Living & Working in Houston
Rent vs. Buy Analysis
Median home price is $270,409 . Buying analysis suggests affordability depends on down payment and mortgage rates.
Neighborhoods by Value & Commute
The Heights
URBANKaty
SUBURBANQuick Decision Guide
Major HVAC Employers
Top-Rated School Districts in Houston, TX
- Katy Independent School District: Consistently ranked among the best in the here area, known for high academic performance and extracurricular opportunities. Source
- Tomball Independent School District: Recognized for strong community support and student achievement. Source
Childcare Costs in Houston, TX
- Daycare: Average monthly cost ranges from $800 to $1,500, depending on the facility and age of the child. Source
- Nanny: Full-time nannies typically charge between $2,000 and $3,500 per month. Source
Recommended Pediatricians or Family Clinics
- Texas Children's Pediatrics: A premier pediatric care provider with multiple locations in Houston. Source
- here Pediatric Clinic: Specializes in comprehensive care for
Work-Life Balance Culture
Houston offers a diverse work-life balance culture, with many companies adopting flexible work schedules and remote work options. Industries like energy, healthcare, and aerospace dominate the job market, often providing competitive benefits. The city's sprawl means commutes can be long, but neighborhoods like The Woodlands and Montrose are known for their walkability and community-focused amenities.
Fitness Facilities
- Gyms:
- Lifetime Fitness (multiple locations, starting at $129/month) offers upscale amenities.
- YMCA of Greater Houston (membership around $50/month) provides affordable options.
- F45 Training (around $60/week) focuses on high-intensity workouts.
- Parks & Trails:
- Memorial Park features a 3-mile loop and free fitness stations.
- Buffalo Bayou Park offers scenic trails and kayak rentals ($15/hour).
- Hermann Park includes a 2-mile jogging trail and paddleboat rentals ($12/30 minutes).
Dining Costs
- Lunch: $10–$15 at casual spots like Local Foods or Pondicheri.
- Dinner: $25–$40 per person at mid-range restaurants like Uchi or The Pit Room.
- Drinks: $6–$12 for craft cocktails at **An
Financial Facts for Houston, TX
- State Income Tax Rate: Texas does not impose a state income tax, making Houston an attractive location for individuals and businesses seeking tax advantages. This policy is outlined by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts.
- Property Tax Average: The average property tax rate in Houston is approximately 2.1% of assessed value, with specific rates varying by jurisdiction. For example, the City of here charges $0.51919 per $100 of assessed value, while Harris County levies $0.38529 per $100. Detailed rates are available from the Harris County Appraisal District.
- Cost of Living Comparison: Houston's cost of living is approximately 20% lower than that of nearby major cities like Austin and Dallas. Housing costs are a significant driver of this difference, with median home prices around $300,000 compared to $450,000 in Austin. Data can be verified using tools like Forbes' Cost of Living Calculator.
- Growing Industries: Key industries driving job growth in Houston include energy, life sciences, and aerospace. The region added over 100,000 jobs in 2023, with the energy sector alone