Moving to Houston – Everything You Need to Know

Moving to Houston is an exciting opportunity offering endless job opportunities, excellent education, and world-class healthcare. However, traffic congestion, extreme weather, and the sprawling nature of the city are things to be aware of. 

Houston has a low cost of living compared to many large U.S. states, and with affordable property and no state income tax, it makes it worthwhile to live and work in the city. 

In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about moving to Houston. From understanding the weather to getting around the city, we cover the essentials to get you prepared for the big move.

Why Move to Houston?

Houston has a 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. 

Securing Your US Visa for Houston

Securing a U.S. visa for Houston, Texas, or any other U.S. city involves a series of steps that depend on the type of visa you are applying for. There are different visa categories, including tourist visas, work visas, student visas, and family-based visas. The most common visas for moving to the USA are as follows:

Family Visas:

• Fiancé(e) Visa (K1 Visa): The K1 Visa allows foreign-citizen fiancé(e)s of a U.S. citizen to enter the U.S. to marry your U.S. citizen sponsor within 90 days of arrival. They can then apply for adjustment of status to a permanent resident.
• Spouse Visas (IR1, CR1, K3): The IR1, CR1, and K3 Visas, also known as the Marriage Green Card, allow spouses of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to live as permanent residents in the U.S.

Work Visas: 

• Speciality Occupations (H1B Visa): The H1B Visa is a work visa for workers in a speciality occupation, such as IT, finance, accounting, architecture, engineering, mathematics, medicine, etc.
• Employment-based Immigrant Visas (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, EB-4, EB-5): These visas are for workers in a variety of situations, from “priority workers” with extraordinary abilities or multinational executives (EB-1) to skilled workers and professionals (EB-2 and EB-3) and even immigrant investors who are investing a large amount of capital into a U.S. enterprise (EB-5).
• Intra-company Transferee (L1 Visa): The L1 Visa is for managers, executives, or specialised knowledge employees transferring to their employer’s U.S. office.

Student Visas: 

• Student Visas (F1 or M1 Visa): These visas are for individuals who wish to study in the U.S. F1 visas are for academic students, while M1 Visas are for vocational students.
• Exchange Visitors (J1 Visa): The J1 Visa is for individuals approved to participate in work-and-study-based exchange visitor programs.

Investor Visas:

• Trader/Investor Visas (E1/E2 ): These are for people who conduct significant trade between the U.S. and their home country (E1), or who are investing a significant amount of capital in a U.S. business (E2). 

To learn more about U.S. visas, read our detailed guide on Moving to the USA From the UK.

Applying for a U.S. Visa

You should apply well in advance of your move as visa applications can take a few months. Here are the key steps to follow:

1. Determine the Right Visa – Research the right visa for the purpose of your stay. 
2. Apply for a Visa: you’ll have to complete the visa application form relevant to your category. This is typically under the category of an immigrant visa for long-term stays or through a Green Card. 
3. Schedule a Visa Interview: You’ll need to have an in-person interview either at the U.S. Embassy in London or the Consulate in Belfast.
4. Prepare Documentation: Gather the essential documents such as your passport, visa application confirmation, visa fee receipt, and any supporting documents (e.g., job offer, financial proof, or educational enrollment).
5. Await Response: Your interview, documents, and application will be reviewed and you will be informed of the outcome.

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. 

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.  

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).

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 2023. 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 unemployment rate is slightly higher than Texas’ rate at 4.50%, but the job market remains healthy. 

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. 

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.

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.

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.