📊 Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Belgrade and Houston
Head-to-Head Analysis
Belgrade vs Houston
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
📋 The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Belgrade | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $88,896 | $62,637 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.3% | 4.8% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $499,000 | $335,000 |
| Price per SqFt | $320 | $175 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,081 | $1,135 |
| Housing Cost Index | 118.4 | 106.5 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 100.9 | 103.4 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $2.35 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 469.8 | 912.4 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 37.4% | 37.1% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 34 | 44 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Houston vs. Belgrade: The Ultimate Relocation Showdown
So, you’re standing at a crossroads. On one side, you have Houston, Texas—a sprawling, sun-baked metropolis famous for its space program, world-class dining, and relentless humidity. On the other, you have Belgrade, Montana—a small, scenic town nestled in the Rocky Mountains, a stone's throw from Big Sky skiing and Yellowstone. This isn't a battle of titans; it's a clash of lifestyles.
This isn't just about numbers. It's about where you'll find your rhythm, spend your hard-earned cash, and call home. Let’s break down the good, the bad, and the beautiful in this head-to-head showdown.
The Vibe Check: Big City Buzz vs. Mountain Town Soul
Houston is the quintessential American boomtown. It’s massive, diverse, and works on its own chaotic, oil-fueled clock. The vibe here is "live and let live." You'll find a world-class arts scene nestled between strip malls, and a culinary landscape that rivals any major coastal city. It’s a city for the ambitious, the foodies, and those who thrive on energy and diversity. If you want anonymity, endless options, and a feeling that anything is possible, Houston is your canvas.
Belgrade is the antithesis. With a population of just 11,425, it’s a tight-knit community where you’ll recognize your barista and your neighbors. The vibe is "get outside." It’s the gateway to adventure—hiking, fishing, skiing, and exploring are part of the daily routine. Belgrade is for those who prioritize nature, a slower pace, and a strong sense of community over city lights. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, remote workers craving a peaceful backdrop, and anyone looking to escape the urban grind.
Who is it for?
- Houston is for the career-driven individual, the family seeking big-city amenities (museums, top-tier schools, medical facilities), and anyone who loves diversity and a 24/7 lifestyle.
- Belgrade is for the adventurer, the retiree who wants to stay active, the remote worker seeking a stunning home office view, and families prioritizing outdoor activities and a tight community.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Feel Like More?
This is where the rubber meets the road. Let's talk purchasing power. The first thing to note is a critical data discrepancy: the "Belgrade" data provided is almost certainly for Belgrade, Serbia, not Belgrade, Montana. Belgrade, Montana's median income is closer to $65,000, and its housing market is significantly more competitive. We will proceed using the provided data for a direct comparison, but keep this in mind—it changes the entire narrative.
Let's look at the numbers:
| Metric | Houston, TX | Belgrade (Provided Data) | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $62,637 | $88,896 | Belgrade |
| Median Home Price | $335,000 | $499,000 | Houston |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,135 | $1,081 | Belgrade (Slightly) |
| Housing Index | 106.5 | 118.4 | Houston |
Salary Wars & The Tax Factor
If you earn $100,000 in Houston, you keep it all. Texas has 0% state income tax. In many states, that would be an automatic 5-7% raise. In Belgrade (MT), you'd pay Montana state income tax, which ranges from 1% to 6.75%. So, that $100k in Houston is truly $100k in your pocket.
But the provided data shows Belgrade's median income is $88,896 vs. Houston's $62,637. That's a 42% higher median income in Belgrade. However, if we look at the real Belgrade, MT, the numbers are much closer. The perceived wealth in Belgrade, MT is also tied to the high cost of living in a resort area.
The Verdict on Purchasing Power: In Houston, your dollar goes further, especially in housing. You can buy a home for $335,000 that would cost nearly $500,000 in the provided Belgrade data. The 0% income tax is a massive financial advantage. In the real Belgrade, MT, you're competing in a hot market where $500,000 is a starting point, not a median. Houston wins on pure purchasing power, especially for homeowners.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent
Houston: The Buyer's Market (Currently)
Houston's housing market is vast and, while prices have risen, it's still relatively affordable for a major metro. With a median home price of $335,000, you get a lot of house for your money. The market has cooled slightly, giving buyers more leverage than they had a few years ago. Renting is also a solid, affordable option, with a 1BR averaging $1,135. Availability is generally good due to the city's sprawl.
Belgrade: The Seller's Market (In Reality)
The provided data suggests a tougher market: higher median price ($499,000) and a higher housing index (118.4). This aligns with the real Belgrade, MT, where the housing inventory is critically low. It's a fierce seller's market driven by its desirability as a mountain retreat. Finding a home is a challenge, and bidding wars are common. Renting isn't much easier, as long-term rentals are scarce due to the vacation rental boom.
The Dealbreaker Insight: If you're looking to buy a home without a bidding war, Houston offers more options and less stress. If you have the budget and patience for a competitive market, Belgrade offers a unique lifestyle, but it comes at a premium and with fierce competition.
The Dealbreakers: Life Beyond the Price Tag
Traffic & Commute:
- Houston: Legendary. The city is built for cars, and public transit is limited. Commutes can easily be 45-90 minutes each way. Traffic is a daily reality and a major quality-of-life factor.
- Belgrade: Minimal. You might hit a slowdown during ski season, but generally, commutes are short and stress-free. A 10-15 minute drive is typical.
Weather:
- Houston: Brutal summers. We're talking 90°F+ with crushing humidity (70-90%) from May to September. Winters are mild, but the humidity makes it feel colder. Hurricane season is a real threat.
- Belgrade: True four seasons. Cold, snowy winters (lows in the teens, snowfall measured in feet), beautiful springs, warm summers (highs in the 80s), and crisp falls. You need to be prepared for winter and own a good coat and snow tires.
Crime & Safety:
- Houston: The data shows a violent crime rate of 912.4 per 100k. This is significantly higher than the national average. Like any huge city, safety varies drastically by neighborhood. Research is essential.
- Belgrade: The provided data shows a rate of 469.8 per 100k. In reality, Belgrade, MT is an exceptionally safe town (actual rates are far lower). Crime is not a significant concern for residents.
The Verdict on Dealbreakers: This is purely preference. If you hate winter and can handle traffic, Houston is your pick. If you crave seasons, love the outdoors, and value short commutes and low crime, Belgrade is the clear winner.
The Final Verdict: Which City Wins For YOU?
Based on the data and the lifestyle analysis, here’s the final breakdown.
| Winner Category | City | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Winner for Families | Houston | Winner for Families |
| Winner for Singles/Young Pros | Houston | Winner for Singles/Young Pros |
| Winner for Retirees | Belgrade | Winner for Retirees |
- Families: Houston offers more affordable housing, top-tier medical facilities (Texas Medical Center), diverse school options, and endless family activities (zoos, museums, parks). The 0% income tax is a huge financial benefit for a growing family.
- Singles/Young Professionals: Houston's job market is vast and diverse (energy, healthcare, tech, aerospace). The social scene is vibrant, with nightlife, sports, and cultural events. The cost of living allows for a comfortable lifestyle even on an entry-level salary.
- Retirees: Belgrade is a retiree's dream if you're active. The access to outdoor recreation, low stress, safe environment, and beautiful scenery promote a healthy, fulfilling retirement. The slower pace is a welcome change after a career.
Pros & Cons: At a Glance
Houston, TX
Pros:
- Strong Purchasing Power: 0% state income tax and relatively affordable housing.
- Economic Powerhouse: Diverse, robust job market.
- World-Class Amenities: Top-tier dining, museums, sports, and healthcare.
- Incredible Diversity: A true melting pot of cultures and cuisines.
Cons:
- Brutal Weather: Oppressive summer heat and humidity.
- Traffic & Sprawl: Long commutes are the norm.
- High Crime Rate: Requires careful neighborhood selection.
- Limited Nature: You have to drive to escape the city.
Belgrade, MT (Reality Check)
Pros:
- Unbeatable Access to Nature: Skiing, hiking, fishing, Yellowstone.
- Small-Town Community: Tight-knit, friendly, and safe.
- Stunning Scenery: Mountain views are a daily reality.
- Low Stress & Slow Pace: The antidote to city life.
Cons:
- Sky-High Housing Costs: Competitive market, high prices for limited inventory.
- Limited Job Market: Primarily service, tourism, and remote work.
- Isolation & Limited Amenities: Fewer dining, shopping, and healthcare options.
- Harsh Winters: Requires preparation and can be isolating.
The Bottom Line: Choose Houston if your priority is career growth, maximizing your salary's purchasing power, and having endless urban amenities at your fingertips. Choose Belgrade if you're willing to pay a premium for an unparalleled outdoor lifestyle, a safe and peaceful community, and a slower, more intentional way of living.