Houston, the sprawling heart of Texas, is a city like no other. Known as the home of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, it’s earned the moniker “Space City,” but there’s much more to discover beneath its iconic skyline. From its vibrant arts district and world-class dining scene to a thriving job market driven by industries like energy and medicine, Houston offers something for everyone.
That’s not to say it’s all smooth sailing – traffic can be a beast, summers are hot enough to melt your flip-flops, and the sheer size of the city can be a bit overwhelming at first. But once you get the hang of it, you’ll find that Houston’s sprawling nature is part of its charm. Each neighbourhood has its own vibe, and there’s always something new to discover – whether it’s a hidden taco spot or a festival celebrating one of the city’s many cultures.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about moving to Houston. From navigating its unpredictable weather and sprawling layout to uncovering the hidden gems that make it a dynamic and welcoming place to call home, we’ve got you covered.
For more practical information on how to move to the United States, such as applying for a Visa, managing your finances or moving with pets, check out our main guide on Moving to the USA.
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| Affordability | |
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| Education | |
| Job Market |
Table of Contents
Why Move to Houston?
Houston has an estimated population of 2,314,157, making it the fourth most populous city in the U.S. after New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago. As of 2024, around 7,000 British people live in Houston, attracted to fantastic economic opportunities, excellent education facilities, and a culturally diverse city.
Economic Opportunities
Houston has a diverse economy, with lots of exciting job opportunities in a range of industries on offer. Known as the ‘energy capital of the world’, Houston is home to the headquarters of many large energy companies like ExxonMobil, Chevron, and Shell. Healthcare, Biotechnology, Technology, Aerospace, Trade and Logistics are among some other popular industries.
Education
Houston is home to some excellent private and public schools as well as world-class universities such as Rice University. There are also plenty of opportunities for British students with the British International School of Houston that follows the British Curriculum, offering the International Baccalaureate and IGCSEs.
Cultural Diversity
Houston has a rich cultural history as one of the most diverse cities in the U.S. There is a large expat community including British, Indian, and Vietnamese, resulting in international cuisine, and a vibrant arts scene. There are over 145 languages spoken in Houston and the ethnic ratio is almost evenly split between Hispanic/Latino, White (non-Hispanic), African American, and Asian groups.
The Challenges of Living in Houston
Living in Houston, you will likely experience extreme weather which you should be prepared for. The sprawling nature of the city also means traffic congestion is common due to reliance on cars. Here we cover the challenges of living in Houston so you’re aware.
Extreme Weather
Due to Houston’s location near the Gulf Coast, it’s prone to hurricanes, tropical storms, and other extreme weather conditions. This can often lead to occasional flooding and damage to property, so it’s something to be aware of before making the move. The summer months also see extreme heat, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C with its heat and humidity.
Traffic Congestion
Due to limited public transport with the metro not reaching all areas, many residents and commuters drive, causing traffic congestion. Commuters can be stuck in traffic for hours due to the reliance on cars and ongoing road and construction work.
Urban Sprawl
Houston is an urban sprawl due to the size of the city and proximity to resources. Whilst this means many residents have more land for their money, this also means long travel times between neighbourhoods and amenities, increasing the reliance on cars and causing traffic issues.
Where to Live in Houston
There are a range of neighbourhoods in Houston that are suitable for all budgets, requirements, and lifestyles. As Houston is a large city, long drives are often common to get anywhere. You should consider the schools, jobs, and amenities you want to be near when researching where to live.
Downtown Houston
Downtown Houston is an ideal place for young professionals to live as it is home to the headquarters of many energy, finance, and law companies. It’s well connected with public transport, such as the METRORail, which connects Downtown with many neighbourhoods.
Downtown offers luxury apartments and condos in the Downtown Living Initiative, encouraging people to live Downtown. The Warehouse District offers income-restricted units which see low rents for those who qualify. Market Square Tower offers more affordable housing options such as loft apartments. The median price of a property in Downtown Houston is $340,000.
There are plenty of family-friendly activities to partake in, including Discovery Green, a park that hosts family events art pieces, and fitness classes. West of downtown you’ll find the Buffalo Bayou Park, offering trails, kayak rentals, and scenic views. There is also the Minute Maid Park which is home to the Houston Astros.
There is a diverse dining scene in Downtown Houston, ranging from casual food halls like Finn Hall to fine dining at Vic & Anthony’s. Nightlife is vibrant, and you can find many bars and clubs in Market Square Park.
The Woodlands
One of the most sought-after areas in Houston, The Woodlands boasts 151 parks and 220 miles of hike and bike trails. There is an abundance of green spaces, top-rated school districts such as Conroe ISD and Tomball ISD, and a range of housing options.
You’ll find housing options to suit all budgets in The Woodlands, from luxury homes to affordable apartments, with the average house price being $623.900. Areas like Alden Bridge are ideal for families and retirees, offering plenty of amenities and affordable housing. You can find luxury homes in neighbourhoods like Carlton Woods if that’s what you’re after.
Home to Hughes Landing and The Woodlands Mall, The Woodlands offers plenty of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion also hosts concerts, symphonies, and cultural events.
Montrose
Montrose is a cultural hub, known for its art scene, community feel, and unique shops. Situated near Downtown Houston, Montrose offers convenient access to major employment centres, parks, and schools.
The area boasts a wide range of housing options, including 1920s bungalows, contemporary townhomes, modern luxury apartments, and spacious custom-built houses. The median home price in Montrose is around $265,043, with a trend of increasing property values due to its popularity and central location.
Montrose is also home to attractions such as the Menil Collection, Rothko Chapel, and Contemporary Arts Museum Houston. You can also find an excellent food scene in Montrose, including Tex-Mex, Vietnamese, and farm-to-table dining spots. Uchi and Hugo’s are restaurants to try and coffee shops like Agora and bars like La Grange are to be visited.
Cypress
A part of Harris County, Cypress is 25 miles northwest of downtown Houston. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, excellent schools, and thriving neighbourhoods, there is something for everyone in Cypress.
Housing is more affordable in Cypress compared to other places in Houston, making it an ideal place for first-time buyers. The average house price in Cypress is $462,450 and large four-bedroom family homes typically dominate the market. You can find parks, lakes and recreational facilities in communities like Bridgeland, Towne Lake, and Cypress Creek Lakes.
An ideal area for families and professionals, Cypress offers a suburban lifestyle as well as provides easy access to central Houston for cultural, professional, and healthcare facilities. Cypress Towne Center and The Vintage Park offer shopping, dining, and entertainment, from large retailers to boutique shops.
Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District (Cy-Fair ISD) serves the area and is one of the best-rated districts in Texas. There are also plenty of golf courses, parks, and outdoor spots like Cypress Creek Greenway.
Property Outlook in Houston
Unlike some countries, foreign nationals do not need to be U.S. citizens or residents to purchase property and there are no restrictions. You can secure a mortgage through U.S. lenders but typically will have to pay a larger down payment (deposit).
2025 Trends
2025 sees Houston’s property market remain competitive with some growth. The average house price in Houston is $339,000, which is 2.5% up from the previous year. Forecasts suggest annual price increases of 2% to 3% by 2027, with rising interest rates and uncertainty in economic factors affecting the growth. Inventory shortages persist, with around 14,500 active listings. This is a slight decline from the previous year, with it continuing to be a seller’s market.
Renting or Buying in Houston
It is more affordable to buy property in Houston compared to many other U.S. cities, encouraging homeownership. Renting remains the more popular option, with 57% of residents renting, while 43% own their homes. Downtown Houston, Montrose, and Midtown see more people rent due to apartments and condos dominating the property market. Renting in Houston is an ideal option for those moving there from the UK as it allows you to test out different neighbourhoods without the financial commitment. It can also be more affordable than monthly mortgage payments in some areas. Buying a house can be more beneficial if you are planning on living in Houston long-term and can afford the down payment and monthly payments.
Determine A Budget
Once you’ve decided if you’re renting or buying, you’ll need to work out what you can comfortably afford to pay each month. You’ll need to consider property taxes, homeowner insurance, moving costs, and monthly payments. Use online calculators or work with a financial advisor to estimate monthly payments.
Research Neighbourhoods
When researching neighbourhoods, it’s important to consider commute times for both tour work and your children’s schools, as well as the proximity of important amenities. Montrose, The Heights, Katy, and Sugar Land are popular areas of Houston for young professionals and families alike.
Consider Flood Insurance
As there are risks of flash flooding and many flood-risk areas in Houston, it’s worth considering where you live carefully. You should also look into flood risk insurance for peace of mind.
Book Viewings
Many online property portals offer virtual viewings, which are great if you’re still in the UK when you’re buying a property. However, it’s important you view the property in person, ideally at different times of day, to ensure it is right for you.
Cost of Living in Houston
The cost of living in Houston is relatively cheaper than in many U.S. cities, with the average monthly living costs for a family of four estimated at $3,940.83 (£3,087.0). Houston is 23.8% less expensive than London, with rental prices 40.8% lower. The cost of living is on par with Phoenix, 49% cheaper than New York, and 10% lower than Dallas.
Affordable house prices and high average salaries make Houston a great place to live and work. The median household income is $60,440, and there’s no state income tax in Texas, which boosts take-home pay. A comfortable salary for a single adult is recommended at $62,260 annually. Housing is affordable in Houston, with the exemption of some sought-after areas. A 1-bedroom city centre apartment will cost $1,614.62 per month and the average house price is $263,315.
Groceries and restaurant prices are also reasonable, with the average monthly food bill costing $265.52. You can get a meal for two in a mid-range restaurant for $80, and $19 at an inexpensive restaurant. Utilities cost an average of $196.52 per month, which is 16% higher than in Austin.
Finding a Job in Houston
Houston has a robust job market that saw over 100,000 jobs created in 2024. The unemployment rate is slightly higher than Texas’ rate at 4.50%, but the job market remains healthy.
Leading Job Sectors in Houston
Dubbed the ‘energy capital of the world’, there are always roles in the oil, gas, and renewable energy sectors. There was strong growth in the healthcare, education, and manufacturing sectors during the past year. The Texas Medical Center is a major hub for healthcare jobs, with numerous hospitals, research institutions, and medical schools across Texas that employ tens of thousands of professionals. Well-known technology and aerospace companies like HP, Dell, and NASA are big employers in Houston. In the education sector, Cypress-Fairbanks ISD and Houston ISD are the biggest employers.
Industries to Target in Houston:
- Energy: Oil, gas, and renewable energy sectors.
- Healthcare: Hospitals like MD Anderson Cancer Center and Memorial Hermann.
- Technology: Companies like Hewlett-Packard Enterprise (HPE).
- Education: Universities and school districts.
- Logistics and Manufacturing: Companies near the Port of Houston.
Salaries in Houston
Payscale reports that the average annual salary in Houston is $82,000. Salaries vary by sector and experience level, with in-demand roles and sectors typically offering higher salaries.
- Oil, Gas, and Renewable Energy: A Petroleum Engineer in Houston earns around $154,401 per year. A Petroleum Geologist can earn $189,000 per year and a Renewable Energy Consultant earns $149,000 on average.
- Healthcare: Registered nurses can earn $83,890 on average and general physicians earn an average of approximately $169,978.
- Education: High School teachers earn $61,050 per year, slightly above the national average of $60,000.
- Manufacturing: Roles in the manufacturing sector have an average yearly salary of $141,428.
- Technology: Computer and Information Systems Manager’s salaries are higher than the national average at $172,160.
Finding Roles
- You can view current job listings on typical career platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor.
- It’s worth also checking Houston-specific job boards like Workforce Solutions for local opportunities.
- Attend local networking events for your industry to show you are eager.
- Reach out to staffing firms like Robert Half, Aerotek, or Creative Circle for assistance in job placement.
Tailor Your Application and CV
- Ensure your CV is tailored to the role you’re applying for and in American English.
- Write a cover letter detailing why you are the perfect fit for the role, highlighting specific skills and accomplishments that match the job description and essential requirements.
- Provide a detailed portfolio of your work. This gives the employer easy access to your experience and past projects.
Getting Around Houston
Houston is sprawling with public transport coverage limited, especially in rural areas. For this reason, most people rely on their cars to get around Houston. Here we take a look at how else you can get around Houston.
Driving
Most people drive in Houston due to the city’s large size. Major routes include I-45 (north-south), I-10 (east-west), and the 610 Loop. The Grand Parkway (TX-99) and Beltway 8 encircle the metro area. It’s worth noting that Houston suffers from traffic congestion due to the reliance on cars, especially during rush hour.
METRO Buses
There is an extensive range of METRO buses including local, express, and commuter buses that cover Houston and the surrounding areas. There is also a Park-and-Ride service to help those commuting from the suburbs. Tickets cost $1.25 for a single and $3 for a day pass.
METRORail (Light Rail)
The METRO rail covers key stops including Downtown, the Texas Medical Center, and the Museum District. The Red Line covers the north-to-south run and connects the Northline Transit Center to NRG Park via Downtown and the Texas Medical Center. The Green Line serves Downtown, the East End, and areas near BBVA Stadium. The Purple Line covers the southeast of Houston, covering Downtown and neighbourhoods like Third Ward. Tickets cost $1.25 for one way and can be bought via the app.
Biking and Walking
Areas like Downtown, Montrose, and The Heights can be easily walked, but many neighbourhoods rely on cars. There are plenty of bike trails to help you get around Houston, with Downtown being more bike-friendly.
Ride-Sharing and Taxis
Taxi services like Uber and Lyft are widely available across Houston, making travelling to rural areas easier for those without cars.
Can I Ship My Car to Houston?
Yes, you can ship your car from the UK to Houston through our sister company Autoshippers. Costs vary depending on your exact destination and type of vehicle. The closest port to Houston that we ship to is Galveston and the average cost to ship a standard saloon car is £1,477.
Autoshippers have been shipping cars from the UK to the U.S. for over 25 years so have the essential experience and knowledge. Autoshippers offer Roll on Roll off services for cars, SUVs, autos, motorhomes, trucks, vans and buses. All sailings are direct from the UK ports of Liverpool or Southampton to many ports in the USA including Galveston, New York, and Brunswick.
Getting a Houston Driving License
Your UK driving license isn’t valid in Houston after 90 days of becoming a resident. You will need to undergo a Texas driving and written test to gain a valid driving license in Houston. You will need the following documents:
- Proof of Identity: This could be your birth certificate, passport, or permanent resident card.
- Proof of Texas Residency: You will need to bring two documents such as utility bills or lease agreements.
- Proof of Legal Residence: You will need to show evidence of your visa.
- Social Security Number: Your card detailing your number.
- Application Fee: Payment in cash, check, or card.
You will first have to pass a written knowledge test covering road signs and driving laws. You’ll also have to pass a vision exam to ensure it is safe for you to drive. You can practice for this via the Texas Driver Handbook. You can then book your road test via the Texas DPS website. You’ll have to bring a registered and insured vehicle to do the test in. If you pass, await delivery of your driver’s license, using a temporary license in the meantime.
Schools and Education in Houston
Houston offers a variety of educational facilities, including public, private, and charter schools. There are also top universities in Houston offering a range of subjects.
Public Schools
The largest district in Texas, Houston Independent School District serves almost 200,000 students. Under this district falls public schools, magnet programs (focused on STEM, arts, or language immersion), and Vanguard schools for gifted students. Other districts such as Seven Lakes High School (Katy ISD) and Cypress Ranch High School (Cy-Fair ISD) are well renowned. Some notable high schools in Houston include Carnegie Vanguard High School, Clements High School, and Bellaire High School.
Charter Schools
Charter schools are popular throughout Houston. They are schools that focus on getting students ready for college. Students typically spend more time studying with longer hours and compulsory years. Popular charter schools in Houston include YES Prep, Harmony Public Schools, and KIPP Texas Public Schools.
Private Schools
There are also many private schools in Houston, offering strong academic programmes. The Village School caters to international students and offers the International Baccalaureate programme. Public schools are costly, with the average annual tuition fee costing $17,307 in Houston.
Higher Education
Houston has some major universities that offer a range of undergraduate and graduate programmes. Rice University focuses on programmes in STEM fields, business, and the humanities. The University of Houston offers undergraduate and graduate courses in law, business, and engineering.
Healthcare in Houston
Houston boasts a comprehensive and diverse healthcare system, serving the city through public and private hospitals, specialised medical centres, and clinics. Here’s an overview of healthcare in the U.S. state of Houston:
Health Systems and Hospitals
The world-renowned medical district, Texas Medical Center, is a major part of Houston’s healthcare. It has 61 institutions, including MD Anderson Cancer Center, Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center, and Texas Children’s Hospital. The world’s largest medical complex, Texas Medical Center offers specialised services like oncology, neurology, paediatrics, organ transplantation, and many more. Other health systems in Houston include Memorial Hermann Health System, Houston Methodist, and HCA Houston Healthcare.
Public Health System For Uninsured
The public healthcare system in Houston, Harris Health System, helps the uninsured or underinsured get access to healthcare at lower costs. It helps by offering financial assistance programs and sliding scale fees to make healthcare accessible for all. This includes services like inpatient care, surgeries, diagnostic tests, and maternity services. Hospitals like Ben Taub Hospital and LBJ Hospital are part of the public health system.
Insurance
Most residents in Houston access healthcare through health insurance via their employer. Government programs like Medicaid and Medicare are available to those who qualify. The Affordable Care Act marketplace also allows residents to purchase coverage.
Weather in Houston
Houston has a humid subtropical climate, which means hot summers and mild winters. It is prone to hurricanes and severe weather due to its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico. Hurricanes range from Category 1 (weak) to Category 5 (catastrophic), and they can bring strong winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges, which can lead to flooding in Houston and other coastal areas. Let’s take a look at the weather in Houston during each season.
Summer – Hot and Humid
Houston experiences hot summers, with highs often between 32°C and 35°C. The humidity often makes it feel much warmer than it is. June and July are prone to thunderstorms and heavy rain, with flash flooding common during these months. June to November is also hurricane season in Houston, with September historically being the peak of this season.
Fall – Milder
The heat and humidity cool down during the fall months, with highs between 21°C and 29°C. Storms are still expected in this season, but the likelihood decreases as the season goes on.
Winter – Mild and Cool
It cools down in the winter, but temperatures never drop below freezing, with average temperatures ranging from 7°C to 18°C. Snow and freezing rain are rare but have happened during winter months previously.
Spring – Warm and Humid
It gets warmer in Houston during the spring, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 27°C. It is also the season with the most thunderstorms, which increases the chance of tornadoes. Expect rising humidity and rainfall during these months.
Things to Do in Houston
Houston offers a variety of activities and experiences that cater to families, young professionals, and retirees.
Food and Drink
Houston offers a diverse and vibrant food scene, prominently known for Tex-Mex, barbecue, and international cuisine. Ninfa’s on Navigation is famous for debuting fajitas in the U.S. and is a must-visit in Houston. You’ll also find authentic taco and food trucks throughout Houston, offering genuine tacos, elotes, and quesadillas. Pay a visit to Truth BBQ, Killen’s BBQ, or The Pit Room for traditional barbeque food like brisket and ribs. Craft beer is popular in Houston, with breweries like Saint Arnold Brewing Company, Eureka Heights Brew Co. and 8th Wonder Brewery offering local beer.
Museums and Art
The museum district in Houston is one of the most celebrated in the U.S. and features 19 museums. You’ll find the Houston Museum of Natural Science, Museum of Fine Arts, and The Menil Collection, many of which offer free admission at certain times. The Children’s Museum Houston is a favourite amongst families, offering endless fun, interactive exhibits and educational activities. The Bayou City Art Festival is a festival for lovers of art and the outdoors, hosted biannually in the spring and fall.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor activities can be enjoyed most of the year due to Houston’s milder winters. Buffalo Bayou Park is a popular trail for walkers and bikers, offering scenic views of downtown. You can also kayak along the bayou. The McGovern Centennial Gardens in Hermann Park is a popular garden to stroll through, with landscaped paths, a rose garden, and a cascading water feature.
Sports and Entertainment
There are several professional sports teams in Houston, including the MLB team Houston Astros. You can watch them play at Minute Maid Park in downtown Houston. The NFL team Houston Texans play at the NRG Stadium which offers family-friendly amenities. There are also major music venues like the Toyota Center, NRG Stadium, and Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion that host international artists and festivals.
How Much Will It Cost to Move My Personal Belongings to Houston?
When shipping household goods and personal effects to Houston, your moving costs will vary depending on the size of your move and final address in Houston.
Here are the average costs for moving from UK to Houston:
- Small Move: £ 985.00
- 1-bed flat: £1,198
- 2-bed flat: £2,112
- 3-bed house (20 ft container): £5,635
- 4+ bed house (40 ft container): £7,431
About our international moving services to Houston
1st Move International can safely ship your household and personal belongings to Houston from the UK. We offer a guaranteed weekly shipping service that ships directly to multiple ports in the U.S. Our safe packing and shipping techniques provide full protection for your items.
Visit our International Removals page and find out more about our great range of packing, shipping, and insurance options or you can a moving overseas quote, tailored to your individual moving requirements.
You can also check out our online international moving costs calculator here.
For more details on our packing process and the benefits of shipping with commercial co-loaders see our Faster Shipping, Safer Packing and Smarter Billing pages.
About 1st Move International
1st Move International are a specialist international moving and shipping company offering packing, shipping and insurance for shipping household goods and personal effects overseas. We have a global reach covering over 80 countries and 6500 worldwide destinations. You can get an international removals quote here or find more information on our international removals UK to USA service here.
