Houston rarely makes “coolest cities” lists, and locals are fine with that. It’s one of the most diverse metro areas in the US, housing is more affordable than in many big cities, and the job market spans energy, aerospace, shipping and one of the world’s largest medical centers.
Things newcomers should know
- There’s no zoning in the usual sense, so homes, shops and offices can sit side by side.
- The city is huge. Choose a neighborhood close to work.
- Parts of the city flood in heavy rain. Look up the address on FEMA’s flood map.
- Standard renters insurance usually doesn’t cover floods.
- Summers are long, hot and humid.
- Food is a highlight: Vietnamese, Nigerian, Indian, Mexican and Tex-Mex are all excellent.
- Texas has no state income tax, but property taxes are high.
- METRO light rail serves the core, but most people drive.
- Hurricane season runs June to November.
Neighborhoods
- Montrose: artsy and central
- The Heights: historic homes, trails and restaurants
- Bellaire and Meyerland: near the Texas Medical Center
- Katy and Sugar Land: suburbs with large international communities
Before signing a lease
Ask the landlord whether the building has flooded before, which floor the unit is on and whether parking areas flood. Ground-floor units in low areas carry more risk.
