Dallas vs Houston: Which is Better? An Honest Review on Each City’s Cost, Culture, and More

Are you thinking of making a move to a Dallas, TX, rental or an apartment in Houston, TX? Both cities offer the charm of Texas living, but with distinct differences in culture and opportunities.

In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll help you compare these two cities by breaking down the cost of living, job markets, and cultural offerings to guide your decision.

Dallas vs Houston: Two Texas giants in size and population

Dallas and Houston are both major cities in Texas, but their geographic size and population distribution differ significantly. Dallas spans about 340 square miles, offering a mix of urban, suburban, and open spaces. In contrast, Houston is much larger, covering an impressive 665 square miles, making it one of the largest cities in the US by area.

Dallas is home to about 1.3 million residents, while Houston’s population exceeds 2.3 million. Houston’s vast geographic size means its population density is around 3,600 people per square mile, allowing for a more spacious and laid-back feel in many neighborhoods. Dallas, with its smaller size, has a slightly higher density of around 3,800 residents per square mile, offering a more concentrated urban atmosphere, particularly in downtown areas. While both cities are large and diverse, Houston’s size and population make it feel more sprawling compared to the more compact and urbanized layout of Dallas.

Cost of living in Dallas vs Houston

The cost of living in Dallas is about 8% higher than in Houston overall, though both cities remain affordable compared to national averages. Here’s a breakdown of how these two major Texas cities compare:

1. Utilities

Utilities in Dallas are about 12% more expensive than in Houston, with the average monthly energy bill coming to $230.01 in Dallas compared to $179.64 in Houston. Dallas’s higher demand for air conditioning in its hotter, dryer summers drives utility costs slightly higher than in Houston’s more humid climate.

2. Groceries

Groceries are around 1% more expensive in Houston than in Dallas. For example, a pound of ground beef costs $6.32 in Houston compared to $5.99 in Dallas. Houston’s larger shipping ports and access to fresh produce help keep grocery costs lower than in landlocked Dallas.

3. Transportation

Transportation costs are 2% more in Houston than in Dallas. Tire rotations average at $62.46 in Houston, while in Dallas, it’s closer to $53.53. Houston’s infrastructure supports more public transportation options and less reliance on cars compared to the more car-dependent Dallas.

4. Healthcare

Healthcare expenses in Dallas are about 10% higher than in Houston, with a doctor’s visit costing $141.75 in Dallas compared to $95.44 in Houston. Dallas’s healthcare system is more spread out across the metro area, while Houston benefits from its Texas Medical Center, a massive healthcare hub that offers a variety of services at lower costs.

5. Lifestyle

Lifestyle activities in Dallas are about 5% more expensive than in Houston, with gym memberships, dining out, and entertainment costing more. For example, a movie ticket in Dallas averages $15.05, while in Houston, it’s closer to $11.55. Dallas’s more urbanized culture and higher demand for trendy services drive up lifestyle costs compared to Houston’s larger, more diverse market.

Housing in Dallas vs Houston

Housing in Dallas 

Dallas offers a range of housing options, from luxury apartments in downtown areas to spacious single-family homes in suburban Dallas neighborhoods like Plano and Frisco. The city’s rapid growth and urban sprawl mean there’s a mix of modern architecture and classic Texas homes. Many areas feature larger properties with backyards, and Dallas’s real estate market remains relatively affordable compared to other major US cities. Housing in Dallas often includes amenities like private pools, big yards, and outdoor patios to enjoy the Texas sunshine.

Housing options:

• Studio Apartment: The average rent for a studio apartment in Dallas is around $1,390 per month, with downtown areas like Deep Ellum and Victory Park being more expensive.
• 1-Bedroom Apartment: A one-bedroom apartment in Dallas typically costs about $1,422 per month, especially in upscale neighborhoods like Highland Park or Addison.
• Median home cost: The median sale price for a home in Dallas is $390,000. Dallas’s real estate market offers everything from affordable single-family homes in the suburbs to high-end condos in central districts.

Housing in Houston 

Houston’s housing market is known for its affordability and wide selection of home styles. You’ll find everything from historic bungalows in the Heights to modern townhomes in Midtown. With Houston’s massive size, the city offers both urban living and sprawling suburban developments. Outdoor space is plentiful, with most homes featuring sizable yards, driveways, and patios. Despite its size and growth, Houston remains one of the more affordable major cities in Texas when it comes to housing.

Housing options:

• Studio Apartment: Renting a studio apartment in Houston costs around $1,328 per month, with downtown areas like Montrose or the Museum District offering higher prices.
• 1-Bedroom Apartment: A one-bedroom apartment in Houston typically rents for around $1,245 per month, especially in desirable areas like River Oaks or the Galleria.
• Median home cost: The median sale price for a home in Houston is $331,090, making it more affordable than Dallas. Houston’s market includes a variety of homes, from affordable suburban options to luxury condos near the city’s central business district.

The job market in Dallas vs Houston

Dallas: A business and financial powerhouse

Dallas boasts a strong economy fueled by key industries such as finance, healthcare, and technology. With an employment rate of 67%, the city has a median household income of $70,000. The average hourly wage in Dallas is $31.66, showcasing the competitive job market across multiple industries.

Financial institutions like JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, and AT&T anchor Dallas’s job market, with tech companies like Texas Instruments and AT&T further supporting the city’s robust economy. The healthcare sector is also a key player, with Baylor Scott & White Health and Texas Health Resources providing a significant number of jobs. Dallas’s diverse economy, with strong representation across finance, tech, and healthcare, makes it a major business hub with a thriving job market.

Houston: Energy capital with growing tech and medical sectors

Houston is widely recognized as the energy capital of the world, with a strong job market driven by oil, gas, and energy industries. However, the city’s economy is also expanding into tech, healthcare, and aerospace. Houston’s employment rate is around 64%, with a median household income of $63,000. The average hourly wage in Houston is $29.11, reflecting the city’s strong earning potential.

Energy companies like ExxonMobil, Chevron, and Halliburton dominate Houston’s economy, but the Texas Medical Center, the world’s largest medical complex, also plays a significant role in job creation. Tech companies are increasingly establishing a presence in Houston, with industries like biotech and aerospace growing rapidly. This diversification is contributing to a balanced and dynamic job market in Houston, offering opportunities across multiple sectors.

Transportation in Dallas vs Houston

Dallas: A car-driven city with growing transit options

Dallas is largely car-reliant, with its layout and extensive highway system, including I-35 and I-635, connecting the metro area. However, Dallas has invested in public transportation, with the DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) light rail system offering a more convenient way for commuters to get around, especially in the urban core. The city also has a growing network of bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly areas.

• Walk Score: 46
• Bike Score: 49
• Transit Score: 39

Houston: A sprawling city dominated by driving

Houston is known for its large layout and car-centric transportation system. While METRO offers buses and light rail options, driving remains the most common form of transportation. Biking is less popular due to the city’s hot, humid climate and large distances between key locations, though the city is slowly improving its bike infrastructure.

• Walk Score: 47
• Bike Score: 49
• Transit Score: 36

Travel options in and out of Dallas and Houston

Both Dallas and Houston offer extensive travel options by air and road, but Dallas boasts a more expansive public transit network for in-city travel, while Houston leans heavily on cars.

Dallas:

• Airports: Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Dallas Love Field (DAL)
• Rail: Amtrak services like the Texas Eagle, connecting Dallas to cities across the U.S.
• Buses: Greyhound and Megabus offer long-distance options
• Bike share: Dallas BCycle offers bikes for short trips around downtown and other key areas

Houston:

• Airports: George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)
• Rail: Amtrak’s Sunset Limited provides connections to cities like New Orleans and Los Angeles
• Buses: Long-distance bus services like Megabus and Greyhound
• Electric scooters: Available in central areas, providing an alternative to cars for short trips

Weather and climate in Dallas vs Houston

Dallas’ climate and Houston’s climate both experience hot, humid summers and mild winters, but their weather challenges differ. Dallas regularly sees summer temperatures in the high 90s°F, with frequent thunderstorms, especially during spring and fall. The city’s location in Tornado Alley makes it susceptible to tornadoes, adding to its unpredictable weather. Winters in Dallas are generally mild, though cold fronts occasionally bring freezing temperatures. Houston, being closer to the Gulf of Mexico, experiences even higher humidity and is more prone to hurricanes during the June to November hurricane season. Summers are hot and humid, and winters remain mild, but Houston’s greatest risk comes from tropical storms and flooding caused by its coastal location.

Lifestyle and recreational opportunities in Dallas vs Houston

What it’s like to live in Dallas

Dallas offers a fast-paced lifestyle with a focus on arts, business, and upscale entertainment. Known for its modern architecture and cultural venues, the city has a lively arts district, with world-class museums, theaters, and a vibrant dining scene. Residents often enjoy weekends at the Dallas Arboretum or attending professional sports events, as the city is home to major teams like the Cowboys and Mavericks. Dallas also has a growing focus on outdoor activities, with new parks and trails being developed throughout the city, making it easier to balance urban living with nature. The city’s mix of Southern hospitality and modern convenience makes it an exciting place to live.

Indoor Activities:

• Visit the Dallas Museum of Art or Nasher Sculpture Center
• Attend a performance at the Winspear Opera House
• Explore the Perot Museum of Nature and Science
• Catch a Dallas Cowboys or Mavericks game
• Try upscale dining in Deep Ellum or the Bishop Arts District

Google Street View inside of Nasher Sculpture Center

Outdoor Activities:

• Stroll through the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
• Biking or jogging along the Katy Trail
• Paddleboarding on White Rock Lake
• Attend outdoor concerts at Klyde Warren Park
• Visit the Dallas Zoo

Google Street View of White Rock Lake

Landmarks and parks around Dallas:

• Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
• Reunion Tower
• White Rock Lake
• Klyde Warren Park
• Dealey Plaza and The Sixth Floor Museum
• Katy Trail
• Bishop Arts District
• Perot Museum of Nature and Science

What it’s like to live in Houston

Living in Houston offers a laid-back, diverse lifestyle with access to a great food scene. The city’s cultural diversity is reflected in its international dining options, art museums, and theater district. Houston’s mild winters and extensive park systems make outdoor activities enjoyable year-round, with popular spots like Memorial Park and Buffalo Bayou providing places for hiking, running, and kayaking. The city is home to NASA’s Johnson Space Center, which adds a unique scientific edge to its atmosphere. Houston’s blend of outdoor spaces, cultural offerings, and a welcoming community make it a dynamic place to live.

Indoor Activities:

• Visit the Houston Museum of Natural Science or Museum of Fine Arts
• Attend a Broadway show in the Theater District
• Tour NASA’s Johnson Space Center
• Explore the Houston Aquarium
• Watch a Houston Rockets or Astros game

Google Street View of inside the Houston Museum of Natural Science

Outdoor Activities:

• Hiking or biking along the trails in Memorial Park
• Kayaking on Buffalo Bayou
• Visit the Houston Zoo at Hermann Park
• Strolling through the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center
• Picnic at Discovery Green

Google Street View of Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park

Landmarks and parks around Houston:

• Space Center Houston
• Memorial Park
• Buffalo Bayou Park
• Discovery Green
• Hermann Park and Houston Zoo
• Houston Museum District
• Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park
• The Galleria

Food and culture: Big D vs. Space City

Dallas and Houston showcase diverse food scenes rooted in Texas traditions but shaped by their unique city personalities. Dallas, known as Big D, offers a blend of upscale steakhouses, hearty Tex-Mex, and an expanding food truck culture, with dishes like brisket tacos and queso being local staples. Dallas’s fine dining options rival any major city, with chefs pushing culinary boundaries. Houston, affectionately known as Space City, boasts one of the most diverse food scenes in the U.S., with global influences from Vietnamese, Nigerian, Indian, and Mexican cuisines. Seafood plays a significant role in Houston’s dining culture, with Gulf shrimp and fresh oysters taking center stage.

Culturally, both cities offer vibrant arts scenes, though they differ in scope and focus. Dallas is home to the country’s largest contiguous arts district, featuring venues like the Dallas Museum of Art and the Winspear Opera House. Its cultural offerings lean toward polished, high-end performances, while Houston’s Theater District showcases a more eclectic mix of global performances and local productions. Houston’s Museum District, featuring the Museum of Fine Arts and the Houston Museum of Natural Science, reflects the city’s international influences. While Dallas presents a sleek, modern cultural vibe, Houston is a melting pot of world cultures, both in food and the arts.

Dallas vs Houston sports scene

Dallas:

• Football (NFL): Dallas Cowboys – America’s Team is one of the most successful and valuable franchises in the NFL, with a storied history and five Super Bowl titles. The Cowboys play at the iconic AT&T Stadium.
• Basketball (NBA): Dallas Mavericks – The Mavericks, led by a global fan base and their championship win in 2011, remain a force in the NBA with MVP talent at the helm.
• Hockey (NHL): Dallas Stars – The Stars are a strong team in the NHL, having won a Stanley Cup and continuing to be playoff contenders.
• Baseball (MLB): Texas Rangers – The Rangers have built a passionate fan base, with Globe Life Field hosting exciting MLB action, culminating in their first World Series title.
• Soccer (MLS): FC Dallas – FC Dallas is known for its youth development program and strong presence in the MLS, with a dedicated fan following.

Houston:

• Baseball (MLB): Houston Astros – The Astros have become a powerhouse in recent years, with multiple World Series appearances and titles, bringing pride to Houston’s sports scene.
• Football (NFL): Houston Texans – The Texans are a young franchise but have quickly developed a strong, passionate fan base, playing home games at NRG Stadium.
• Basketball (NBA): Houston Rockets – The Rockets have a rich history, with multiple championships and a focus on rebuilding for future success.
• Soccer (MLS): Houston Dynamo – The Dynamo have won multiple MLS Cups, with a dedicated fan base and a strong connection to the Houston community.
• Football (College): University of Houston Cougars – College football is big in Houston, with the Cougars competing at a high level and drawing strong local support.

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