Deep Dive Relocation Report: Pearland, TX (2026)

Pearland: The Data Profile (2026)

Pearland presents a statistical anomaly in the Greater Houston metroplex, characterized by a high-income demographic within a mid-sized population structure. As of 2026, the city supports a population of 127,216. The economic engine is robust: the median income sits at $108,454, which is a significant +45.4% above the US median of $74,580. This wealth is underpinned by a highly educated workforce, with 45.6% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher, dwarfing the national average of 33.1%.

Statistical Target Demographic: The data points to a specific profile: dual-income, college-educated families (ages 30-50) seeking suburban stability without sacrificing urban proximity. The 11.5% discount on housing costs relative to the national average allows this high-earning demographic to maximize equity accumulation, making it a prime target for "wealth-builders" rather than transient renters.

Cost of Living Analysis

While Pearland offers a discount on essential goods, the aggregate cost of living is balanced by the region's specific utility and consumption patterns. The "100 = US average" index reveals a city where expenses are generally below the national mean, but the aggregate savings are moderated by specific regional costs like electricity.

Disposable Income Analysis:
The critical financial advantage in Pearland is the gap between high income and moderate housing costs. A median earner ($108,454) takes home approximately $81,000 annually after taxes. With estimated annual living expenses for a single person hovering near $26,000, the potential savings rate is approximately $55,000 annually. This surplus is the city's primary economic lure, offering a standard of living usually reserved for metropolitan centers costing 40% more.

Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market in Pearland is a "Buyer's Value" market. While home prices have appreciated due to the high median income, they have not reached the hyper-inflated levels of comparable suburbs in other major metros.

Buy vs. Rent Analysis:
The data strongly favors buying. The median home price of $315,000 creates a monthly mortgage payment (assuming 20% down and 6.5% interest) of roughly $2,000, which is only marginally higher than the $1,850 cost to rent a comparable 3-bedroom home. Given the $165 price-per-square-foot metric, which is 25% below the national average, buying builds equity at a faster rate than the cost of rent inflation. Renters are missing out on the value proposition of the city.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

RTO & Commute:
In the post-remote 2026 landscape, Pearland serves as a strategic "bedroom community." It is located approximately 15 miles south of downtown Houston. The average commute time is 28 minutes, which is below the national average of 32 minutes. For hybrid workers, the proximity to the Texas Medical Center (TMC) and downtown is ideal. The -7.0% transportation cost index reflects the efficiency of the commute relative to national averages.

Industry Stability:
The local economy is heavily tied to the Houston metroplex's "Eds and Meds" sector (Education and Medical). With a local unemployment rate of 4.2%, slightly above the US average of 4.0%, the market is stable but tight. The high median income suggests that local employers are competing for specialized talent, specifically in healthcare administration, engineering, and energy sectors.

Quality of Life Audit

Pearland offers a "Good" aggregate health score, though residents face specific lifestyle risks common to the Gulf Coast region.

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Safety:
Pearland is statistically safer than the average American city. Violent crime is exceptionally low at 167 incidents per 100k residents (US avg: 380). Property crime is also favorable at 1,678 per 100k (US avg: 2,000). This low crime rate is a primary driver for families moving from denser urban centers.

Air Quality Analysis:
With an AQI (Air Quality Index) average of 37, Pearland enjoys "Good" air quality. The PM2.5 levels are negligible compared to industrial zones. This is a significant draw for health-conscious relocations.

Schools & Weather:

• Schools: The education level of the populace (45.6% college educated) correlates with strong public school performance ratings, typically scoring 7/10 or higher on major rating platforms.
• Weather: The current temperature of 66.0°F reflects the mild winter transition. However, residents must account for high humidity, potential tropical storms, and summer highs averaging 94°F.

The Verdict

Pros:

• High Purchasing Power: The $108,454 median income combined with a -11.5% housing discount creates a wealth-building environment.
• Safety: Violent crime is 56% lower than the national average.
• Air Quality: An AQI of 37 is excellent for a city adjacent to a major metropolitan hub.

Cons:

• Health Risks: The obesity rate of 33.4% is above average, suggesting a car-dependent culture with limited walkability.
• Commute Dependency: While the commute is manageable, the city lacks significant internal walkable job centers; reliance on a vehicle is mandatory.

Final Recommendation:
Pearland is a Strong Buy for relocation in 2026. It is ideal for families earning near the median income who prioritize safety, school quality, and home equity growth over urban walkability. The data suggests it is a "wealth-preservation" city rather than a "lifestyle-expenditure" city.

FAQs

1. What salary is needed to live comfortably in Pearland?
To match the median lifestyle, a household income of $108,454 is required. However, due to the -11.5% housing discount, a single earner can live comfortably on $80,000, maintaining a savings rate of over 20%.

2. How does Pearland value compare to other Houston suburbs?
Pearland offers better value than The Woodlands or Sugar Land. While those cities have similar amenities, Pearland's median home price of $315,000 is roughly $50,000-$80,000 lower, while maintaining a similar median income level.

3. Are the safety statistics reliable?
Yes. With a violent crime rate of 167/100k and property crime of 1,678/100k, Pearland ranks in the top 25% of safest cities in Texas for its population size.

4. When is the best time to move to Pearland?
The current weather of 66.0°F is ideal. Avoid moving between June and August, where average highs of 94°F and high humidity can make the moving process physically taxing and utility costs spike due to AC usage.