📊 Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Cranston and Houston
Head-to-Head Analysis
Cranston vs Houston
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
📋 The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Cranston | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $92,795 | $62,637 |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.3% | 4.8% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $450,000 | $335,000 |
| Price per SqFt | $259 | $175 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,362 | $1,135 |
| Housing Cost Index | 98.9 | 106.5 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 97.0 | 103.4 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $2.35 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 159.5 | 912.4 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 39.1% | 37.1% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 29 | 44 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Of course. Here is the ultimate head-to-head showdown between Houston and Cranston.
The Ultimate Head-to-Head: Houston vs. Cranston
Alright, let's cut to the chase. You're weighing two cities that are about as different as a cowboy boot and a boat shoe. On one side, you have Houston, the sprawling, energy-charged behemoth of the South. On the other, Cranston, Rhode Island, a historic, tight-knit community that’s part of New England’s cozy fabric.
This isn't just about picking a dot on a map; it's about choosing a lifestyle. Are you chasing big-city opportunities, or are you looking for a stable, safe community with a different kind of hustle? Let's break it down, stat by stat, vibe by vibe.
The Vibe Check: Big-City Buzz vs. Tight-Knit Community
Houston is a city in perpetual motion. It’s a sprawling, diverse metropolis where you can find a world-class museum, a legendary BBQ joint, and a Fortune 500 headquarters all in the same afternoon. The culture is a gumbo of Southern hospitality, international flair, and pure, unadulterated ambition. It’s a city for the go-getter who wants endless options, from the arts scene in Montrose to the nightlife in Midtown. Think of Houston as a city that never stops building, growing, and eating (seriously, the food scene is legendary).
Cranston, by contrast, is the definition of community. Located in the heart of Rhode Island, it offers a classic New England experience with a blend of historic neighborhoods, suburban comfort, and easy access to both the coast and the city of Providence. Life here moves at a different pace. It’s less about "what's next" and more about "what's now"—a walk in a local park, a meal at a family-owned Italian restaurant, or a weekend trip to the nearby beaches of Narragansett. Cranston is for someone who values stability, safety, and the charm of a place where neighbors know each other.
Who is it for?
- Houston is for the ambitious professional, the foodie, the culture seeker, and anyone who thrives on energy and diversity. It’s for those who want a world of opportunities at their doorstep and don't mind the hustle.
- Cranston is for families, young professionals who want a quieter home base near a mid-sized city (Providence), and retirees looking for a safe, established community with four distinct seasons.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Money Work Harder?
This is where the rubber meets the road. A high salary means nothing if it gets swallowed by costs. Let's see how a $100,000 salary feels in each city.
But first, a crucial note: Cranston's data is compared against the Providence-Warwick, RI-MA metro area. This is important because Cranston's own numbers are small, and its cost of living is heavily influenced by the broader, more expensive New England region.
Cost of Living Breakdown
| Expense Category | Houston (Avg.) | Cranston (Providence Metro Avg.) | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR) | $1,135 | $1,362 | Houston |
| Utilities (Monthly) | $150 - $200 | $220 - $280 | Houston |
| Groceries | ~10% below nat'l avg | ~10% above nat'l avg | Houston |
The Salary Wars: Purchasing Power
Let's be real: Houston wins the bang-for-your-buck contest, hands down. The biggest factor here is the tax situation. Texas has 0% state income tax, while Rhode Island has a progressive state income tax that can range from 3.75% to 5.99% on top of what you're already paying to the feds.
On a $100,000 salary, you could lose $5,000+ a year just to state taxes in Rhode Island. That’s a significant chunk of change that could go toward your mortgage, savings, or fun money.
Combine that with lower rent and cheaper utilities, and your paycheck stretches much further in Houston. While the median income in Houston ($62,637) is lower than Cranston's ($92,795), the cost of living is the great equalizer. A six-figure earner in Houston will likely have more disposable income than someone earning the same in the Cranston area.
Verdict on Dollar Power: If your primary goal is to maximize your savings or purchasing power, Houston is the clear winner. The lack of state income tax and lower housing costs provide a financial cushion that's hard to ignore.
The Housing Market: To Buy or To Rent?
Houston: The Sprawling Market
- Buying: With a median home price of $335,000, Houston offers relative affordability for a major metro. The market is vast, with everything from downtown condos to sprawling suburban homes. It's generally a balanced market, but desirable neighborhoods can move fast.
- Renting: Rent is competitive but manageable. At $1,135 for a 1BR, it's a viable option for many, especially those not ready to commit to a mortgage. The rental inventory is huge, giving you plenty of choices.
Cranston: The New England Premium
- Buying: The median home price in Cranston sits at $450,000, and that's for the city itself. In the broader Providence metro, the price can be even higher. New England housing is notoriously expensive due to historic charm, limited land, and high demand. You're paying a premium for location and character.
- Renting: Renting isn't a cheap escape in this region. At $1,362 for a 1BR (Providence metro average), it's a noticeable step up from Houston. Competition can be fierce, especially for quality units in desirable neighborhoods.
The Bottom Line on Housing: Houston provides a much lower barrier to entry for both buyers and renters. The sheer scale of the market means you can likely find something that fits your budget. Cranston's market is tougher and more expensive, a common theme in the Northeast.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life Factors
This is where personal preference truly kicks in. Data can't tell you how you'll feel about the weather or the commute.
Traffic & Commute:
- Houston: Infamous. The city is car-centric and sprawling. A 10-mile commute can easily take 45 minutes in rush hour traffic. Public transit exists (the METRORail) but is limited compared to other major cities. If you hate traffic, Houston will be a daily grind.
- Cranston: Much more manageable. As part of a smaller metro, commutes are shorter. You can easily drive to Providence in under 30 minutes. Traffic exists but doesn't compare to Houston's scale. You have more walkable neighborhoods and a better chance of a shorter, less stressful drive.
Weather:
- Houston: Subtropical and humid. Summers are long, hot, and sticky, with average highs in the 90s°F for months and high humidity. Winters are mild, but you can get cold snaps and occasional freezes. Hurricane season is a serious consideration from June to November. The "average" temperature of 59.0°F is misleading—it hides the brutal summer extremes.
- Cranston: Classic four seasons. Winters are cold and snowy (average 52.0°F is misleading; it's much colder in winter and warmer in summer). You get beautiful autumns and pleasant springs. Summers are warm but rarely oppressive. If you hate the cold and snow, Cranston is a dealbreaker. If you hate heat and humidity, Houston is.
Crime & Safety:
- Houston: This is a significant concern. The violent crime rate is 912.4 per 100,000 people—nearly 6 times higher than Cranston. Like any massive city, safety varies drastically by neighborhood. You must research areas thoroughly. It's a city of incredible opportunity, but it comes with urban challenges.
- Cranston: Exceptionally safe. The violent crime rate is 159.5 per 100,000, which is well below the national average. This is a huge draw for families and anyone who prioritizes peace of mind. You can generally feel safe walking around at night in most neighborhoods.
The Final Verdict: Who Wins Your Relocation?
After crunching the numbers and weighing the lifestyles, here’s the final breakdown.
| Winner Category | City | The Reason Why |
|---|---|---|
| Winner for Families | Cranston | Safety is the non-negotiator. With a violent crime rate 83% lower than Houston's, plus good schools and a strong community feel, it's the safer, more stable bet for raising kids. |
| Winner for Singles/Young Pros | Houston | Opportunity and lifestyle. The job market is massive and diverse, the social and food scene is unbeatable, and the lower cost of living allows for a higher quality of life on a moderate salary. |
| Winner for Retirees | Cranston | Stability and safety. For those on a fixed income, the predictable seasons and quiet, low-crime environment are ideal. (Note: This assumes you're prepared for New England winters and have planned for higher heating costs). |
At a Glance: Pros & Cons
Houston, Texas
- Pros:
- 0% State Income Tax: Your paycheck goes further.
- Affordable Housing: Median home price of $335,000 is a steal for a major city.
- World-Class Food & Culture: Unbeatable diversity and dining.
- Strong Job Market: Especially in energy, tech, and healthcare.
- Mild Winters: Escape the snow and ice.
- Cons:
- High Violent Crime Rate: 912.4/100k requires careful neighborhood selection.
- Brutal Humidity & Heat: Summers are long and oppressive.
- Notorious Traffic: Long, frustrating commutes are the norm.
- Car-Dependent: Limited public transit options.
Cranston, Rhode Island
- Pros:
- Extremely Safe: Violent crime rate of 159.5/100k offers peace of mind.
- Strong Community Feel: A true New England town with a sense of belonging.
- Proximity to Providence: Easy access to a vibrant mid-sized city for work and play.
- Four Distinct Seasons: Enjoy beautiful autumns and comfortable summers.
- Manageable Commutes: Less time in the car, more time living.
- Cons:
- High Cost of Living: Expensive housing ($450,000 median) and higher taxes.
- State Income Tax: Takes a significant bite out of your salary.
- Harsh Winters: Snow, ice, and cold are a yearly reality.
- Smaller Scale: Fewer major corporate HQs and less "big city" excitement.
The Bottom Line: If you're driven by career growth, financial efficiency, and big-city amenities, Houston is your launchpad. If your priority is safety, community, and a quieter pace of life, Cranston is your sanctuary. Choose wisely.