đź“Š Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Bellevue and Houston
Head-to-Head Analysis
Bellevue vs Houston
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
đź“‹ The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Bellevue | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $87,343 | $62,637 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3% | 4.8% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $288,711 | $335,000 |
| Price per SqFt | $152 | $175 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $878 | $1,135 |
| Housing Cost Index | 87.3 | 106.5 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 95.2 | 103.4 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $2.35 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 312.5 | 912.4 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 33.4% | 37.1% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 25 | 44 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Houston vs. Bellevue: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
So, you're standing at a crossroads. On one path lies Houston, Texas—a sprawling, humid, energy-packed giant of the South. On the other, Bellevue, Nebraska—a quiet, affordable, Midwestern gem nestled right next to Omaha. It’s not exactly a battle of titans in terms of size, but when it comes to quality of life, affordability, and day-to-day living, the contrast couldn't be more stark.
As your relocation expert and data journalist, I’ve crunched the numbers, felt the humidity (and the chill), and am here to give you the real, unfiltered scoop. Forget the glossy brochures; we're talking about where your paycheck actually holds up, where you’ll spend your weekends, and which city might just be the perfect fit for your next chapter.
Let’s dive in.
The Vibe Check: Big City Buzz vs. Small-Town Charm
First, let’s talk about the fundamental feel of these places.
Houston is a monster. With a population of 2.3 million, it’s the fourth-largest city in the U.S. This isn’t just a number; it’s a lifestyle. The vibe is fast-paced, diverse, and relentless. It’s a city of industries—energy, healthcare, aerospace—and it draws ambitious, hardworking people from all over the globe. The culture is a spicy gumbo of Southern hospitality, international flair, and a "work hard, play hard" mentality. You’ll find world-class museums, an incredible food scene (from BBQ to Viet-Cajun), and professional sports teams. But you’ll also find sprawl, humidity that hits you like a wet towel, and traffic that can test your soul.
Bellevue, on the other hand, is a different universe. With a population of just 64,355, it’s a suburb with a strong sense of community. The vibe is laid-back, friendly, and deeply Midwestern. It’s the kind of place where people know their neighbors, kids ride bikes to the park, and life moves at a more manageable pace. It’s not a destination for nightlife or high-octane career hustle; it’s a place for stability, quiet evenings, and easy access to the amenities of a bigger city (Omaha is right next door) without the chaos. Think front porches, community events, and a focus on family and simple pleasures.
Who is each city for?
- Houston is for the go-getter, the foodie, the culture vulture, and anyone who needs a big city’s energy to feel alive. It’s for those who prioritize career opportunities and diversity over quiet and convenience.
- Bellevue is for the peace-seeker, the budget-conscious family, the retiree, and the person who values community and a slower pace of life. It’s for those who want their money and their time to stretch further.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Paycheck Stretch Further?
This is where the rubber meets the road. A $100,000 salary in Houston feels very different from the same salary in Bellevue. Let’s break it down.
Cost of Living Breakdown
| Category | Houston, TX | Bellevue, NE | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $335,000 | $288,711 | Bellevue |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,135 | $878 | Bellevue |
| Housing Index (Nat'l Avg: 100) | 106.5 | 87.3 | Bellevue |
| Median Income | $62,637 | $87,343 | Bellevue |
Salary Wars & Purchasing Power:
At first glance, Bellevue looks like the clear winner. The median income is $24,706 higher, and housing costs are significantly lower. However, the story gets more nuanced.
In Houston, you have the advantage of 0% state income tax. That’s a massive deal. On a $100,000 salary, you’re saving roughly $6,000-$7,000 per year compared to someone in a high-tax state. This extra cash can help offset the higher housing and utility costs. Houston also offers a wider range of high-paying jobs, particularly in energy and healthcare, meaning there’s a higher ceiling for earning potential.
In Bellevue, while the median income is higher, Nebraska has a state income tax that ranges from 3.5% to 6.84%. On a $100,000 salary, you’d pay around $5,000-$6,000 in state income tax. However, the dramatically lower cost of living—especially housing—often means your take-home pay goes much, much further. You can buy a home for less, rent for less, and your everyday expenses (groceries, utilities) are generally lower.
The Verdict on Purchasing Power:
For the average earner, Bellevue offers superior purchasing power. You simply get more house, more space, and more financial breathing room for your money. However, if you’re a high-earner in a field like tech or energy and can command a $150k+ salary in Houston, the lack of state tax and high salary ceiling might make Houston more financially attractive in the long run.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent
Houston:
The housing market is competitive but vast. With a median home price of $335,000, you get a lot of house for your money compared to coastal cities, but the sprawl means you might have a long commute. It’s a buyer’s market in many areas, with plenty of inventory, but desirable neighborhoods can move quickly. Renting is a solid option for newcomers, with a $1,135 average for a 1-bedroom, but be prepared for utility bills that can spike in the summer (AC is non-negotiable).
Bellevue:
The market here is incredibly attractive. A median home price of $288,711 is well below the national average. The Housing Index of 87.3 (where 100 is the national average) confirms it’s more affordable. It’s generally a buyer’s market, with steady inventory and less frantic competition than major metros. Renting is even more affordable at $878 for a 1-bedroom, making it an ideal place to save for a down payment.
If you’re looking to buy, Bellevue is the clear financial winner. You can enter the market sooner and with less financial strain. Houston offers more variety and space, but at a higher entry point and with potential for higher long-term appreciation due to its size and economic drivers.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life
Traffic & Commute
- Houston: This is a major con. The city is infamous for its traffic. Commutes of 45-60 minutes are common, even for short distances. Public transportation (Metro) exists but is limited. If you hate driving in congestion, Houston will be a daily headache.
- Bellevue: A huge pro. As a suburb of Omaha, traffic is minimal. Most commutes are under 20 minutes. The stress of a daily grind is virtually eliminated. This is one of Bellevue’s strongest selling points.
Weather
- Houston: Hot and humid. The average temperature is 59.0°F, but that’s a misleading annual average. Summers are brutal, with temperatures regularly hitting 95°F+ and humidity making it feel even hotter. Winters are mild but can be damp. Hurricane season is a real concern.
- Bellevue: Cold and four distinct seasons. The average temperature is 32.0°F, meaning cold winters with snow are the norm. Summers are warm and pleasant. If you hate snow and cold, this is a dealbreaker. If you prefer distinct seasons and hate oppressive humidity, you’ll love it.
Crime & Safety
This is a critical, honest look at the data.
- Houston: The violent crime rate is 912.4 per 100,000 people. This is significantly higher than the national average (which is around 380 per 100k). While Houston is vast and many neighborhoods are very safe, the city-wide average is a valid concern that requires research into specific areas.
- Bellevue: The violent crime rate is 312.5 per 100,000. This is lower than the national average and dramatically lower than Houston’s. Bellevue is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in Nebraska. For families and anyone prioritizing safety, this is a massive advantage.
The Final Verdict
After weighing the data, the lifestyle, and the dealbreakers, here’s the final breakdown.
Winner for Families
Bellevue.
The combination of superior safety (violent crime rate of 312.5/100k vs. Houston's 912.4/100k), excellent schools, a tight-knit community, and affordable housing makes it an ideal environment for raising children. The shorter commutes mean more time at home, and the lower stress levels are palpable.
Winner for Singles/Young Professionals
Houston.
If you’re young, ambitious, and crave energy, diversity, and endless things to do, Houston is your playground. The job market is robust, the food and culture scenes are world-class, and the lack of state income tax helps when you’re building your career. The higher crime rate and traffic are trade-offs for the urban experience.
Winner for Retirees
Bellevue.
Safety, affordability, and a slower pace of life are the holy trinity for retirees. Bellevue offers all three in spades. You can live comfortably on a fixed income, enjoy four seasons, and be part of a community that values quiet and stability. The extreme heat and humidity of Houston can be physically challenging for older adults.
Pros & Cons at a Glance
Houston, TX
Pros:
- 0% State Income Tax: A significant financial advantage.
- Economic Powerhouse: Endless job opportunities across diverse industries.
- Unmatched Food & Culture: A truly global city with incredible variety.
- No State Income Tax: (Worth repeating!)
Cons:
- Extreme Humidity & Heat: Summers can be brutal and last for months.
- Terrible Traffic: Commutes can be long and stressful.
- High Violent Crime Rate: Requires careful neighborhood research.
- Urban Sprawl: Everything is spread out; you need a car.
Bellevue, NE
Pros:
- Affordability: Significantly cheaper housing and cost of living.
- Safety: Violent crime is well below the national average.
- Low Stress: Minimal traffic, friendly community, slower pace.
- Family-Friendly: Excellent for raising kids with good schools and parks.
Cons:
- Cold Winters: Snow and freezing temperatures are a certainty.
- Limited Nightlife/Scene: It’s a suburb, not a destination for urban energy.
- Fewer High-Profile Jobs: Career ceiling may be lower unless you work remotely.
- Smaller Scale: Fewer major league sports, big concerts, etc.
The Bottom Line:
Choose Houston if you prioritize career, culture, and big-city energy, and you're willing to trade off traffic, heat, and a higher crime rate for the opportunity.
Choose Bellevue if you prioritize safety, affordability, community, and a peaceful lifestyle, and you're willing to trade off big-city amenities for a higher quality of life.
Your move isn't just about a new address; it's about choosing the lifestyle that will make you happiest. Choose wisely.