Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Houston, TX
Considering a move to Houston, TX? As the nation’s fourth-largest city, Houston offers an affordable median home price of $273,700 and average rent around $1,320. Residents enjoy 62% sunny days per year, a subtropical climate, and access to world-class healthcare and universities. Commute times average 28.7 minutes, and the city’s vibrant, diverse population brings rich cultural opportunities. While crime rates are higher than national averages, Houston’s cost of living is below the U.S. norm and its robust job market and amenities make it a top destination for new arrivals.
Demographics - Houston, TX
Demographics - Houston, TX
Houston is home to over 2.3 million residents, making it the fourth-largest city in the United States. The city has a youthful median age of 34.7 and a diverse ethnic makeup, with nearly 38% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. This vibrant diversity contributes to Houston’s rich cultural life and dynamic neighborhoods.
Population:
2,302,878
Density:
3,850 per sq mi
Median Age:
34.7
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
38.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
24.4%
Black:
22.6%
Asian:
7.2%
Others:
45.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Houston, TX?
Houston offers a cost of living that is slightly below the national average, with a median home value of $273,700 and average rent around $1,320 per month. Residents benefit from no state income tax and generally affordable groceries and transportation. Utility costs are a bit higher than average, but overall expenses make Houston an attractive choice for budget-conscious movers.
Median House Value:
$273,700
Gross Rent:
$1,320
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,875
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,930
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$610
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
96.4
Grocery:
92.5
Housing:
81.3
Utilities:
104.2
Transportation:
98.8
Health Care:
98.7
Miscellaneous:
97.6
Crime
Is Houston, TX a safe place to live?
Houston experiences higher crime rates than the national average, with a chance of property crime at 1 in 21 and violent crime at 1 in 80. While these figures may be a concern, many neighborhoods remain safe and active community policing efforts are in place. It's important for new residents to research local areas to find the right fit for their needs.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
1,256
Property Crimes Per 100k:
4,849
Crime Index:
6,105
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 80
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 21
Weather
What is the weather like in Houston, TX year-round?
Houston features a humid subtropical climate, with mild winters averaging 45–65°F and hot, humid summers peaking near 95°F. The city enjoys 62% sunshine throughout the year and receives about 53 inches of rainfall annually. This weather supports lush greenery but can also bring occasional storms and heavy rain.
Winter
Min:
45°F
Max:
65°F
Spring
Min:
60°F
Max:
82°F
Summer
Min:
75°F
Max:
95°F
Fall
Min:
60°F
Max:
83°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
53.3 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Houston’s neighborhoods are economically varied, with a median household income of $56,019 and a poverty rate of 19.5%. Most residents have at least a high school education, and the average commute is under 30 minutes. The city’s diverse communities and growing job market make it a welcoming place for newcomers.
Median Income:
$37,000
Household Income:
$56,019
Family Income:
$64,000
Per Capita Income:
$34,343
Income Male:
$41,500
Income Female:
$34,200
Poverty Rate:
19.5%
Non English Speakers:
38.1%
Rent:
$1,320
Unemployment Rate:
4.6%
Public Transport Usage:
3.3%
Commute Time:
28.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
80.9%
Bachelors or More:
33.7%
Education
How are the schools in Houston, TX?
Houston offers a wide array of educational opportunities, from large public schools like Bellaire High to top private institutions and major universities such as the University of Houston and Rice University. About a third of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, reflecting the city’s strong emphasis on education. Students benefit from diverse programs and access to higher learning close to home.
Public Schools
Name:
Bellaire High School
Street:
5100 Maple St
Phone:
713-295-3704
Students:
3,200
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.5
Name:
Lanier Middle School
Street:
2600 Woodhead St
Phone:
713-942-1900
Students:
1,500
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.2
Private Schools
Name:
St. John's School
Street:
2401 Claremont Ln
Phone:
713-850-0222
Students:
1,400
Colleges
Name:
University of Houston
City:
Houston
State:
TX
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
47,000
Name:
Rice University
City:
Houston
State:
TX
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
8,500
Healthcare
Houston is renowned for its world-class healthcare facilities, including major hospitals like Houston Methodist and Memorial Hermann. With 3.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and a healthcare coverage rate of 75.3%, the city provides broad access to quality medical care. Residents benefit from a robust healthcare network and leading medical research centers.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Houston Methodist Hospital
Address:
6565 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030
Phone:
(713) 790-3311
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center
Address:
6411 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030
Phone:
(713) 704-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
75.3%
Health Care Index:
72.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Houston, TX?
Houston’s housing market is relatively affordable, with a median home price of $273,700 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $1,320. The city’s homeownership rate is around 42%, and housing appreciation remains steady. A moderate rental vacancy rate provides options for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$273,700
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,320
Owner Occupied Rate:
42.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.4%
New Construction Rate:
2.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing in Houston are managed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, with comprehensive services available both online and at statewide offices. Residents can easily access information and resources via the state DMV website or by phone. This streamlined process helps newcomers settle in quickly.
State:
Texas
Department:
Texas Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
4000 Jackson Ave, Austin, TX 78731
Phone:
1-888-368-4689
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.