United States. While sales and property taxes in Texas may be a bit high, the overall cost of living in Houston is lower than in cities like San Francisco or New York City.
In fact, the cost of living in Houston is 5% less than in Dallas and 19% less than in Austin. To live comfortably in Houston, a recommended annual salary of almost $35,000 is advised to afford at least a one-bedroom apartment in the city. The median income in Houston is $52,338, while top earners make upwards of $96,605 a year. Plus, thanks to a lack of state income tax, residents can save more money and take home more significant pay.
When it comes to housing, Houston offers great value for money. Middle-class income earners can afford spacious houses with top amenities, making your money go a long way when living in Houston. So, if you're looking for amazing rent and real estate deals, look no further than Houston, Texas.
The article provides a comprehensive guide to the cost of living in Houston, Texas, covering various aspects such as housing, transportation, groceries, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses.
3 useful links for the cost of living in Houston​
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These websites provide detailed information about the cost of living in Houston, including housing, transportation, groceries, healthcare, and more. They can be a valuable resource for anyone considering a move to Houston.
The Growing Job Market in Houston
One of the many reasons people are moving to Houston is its booming job market. Not only is real estate affordable, but the city also offers thousands of job opportunities that attract young professionals. The most popular industries in Houston are oil and gas, medical research, aerospace, technology, and healthcare.
Multiple Fortune 500 companies are headquartered in Houston, including Walmart, Memorial Hermann Health Services, Shell Oil Company, United Airlines, Kroger, and Houston Methodist. If you're looking for a job in one of these thriving industries, you'll be pleased to know that you won't be searching for long.
The article provides a detailed overview of the job market in Houston, Texas. It highlights the diversity and resilience of the job market in the city, which is the fourth-largest in the United States.
3 useful links for Job Market in Houston
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These websites should provide you with valuable information about the job market in Houston, including employment statistics, job listings, and more.
Living Inside and Outside "The Loop"
To truly understand life in Houston, you need to familiarize yourself with "the loop." Interstate 610, known as "the loop," circles around the city and serves as a reference point for suburbs and neighborhoods.
The inner circle, or the area inside the loop, is considered the city's central business district and is home to popular museums, restaurants, and entertainment venues. This area attracts many young professionals and city lovers.
On the other hand, the outer loop encompasses the city's suburban neighborhoods, which are ideal for raising families due to their peaceful and laid-back atmosphere. Regardless of which side of the loop you choose to call home, you're sure to love living in Houston.
Unique Aspects of Houston: Rodeo
Houston experience is the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Whether you're a cowboy or cowgirl at heart or just looking for some fun, this annual event, which lasts for 20 days, is a must-do for all residents. The rodeo is a fantastic place to bring family and friends for a fantastic barbecue, a carnival, and even live musical performances by popular artists. Since 1932, the Houston rodeo has been a fun event that brings the community together. Make sure to add this favorite local attraction to your bucket list.
Weather in Houston: Prepare for Rain and Humidity
Houston experiences a humid subtropical climate, which means hot and humid summers and cool winters. The city is wet and partly cloudy year-round. July is the hottest month, with an average high temperature of 93 degrees Fahrenheit, while January is the coldest month, with an average low temperature of 43 degrees Fahrenheit.
Houston receives up to 53 inches of rain annually, surpassing the national rainfall average of 38 inches. This makes Houston the rainiest city in Texas, so make sure to pack your rain boots, rain jackets, and umbrellas. On the plus side, since the temperature rarely drops below freezing, Houston receives an average of 0 inches of snow per year.
However, due to its location near the Gulf of Mexico, Houston is also susceptible to hurricanes, flooding, and tropical storms. If you're moving from an area without hurricanes, it's important to stay prepared in case of an emergency. Talk with your family to devise a plan in case of an evacuation and take basic precautions to protect yourself should a bad storm hit.
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Exploring Outer Space in Houston
Houston is home to NASA's Johnson Space Center, which has been spearheading human space exploration since 1964. Known as "Space City," Houston has over 100 buildings dedicated to astronaut training alone. The Space Center Houston, a top attraction in the city, features over 400 artifacts from space, including spacecraft, space exhibits, and the largest public collection of moon rocks. This is a must-visit destination for space enthusiasts, scientists, and curious minds.
Getting Around Houston: The Underground Tunnel System
One of the unique features of Houston is its extensive underground tunnel system. Spanning over 6 miles and located 20 feet below the city streets, Houston's Downtown underground system of tunnels connects 95 city blocks. What started as a simple connection between two movie theaters has now evolved into a network linking multiple restaurants and popular retailers.
Accessible via street-level stairs, escalators, and elevators, these tunnels provide city dwellers with a safe and convenient way to navigate the city during the weekday. While the underground tunnel system may be closed at night, on weekends, and during national holidays, it's an integral part of Houston's urban landscape.
The Food Scene in Houston: A Way of Life
As the fourth-largest city in the United States, it's no surprise that Houston's cuisine is as diverse as its population. Named as one of the nation's best food cities, Houston offers a mix of international influence with Texan flare. Dining at the many top restaurants and local eateries is a daily occurrence for many residents.
Known for its barbecue, Tex-Mex, breakfast tacos, chili, chicken fried steak, and other Houston classic dishes, dining in this Texas city is unlike any other. From The Breakfast Klub, beloved for its homemade chicken and waffles, to Tony Thai Restaurant, known for its authentic Thai food, and Killen’s Barbeque, ranked as the second-best barbecue restaurant in the country, Houston's food scene is a culinary delight.
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An Eater’s Guide to Houston: This guide by Eater Houston provides a comprehensive overview of the city's culinary scene. It highlights the diversity of Houston's food culture, from James Beard Award-winning chefs to vibrant immigrant populations that infuse the region with unique flavors and cuisines. The guide also recommends specific restaurants, bars, and food items to try.
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Foodie's Guide to Houston: This guide by Visit Houston Texas offers insights into the city's diverse neighborhoods, many of which are anchored by ethnic restaurants and groceries. It also provides information about cooking classes and culinary tours in the city.
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Unfortunately, I was unable to access the content from the third link from Chron.com due to a bot detection mechanism on the website. You might want to visit it directly to get the information. Here's the link: Houston Restaurant Trends.
Join our Furnished Apartments Houston YouTube channel
For an even closer look at our range of furnished apartments in Houston, TX, we invite you to join our Furnished Apartments Houston YouTube channel.
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On our channel, we share in-depth apartment tours, tips for making the most of your Hosting Zak living experience, neighborhood highlights, and so much more. It's a great resource for both prospective tenants and our current community members.
Subscribing to our YouTube channel ensures that you're always in the know about the latest listings and updates from Hosting Zak. Plus, it's a great way to get a feel for our homes before you even step foot in them!
Join our YouTube channel today and become a part of the Hosting Zak community!
Searching for Furnished Apartments in Houston? We’ve Got You Covered!
Here are some options for furnished apartments in Houston and Dallas:
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Hosting Zak: This company offers fully furnished apartments in Houston with a variety of amenities including a fitness center, pool, and business center. They also provide a 24/7 customer service line for any issues or inquiries.
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Houston Corporate Housing: They provide furnished apartments for both short-term and long-term stays. Their apartments are located in various parts of Houston and come with amenities like a fully equipped kitchen, high-speed internet, and a washer/dryer.
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Furnished Apartment Medical Center: They offer furnished apartments in the Houston Medical Center area. Their apartments are designed for comfort and convenience, with amenities like a fully equipped kitchen, high-speed internet, and a washer/dryer.
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Pleasant Stay Apt: They offer luxury furnished apartments in Houston with amenities like a fully equipped kitchen, high-speed internet, and a washer/dryer. They also provide a 24/7 customer service line for any issues or inquiries.
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Furnished Apartments Houston: They pride themselves on being a cost-effective furnished apartment provider in Houston. They offer both short-term and long-term lodging solutions with great customer service and 24-hour on-call maintenance.
For Dallas:
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Corporate Housing Travelers: They offer furnished apartments in Dallas, TX, perfect for both short-term stays and long-term accommodations. They provide fully equipped living spaces and a hassle-free moving process. They also offer flexible leasing terms to suit your needs.
Please visit the respective websites for more details and to find the best option that suits your needs.
Houston Real Estate Market: An Overview
The Houston real estate market is a major driver of the city's growth. With a relatively low cost of living compared to other major cities in the United States, Houston is an attractive location for residents and businesses alike.
In 2021, the number of single-family homes sold in Houston increased by 18.6% compared to the previous year, according to the Houston Association of Realtors. The median price of a single-family home in Houston rose to $310,000 in 2021, an increase of 14.8% from the previous year.
Houston's job market, which includes major employers like the Texas Medical Center, ExxonMobil, Chevron, and the Port of Houston, is a significant factor in the city's real estate market. The pandemic has also increased demand for larger homes and properties with outdoor space as people spend more time at home and seek more space for work and family.
Houston has also seen an increase in new construction in recent years. In 2021, more than 37,000 building permits were issued in the city, according to the Greater Houston Partnership.
In addition to single-family homes, Houston also has a strong market for apartment rentals. According to Apartment List, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Houston in February 2023 was $1,102, while the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment was $1,469.
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2023 AND 2024 INFO -
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Houston's Diverse Population
Houston's real estate market is also influenced by the city's diverse population, with a mix of local and international buyers and investors. This diversity is reflected in the city's culture, food, and lifestyle, making Houston a vibrant and dynamic place to live.
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The Future of Houston's Real Estate Market
The Houston real estate market is expected to grow in the coming years, driven by a strong job market, population growth, and new construction. However, some challenges may lie ahead, such as rising interest rates and potential economic fluctuations. Despite these potential challenges, Houston remains an attractive location for both residents and investors.
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Moving to Houston: Pros and Cons
​Like any city, moving to Houston comes with its own set of pros and cons. On the positive side, Houston offers a low cost of living, a thriving job market, diverse food scene, and a rich cultural life. However, potential downsides include the city's humid climate, susceptibility to hurricanes, and the lack of zoning laws, which can lead to a somewhat chaotic cityscape.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Houston
Q1: Is Houston worth moving to?
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Answer: Absolutely! Houston is a vibrant city with a thriving job market, affordable cost of living, and a diverse food scene. It's a city that offers a high quality of life and is known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're a young professional, a family, or a retiree, Houston has something to offer everyone.
Q2: How much do you need to make in Houston to live comfortably?
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Answer: The cost of living in Houston is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in the U.S. However, to live comfortably, it's recommended that you have an annual salary of around $60,000. This can vary depending on your lifestyle and financial obligations.
Q3: Is it really worth it to move to Texas?
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Answer: Texas offers a unique blend of southern hospitality, diverse cultures, and economic opportunities. The state has no income tax, which can be a significant financial advantage. Additionally, Texas is known for its warm weather, outdoor activities, and excellent food. So, if these factors align with your lifestyle and preferences, moving to Texas could be worth it.
Q4: Is Houston an expensive place to live?
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Answer: Compared to other major cities in the U.S., Houston is relatively affordable. The cost of housing is lower than the national average, and residents benefit from the absence of state income tax. However, like any city, living costs can vary depending on the neighborhood you choose and your lifestyle.