New York City and Los Angeles are often considered America's melting pots, but Houston should join them on that list. The booming economy, affordable cost of living, and quality of life have made Houston one of the country's fastest-growing cities. With many international businesses and over 90 countries represented, there is a thriving expat community. Lucky for you, most of the issues that plague larger cities — such as soaring housing costs and crime — are not a massive concern in Houston.
There are a few things house-hunting expats will want to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in the Houston area. Hurricane Harvey struck the region in August 2017, resulting in a significant amount of damage. Many homes were destroyed, so expats should be patient in their search while buildings are being assessed and repaired. Additionally, the sprawl (Houston covers over 1500 km²), humidity, and lack of sufficient public transportation mean that having a car is a must in Houston.
For general advice on searching for a home and signing a lease in the United States, see the article Accommodation in the USA.
Where to live in Houston: Neighborhoods
Central Houston is surrounded by Interstate 610, also known as 'the loop'. This term is an important and common reference for directions. For instance, the city's cultural institutions are located inside the loop, and many of the larger homes are outside of the loop. To help you decide which is best for you, consider factors such as walkability, a good school district, and your budget. A few of Houston's most popular neighborhoods are listed below.
West University Place
Located near the Museum District, Rice University, and downtown Houston, West University Place occupies an inner loop position. This neighborhood is a favorite among young professionals and families seeking proximity to key city attractions. While it tends to be pricier, nearby Bellaire provides a similar ambiance with more budget-friendly housing options.
Eastwood
In the industrial East End of Houston, Eastwood offers moderately priced single-family homes. The recent addition of the Metro Rail connecting the area to downtown has boosted its popularity.
The Memorial Villages
Comprising of six distinct communities, The Memorial Villages are extremely exclusive. Made up mainly of big homes near the downtown and within the sought-after Energy Corridor, this area is sophisticated.
Linkwood
Nestled on Houston's southwest side just beyond the loop, Linkwood comprises small-scale housing developments. This neighborhood is known for its strong sense of community.
The Woodlands
At the northern fringes of Houston lies The Woodlands, a sprawling community that could almost be considered a mini-city. Enclosing a blend of corporate campuses, shopping centers, and natural spaces, this is a popular option for families.
Accommodation and cost of living in Houston
As in many urban areas, accommodation sizes shrink, and costs rise as you approach the city center, a trend mirrored in Houston. The city's urban core primarily features apartments and townhomes, though single-family homes remain a viable choice.
Houston's average apartment rent is $1334, notably lower than in other major US cities like New York and LA, where rent might be double or even triple this amount. The typical Houston apartment spans over 882 square feet. For those seeking affordability and compactness, studios are attractive, while two- and three-bedroom units offer increased space with naturally corresponding costs. Suburban areas have more single-family homes.
Leasing a Houston apartment generally will include water, gas, trash services, and building upkeep. With houses, including these services rests with the owner's discretion. Given Houston's hot and humid summers, air conditioning is generally included in most houses, which also come equipped with essential appliances like refrigerators and stoves/ovens. Since Houston revolves around driving, usually a minimum of one parking space is typically provided.
Here are a few other things to consider when renting in Houston:
- Do a walk-through of the property: It's always a good idea to check the apartment/house you are about to rent first-hand. This way, you can see the state of the place, check for damage, and explore the neighborhood before making a long-term commitment. If you can't do the walk-through yourself, consider asking a friend or colleague for help;
- Inquire about the guest policy: Make sure to check if you can have long-term guests over at the property (partner, friends, family). It's also best to get these rules in writing to avoid possible future disputes;
- For student housing: review the guarantor clause. Students who sign a lease will often be asked to provide a guarantor — a person who will be liable for rent payments if said student can't fulfill rent obligations. Guarantors are typically parents — and it's important for them to review this clause before signing the lease;
- Get all the rules in writing: If renting the property has specific rules and regulations, it's best to ask the party you are renting from to provide these in writing. This way, you will have a reminder of what these regulations are, and there will be clear guidelines to follow in case of a dispute;
- Consult a professional: If you have more questions about your lease, it is best to get a professional opinion. Consulting a lawyer will help keep your tenant rights protected and make sure you are signing a legally accurate contract.
Life in Houston
Houston offers a year-round cultural buffet for expats, ranging from music and museums to sporting events and fine dining. Anchored by theatre and museum districts, the city is also famous for its eclectic live music scene. Sports enthusiasts will find their match in professional baseball (Astros), football (Texans), and basketball (Rockets) teams. Houston is always a gateway to Austin, Dallas, and New Orleans, all a manageable five-hour drive away, perfect for a quick escape or a road trip adventure.
Houston's humid subtropical climate ensures mild fall, winter, and spring temperatures. However, the summer months (June to August) intensify with high heat and humidity. Expect average highs of 30–32°C and humidity surpassing 90%. The saving grace is pervasive air conditioning in most buildings, businesses, and restaurants.
Crucial: Houston faces tropical storms and hurricanes, predominantly from July to October. Although not all storms cause major damage, preparedness is key. Emergency notifications are disseminated through all media channels, encompassing TV, radio, and SMS alerts to local numbers. For hurricane information and readiness, visit Ready.gov, a government resource.
Useful links:
Expat.com housing in Houston
Houston Chronicle housing ads
Craigslist - Houston housing
apartments.com
Houston crime map
Free attractions in the Houston area
Ready - Government information on hurricanes
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.
