Let the numbers do the talking.
Austin, TX vs Houston, TX
Austin, TX vs Houston, TX: What the data shows
Austin, TX is in Austin, TX while Houston, TX is in Houston, TX — both in the same state. On home prices, Houston, TX is the more affordable option at $180,000 median — $389,700 less than Austin, TX's $569,700. WYLT rates Austin, TX as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Houston, TX as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Austin, TX has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Houston, TX has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Austin, TX has Low flood risk and Houston, TX has High flood risk.
Austin, TX is the more walkable neighborhood. Austin, TX scores 53/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Houston, TX's 2/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Austin, TX has the higher school rating — Austin, TX rates 7.3/10 and Houston, TX rates 7.1/10.
| Category | Austin, TX | Houston, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $570K | $180K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $87K ✓ Higher income | $55K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 53/100 ✓ More walkable | 2/100 |
| Transit Score | 40/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 4 min ✓ Shorter commute | 11 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.3/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.1/10 |
| Best for | young professionalsremote workersstudents | Families with a carRemote workers with a carThose who value proximity to downtown Houston |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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