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 — $269,900 less than Austin, TX's $449,900. WYLT rates Austin, TX as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Houston, TX as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Austin, TX has the stronger safety profile of the two. Austin, TX has Low violent crime and Low 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 57/100 (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 7.5/10 and Houston, TX rates 7.1/10.
| Category | Austin, TX | Houston, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Good for now |
| Median Price | $450K | $180K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $98K ✓ Higher income | $55K |
| Price Volatility | Medium | Moderate ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 57/100 ✓ More walkable | 2/100 |
| Transit Score | 17/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 17 min | 11 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.1/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesProfessionalsFirst-time homebuyers | Families with a carRemote workers with a carThose who value proximity to downtown Houston |
Bottom line
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