So, if you’re considering moving to Houston, Texas or you already live in Houston, you’ve probably heard about its affordable housing and diverse population. But what exactly are the benefits of living in Houston? What should you know before you make the move?
Whether you’re moving for business or leisure, you’ll find that Houston has a lot to offer. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a neighborhood in Houston.
Houston is a growing city
When it comes to affordability, Houston is a city worth considering. The greater Houston area’s population grew by nearly 1 million in the past decade. The growing economy in Houston is fueled by job opportunities, affordable living costs, and high quality of life. Despite a downturn in the energy industry, the city’s economy remains resilient, and many people are looking for an easier life in Houston. Despite these challenges, Houston remains an attractive destination for young professionals and families.
However, Houston is not the fastest-growing city in the country. While the United States’ population increased by only 0.5% from the 2010 census to the 2020 census, the city has experienced a ten-percent increase from the previous year. That’s a far cry from the national average, which saw a 2.3% increase. The city’s growth is due to a number of factors, including the lenient regulations that allow developers to build anywhere without fear of being regulated. Moreover, the high cost of living forces people to move out of other major cities. This means that the city will likely continue to expand. However, it’s unlikely that it will catch up to Chicago and become the third-largest city in the country. Rather, it’s the metro areas of Dallas and Houston that will continue to grow, not Houston itself.
The Houston area’s economy is heavily reliant on energy and manufacturing. However, the city was hard hit during the Great Recession. The oil industry provided almost half of the city’s GDP before the downturn began in 2008 and lasted until November of last year. The economic impact of the oil bust on Houston was minimal, but the job losses were substantial. The oil bust did not have the same drastic effect as the oil-related recession in the 1980s, but it still affected the economy in a similar way. Despite the economic impact of the oil bust, the city has been able to rebound from the recession, with employment increasing by 18.6 percent between December 2009 and December 2014 – a rate that is above the national average.
Houston has a low cost of living
Living in Houston, Texas is affordable if you have a reasonable income. According to AreaVibes, the median household income in Houston is $52,338 – six percent lower than the national average. This means that your monthly expenses will be around $2,900 for a family of four and about $800 for an individual. The average cost of living in Houston depends on several factors, such as inflation, taxes, and the real estate market.
The city also has a low cost of living. The cost of living is significantly lower than the national average, and housing is the most expensive expense in Houston. The Greater Houston Partnership reports that there will be 71,000 new jobs in the city in 2019. Despite the pandemic that’s hit most cities, Houston is on track for a strong economy in 2022.
Rents in Houston are generally lower than the national average, with an average one-bedroom apartment renting for about $1,200. Three-bedroom homes in Houston’s proper city center are around $2,500, a few hundred dollars more. While prices are higher in some popular Houston neighborhoods, they are lower in the suburbs. However, the coronavirus pandemic is causing a surge in rents in the area.
Houston has a diverse population
If you’re considering moving to Houston, Texas, you’re certainly not alone. The city has experienced a diverse population for years. According to Rice University sociologist Michael Emerson, the city has nearly equal populations of all major ethnic groups, and its economic growth has helped fuel this growth. However, while the city’s economy isn’t perfect, it is still a great place for those worried about their job security or their ability to pay the bills.
The city is home to a number of university campuses, including two Tier 1 universities. The University of Houston is a public institution, while Rice University is a private university. Private institutions are plentiful, too. Houston offers over 300 public, and private schools, as well as 14 institutions of higher learning, including Rice University and Houston University. The city has plenty of parks and open space for families to enjoy, and there are plenty of child-friendly activities for young children.
The city has a wide variety of ethnic groups. Although Houston has a diverse population, its non-Hispanic white population has nearly halved since 1970, when it made up nearly 60% of the city’s population. It is now the third-largest city in the United States for its Hispanic population, and the ethnic diversity is even more pronounced as you move further from the city center.
Houston has good schools
In Houston, TX, public schools rank well. Houston is home to the largest concentration of top-ranked schools in the state. The average math and reading proficiency scores at public schools in Houston, TX, are about 45% and 41%, respectively. The average ranking in Houston is 5/10, which puts it in the bottom 50 percent of Texas’s public schools. The majority of Houston schools are minority-focused, with ninety percent of the student body being minorities.
Those looking for an alternative to traditional public schools should consider charter schools. These schools offer greater flexibility and curricular freedom, but the increased autonomy also comes with a high degree of accountability. If a Houston charter school does not meet certain benchmarks, it could lose its charter. Because Houston charter schools tend to specialize in one field, most students attend them with similar interests. They prepare students for college and careers better than traditional public schools.
Many parents worry about the impact of public schools on their children. Fortunately, there are many public schools in Houston that have a good reputation. Although public schools are generally considered underprivileged in America, Houston schools are a great choice for many parents. Because the public school system is relatively inexpensive, it provides quality education for children. Parents also don’t have to worry about the quality of education in Houston, as public schools typically have rigorous curricula.
Houston has plenty of green space
If you’re looking for green space in Houston Texas, you’ve come to the right place. In recent years, Houston has become more conscious of green spaces and parks in its city. This has resulted in more green space in Houston, including numerous parks and natural areas. In fact, Houston has more parks per capita than any other U.S. city. Whether you want to relax in a park, play a game of tennis, or take a stroll, Houston has plenty of green space.
Despite Houston’s reputation as the “concrete jungle of Texas,” it has a surprising amount of green space per capita. Despite its dense population, the city has more than 500 acres of parkland, making it one of the top cities in the country when it comes to green space. The city also boasts an impressive number of parks, from urban downtown green spaces like Discovery Green to vast nature reserves. With plenty of green space, residents can spend their days outdoors enjoying the sun and the fresh air.
However, Houston parks are in dire need of improvement. The Trust for Public Land has ranked Houston parks 85th out of the 100 largest U.S. cities for their quality and amenities. Houston parks don’t have bathrooms or playgrounds and don’t have basketball hoops or dog parks. Nevertheless, there are several ways Houston can improve its parks and green spaces. Its efforts have been recognized by both local and national experts.
Houston has a booming job market
With unemployment rates at under 5 percent, Houston Texas has a thriving job market. In March, more Houstonians were employed than were unemployed. And while Houston still has plenty of labor, many areas are experiencing faster job growth than others. Restaurants, bars, retail, wholesale trade, and government are leading the way in job growth. But the state’s energy sector continues to slow down, and this is having an indirect effect on the other three job categories.
Although it’s a tough economy right now, Houston has recovered 300% of the jobs it lost during the recession. With a robust port trade, more than a dozen Fortune 500 companies have moved to the city. And in the past five years, 100 international companies have expanded in Houston. The Texas medical center is the city’s largest employer, with 21 hospitals and eight academic and research institutions. The city also hosts a world-class cancer research hospital.
Houston’s Best Neighborhoods for Young Professionals
Whether you are a medical professional, a young professional, or just looking for a great place to live, this article will show you the best neighborhoods in Houston. These neighborhoods are moderately priced, safe, and offer a lot of great amenities. You can also find a house for rent in these neighborhoods, so you can spend your time making plans without having to worry about the costs. Read on to discover the best neighborhoods in Houston!
West University Neighborhood
The West University Neighborhood, otherwise known as West U, is located southwest of downtown Houston near Rice Village. Living outside of the city center has its benefits. You’ll be surrounded by green spaces, parks, and oak-lined streets. You can even take a bike ride on the street without fear of being hit by a car. This is one of Houston’s most safe neighborhoods, with just 64 incidents of crime per 100,000 residents.
The West U community has an upscale reputation and attracts many professionals looking for a convenient location near downtown. The median household income is $221,000 per year, almost four times that of the average American. The median house value is $917,800. 24/7 Wall Street gave the neighborhood a thumbs-up for affordability, stating that goods and services cost less in the area than in other cities. The employment market is also healthy, with a five-year unemployment rate of 2.7 percent.
A few of the city’s best restaurants are located in West U. Little Matt’s, a classic southern deli, offers a candy shop, game room, and a restaurant that donates to the Texas Children’s Hospital. Alternatively, head to Under the Volcano for a Mexican-inspired dining experience. It features a cozy patio and delicious appetizers. The West U neighborhood is also home to the University of Houston and Texas Southern University.
Uptown Park Neighborhood
The Uptown Park neighborhood is located in Uptown Houston. This area offers the best of both worlds. The city’s central business district and suburban feel are both within walking distance of this neighborhood. Located near the Galleria and Memorial Park, the Uptown Park neighborhood has a scenic atmosphere and is a popular area for those looking to live near the city’s main attractions. Whether you’re looking for an apartment complex or a condo in the area, you’ll find plenty to choose from in this city.
The Uptown Park Neighborhood is home to many unique restaurants, shops, and galleries. Located near Memorial Park, this shopping center is filled with local seasonal cuisine and high-end designer collections. The neighborhood also boasts a buzzing wine bar. It’s a popular spot for Houston locals, upward-bound professionals, and global tourists. The area’s friendly ambiance blends the best of big-city culture with southern hospitality.
The Heights Neighborhood
The Heights neighborhood is a great place to live if you’re looking for a family-friendly neighborhood with great outdoor activities. Because it’s located so close to the city, it’s ideal for those who don’t want to live in the middle of the bustling downtown area. This historic district is a perfect blend of suburban and urban. With gorgeous homes, this neighborhood has a lot to offer those who love both urban and suburban living.
The Heights has a relatively low vacancy rate, with around eight percent of homes being owner-occupied. Residents are mostly young families, with a median age of 35. The Heights has a mixed population of around 17,000, with roughly equal gender distribution.
EaDo Neighborhood
The EaDo Neighborhood is a great choice for those seeking easy access to downtown Houston and a plethora of new development projects. In recent years, developers have invested more than $250 million in the neighborhood, including the BBVA stadium and the expansion of MetroRail. Located just 200 feet from the George R. Brown Convention Center, EaDo is one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Houston. The neighborhood has easy access to both the downtown area and the Medical Center.
The property values in the EaDo Neighborhood are significantly lower than in other neighborhoods in Houston, and land values are about half of those in Downtown Houston. EaDo offers a variety of housing options, including townhomes, single family homes, and lofts. There is also plenty of new construction, making this a great place to find your new home. Whether you’re looking for an urban living environment or an affordable, walkable community, the EaDo has it all.
Downtown Neighborhood
If you’re looking for a home in the Downtown Neighborhood of Houston, you’ve come to the right place. Despite the city’s sprawl, it’s easy to find a great deal of variety in this area. While you could spend years snaking through traffic to explore all of Houston’s neighborhoods, it’s usually more practical to focus on one. There are many things to do and see in each of these neighborhoods, including historic buildings, museums, and parks. Plus, there’s a lot of great food to try out, so you’ll never get bored living in one!
The Downtown Neighborhood of Houston is a bustling business district and home to top-rated dining and shopping. With a high concentration of business professionals, the area is the perfect place to work if you’re in the city for business. Located near the Theater District and numerous shopping areas, this area is ideal for the working professional looking to avoid traffic and travel. It’s also close to the downtown area’s nightlife and entertainment district.
Midtown Neighborhood
The Midtown Neighborhood in Houston is a modern, vibrant community with arts and cultural heart. Located just outside of downtown, this neighborhood has plenty to offer visitors and locals alike. The Midtown Arts and Theater Center is a cultural hub, and the neighborhood has plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from. Whether you’re looking for your first home, a place to call your own, or somewhere to spend the night, the Midtown area has a lot to offer.
There’s something for everyone. You can enjoy yoga in the park, live music, art galleries, or explore a neighborhood’s unique history. Amidtown also is a vibrant business center, and the neighborhood employs over 5,000 people. Ninety percent of this group work in white-collar jobs, while only 5% work in the government.
Galleria Neighborhood
The Galleria Neighborhood in Houston, Texas, is the most cosmopolitan neighborhood in the city. It’s centered around the huge Galleria Mall, home to nearly 400 stores and 50 restaurants. Despite its name, the area is technically known as Uptown and encompasses everything west of 610, north of Highway 59, south of Woodway, and east of Voss Road. It’s known for its diverse culture and modern style and has an excellent reputation as a place to live.
Those who live in this area enjoy an active nightlife, which is characterized by exclusive bars, restaurants, and clubs. In addition to the nightlife, residents can enjoy the Houston Williams Tower, a class-A art deco office tower with a Rooftop Cinema Club. If you’re looking for a place to work, consider a luxury hotel in this area. You’ll find everything you need in the nearby Texas Medical Center, including the Houston Museum of Art.
Museum District Neighborhood
The Museum District neighborhood is located in south Houston near the Texas Medical Center. This cultural district has 19 world-class museums that are family-friendly. You can visit the Houston National Museum of Natural Science and experience its interactive exhibits, giant-screen theater, planetarium, butterfly center, and many other fun activities. Nearby, you can visit the nearby Hermann Park or head downtown to enjoy the beautiful parks in Downtown Houston.
There are many reasons to consider moving to the Museum District. The area is affluent but not overly expensive. The cost of living is low in comparison to other big cities, and you can afford to live in this area without breaking the bank. However, you will have to have a job lined up before making a move to the Museum District. Houston’s Museum District neighborhood is one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in the city.
The Museum District isn’t for those who love to eat and party. While the area is definitely cool, it doesn’t have a grocery store. The Museum District has a few restaurants and stores, but they’re mostly neighborhood eateries. However, if you’re looking for a place that has a big arts scene, it may not be the right neighborhood for you. You might even consider the Montrose area instead.
The Montrose neighborhood
The Montrose neighborhood in Houston is consistently rated as one of Houston’s best neighborhoods for young people. With a hip, urban vibe, the Montrose is home to a wide variety of residents. The neighborhood offers a vibrant arts scene, trendy craft breweries, and a variety of entertainment options. If you’re interested in relocating to Houston, the Montrose neighborhood is an excellent choice.
The Montrose neighborhood is a mix of ethnicities and is well known for its Bohemian culture and nightlife. Young professionals will feel right at home in Montrose, and families can enjoy the urban lifestyle and the nearby green space. Here, you can live the life of a young professional, but still have all of the conveniences of downtown. The Montrose area is just east of Downtown Houston.
The Montrose is located north of I-69 and south of U.S. 59 and is just under four miles from downtown Houston’s attractions. Attractions in Montrose include the Menil Collection and Buffalo Bayou Park, a 160-acre park. The park has a children’s playground and is also home to the Sages Repertory Theater. In addition to its diverse cultural offerings, Montrose offers affordable housing in a hip and eclectic neighborhood.
Fourth Ward Neighborhood
There are many factors to consider when choosing a Houston neighborhood. The best areas for young professionals include places with affordable housing and easy access to a variety of entertainment options. Listed below are the top Houston neighborhoods for millennials. If you’re looking for a neighborhood that has everything young professionals want, check out Houston’s Fourth Ward. Its eclectic mix of old and new homes offers a fun atmosphere for young professionals.
While Houston’s downtown is not particularly hip and trendy, there’s still plenty of entertainment options available. There are great bars and restaurants, a thriving theater district, and good public parks in the area. It’s also very walkable and has easy public transportation. Young professionals who work downtown will enjoy living in this area. The area is also close to the central business district, so it’s easy to stay on top of your work and social life.
The Fourth Ward neighborhood has a rich history. As a historically African-American community, it was home to many jazz musicians. Today, this historic neighborhood is home to many young professionals. The rich history of the neighborhood is evident in places like Sam Houston Park and the Kellum-Noble House. You’ll also be close to downtown Houston’s historic district. This neighborhood is one of the best for young professionals because of its affordability.
Washington Avenue Coalition Neighborhood
A few of Houston’s best neighborhoods for young professionals are located in the Midtown area. These neighborhoods are hip, trendy, and clean. They are also conveniently close to the downtown area, the Texas Medical Center, and three METRORail stations. Regardless of whether you want to live near the city center, you will find that these neighborhoods are perfect for you. If you are looking for a great place to raise a family or live near some of the best restaurants in Houston, this neighborhood is perfect for you.
In addition to these top neighborhoods, you can also live in the Midtown Downtown area. This area is very pedestrian and dog-friendly. Neartown – Montrose is a great place for young professionals looking for a more affordable living option. These neighborhoods are also close to the Houston Zoo and many other attractions. In addition, they are near highways and are close to restaurants, grocery stores, and entertainment. The Montrose area is another neighborhood in Houston that is perfect for young professionals.
Upper Kirby Neighborhood
If you’re a young professional looking for an urban living experience, you should consider the Upper Kirby Neighborhood. This Houston neighborhood is home to many young professionals who love living near work, delicious restaurants, and shopping centers. The neighborhood is close to I-69 and is considered one of Houston’s safest neighborhoods. Nearby Greenway Plaza is a great place for those looking to shop.
With so many dining and bar options, this Houston neighborhood is a great choice for a young professional. The vibrant local bar scene keeps residents coming back for more. This neighborhood also offers beautiful streets, urban amenities, and walking distance to Downtown Houston. The Maple Leaf Pub, Nouveau Antique Art Bar, and Continental Club are popular hangouts for Young professionals. There are plenty of other options for a great night out, as well.
Greenway/Upper Kirby is an urban neighborhood located southwest of downtown Houston. It is home to nearly 20,000 residents and boasts an eclectic mix of residential and commercial lifestyles. It is a hub of commerce in Houston, with a wide range of housing options. Greenway Plaza is a beautiful architectural masterpiece, featuring some of the city’s most prestigious businesses. With a variety of amenities, Upper Kirby is a great place to live for young professionals.
Greenway Plaza Neighborhood
One of Houston’s hottest neighborhoods for young professionals is the vibrant Greenway Plaza. With its urban amenities and many restaurants, this neighborhood attracts young professionals looking for a laid-back, walkable lifestyle. The popular Continental Club and Nouveau Antique Art Bar are just a couple of the most popular spots in this neighborhood. Whether you’re into wine, craft beer, or just trying out a new restaurant, you’ll find a place to enjoy it in this Houston neighborhood.
Located southwest of downtown Houston, the Greenway/Upper Kirby neighborhood has a diverse population of nearly 20,000 people and a mix of residential and commercial lifestyles. This area boasts an architectural masterpiece, Greenway Plaza, which showcases some of Houston’s most prestigious businesses. Young professionals looking for a convenient, suburban lifestyle in Houston’s Central Business District will be pleased to find these options in this neighborhood.
Memorial CityCentre Neighborhood
The Memorial CityCentre neighborhood is home to a growing bar and restaurant scene. The area is surrounded by reputable schools and has several retail developments. In addition, it’s close to downtown Houston, The Galleria, and one of the largest urban parks in the country. Its central location makes it a popular choice among young professionals. After work, you’ll want to explore the city’s best nightlife. After work, enjoy a drink at the Maple Leaf Pub, Nouveau Antique Art Bar, or Continental Club. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a place to get down in this neighborhood without running into your old friends or making new ones.
There are many things to do in Houston for young professionals, including exploring the city’s cultural and historic districts. Nearby, the city’s famous Fourth Ward is an important African-American historic neighborhood and the birthplace of many jazz musicians. Today, it is home to a diverse population of young professionals. The neighborhood features the Kellum-Noble House and Sam Houston Park, which both feature rich histories of the Fourth Ward.
River Oaks Neighborhood
If you’re a single professional looking for a great place to live, the downtown Houston area is perfect. This area features the Central Business District, and entertainment options, and is conveniently located near public transportation. The downtown area is also perfect for those working in the Inner Loop and looking to live near the action. Many people who live in the Downtown area also prefer this area because it is easy to access public transportation and is walkable.
This area is perfect for young professionals looking for a location near Downtown Houston. Despite its urban vibe, this neighborhood boasts many attractive architecture types. The neighborhood is also located just three miles from downtown. The neighborhood is a great place for young professionals, as it offers a relaxed environment while still being close to the city’s best attractions.
Rice Village Neighborhood
Young professionals who want to live near downtown Houston may choose the Rice Village Neighborhood. This small, suburban community is close to the city’s major attractions, including the Medical Center and Rice University. Its mix of older and newer homes, public transportation, and easy access to I-69 make this neighborhood a desirable place to live. This neighborhood has a thriving business community and is an excellent choice for professionals who work in or near the medical center.
While Rice Village is located near the Texas Medical Center and the Houston Medical Center, it offers a surprisingly safe and convenient area. It has great restaurants, shops, and plenty of nightlife. While it can be a little expensive to live in, it is worth it for the safety and convenience it provides. Residents enjoy easy access to great dining options, a bustling nightlife scene, and the proximity to Houston’s medical district and university.