đź“Š Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Biddeford and Houston
Head-to-Head Analysis
Biddeford vs Houston
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
đź“‹ The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Biddeford | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $69,794 | $62,637 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.2% | 4.8% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $460,000 | $335,000 |
| Price per SqFt | $316 | $175 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,139 | $1,135 |
| Housing Cost Index | 119.6 | 106.5 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 96.6 | 103.4 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $2.35 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 108.6 | 912.4 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 30.4% | 37.1% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 38 | 44 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Here is your ultimate head-to-head showdown between Houston and Biddeford.
Houston vs. Biddeford: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
So, you’re standing at a crossroads. On one side, you have Houston, Texas—a sprawling, energy-rich behemoth where everything is bigger, bolder, and a little bit busier. On the other, you have Biddeford, Maine—a historic coastal town that’s quietly reinventing itself with a mix of old-school charm and new-school grit.
Choosing between these two is like choosing between a high-octane sports car and a rugged, reliable pickup truck. Both get you where you need to go, but the ride is wildly different. As your Relocation Expert, I’ve crunched the numbers, felt the humidity (or lack thereof), and analyzed the vibes to help you decide where to plant your roots.
Let’s dive in.
The Vibe Check: Big City Energy vs. Coastal Cool
Houston is a beast. It’s the fourth-largest city in the U.S., a concrete jungle where the skyline cuts through the flat horizon and the traffic never truly stops. The culture is a melting pot of Southern hospitality, international cuisine (seriously, the food scene is world-class), and pure, unadulterated ambition. It’s fast-paced, diverse, and loud. You’re not just living in a city; you’re surviving in an ecosystem.
Biddeford, on the other hand, is the definition of a "hidden gem." With a population of just 22,463, it’s a fraction of the size of a single Houston neighborhood. It’s a coastal town on the rise, blending historic mill buildings with a burgeoning arts and food scene. The vibe here is laid-back, community-focused, and deeply connected to the ocean. It’s for those who want a slower pace, distinct seasons, and the ability to escape to a beach or a forest on a whim.
- Who is Houston for? Ambitious professionals, foodies, families seeking diverse schools and endless activities, and anyone who thrives in a high-energy environment.
- Who is Biddeford for? Remote workers, artists, outdoor enthusiasts, young families wanting a tight-knit community, and retirees looking for a scenic, peaceful home base.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Stretch Further?
This is where the math gets interesting. At first glance, the numbers look deceptively similar, but the devil (and the purchasing power) is in the details.
The Tax Factor:
This is the single biggest financial differentiator. Texas has 0% state income tax. Maine, however, has a progressive income tax system ranging from 5.8% to 7.15%. If you earn $100,000 in Houston, you take home significantly more than in Biddeford before you even pay a single bill. This is a massive advantage for Houston.
The Cost of Living Table:
| Category | Houston, TX | Biddeford, ME | The Takeaway |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $335,000 | $460,000 | Houston wins. You get a lot more house for your money. |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,135 | $1,139 | Essentially a tie. Rent is shockingly similar, which is a huge win for Biddeford given its coastal location. |
| Housing Index | 106.5 | 119.6 | Houston wins. Biddeford’s housing is 12% more expensive than the national average. |
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 912.4 | 108.6 | Biddeford wins, decisively. The safety gap is enormous. |
| Weather (Avg Temp) | 59.0°F | N/A°F (Colder) | Subjective. Houston is humid; Biddeford has harsh winters. |
Salary Wars & Purchasing Power:
Let’s say you earn the median income in each city.
- In Houston ($62,637), with no state income tax and a lower housing index, your money goes further. You can afford a mortgage on a $335k home more comfortably than on a $460k home in Biddeford, especially after Maine’s taxes eat into your paycheck.
- In Biddeford ($69,794), the higher salary is almost entirely offset by the state income tax and the pricier housing market. Your purchasing power takes a hit.
Verdict on Dollar Power: If maximizing your take-home pay and buying a home is the goal, Houston is the clear financial winner. Biddeford demands a higher cost of living for the coastal lifestyle, and Maine’s tax structure puts a dent in your wallet.
The Housing Market: To Buy or To Rent?
Houston: A Buyer’s Playground (Mostly)
With a median home price of $335,000, Houston offers relative affordability for a major metro. The market is vast, with everything from starter homes in the suburbs to luxury high-rises. While competition exists in desirable neighborhoods, the sheer volume of inventory means you usually have options. Renting is also a solid, relatively affordable option if you’re not ready to commit.
Biddeford: A Competitive, Niche Market
Biddeford’s housing market is a different beast. The median home price is $460,000, and the Housing Index of 119.6 shows it’s significantly more expensive than the national average. This is driven by its coastal location and its growing popularity as a Portland-adjacent alternative. The inventory is limited, and competition can be fierce, especially for single-family homes. Renting is surprisingly affordable (on par with Houston), making it a great entry point.
- Buyer’s Market? Houston. More inventory, lower entry price.
- Renting? It’s a tie on price, but Biddeford’s rental market is tighter due to lower overall supply.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life
Traffic & Commute
Houston is infamous for its traffic. The city is geographically massive and car-dependent. Commutes can easily stretch to 45-60 minutes each way. Public transport exists but is limited. If you hate being in a car, Houston will test your patience.
Biddeford has no traffic. Seriously. You can get across town in 10 minutes. The commute to Portland (a larger city 20 minutes north) is easy. This is a massive quality-of-life win for Biddeford.
Weather: Humidity vs. Harsh Winters
Houston weather is a love-it-or-hate-it affair. Summers are long, brutal, and humid, with temperatures regularly hitting 90°F and staying there. Winters are mild. If you hate sweating, Houston is a dealbreaker.
Biddeford has four distinct seasons. Summers are gorgeous and mild. Winters, however, are long, cold, and snowy. You will deal with snow, ice, and gray skies for months. This is a major lifestyle choice.
Crime & Safety
The data speaks volumes. Houston’s violent crime rate is 912.4 per 100,000. Biddeford’s is 108.6 per 100,000. While Houston is a vast city with safe neighborhoods, its overall crime statistics are among the highest in the nation. Biddeford, like much of Maine, is exceptionally safe. For families or anyone prioritizing a low-stress environment, this is a monumental factor.
The Final Verdict: Who Wins Where?
This isn’t about one city being "better"—it’s about which city is better for you.
🏆 Winner for Families: Houston
- Why: The sheer scale of opportunities is unbeatable. World-class museums, the Children’s Museum, the Zoo, professional sports, and a vast array of school districts (both public and private). The lower housing costs allow for more space (a yard!). The major downside is the traffic and safety concerns, which require careful neighborhood selection.
🏆 Winner for Singles/Young Professionals: Houston
- Why: Career opportunities in energy, healthcare, and tech are massive. The social scene is vibrant, diverse, and 24/7. The zero state income tax is a huge boost for high earners looking to save or invest. The energy and pace are perfect for those building their careers.
🏆 Winner for Retirees: Biddeford
- Why: Safety, tranquility, and a slower pace of life. The coastal setting offers natural beauty and recreational activities. While Maine’s taxes are a consideration, the peace of mind from the low crime rate and the walkable, community-oriented environment is invaluable. The harsh winter is the only potential dealbreaker.
🏆 Winner for Remote Workers: Biddeford
- Why: The cost of living is manageable, the scenery is inspiring, and you’re close to both the coast and Portland’s amenities. You get a high quality of life without the big-city chaos. Just ensure you have a reliable internet connection (which is generally good in the area).
Final Pros & Cons
Houston, TX
Pros:
- Zero state income tax (huge financial advantage).
- Lower median home price and more housing inventory.
- World-class food scene and cultural diversity.
- Endless job opportunities in major industries.
- Mild winters.
Cons:
- Brutal summer humidity (feels like 100°F+).
- Severe traffic and car dependency.
- High violent crime rate (varies by neighborhood).
- Sprawling geography can feel impersonal.
Biddeford, ME
Pros:
- Extremely low crime and high safety.
- Walkable, community-focused feel.
- Proximity to ocean, forests, and Portland.
- Four distinct seasons with beautiful summers.
- Surprisingly affordable rent for a coastal town.
Cons:
- High median home price and competitive market.
- Maine’s state income tax (5.8%-7.15%).
- Long, cold, and snowy winters.
- Limited job market outside of remote work or Portland commute.
- Fewer big-city amenities (concerts, major sports, etc.).
The Bottom Line: Choose Houston if you’re chasing career growth, financial upside, and big-city amenities, and you can handle the heat and traffic. Choose Biddeford if you value safety, community, and natural beauty above all else, and you’re willing to pay a premium for a quieter, coastal lifestyle.