Austin Vs Houston - Who Wins?

So, you're looking for a place to live in Texas but can't figure out where? Then you might want to consider either Austin or Houston. There are many reasons why these two locations are on everyone's list.

Did you know Austin is the greenest city in Texas? 15% of Austin's land mass is reserved for parks and other greener spaces. There are lakes, too, if you like to spend time in the great outdoors. If you're big on green policies and conservation, Austin is where you should drop the pin. However, Houston's not biting the dust just yet as it also has a fair share of parks and waterparks if you want to take off some of the heat in the summer months. 

Weather

Speaking of heat, Texas is the sun's backyard during the summer, and the heat can be brutal. However, the rest of the year, Houston and Austin generally have mild, humid weather, with the hottest months starting from June through September. So, be sure to pack up that sunscreen for those months. The naturally warm weather means you'll be rocking summer clothes most of the year. And the winter season in both places isn't as cold as in other areas in the US. As a matter of fact, it seldom snows. Still, you'd need a warm jacket, waterproof boots, and a raincoat. Trust me, Houston and Austin might lose the 'coldest winter competition,' but you'd still catch a cold if you leave yourself exposed.

Cost of living in Austin vs. Houston Texas

Another thing that could freeze you is the cost of living. Fortunately, Houston boasts the second lowest overall cost of living in the US, and housing costs are 11% lower than the national average and 36.2% below the nation's most populous areas. Houston's undoubtedly one of the best and easiest places to become a homeowner. The cost of living in Austin, however, is a little bit on the high side, though that depends on the area of town. The average home price in Austin is $659K, with an average rent of $2,245. However, things get more expensive in other parts of town. Downtown areas like West End and Market District have high rental and homeownership costs. Still, you begin to find cheaper houses the farther you move from downtown. Houston is definitely the way to go if you're thinking of cheaper houses and rent. But there's a silver lining to Austin's expensive cost of living. With an average household wage of $75,752, Austin's salaries are among the highest in the country.

Space is to Houston what music is to Austin. There are a spread of space centers in Houston if you have a thing for whatever's beyond these clouds, and even more music centers in Austin. Both states have a slew of natural attractions, and don't forget the BBQ.

There it is, y'all. Make your choice. If you think I missed something, share your thoughts in the comments section.