đź“Š Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Davenport and Houston
Head-to-Head Analysis
Davenport vs Houston
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
đź“‹ The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Davenport | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $69,595 | $62,637 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.5% | 4.8% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $199,750 | $335,000 |
| Price per SqFt | $124 | $175 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $773 | $1,135 |
| Housing Cost Index | 100.0 | 106.5 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 94.9 | 103.4 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $2.35 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 456.0 | 912.4 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 31.5% | 37.1% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 34 | 44 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Houston vs. Davenport: The Ultimate Texas vs. Iowa Showdown
Hey there, future mover. You’ve got two cities on your list that couldn’t be more different. On one side, you have Houston—the sprawling, humid, energy-guzzling beast of a city where everything is bigger. On the other, you have Davenport—the quiet, affordable, river-front gem on the Iowa/Illinois border that feels like a step back in time.
Choosing between them isn't about which is "better" objectively. It’s about which fits your life, your wallet, and your tolerance for either 100°F heat or 20°F cold. Let’s break it down, head-to-head, from the vibe check to the final verdict.
1. The Vibe Check: Big City Energy vs. River Town Chill
Houston is a sprawling, cosmopolitan metropolis with no zoning laws. Translation: You can get tacos at 2 a.m., catch a world-class ballet, and watch a rocket launch—all in the same day. It’s a city of transplants, driven by the oil, gas, and medical industries. The culture is diverse, the traffic is legendary, and the pace is fast. It’s for the ambitious, the foodie, and the one who wants endless options.
Davenport is the anchor of the Quad Cities (along with Rock Island, Moline, and Bettendorf). It’s a Midwestern river town with a strong industrial history and a laid-back, community-focused vibe. Think historic brick buildings, riverfront parks, and a slower pace of life. It’s for those who want a tight-knit community, four distinct seasons, and a break from the chaos of major metros.
Verdict: If you crave big-city amenities and cultural diversity, Houston wins. If you want a quieter, more manageable community feel, Davenport is your spot.
2. The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Stretch Farther?
This is where the rubber meets the road. You might earn more in one city, but your "purchasing power" is what really matters.
Salary Wars
- Houston: Median income is $62,637.
- Davenport: Median income is $69,595.
At first glance, Davenport looks more lucrative. But hold up. Houston is a major metro with high-paying industries. The key is the Texas advantage: 0% state income tax. In Davenport (Iowa), you’ll pay state income tax (up to 6.5% depending on your bracket). That’s a direct hit to your paycheck.
Let’s say you earn $100,000. In Houston, that’s $100,000 in your pocket (minus federal taxes). In Iowa, you could lose $5,000+ just to state tax. Suddenly, that higher Davenport median doesn’t look so commanding.
Cost of Living Breakdown
Here’s the sticker shock comparison. Note: Davenport’s Housing Index is 100.0 (the national average). Houston’s is 106.5, meaning it’s slightly above average, but not nearly as bad as coastal cities.
| Expense Category | Houston | Davenport | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR) | $1,135 | $773 | Davenport (35% cheaper) |
| Utilities | $150-200 (high AC) | $150-250 (high heating) | Houston (marginally) |
| Groceries | +5% above nat'l avg | +0% (at nat'l avg) | Davenport |
| Overall COL | +6.5% above nat'l avg | At nat'l avg | Davenport |
The Bottom Line on Purchasing Power:
Davenport wins on pure cost of living. Rent is 35% cheaper, and groceries are at the national average. Houston’s 0% income tax is a massive perk, but it doesn’t fully offset the higher housing and general costs. If you’re on a fixed or tighter budget, Davenport gives you more bang for your buck. If you’re in a high-paying field (energy, medicine, tech) and can leverage Houston’s opportunities, the tax savings and career growth might outweigh the higher costs.
Insight: For a median earner, Davenport is objectively more affordable. For a high earner, Houston’s 0% tax can be a game-changer, but you’ll need a salary well above $100k to feel the difference.
3. The Housing Market: To Buy or Rent?
Renting
As the table shows, renting is significantly cheaper in Davenport. $773 vs. $1,135 is a $362/month savings—that’s over $4,300 a year. In Houston, you’re paying a premium for location, amenities, and demand. In Davenport, your dollar goes much further for square footage.
Buying
- Houston Median Home Price: $335,000
- Davenport Median Home Price: $199,750
That’s a $135,250 difference. For the price of a median Houston home, you could buy a Davenport home and have $135,000 left over for investments, renovations, or a second property.
Market Competition:
- Houston: A seller’s market. High demand, especially in desirable neighborhoods like The Heights or Montrose. Bidding wars are common, and inventory moves fast.
- Davenport: Closer to a balanced or buyer’s market. Inventory is more stable, and you have more time to decide. You’re less likely to get into a frantic bidding war.
Verdict: For affordability and ease of entry (less competition), Davenport is the clear winner. For long-term investment potential in a high-growth area (if you can afford the entry price), Houston has more upside.
4. The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life Factors
Traffic & Commute
- Houston: Legendary. The city is built for cars, and public transit is limited. The average commute is 28 minutes, but rush hour can turn a 10-mile drive into a 60-minute ordeal. You will spend time in your car.
- Davenport: Minimal. Traffic jams are rare. The average commute is under 20 minutes. You can get across town in 15 minutes. The Quad Cities area has decent public transit options relative to its size.
Weather
- Houston: Brutal humidity. Summers are long, hot, and oppressive (average high in July is 94°F, but feels like 105°F+ with humidity). Winters are mild (average low in Jan is 43°F). You get used to the AC. Hurricane season is a real threat (June-Nov).
- Davenport: Four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and pleasant (average high in July is 85°F). Winters are cold and snowy (average low in Jan is 17°F, with ~30 inches of snow annually). You need a winter coat and snow tires. No hurricane risk.
Crime & Safety
- Houston: Violent Crime Rate: 912.4 per 100k. This is significantly above the national average (~400/100k). Crime is highly concentrated by neighborhood. Some areas are very safe, others are not. Research is critical.
- Davenport: Violent Crime Rate: 456.0 per 100k. This is closer to the national average but still a bit above. It’s generally considered safer than Houston, but like any city, it has its issues.
Safety Verdict: Davenport is statistically safer. However, in Houston, your safety is heavily dependent on your neighborhood choice. Do your homework.
5. The Verdict: Who Wins Each Category?
After crunching the numbers and weighing the lifestyles, here’s the final showdown.
Winner for Families: Houston
Why? While Davenport is more affordable and safer, Houston’s sheer scale offers better public schools (in specific districts like Katy or The Woodlands), world-class healthcare (Texas Medical Center), and endless kid-friendly activities (museums, zoo, parks). The 0% state income tax helps with family budgets. The trade-off? Higher cost of living and traffic.
Winner for Singles / Young Professionals: Houston
Why? The career opportunities, nightlife, dining scene, and social diversity are unmatched. You can find your tribe no matter your interest. The 0% tax is a huge boost for your early earning years. Davenport’s scene is quieter and may feel limiting for someone seeking a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
Winner for Retirees: Davenport
Why? Affordability is king on a fixed income. The slower pace, lower crime rate, and walkable neighborhoods (in parts) are appealing. While Houston has great healthcare, the cost of living and weather (humidity and hurricane anxiety) are significant drawbacks. Davenport offers peace and financial comfort.
Final Pros & Cons Lists
Houston: The Big City Beast
PROS:
- Zero State Income Tax: Your paycheck goes further.
- World-Class Economy: Endless job opportunities in energy, medicine, and tech.
- Incredible Food Scene: One of the most diverse culinary cities in America.
- Cultural Amenities: Theater, museums, sports, and music on a national level.
- International Hub: Major airport with global connections.
CONS:
- Brutal Weather: Humid, long summers and hurricane risk.
- Traffic & Sprawl: Car-dependent and time-consuming commutes.
- High Cost of Living: Especially for housing in desirable areas.
- Higher Crime Rate: Requires careful neighborhood research.
- Lack of Zoning: Can lead to eclectic (or chaotic) neighborhoods.
Davenport: The River Town Gem
PROS:
- Extreme Affordability: Low rent, cheap homes, and overall COL at the national average.
- Manageable Size: Easy commutes, less traffic, and a sense of community.
- Four Seasons: Enjoyable summers and snowy winters (if you like that).
- Safer Statistically: Lower violent crime rate than Houston.
- Riverfront Living: Scenic parks and trails along the Mississippi.
CONS:
- Limited Economy: Fewer high-paying industries; job market is smaller.
- State Income Tax: Takes a bite out of your earnings.
- Harsh Winters: Cold, snowy, and requires winter prep.
- Fewer Amenities: Limited nightlife, dining, and cultural options compared to a major metro.
- Slower Pace: Can feel too quiet for those used to big-city energy.
The Bottom Line
Choose Houston if: You’re career-driven, want endless options, can handle the heat (and cost), and value urban amenities over affordability. It’s a city of ambition.
Choose Davenport if: You prioritize affordability, a slower pace of life, and a strong sense of community. You’re okay with a smaller job market and a real winter. It’s a city of comfort.
There’s no wrong choice—just the right choice for you. Now, go pack your bags (and maybe a parka or a raincoat).