Is Houston, TX, a Good Place to Live?

What’s It Like to Live in Houston?

Houston, Texas, is a Southern metropolis that truly offers something for everyone, with arts, sports, academics, and a thriving job market. Known as the Energy Capital of the World for its role in the oil and gas industries, Houston’s large population doesn’t detract from the community that residents find here.

Facts to Know About Houston

Houston was founded in August 1836, only five months after the Republic of Texas declared its independence from Mexico. Less than ten years later, Texas joined the United States as the 28^th state. In the 180 years Texas has been a state, it has become known for its Mexican-fusion cuisine and as the hometown of celebrities like Beyoncé, Kenny Rogers, and Jennifer Garner.

• Population: About 2.3 million residents, according to the 2020 U.S. Census. It is the most populated city in Texas, ahead of San Antonio and Dallas.
• Special landmarks: San Jacinto Monument and Museum, Space Center Houston, NRG Stadium, Houston Museum of Natural Science.
• Historic implications: Oil was discovered along the Gulf Coast near Houston in 1901, and by 1920, Houston was a leader in the oil industry. The 1970s saw another oil boom, solidifying Houston’s place as a world leader in the energy industry.
• Universities: Rice University, University of Houston, and University of St. Thomas are three notable universities in Houston.

The Pros and Cons of Living in Houston, Texas

Pro: Cultural diversity

The ethnicity distribution in Houston is much more spread out than the national average, and Houston consistently ranks as one of the most diverse cities in the U.S.

The city’s diversity opens plenty of opportunities and ensures everyone feels welcomed with open arms. One resident on Niche.com said, “it makes me feel at home and comfortable.”

With a diverse population comes plenty of food options, and Houston does not disappoint. Restaurants serving international cuisines are scattered across the city, and Houston even has several Michelin-recognized restaurants. But the crown jewel of Houston’s food scene is Tex-Mex, and the city has Tex-Mex restaurants around every corner.

Con: Lack of public transit

While Houston residents have access to METRO buses and trains, residents say the system just doesn’t cut it. Residents on Niche.com consistently say that the city’s public transit system isn’t extensive enough for the city’s size. As a result, traffic in Houston can be pretty bad.

One resident said that extending the METRO system would make Houston a better place to live: “I think that working to create a system of public transportation that goes everywhere in the area and not just three streets downtown would really help improve the quality of life.”

Pro: Affordable cost of living

The overall cost of living in Houston is 5.7% lower than the national average, allowing residents to experience life in a big city without shelling out big bucks. Groceries, gas, and healthcare in Houston are all under the national average, which is a game-changer for renters moving to Houston from an expensive city.

Rent is cheaper here, too. At $1,199/month, Houston’s average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is 26% below the national average of $1,624/month. If you’re on a tight budget, there are plenty of cheap rentals to choose from.

Con: Hot and humid climate

Residents report that Houston’s climate can be unbearable. One resident described the climate as “stifling,” and another said, “it’s hot and humid three quarters of the year and the rest is cold and humid.”  

Between 2014 and 2024, Houston’s summer temperatures averaged 85.6 degrees, about 17% higher than the national average summer temperature of 73.15 degrees. Houston's winter temperatures averaged 58.1 degrees between 2014 and 2024, about 67% higher than the national average winter temperature of 34.75 degrees.

Pro: Great neighborhoods

The neighborhoods in Houston are a mixed bag, but you’ll meet friendly people everywhere you go. Places to live in Houston have something for everyone, from high rise apartment buildings in the middle of the city to quaint cottages on the outskirts of Houston.

Three popular neighborhoods in Houston are:

• Montrose: An eclectic area on the cusp of Midtown Houston.
• Washington Ave: An upscale neighborhood bordered by expansive green spaces.
• Clear Lake: A waterfront suburb just a short drive to Galveston Bay.

Con: Not walkable

Houston is not a walkable city, and residents take notice. One resident said, “It’s one of the least walk-friendly cities I’ve ever been in.” Another said, “The majority of Houston is highways and streets, but no sidewalks. You have to have a car here.”

The city of Houston has a WalkScore of 53 out of 100 and a TransitScore of 31 out of 100. Some areas, like Midtown Houston or Hyde Park, are walkable, but residential areas outside of the city center are car-reliant.

Things to Do in Houston

Whether you’re intrigued by NASA or the nightlife, Houston has something for you.

• Outdoor activities: Hermann Park, Levy Park, and Memorial Park all offer green areas for frisbee or picnics. Clear Lake Park in the southern corner of Houston has a fishing pier and a boat launch.
• Cultural attractions: Daikin Park, NRG Stadium, Houston Museum of Natural Science, The Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Zoo offer weekend activities for everyone.
• Dining: Houston is best known for its host of Tex-Mex restaurants. Stop by any local Tex-Mex joint for some steak fajitas and cheese enchiladas.

Ready to make the move?

If Houston has caught your eye, take the next step with Apartments.com! Take a look at the most affordable neighborhoods in Houston, or use our customizable filters to narrow your search by price, amenities, and floor plan.

Wherever you are and wherever you’re going, Apartments.com has the tools to help you find the perfect place.