Overview
Houston is the largest city in Texas and the fourth-largest in the United States. Known as the energy capital of the world, Houston offers diverse job opportunities, world-class medical facilities, incredible ethnic food diversity, and affordable living costs with no state income tax.
Why People Move to Houston
- No state income tax
- Energy, healthcare, and aerospace job opportunities
- Most ethnically diverse major city in the US
- Affordable cost of living
- World-renowned Texas Medical Center
Average Moving Costs to Houston
| From | Studio/1BR | 2BR |
|---|---|---|
| Dallas (240 mi) | $1,000-$1,800 | $1,800-$3,000 |
| Austin (165 mi) | $800-$1,500 | $1,500-$2,500 |
| New Orleans (350 mi) | $1,400-$2,400 | $2,400-$4,000 |
| Los Angeles (1,550 mi) | $3,400-$5,200 | $5,200-$8,200 |
* Estimates for professional full-service moves. DIY moves with rental trucks typically cost 40-60% less.
Best Neighborhoods for Newcomers
Montrose
Avg Rent: $1,400-$2,400 (1BR)
Eclectic, LGBTQ+-friendly neighborhood with museums, restaurants, and nightlife.
The Heights
Avg Rent: $1,600-$2,600 (1BR)
Historic area with Victorian homes, local shops, and family-friendly atmosphere.
Midtown
Avg Rent: $1,500-$2,500 (1BR)
Urban living with bars, restaurants, and easy access to downtown.
Sugar Land
Avg Rent: $1,400-$2,200 (1BR)
Family-friendly suburb with excellent schools and master-planned communities.
Cost of Living in Houston
- Rent (1BR)$1,200-$2,000/month average
- GroceriesAbout 5% below national average
- Dining out$10-$18 casual, $40-$80 upscale
- State income taxNone (0%)
Utilities & Services
Electric
Various (deregulated)
$120-$250/month (summer AC intensive)
Internet
Comcast, AT&T
$50-$80/month
Water
City of Houston
$40-$80/month
Gas
CenterPoint
$20-$50/month
Job Market in Houston
- Energy capital: ExxonMobil, Chevron, Shell, BP
- Texas Medical Center - largest medical complex in the world
- NASA Johnson Space Center
- Growing tech sector
- Port of Houston - major logistics hub
Transportation in Houston
Public Transit
METRO light rail and bus. Monthly pass $90. Limited coverage, car essential.
Car
Absolutely essential. Extensive freeway system. Traffic can be brutal.
Biking
Challenging due to sprawl, heat, and humidity. Some bayou trails available.
Moving Tips for Houston
Best Time to Move
October-April for cooler weather. Avoid hurricane season peak (August-October) and brutal summer heat/humidity.
Things to Know Before Moving
- Flooding is a serious concern - research flood zones and get flood insurance
- Shop electricity rates carefully in the deregulated market
- Air conditioning is non-negotiable - confirm it works before signing lease
- Covered parking protects from hail and sun damage
Pros and Cons of Living in Houston
Pros
- +No state income tax
- +Diverse job market
- +Incredible food scene
- +Affordable housing
- +Cultural diversity
Cons
- -Extreme humidity and heat
- -Flooding risk
- -Urban sprawl
- -Traffic congestion
- -Hurricane exposure