Houston
Houston, often referred to as the “Space City” for its pivotal role in space exploration, boasts a population of 2.326 million as of 2018. What draws people to this sprawling Texan metropolis? For starters, Houston offers an appealing combination of affordability and high salaries. Its cost of living is notably lower than many major metropolitan areas like New York and San Francisco. With no state income tax, Houston becomes an even more attractive destination. Housing prices are competitive, making it a favorable choice compared to cities like Dallas and Austin. Furthermore, the city’s energy costs are lower due to fewer regulations.
However, it’s not just the economic factors that make Houston shine. The city’s robust job market is a major selling point. Thriving industries include oil and gas, medical, aerospace, and tech. Houston boasts the world’s largest medical center, offering ample opportunities for professionals. Notably, the city’s diverse neighborhoods like The Heights, East Downtown, River Oaks, and West University cater to various lifestyles and preferences.
San Antonio
San Antonio, with a population of 2,320,000 (a 2.25 percent increase from 2019), continues to attract residents for several compelling reasons. One standout feature is the affordability of its housing market. Buying a home in some of the city’s best neighborhoods remains a viable option, although prices have been gradually rising. The current median home price in San Antonio is $176,000, significantly below the national average.
Job seekers will find San Antonio appealing as well, given its low unemployment rate, which falls below both the national and state averages. The city’s thriving job market has seen significant growth, with about 30,000 more jobs added between 2016 and 2017. This makes San Antonio particularly appealing to millennials seeking both employment and affordable housing. Some of the city’s best neighborhoods, including Boerne, Helotes, Stone Oak, and Downtown San Antonio, offer a diverse range of living options.
Dallas
Dallas, with a population of 6,301,000 as of 2020, stands out as a magnet for job seekers from all backgrounds. The city boasts an impressively low unemployment rate, standing at just 3.2 percent as of November 2017, well below the national average. Dallas offers a broad spectrum of job opportunities, making it an excellent choice for recent graduates or those considering a career change.
Affordability is another feather in Dallas’s cap. While the cost of living in Dallas is slightly higher than the national average, it’s significantly lower than many major metros like New York and Miami. This makes Dallas an attractive option for those seeking to maximize their earnings and quality of life. What’s more, the city’s excellent public transportation options, coupled with its bikeability and walkability, render owning a car largely unnecessary.
The best neighborhoods in Dallas, such as Uptown, Preston Hollow, M Streets, and Lake Highlands, cater to various preferences, from upscale urban living to family-friendly communities.
Austin
Austin, home to a population of 2,053,000 as of 2020, has witnessed steady growth since 2008, fueled by a thriving economy. Austin earned recognition as the third-best performing city in terms of job creation and sustainability, according to the Milken Institute. With a job growth rate of 3.02 percent and a projected 43.13 percent increase in the next decade, Austin is a hotspot for career opportunities.
Affordability and quality of life go hand in hand in Austin. The city offers a range of housing options, from affordable rentals to valuable home investments. In fact, Austin was ranked as the number one city for high pay and low expenses by Yahoo in 2014. Moreover, Austin’s commitment to a greener lifestyle is evident, with numerous fitness enthusiasts and eco-conscious residents. It was named the 14th fittest city in America by Shape Magazine in 2014 and the greenest city in Texas by EnvironmentTexas.org.
For those considering Austin, neighborhoods like Allandale, East Austin, Hyde Park, Mueller, and Westlake Hills offer diverse living experiences that match various preferences and lifestyles.