Looking to make the move from the Texas countryside to the hustle and bustle of a big city? Maybe you already live in Houston or Dallas and wonder what the other city holds. Or, perhaps, you’re another southern Californian looking for more affordable housing in The Lone Star State.

Whatever your situation, if you are interested in Dallas or Houston, read on to better understand the similarities and differences between what these two wonderful cities offer. Then, let the knowledgeable Apartment Locators at AptAmigo help you find your dream home in the right city and neighborhood for you.

Related: New Apartment Buildings in Dallas, TX

Dallas Vs. Houston: Where to Live Next

Cost of Living & Housing Market

Dallas: 

The cost of living in Dallas, Texas comes in at just a few percentage points higher than the national average, with housing and groceries on the cheaper side, but utilities slightly above. The median rent is $1,325 a month, but because transportation costs hover on the low side, living outside the city and commuting in is a common way to find what you need at a price you can afford.

Houston:

The cost of living in Houston, on the other hand, is considerably less at around 8 percent below the national average. In this semi-coastal city, the median rent comes in around $1,127 and is cheaper than Dallas across every category. 

Lifestyle & Culture

Dallas: 

The greater Dallas-Fort Worth Metropolitan Area is known for its extensive music and art scene and for its remarkable Southern cuisine. During the hot summer months, Dallas residents and their furry friends can cool off at the many local lakes and parks.

Houston:

As the fourth largest city in the US, Houston caters to people of all interests. Known culturally for its Southern charm and exquisite food scene, its geographical proximity to the Gulf of Mexico brings diversity and a distinctly beachy vibe. Whether you desire the highbrow shopping scene or lounging by the bay, you’ll find what you love here.

Job Market in Dallas Vs. Houston

Dallas: 

Although the tech boom certainly hit Dallas, the city has served as a major hub for large corporations for some time. Toyota, State Farm, American Airlines, AT&T, Bank of America, and Lockheed Martin all operate out of the greater metropolitan area. Similar to the cost of living, the average salary in Dallas is on par with the national average.

Houston:

After the COVID crash, which was felt around the world, Houston’s job market swiftly rebounded. While much of this growth has occurred in the areas of healthcare, education, government, construction, mining, and logging, plenty of opportunities exist across all sectors.

Traffic & Public Transportation

Dallas: 

Despite Garland, a suburb of Dallas, ranking as the third worst commute in America, the average driver will only spend about 25 minutes driving to and from work. While walking and riding a bike may be an option if you live and work downtown, most people in this sprawling city either use the extensive DART public transportation system or own a car.

Houston:

If you want to avoid long hours in the car, Houston, recently ranked the fourth worst commute in America, may not be the city for you. That said, the ever-expanding METRO public transportation system and the rise in remote and hybrid jobs can take the edge off the frustration of sitting in traffic.

Things To Do

Dallas: 

Dallas offers tons of activities for residents and visitors alike. The city is known for its extensive culinary offerings, historic landmarks, and beautiful parks and lakes. The bustling Arts District contains many museums, galleries, the symphony, and an opera house.

Related: Things to Do in Dallas at Night

Houston:

Whether it is your first time or your hundredth time, Houston never disappoints. Take a tour of the Space Center, catch an Astros game at Minute Maid Park, check out the zoo, or spend the afternoon catching rays on the beach in Galveston. Houston will entertain residents of all interests. 

Food Scene in Dallas Vs. Houston

Dallas: 

The recent boom in Dallas’ high-end (high-priced) restaurants led to its new label as the New Dubai. However, the food scene still remains as eclectic and decadent as ever. From Ethiopian to Korean BBQ, Mexican to Pizza to good ole Southern food, Dallas won’t upset any pallet.

Houston:

Due to its extremely diverse and innovative culinary scene, U.S. News recently ranked Houston the 8th Best Food City in the country. With so much to offer, you may find it difficult to pick a place. We recommend starting with Truth BBQ, Xochi, or Turner’s and then seeing where your taste buds take you. 

Ready to Move to Dallas or Houston?

Since both Dallas and Houston provide so many big city advantages, you may find it difficult to make a choice between these two wonderful cities. Luckily, you don’t have to decide alone. Connect with one of AptAmigo’s expert Locators, they will take time to get to know you and your lifestyle needs and can help you decide which city, which neighborhood, and which apartment is right for you.