One of the fastest growing cities in the US, Houston is a hub of culture, innovation, and the arts. People from all walks of life are moving to H-town, including young professionals, families, retirees, and especially entrepreneurs. With a low cost of living and a bustling atmosphere, we think Houston should be on your list if you’re considering a change of scenery.
If you’re thinking of moving to Houston, we have everything you need to know in this fact-filled guide to help you during your move, brought to you by NSA Storage!
A Metropolitan City with Low Cost of Living
Most folks who live in metropolitan like Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, or Miami, will tell you that it isn’t cheap. In Houston, however, the cost of living is surprisingly affordable. For example:
- The cost of housing in Houston is about 20% lower than the national average.
- Houston is more affordable than Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio, three other world-class cities in Texas.
- Transportation costs, as well as grocery and utility costs, are right in line with the national average.
In practically every category, Houston is more affordable than many large cities. That’s good news for your budget, no matter your income level.
Fans of the Arts are Flocking to Houston
It might surprise you to learn that Houston’s arts district is one of the very best in the United States. From ballets to concerts and museums, Houston is an arts lover’s dream! Some of the most popular and distinctive destinations include:
- Houston Museum of Natural Science– A huge museum featuring exhibits on wildlife, dinosaurs, and more.
- Museum of Fine Arts, Houston– A globally-influenced collection of artworks is the hallmark of this immense museum.
- The Menil Collection– This serene museum, located in a residential neighborhood, features a unique, minimalist feel.
- Houston Ballet– One of the premier American ballet companies in the U.S., they give incredible performances throughout the year.
- Houston Symphony– The stunning architecture of Jones Hall is where the city’s top-tier orchestra performs.
- Alley Theatre– Bold, exciting, high-quality productions are what you’ll find at this Tony Award-winning theatre company.
Be sure to also check out Houston’s massive Theatre District for more performances. It’s the 2nd-biggest in the country, right after New York City!
Houston is Big on Sports
There’s no denying that, in Texas, sports are a big part of the local culture. This love for the game starts at the high school level and extends to the pros, where you’ll find a team in almost every major sport! For example, you can cheer for teams like:
- Houston Texans – NFL
- Houston Rockets – NBA
- Houston Astros – MLB
- Houston Dynamo – MLS
- Houston Dash – NWSL
If you’re into tailgating, cheering, and showing support for your team, you’ll fit right in here in Houston!
Family-Friendly Fun in Houston
If you have children, it’s vital that the city you live in have family-friendly events and attractions. You’ll be pleased to know that, in Houston, there are a lot of choices that will make your kids smile! Some of the more popular family-friendly attractions in Houston include:
- Houston Zoo– What child doesn’t like a zoo? The Houston zoo is one of the most visited in the US, with over 2.1 million patrons every year.
- Children’s Museum Houston– Hands-on, interactive exhibits for younger kids make this museum a great choice.
- Space Center Houston– This educational facility and museum offers an up-close look at a spacecraft, kid-friendly exhibits, and a tram that takes you to the nearby Johnson Space Center, where NASA conducts astronaut training and missions.
- Houston Museum of Natural Science– Made for curious minds and kids who love dinosaurs!
- Houston Arboretum & Nature Center– A fantastic place to introduce your kids to the wonders of the natural world.
- Memorial Park– Walking, biking, playgrounds, and family picnics are all enjoyed here.
- Buffalo Bayou Park– Offers a skate park, splash areas, and plenty of trails.
- Hermann Park– Pedal-boats on the lake, open areas for games and a large playground make this park a local favorite.
- Kemah Boardwalk (near Houston)- A big-time boardwalk with amusement rides, boardwalk games, and waterfront fun.
- Discovery Green– This downtown park offers splash pads and several kids’ play zones.
- Downtown Aquarium– Bring your kids here to see the natural world of the sea up close!
If you occasionally want to get out of the city and enjoy calm, relaxing, and beautiful natural spaces, there are plenty of those to enjoy, also. For example:
- Brazos Bend State Park– The perfect spot for seeing wildlife, hiking, and stargazing at night.
- Sam Houston National Forest– If camping, hiking, and fishing are what you seek, look no further.
- Armand Bayou Nature Center– Discover one of the largest wetlands preserves in the United States.
- Lake Conroe– Lakeside dining is the big thing here, and many folks arrive in their boat!
Houston’s Higher Education Offerings are Genuinely Impressive
If you’re coming to Houston in search of higher education, the city offers some of the best colleges and universities in the country. If you want to specialize in science, medicine, law, engineering, or business, you’ll find top programs for each here. Some of the best include:
- Texas Southern University
- Houston Baptist University
- Baylor College of Medicine
- Texas A&M Health Science Center
It’s also of note that Texas Medical Center, the global leader in medical innovation, is located in Houston. People come from around the globe to seek treatment at this prestigious health center.
You’ll Enjoy Festivals and Events Year-Round in Houston
What do you do when your city is big on culture, food, music, and international culture? You throw a festival!
Whether you love music under the stars, tasting new foods, or experiencing different arts and cultures, you’ll find a festival that features your favorite! Some of the most exciting festivals in the city include:
- Houston Rodeo– This massive event, held every March, features fierce competitions, concerts, carnival rides, and great food.
- Bayou City Art Festival– A visual arts celebration that’s been happening in Houston for years.
- Houston Greek Festival– Greek culture, dance, and food? How can you say “no”?
- Houston International Festival– A yearly celebration of global culture and cuisine.
- Texas Renaissance Festival– Located northwest of the city, this huge, fun, and exciting event passes through every year.
Houston Is Perfect for Entrepreneurs
If you’ve got the entrepreneurial spirit, Houston is a great city to make your new home. It’s a hub of entrepreneurial activity! In fact, Houston is far better for startups than most large cities in the U.S., and offers benefits that can help you make your entrepreneurial dreams a reality. They include:
- No city or state income tax
- Cheaper office and warehouse rental costs
- Entrepreneur hubs like The Ion, TX/RX Labs, and Houston Technology Center
- Access to major industries, like aerospace engineering
- Access to funding sources
- Networking and business groups
- Easy access to global markets
- A diverse talent pool
- Co-working spaces all over the city
Store with NSA Storage for your Houston Move
With beautiful weather, new events everyday, a strong economy, and so much more, we think you’ll find that Houston is a wonderful place to live! If you need a storage unit in Houston, NSA Storage is here to help! We offer storage units in a wide variety of sizes, world-class safety and security features, and easy access to anything you need to store.
Reserve your Houston storage units online today and they’ll be ready when you arrive! NSA Storage has over 30 locations in and around Houston, so there’s bound to be a convenient storage unit near you. Until then, best of luck with your move to Houston, and welcome home!
