The Best and Worst Parts of Relocating to Houston

Relocating to a new city can be an exciting but daunting experience. If you’re considering a move to Houston, one of the largest and most diverse cities in the United States, it’s important to know what you’re getting into. Houston is a welcoming place with a melting pot of cultures, attracting people from all over the world. Many new residents find our city easy to move to and difficult to leave. That doesn’t mean relocating to Houston is without its challenges, however. Fortunately, the help of a seasoned local Houston REALTOR® can make things far less tricky!

Let’s explore the three best and three worst things about relocating to Houston:

The 3 Best Things About Relocating to Houston as a Homeowner

Cost of Living: Compared to other major cities like New York or San Francisco, Houston has a relatively low cost of living. Housing costs, in particular, are more affordable, allowing residents to enjoy spacious homes or apartments without breaking the bank. Additionally, the absence of state income tax translates to more disposable income for Houston residents.

Less Depreciation During Recessions: Modern Houston boasts a diversified economy that helps protect homeowners against the worst effects of a recession. In many places, home prices can actually depreciate rapidly if and when large businesses move operations or begin mass layoffs. While these things can certainly happen in Houston, the city’s economy and amenities keeps demand from homebuyers high even in recessions—like the one coming up! That means homeowners here can bank on strong appreciation no matter the economic climate.

Job Opportunities: Houston is known for its strong job market, offering a wide range of opportunities across various industries. From energy and healthcare to aerospace and technology, the city is home to many Fortune 500 companies and a hub for innovation. This excellent job market is a major draw for professionals looking for career growth. With exploration in the Gulf of Mexico set to ramp up and a new research hub going up in the Texas Medical Center, Houston is certain to continue growing thanks to new jobs. 

The 3 Worst Things About Relocating to Houston as a Homeowner

Limited Housing Inventory: Like many major metropolitan areas in North America, Houston is always a sellers’ market in housing. That means that there are more people who want to live in Houston than there are houses! While Houston’s housing inventory is always growing, finding a home quickly that suits your every need and desire can sometimes be a challenge. (This is where a REALTOR® can help!)

Houston is Sprawling: Houston is a big city in every sense of the word. For decades, the city built outward, not upward. As a result, it’s a sprawling place with thousands of neighborhoods to explore. That can be a challenge for people looking to buy a home here. Using a local REALTOR® to help guide you towards areas that fit your needs will be important for prospective homebuyers.

Different Architectural Styles and Terms: What people call a “townhouse” in California is called something else entirely in Houston—and “townhouse” means something different here, too! “Lofts” and “condos” are available for purchase here, but they may not be exactly what you’re expecting if you’re coming from elsewhere in the world. You may have to rely on a REALTOR® to help you navigate the local real estate terminology in order to find the kind of home you’re looking for.

No matter where you’re from, you’re likely to find something to love about Houston. This city offers a rich tapestry of culinary experiences, cultural festivals, and a diverse arts scene. There is always something happening in Houston, whether it’s attending a live concert, exploring world-class museums, or enjoying a wide range of outdoor activities thanks to the city’s warm climate.

However, it’s essential to be prepared for a few challenges in buying a home when you relocate to Houston. There is almost certainly a home waiting for you here that aligns with your preferences and lifestyle, but it’s likely you will need some professional help to find it. That’s why we’re here! Angel Fultz Realty specializes in helping people from all over the world relocate to Houston into a home they love. Contact us today to get started!