Is Houston, TX A Good Place To Retire?
By Vickey Wachtel
Published: Jan 06, 2023
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Making plans for your senior years? You might be wondering if the Space City is a good place to live for retirees. Houston TX, is one of the largest cities in the United States, ranking fourth with a population of 2,345,606. As a local realtor I frequently emphasize on the multicultural diversity of this city, beeing considered to be the most diverse metro area in Texas, even among the most diverse in the States.
With a growing international community of varied cultural, ethnic, and religious backgrounds, Houston TX is a welcoming place for everyone. From its warm climate to its vibrant culture and thriving economy, it’s no surprise that many consider the Space City a top destination for retirement. But is it really a good place for seniors? That, of course, depends a lot on personal needs and wants, but for a start, here are a few crucial things to consider:
Big city, but much more affordable
Houston has a relatively low cost of living compared to other major cities of its caliber. The median listing home price per square foot is $175. Even with the inflation, Houston TX is still quite affordable compared to other huge cities like San Francisco or New York. The median price of a single-family home is around $340,000 in the Houston metro area, and the home price average is above $400,000. It could be a detail of interest for non-Texans that there’s no state income tax, which can be an important asset for retirees with fixed incomes.
Alongside the affordability, many prefer the city for its climate. Houston has a subtropical climate, which means it’s generally warm and humid throughout the year. Depending on personal needs and preferences, this can be a pro or a con: many retirees seek escape from the cold because of health issues. The summers can be really hot, though, so be prepared for that if you’re considering moving to Houston TX.
Houston TX Arts & Culture scene
Houston TX, is home to a vibrant and internationally recognized arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, theaters, and operas to choose from. Houston hosts performance venues and a number of festivals and events throughout the year, like the Houston International Festival or the Art Car Parade. The Museum of Fine Arts has a collection of over 70,000 works of art and regularly has events of temporary exhibitions too.
Houston is the home of Nasa too. The Houston Museum of Natural Science is a popular attraction, with exhibit themes ranging from dinosaurs to space exploration. The theater district is a buzzing one with great contemporary shows. Houston's diverse population and international community make it an exciting and culturally colorful place to enjoy and explore for everyone, retirees and young people alike.
World-class healthcare
It can be important for retirees with healthcare problems that Houston has a number of top-ranked hospitals and medical facilities. Houston is home to the largest healthcare facility in the world, the Texas Medical Center. The Texas Medical Center is home to 21 hospitals, 8 academic and research institutions, and numerous clinics. It is a leader in the fields of cancer research, cardiovascular care, and transplantation, among many others. The Texas Medical center, along with the Memorial Hermann Hospital and other healthcare institutions, ranks among the best in the country and are known for their high-quality care, making Houston an excellent place for retirees who may be experiencing health concerns.
Lastly, Houston’s strong economy ensures that there are plenty of job opportunities for retirees too. Saying goodbye to your primary career doesn’t necessarily mean you shouldn’t stay active and engaged in your golden years. With its affordable housing options and arts & culture scene, Houston has many things to offer. If you need any help with finding a home or you have any questions, feel free to contact me, I am happy to give you a hand!