Welcome to Houston
Houston is the fourth-largest city in the U.S. Known for its diversity, booming economy, and welcoming communities, Houston offers something for everyone. Whether you're moving for work, family, or a fresh start, here’s what you need to know.
Weather: Sunshine & Storms
You can't talk about Houston without first have the tough conversation about the weather. Houston is hot and humid for much of the year, with mild winters. Summers can be brutal, with temperatures often above 90°F and high humidity. Be prepared for sudden rain showers and hurricane season (June–November). Expect hot, humid summers and mild winters. Temperatures often hit 90°F+ from June to September. Hurricanes are possible, so stay prepared with resources from Ready Houston.
Quick Tip: Invest in a good air conditioner. Get regular tune up and maintenance check on your HVAC system. Always have a rain jacket, umbrella and mosquito spray handy.
Finding Your Perfect Neighborhood
Houston is vast. Understanding the layout is key. The city is split into the Inner Loop (inside Interstate 610) and Outer Loop areas.
Popular Neighborhoods:
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Greater Heights: Historic charm with tree-lined streets, cozy cafes, and a family-friendly vibe.
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Rice Military/Washington Corridor: Perfect for young professionals who love nightlife and walkable spots.
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Memorial Villages: Offers vast green space, jogging trails, and top-rated schools.
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Katy, Sugar Land, and The Woodlands: Great suburban options with top-rated schools and family amenities.
Tip: Commute times matter. Houston traffic can be challenging, so consider how far you are from work or school.
Learn more about Houston Neighborhoods
Cost of Living & Housing Market
Houston’s cost of living is lower than other major cities like New York or Los Angeles. Housing is more affordable, too.
Housing Options:
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Apartments and condos inside the Inner Loop cater to urban dwellers.
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Single-family homes dominate the suburbs.
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Luxury properties are plentiful in areas like River Oaks and West University.
Property taxes can be high, but there's no state income tax. Factor in homeowners insurance, especially if you're in a flood zone. Use FEMA’s Flood Map to check property risks.
Fun Fact: Unlike most cities, Houston doesn’t have traditional zoning laws. This can lead to mixed-use areas where residential and commercial properties are side by side.
Getting Around Houston
Most people drive. Houston's freeway system includes I-10, I-45, and U.S. 59, which can get crowded during rush hour. Sign Up for an EZ TAG ahead of time for easy access to toll roads.
Other Transportation Options:
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METRO: Offers buses and light rail lines connecting key districts.
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Bike Trails: Expanding network through the Houston BCycle program.
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Airports: Easy access to George Bush Intercontinental and Hobby Airport for domestic and international flights.
Thriving Job Market
Houston is a powerhouse for jobs in energy, healthcare, and aerospace. Companies like Chevron, Texas Medical Center, and NASA’s Johnson Space Center call it home. The Texas Medical Center is one of the largest medical complexes in the world.
Remote work? Houston has affordable homes with dedicated office spaces.
Schools & Education
Families have many options:
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Public Schools: Check zones via Houston ISD or suburban districts like Katy ISD.
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Private & Charter Schools: Plenty of reputable choices citywide.
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Higher Education: Top institutions include Rice University and University of Houston.
Lifestyle & Recreation
Houston balances city excitement with outdoor living.
Outdoor Fun:
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Memorial Park: Offers running trails and a top-tier driving range.
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Buffalo Bayou Park: Ideal for kayaking, cycling, and scenic walks.
Arts & Culture:
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Visit the Museum District and the Houston Theater District.
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Attend annual events like the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
Food & Nightlife:
Houston's food scene is globally renowned. Sample Tex-Mex, Vietnamese pho, and barbecue all in one day. Living here has made me so spoiled because I can access any cuisine I'm in the mood for at any given day.
Moving Logistics & Practical Tips
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Timing: Avoid summer if you can—it’s hot and busy with moves.
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Utilities: Set up through CenterPoint Energy
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Get Connected: Join local groups via apps like Nextdoor or find events through Meetup.
Ready to Make Houston Home?
Houston has it all: career opportunities, diverse neighborhoods, and unbeatable food. Navigating the move can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone.
I’m Raquel Refuerzo, a local real estate expert passionate about helping you find the perfect Houston home. Let’s chat about your needs and explore your options.
