đź“Š Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Broomfield and Houston
Head-to-Head Analysis
Broomfield vs Houston
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
đź“‹ The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Broomfield | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $112,139 | $62,637 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.9% | 4.8% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $588,995 | $335,000 |
| Price per SqFt | $251 | $175 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,835 | $1,135 |
| Housing Cost Index | 146.1 | 106.5 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 101.3 | 103.4 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $2.26 | $2.35 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 492.9 | 912.4 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 58.8% | 37.1% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 33 | 44 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Here is the ultimate head-to-head showdown between Houston and Broomfield.
Houston vs. Broomfield: The Ultimate Relocation Showdown
Choosing a new city isn't just about picking a dot on a map; it's about choosing a lifestyle. You're trading your current coffee shop, your commute, and your weekend vibe for something entirely new. Today, we're putting two vastly different contenders in the ring: the sprawling, energetic giant of Houston, Texas, and the polished, suburban sanctuary of Broomfield, Colorado.
This isn't just a data dump. This is a real-talk guide to help you decide where you belong. Let's break it down.
The Vibe Check: Big City Energy vs. Mountain-Adjacent Suburbia
First, let's get the lay of the land.
Houston is a beast of a city. With a population of 2.3 million, it’s the fourth-largest in the U.S. This is a sprawling, car-dependent metropolis with no zoning laws, meaning a high-rise can be next to a taqueria, which is next to an industrial plant. The culture is a mishmash of Southern hospitality, world-class Tex-Mex, a booming energy and medical sector, and a surprisingly diverse arts scene. The vibe is fast-paced, unpretentious, and humid—very humid. It’s a city for those who want endless options, big career opportunities, and a cost of living that, while rising, still offers a lot of apartment for the dollar.
Broomfield, on the other hand, is a master-planned suburb nestled between Denver and Boulder. With a population of just 76,860, it’s not a city in the traditional sense; it's a community. Think clean streets, excellent schools, and a backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. The vibe is polished, active, and family-oriented. It’s a hub for professionals who work in Denver’s tech or aerospace corridors but want to come home to a quieter, safer, and more scenic environment. Life here is about balance, outdoor recreation, and a sense of order.
Who is each city for?
- Houston is for the go-getter who craves the energy of a massive city, loves diverse food, doesn’t mind the heat (or humidity), and wants more house/rental space for their money.
- Broomfield is for the professional or family who prioritizes safety, outdoor access, and top-tier schools, and is willing to pay a premium for a cleaner, more controlled suburban lifestyle.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Go Further?
Let's talk money. The headline numbers tell a story, but the real story is about purchasing power.
Houston boasts a lower median income ($62,637) than Broomfield, but the cost of living is significantly lower. The biggest financial advantage? Texas has 0% state income tax. This is a massive deal for high earners. If you make $100,000 in Houston, you take home more of your paycheck than if you made the same amount in a state with a 5% income tax. That extra cash can offset the rising costs of housing and utilities.
Broomfield has a much higher median income ($112,139), reflecting the high-paying tech and professional jobs in the Denver metro area. However, Colorado has a progressive state income tax, ranging from 4.4% to 5.5%. On top of that, the cost of living is steep, especially for housing. The "sticker shock" is real here.
Here’s a direct cost comparison to illustrate the day-to-day financial impact:
| Expense Category | Houston, TX | Broomfield, CO | The Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $335,000 | $588,995 | Houston |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,135 | $1,835 | Houston |
| Housing Index | 106.5 | 146.1 | Houston |
| Utilities | High (AC is a must) | Moderate | Broomfield |
| Groceries | Lower | Higher | Houston |
The Purchasing Power Verdict: If you earn a typical salary for your field, your money will stretch much further in Houston. You can afford a larger home or a nicer apartment for significantly less. However, Broomfield’s higher median income suggests that professionals in certain industries (tech, engineering) might see a higher ceiling for earnings that could eventually offset the higher costs. For the average earner, Houston offers more bang for your buck.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent
Houston: A Buyer's (or Renter's) Paradise?
Houston’s housing market is competitive but accessible. The median home price of $335,000 is within reach for many middle-class families. The market is vast, with everything from historic bungalows in The Heights to sprawling new builds in the suburbs. Renters also have it good, with a median 1-bedroom rent of $1,135. The constant expansion means new apartments are always coming online, keeping prices from skyrocketing as fast as in coastal cities. It’s a market with options.
Broomfield: The Premium Pricetag
Broomfield is a different beast. The median home price is a whopping $588,995, and the Housing Index of 146.1 (well above the national average of 100) confirms you’re paying a premium. This is a classic seller’s market. Inventory is tight, and desirable homes sell fast, often above asking price. Renting isn’t much cheaper, with a median 1-bedroom at $1,835. You’re paying for the location—the proximity to Denver and Boulder, the schools, and the mountain views. It’s a market for those with significant savings or high dual incomes.
The Dealbreakers: Life Outside Your Front Door
This is where the cities truly diverge.
Traffic & Commute
- Houston: The commute is legendary. The city is built for cars, and public transit (METRO) is limited. Average commute times are long, and traffic (especially on I-45, I-10, and the 610 Loop) is a daily test of patience. Commutes of 30-60 minutes are common for a decent-sized home.
- Broomfield: Traffic exists, but it’s more predictable. You’re likely commuting to Denver or Boulder via US-36 or I-25. While rush hour can snarl, the scale is smaller than Houston’s. The key advantage? You’re often driving toward mountains, which can be a psychological boost.
Weather: Humidity vs. Seasons
- Houston: The weather is a dealbreaker for many. The average temp is 59.0°F, but that’s misleading. Summers are long, hot, and oppressively humid, with highs regularly in the 90s and heat indices over 100°F. Winters are mild (rarely freezing), but you get significant rain and the occasional tropical storm. It’s a year-round indoor climate.
- Broomfield: You get four distinct seasons. The average temp is 47.0°F, but that’s just an average. You’ll enjoy gorgeous, dry summers in the 80s and 90s perfect for hiking. Winters bring snow (about 50-60 inches a year) and cold temps (highs often in the 30s or 40s). The dry air makes cold temps more tolerable for some, but snow shoveling is a reality.
Crime & Safety
- Houston: This is a tough reality. Houston has a violent crime rate of 912.4 per 100,000 people. While specific neighborhoods vary wildly (from very safe to high-crime), the city-wide average is significantly higher than the national average. You must be savvy about neighborhood selection.
- Broomfield: Safety is a major selling point. The violent crime rate is 492.9 per 100,000, nearly half that of Houston. As a suburban community with a strong police presence and a more homogeneous population, it consistently ranks as one of the safer cities in the Denver metro area. This is a huge factor for families.
The Verdict: Who Wins Your Relocation?
After breaking down the data and the lifestyle factors, here’s the final call.
Winner for Families: Broomfield
Why: Safety is paramount. The significantly lower crime rate, combined with top-rated schools, clean parks, and a community-focused atmosphere, makes Broomfield the clear choice. The higher cost is the price of admission for a premium, family-friendly environment. The outdoor access for kids is a massive bonus.
Winner for Singles/Young Pros: Houston
Why: Career opportunity and cost of living. Houston’s job market in energy, healthcare, and tech is massive. The 0% state income tax and lower rents mean a young professional can live well, save money, and have a vibrant, diverse social scene without breaking the bank. The city’s energy is infectious.
Winner for Retirees: Broomfield (with a caveat)
Why: For active retirees who love the outdoors and want a safe, walkable community with good healthcare nearby, Broomfield is ideal. The caveat? If you’re on a fixed income, the high cost of living and Colorado’s state income tax could be a strain. For budget-conscious retirees, a quieter suburb of Houston might be a better financial fit, but you’d trade the mountain air and four seasons for humidity and sprawl.
Final Pros & Cons List
Houston: The Energy Giant
PROS:
- Massive Job Market: Diverse opportunities in energy, healthcare, and tech.
- Affordability: Lower home prices and rents; 0% state income tax.
- World-Class Food & Culture: Unbeatable Tex-Mex, BBQ, and a surprisingly rich arts scene.
- Diversity: One of the most ethnically diverse cities in the U.S.
- Major Airport (IAH): Easy global travel.
CONS:
- Brutal Humidity & Heat: Summers are long and oppressive.
- High Crime Rate: Requires careful neighborhood research.
- Car-Dependent & Traffic: Long, frustrating commutes are the norm.
- Sprawl: Lack of zoning can lead to uneven neighborhoods.
Broomfield: The Mountain-Adjacent Sanctuary
PROS:
- Top-Tier Safety & Schools: Ideal for families; low crime rates.
- Outdoor Access: Proximity to Denver, Boulder, and the Rockies for hiking, skiing, and biking.
- Clean & Polished: Master-planned, well-maintained with a high quality of life.
- Four Distinct Seasons: Dry air, sunny days, and beautiful mountain views.
- Strong Community Feel: Events, parks, and a sense of belonging.
CONS:
- High Cost of Living: Steep housing prices and rents; state income tax.
- Limited Nightlife/Scene: It’s a suburb, not a cultural hub. You’ll go to Denver for major events.
- Competitive Housing Market: Hard to buy without a strong offer.
- Snow & Winter: Requires snow tires, shoveling, and dealing with cold temps.
The bottom line? If you prioritize career growth, affordability, and big-city amenities, Houston is your winner. If you value safety, schools, and the outdoors above all else, Broomfield is the clear choice.