📊 Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Burlington and Houston
Head-to-Head Analysis
Burlington vs Houston
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
📋 The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Burlington | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $68,854 | $62,637 |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.6% | 4.8% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $551,600 | $335,000 |
| Price per SqFt | $342 | $175 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,441 | $1,135 |
| Housing Cost Index | 101.7 | 106.5 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 96.3 | 103.4 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $2.35 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 173.3 | 912.4 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 60.5% | 37.1% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 36 | 44 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Here is your ultimate head-to-head showdown article.
The Ultimate Showdown: Houston vs. Burlington
A Data-Driven Guide to Picking Your Next Home
Choosing a city isn't just about finding a place to live; it’s about finding a place that fits your life. Are you chasing career growth in a sprawling metropolis, or craving the tight-knit vibe of a smaller, progressive city? Today, we’re putting two vastly different contenders in the ring: the colossal Houston, Texas and the charming Burlington, Vermont.
This isn't just a list of stats. This is your roadmap. We'll break down the vibe, the dollars, the housing, and the daily grind to help you decide where to plant your roots.
The Vibe Check: Big Energy vs. Big Heart
Houston is a beast of a city. It’s the energy capital of the world, a sprawling, diverse, and relentless powerhouse. The vibe here is one of ambition and opportunity, fueled by a no-nonsense, business-first attitude. The culture is a unique blend of Southern hospitality, massive international influences, and a "can-do" spirit. Think world-class food, diverse neighborhoods, and a life that moves at a fast, humid pace. It’s for the go-getter who wants endless options and doesn’t mind the sprawl.
Burlington is the polar opposite. Nestled on the shores of Lake Champlain, it’s a picturesque, walkable, and fiercely independent city. The vibe is laid-back, eco-conscious, and community-focused. It’s the heart of Vermont’s progressive politics and outdoor culture. Think craft breweries, farm-to-table dining, and a college-town energy (thanks to UVM). It’s for the person who values quality of life, four distinct seasons, and a strong sense of place over sheer scale.
Who is each city for?
- Houston: The career-driven professional, the foodie, the family looking for affordable space, and anyone who thrives on energy and diversity.
- Burlington: The outdoor enthusiast, the remote worker seeking a scenic base, the retiree who wants a walkable community, and the progressive who values sustainability and local culture.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Stretch Further?
This is where the rubber meets the road. Let’s talk cold, hard cash.
The Big Picture:
Houston’s median income is $62,637, while Burlington’s is slightly higher at $68,854. On paper, Burlington pays more. But when you factor in cost of living, the math gets interesting. The key here is purchasing power—what your money actually buys you.
Salary Wars: The Purchasing Power Test
Imagine you earn a comfortable $100,000 in both cities. In Houston, thanks to Texas’s 0% state income tax and a lower overall cost of living, your take-home pay is higher, and your expenses are lower. You’ll feel richer here. In Burlington, with a higher state income tax (up to 8.75% on high earners) and steeper costs for housing and goods, that $100,000 will feel tighter. You’re paying a premium for the Vermont lifestyle and the lake views.
Here’s a direct cost comparison:
| Expense Category | Houston, TX | Burlington, VT | Winner (Cost) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $335,000 | $551,600 | Houston |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,135 | $1,441 | Houston |
| Utilities (Monthly) | ~$150 (high A/C) | ~$180 (high heating) | Tie |
| Groceries | 10% below nat'l avg | 7% above nat'l avg | Houston |
The Insight:
Houston wins on pure affordability. Your housing dollars go much further, and the lack of state income tax is a massive boost to your bottom line. Burlington is more expensive across the board, especially for housing. You’re paying for the location, the climate, and the smaller-town charm. If budget is a primary concern, Houston is the clear financial winner.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent & The Competition
Buying a Home:
- Houston: The market is hot but offers great value. With a median home price of $335,000 and a Housing Index of 106.5 (slightly above the national average), it’s a competitive buyer’s market, but you get a lot of house for your money. You can find a spacious single-family home in a good neighborhood without breaking the bank.
- Burlington: The market is extremely competitive. The median home price is a staggering $551,600, and the Housing Index of 101.7 is deceptively low because it’s based on a smaller, less volatile market. In reality, finding a home under $500k is a challenge. It’s a fierce seller’s market with low inventory.
Renting:
- Houston: Rent is relatively affordable at $1,135 for a 1BR. The rental market is vast, with options from luxury high-rises to sprawling suburban apartments.
- Burlington: Rent is higher at $1,441 and the market is tight. Demand outstrips supply, especially for pet-friendly or modern units. Finding a place can be a competitive process.
Verdict: For buyers, Houston offers vastly better value and availability. For renters, Houston is more affordable and less competitive. Burlington’s housing market is a significant hurdle for most.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life Deep Dive
This is where personal preference overrides data.
Traffic & Commute:
- Houston: This is a car-dependent city. The sprawl is legendary, and commutes can be long. Average commute time is 27 minutes, but traffic on I-45, I-10, and the 610 Loop can be brutal. You will drive everywhere.
- Burlington: A walker’s paradise. The city is compact, and many residents commute by bike or on foot. Traffic is minimal by comparison. However, winter can make biking and walking less pleasant.
Weather:
- Houston: Hot and humid. The average temp is 59°F, but that’s misleading. Summers are brutal (90°F+ and high humidity) and last for months. Winters are mild but can be rainy. You’re trading snow for sweat.
- Burlington: Four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, with an average temp of 45°F. Summers are warm and pleasant. You get the full seasonal cycle, including stunning fall foliage. If you dread snow, this is a dealbreaker.
Crime & Safety:
- Houston: This is a tough category. The violent crime rate is 912.4 per 100k, which is significantly above the national average. Safety varies dramatically by neighborhood. Research is crucial.
- Burlington: Much safer. The violent crime rate is 173.3 per 100k, which is below the national average. It’s considered one of the safer cities in the region, though no city is perfect.
The Verdict: If you prioritize safety and walkability, Burlington wins. If you can handle the heat and traffic for lower costs and more space, Houston is viable.
The Final Verdict: Who Wins Your Heart (and Wallet)?
After crunching the numbers and analyzing the lifestyle, here’s the definitive breakdown.
Winner for Families: Houston
- Why: The affordability is unbeatable. You can buy a larger home with a yard, access a diverse range of schools (including many strong public and private options), and enjoy endless family-friendly activities (museums, zoos, parks). The cost of living allows for a higher quality of life on a moderate family income. The major trade-off is safety, which requires careful neighborhood selection.
Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: Houston
- Why: Career opportunities are vast in energy, healthcare, and tech. The social scene is diverse and vibrant, with a legendary food scene and nightlife. The lower cost of living means you can enjoy the city’s amenities without being house-poor. The lack of state income tax accelerates savings and debt payoff. Burlington is great for a specific type of young professional (outdoor/remote), but Houston offers more economic upward mobility.
Winner for Retirees: Burlington
- Why: For retirees not on a tight budget, Burlington is ideal. The walkability reduces reliance on a car, the community is engaged and welcoming, and the healthcare system (UVM Medical Center) is excellent. The slower pace, natural beauty, and four seasons provide a rich quality of life. However, the high cost of living and property taxes are a serious consideration.
At a Glance: Pros & Cons
Houston, TX
Pros:
- Unbeatable Affordability: Lower housing costs and 0% state income tax.
- Economic Powerhouse: Massive job market in diverse industries.
- World-Class Food & Culture: Incredibly diverse and vibrant dining scene.
- Space: You get more home and land for your money.
Cons:
- Safety Concerns: High violent crime rate requires careful neighborhood research.
- Brutal Weather: Long, hot, humid summers are oppressive.
- Car-Dependent Sprawl: Long commutes and traffic are a way of life.
- Lack of Natural Beauty: The landscape is largely flat and urban.
Burlington, VT
Pros:
- High Quality of Life: Walkable, safe, and community-oriented.
- Natural Beauty: Unmatched access to lakes, mountains, and forests.
- Four Distinct Seasons: Enjoyable summers, stunning falls, snowy winters.
- Progressive & Vibrant: Strong local culture, farmers' markets, and craft scene.
Cons:
- High Cost of Living: Expensive housing and higher taxes.
- Limited Job Market: Fewer large employers; economy is more niche.
- Harsh Winters: Long, cold, and snowy—requires winter gear and patience.
- Small City Limits: Can feel limiting if you crave big-city anonymity.
Final Advice: Choose Houston if your primary goals are financial growth, career advancement, and you value space and diversity over weather and safety. Choose Burlington if you prioritize quality of life, outdoor access, and a tight-knit community, and you have the budget to support a higher cost of living.