Are you planning to put down roots in Space City?
Houston, TX has long been a global powerhouse in the field of space exploration, but there are far more reasons why Houston is a hot spot in the state of Texas.
The city has a booming economy, a solid job market, and plenty of places to discover and explore.
Reasons to Live in Houston
If you're into great weather, decadent food and fascinating culture, you'll easily see why this city is one of the fastest-growing metropolises in the country!
1. Affordability
You want to live in the middle of it all, but you don't exactly want to break the bank doing it. Thankfully, Houston allows you to have the best of all worlds.
The city is often recognized as one of the most affordable in the state, especially for first-time homebuyers. In fact, one study ranked it as one of the top 10 new-buyer-friendly metro areas in the US.
The reason?
Researchers explained that Houston homebuyers usually spend around 2.7 times their income to purchase their first home here, compared to the nationwide average of 3.3 times.
Moreover, the cost of living in Houston is 2% lower than the national average, making it even easier to live comfortably.
2. Family-Friendly Adventures
Not exactly a snow bunny? No problem.
Since 1881, it's snowed in Houston fewer than 100 times. The weather is ideal, and it stays that way all year round. Of course, this makes it even easier to enjoy the area's many parks and outdoor recreation facilities.
From the 12-acre Discovery Green and the recently renovated Market Square Park to Allen's Landing Park and the newly developed Buffalo Bayou Park, there are plenty of ways to spend a day outside. In the event that the weather does turn gray, there are also many family-friendly excursions to discover around town.
In addition to the Houston Space Center, you can also visit the Houston Museum of Natural Science, Theater District, Houston Zoo and many others!
3. Excellent Career Opportunities
Housing affordability is one thing, but can you expect to find work in Houston? Yes, thanks to a booming job market that continues to trend upward.
Total employment in Houston jumped 2% from 2019 to 2020, while the national job count only grew by 1.5%. This achievement, recognized in January 2020, marked the 27th consecutive month Houston's annual job growth rate has surpassed the national average.
In addition to education and health services, other hot fields in Houston include professional and business services, architecture, utilities, and construction. New job openings are expected to grow even more as a 45-acre industrial park is planned for the city. Scheduled for completion by the end of 2020, the park will provide more than 475,000 square feet of Class A industrial space.
4. Excellent Quality of Life
There's just nothing like living by the water. If you're ready for that work-life balance you've always craved, Houston's got it.
Settle down near Lake Conroe, or stake your claim close to Buffalo Bayou or Clear Lake. Wherever you choose to put down roots, you can rest assured that there are plenty of dining, entertainment and career opportunities nearby.
Plus, there's an unmistakably positive vibe you get as soon as you step foot in the city. After the destruction caused by Hurricane Harvey in 2017, Houston residents have banded together to create an urban oasis that is more vibrant and thriving than ever before.
5. Incredible Eats
One word: barbecue.
Houston is home to some of the most renowned restaurants in the world, and many of them are serving up juicy platters of local flavor you can't find anywhere else. Lately, critics agree that the local food scene has never been better!
From Vietnamese dishes and Gulf Coast cuisine to fine dining establishments led by James Beard Award winners, there's something for everyone on the menu.
6. A Sports Fan's Paradise
Yes, the Rockets, Texans and Astros all call our city home. However, there are far more than pro sports to watch when you live here!
You can also catch a local college game almost any night of the week, thanks to the area's two prominent universities: Rice University and the University of Houston.
7. Charming, Friendly Neighborhoods
Love the appeal of Houston but want to live in a more suburban locale? There are many excellent communities nearby. Let's take a look at a few!
Humble
Humble might be most recognized for its status as an oil boomtown in the early 20th century, but there's more to this town than its storied past.
Residents adore Humble for its plethora of kid-friendly activities, including Old MacDonald's Farm, Jesse H. Jones Park, and Mercer Arboretum.
Katy
Spend one minute here, and you'll discover why Katy is proud of its past and embracing its future. This charming town is oozing with historical culture, beautifully evidenced by the Katy Heritage Society Railroad Museum.
Pack a picnic and spend the day at Mary Jo Peckham Park or indulge in a little retail therapy at Katy Mills. For a more fast-paced adventure, take the brood to nearby Typhoon Texas Houston!
Pearland
Ironically better-known for its figs, Pearland is located in Brazoria County and boasts a ton of sights and things to do. In addition to an excellent walking trail system, the town also offers lakes, golf courses and parks for families to enjoy.
One of the most prominent Pearland attractions is the Sri Meenakshi Temple, which spans more than 23 acres!
Mont Belvieu
Mont Belvieu is one of Houston's artsiest towns! Creative minds will love exploring the vibrant colors of Umbrella Alley, while outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the Eddie V. Gray Wetlands Education and Recreation Center.
This area is also home to Lercy's Diner, a beloved comfort food establishment serving up cafeteria-style meals to hungry residents and visitors alike.
League City
League City's greatest attraction might be the Bayou Wildlife Zoo, but the Galveston County town also boasts a fantastic children's museum, along with the fascinating Butler Longhorn Museum.
The latter pays homage to League City's founding fathers, including the important role they played in saving Longhorn cattle from extinction. There's also a booming historic district here, as well as a great nature center.
Tomball
One of the better-known towns in southeast Texas, Tomball is home to a variety of award-winning festivals, including October's Freight Train Food Truck Festival and The Tomball Bluegrass Festival.
Residents also enjoy quick access to the town's other attractions, including parks, nature preserves, art exhibits, live theater, and a historic railroad depot!
Are you ready to enjoy all of the perks that living in Houston can offer? Whether you're seeking a more affordable housing market, a better quality of life, more outdoor activities or simply a great place to raise your family, you've found it.
At Gehan Homes, we believe happiness starts at home. We’re here to help you and your family find the perfect house (and community!) in the Houston area. We can also help you find a great relator and provide more relocation tips. Fill out the form below today, and we'll get started.
