City Profile
Houston, Texas
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Houston, often referred to as 'Space City' due to its strong ties to NASA's Johnson Space Center, is a sprawling metropolis in Texas known for its diverse economy, cultural attractions, and relatively affordable cost of living. The city boasts a rich history rooted in the energy industry, which continues to be a major economic driver. People are drawn to Houston for its abundant job opportunities, particularly in sectors like healthcare, energy, and aerospace, as well as its vibrant culinary scene and diverse communities. Its strategic location near the Gulf of Mexico also contributes to its unique climate and port activity.
Texas, known as the "Lone Star State," is characterized by its vast and diverse landscapes, ranging from eastern forests to western deserts, and a strong sense of cultural identity. Its economy is one of the largest and most diverse in the United States, driven by major industries such as energy (oil, natural gas, and renewables), information technology, aerospace, defense, manufacturing, and agriculture. Living in Texas generally offers a lower cost of living compared to the national average, with housing expenses being approximately 16% lower. The climate varies significantly across the state, from humid subtropical in the east to semi-arid in the west, with notoriously hot summers, especially in southern cities, and mild to cool winters. The lifestyle often blends urban amenities with a strong appreciation for outdoor activities, Texan heritage, and a generally pro-business environment.
Performance
Quality Scores
Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Houston is generally considered budget-friendly compared to many other major U.S. cities. As of September 2024, the average cost of living in Houston was only 2% higher than the state average and a notable 6% lower than the national average, according to RentCafe®. Housing costs, in particular, are a significant factor in Houston's affordability, being approximately 17% less than the U.S. average as of September 2024. While utilities can sometimes be higher than the national average due to the privatized energy market, residents have options to shop for providers, potentially customizing plans to suit their budgets.
Income
Salary Insights
Houston's job market continues to expand, though at a moderating pace, with the Greater Houston Partnership projecting 75,000 new jobs in 2025, pushing total employment past 3.5 million. Key growth sectors for 2025 include government, hospitality, construction, professional and technical services, and healthcare. The energy industry, particularly oil and gas, remains a significant employer, experiencing a 9.7% growth in employment in 2024. The city also shows a strong entrepreneurial spirit, with a 92% rise in small business account applications between 2024 and 2025. While the overall economic outlook is positive, some indicators, like the Houston Purchasing Managers Index, showed slight contraction in early 2025, suggesting a potential slowing of the regional economy.
The average salary in Houston is $75,200 per year. You would need approximately $69,000 to live comfortably.
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Mobility
Transport
Getting around Houston primarily relies on personal vehicles, as indicated by the high traffic index and commute times. The city's extensive freeway system is often congested, especially during peak hours, leading to an average commute time of 28 minutes. While public transportation options exist, including METRORail and bus services, the city's sprawling layout means that walkability and transit scores are generally lower compared to more densely populated, older cities. This necessitates a high car dependency for most residents to navigate the metropolitan area effectively.
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