đź“Š Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Dearborn and Houston
Head-to-Head Analysis
Dearborn vs Houston
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
đź“‹ The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Dearborn | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $51,670 | $62,637 |
| Unemployment Rate | 5% | 4.8% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $260,000 | $335,000 |
| Price per SqFt | $178 | $175 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,029 | $1,135 |
| Housing Cost Index | 93.0 | 106.5 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 98.0 | 103.4 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $2.35 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 449.2 | 912.4 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 31.3% | 37.1% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 30 | 44 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Houston vs. Dearborn: The Ultimate Relocation Showdown
So, you’re torn between the sprawling, sun-drenched metropolis of Houston and the tight-knit, historic suburb of Dearborn. It’s a classic big-city vs. small-town showdown, but with a major twist—one is a Texas powerhouse, and the other is a Michigan gem nestled next to Detroit. Choosing between them is less about location and more about your entire lifestyle blueprint.
Let’s cut through the noise. I’ve crunched the numbers, lived the data, and I’m here to give you the straight talk. Whether you’re chasing career growth, hunting for a family-friendly haven, or just want your paycheck to stretch further, this head-to-head will tell you exactly where you belong.
The Vibe Check: Culture & Lifestyle
Houston: The Giant with a Heart
Houston is a beast—2.3 million people massive. It’s the fourth-largest city in the U.S., and it feels like it. The vibe is eclectic, energetic, and endlessly diverse. You have world-class museums, a legendary food scene (seriously, the best Tex-Mex you’ll ever eat), and more professional sports teams than you can count. It’s a city of transplants, a place where people come to hustle and build. The lifestyle is car-centric, spread-out, and all about options. You can be at a NASA center in the morning and a bayou hike in the afternoon. It’s for the ambitious, the social, and anyone who thrives on constant energy.
Dearborn: The Tight-Knit Community
Dearborn is a city of 105,818 people. That’s not a typo. It’s a suburb in every sense of the word—defined by its proximity to Detroit and its own distinct identity. The vibe is community-focused, historic, and quieter. It’s the home of the Henry Ford Museum, a massive Ford Motor Company presence, and a deeply rooted Arab-American community that has shaped its culture and food scene. Life here revolves around neighborhoods, local parades, and a strong sense of place. It’s for those who want a slower pace, a shorter commute to a major city (Detroit), and a place where you know your neighbors.
Who is each city for?
- Houston: The ambitious professional, the foodie, the family that wants endless entertainment options, and the person who doesn’t blink at a 20-mile drive for dinner.
- Dearborn: The working professional who values a short commute, the family seeking a classic suburban upbringing, and anyone who prefers a tight community over a sprawling metropolis.
The Dollar Power: Cost of Living & Salary
This is where the rubber meets the road. It’s not just about what you earn; it’s about what your money can buy.
First, the big one: Taxes. This is a game-changer. Texas has 0% state income tax. Michigan has a flat income tax rate of 4.25%. On a $100,000 salary, that’s an immediate $4,250 difference in your take-home pay before we even compare living costs. That’s a massive advantage for Houston from the jump.
Let’s break down the monthly expenses. The Housing Index is a key metric where 100 is the national average. A number below 100 is cheaper; above 100 is more expensive.
| Expense Category | Houston | Dearborn | The Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $62,637 | $51,670 | Houston |
| Median Home Price | $335,000 | $260,000 | Dearborn |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,135 | $1,029 | Dearborn |
| Housing Index | 106.5 | 93.0 | Dearborn |
| Utilities | ~$150 (high AC) | ~$180 (high heating) | Tie |
| Groceries | +3% below nat'l avg | +1% above nat'l avg | Houston |
The Salary Wars & Purchasing Power
Let’s imagine you earn $100,000 a year.
- In Houston: Your take-home pay (after federal and FICA, but no state tax) is roughly $78,000. Your rent for a nice 1BR is $1,135. That’s 17.5% of your take-home pay on rent. You have significant cash left for savings, fun, and investments. The slightly higher housing index is offset by the massive tax savings.
- In Dearborn: Your take-home pay (after federal, FICA, and 4.25% state tax) is roughly $74,000. Your rent for a similar 1BR is $1,029. That’s 16.7% of your take-home pay. You’re paying slightly less of your paycheck on rent, but you have $4,000 less in your pocket annually due to state taxes.
The Verdict on Purchasing Power: While Dearborn’s housing index is more favorable, the 0% state income tax in Texas is a decisive financial advantage. For most middle-to-upper income earners, Houston offers more raw purchasing power. Your dollar simply goes further in Texas, even if some goods and services are slightly more expensive. The "sticker shock" is less about your rent and more about your overall tax burden.
CALLOUT BOX: The Dollar Power Verdict
Winner: Houston. The 0% state income tax is a game-changer that outweighs the slightly higher housing costs. If you’re earning a decent salary, you’ll feel wealthier in Houston. The median income is also $10,967 higher, giving you more earning potential from the start.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent
Houston: The Competitive Buyer’s Market
Houston’s housing market is dynamic and competitive. The median home price of $335,000 is accessible for a major metro, but you’re competing with a lot of people. The market leans toward a seller’s market in desirable neighborhoods (like The Heights or Sugar Land), with homes often selling fast and sometimes above asking price. Renting is a solid option for newcomers, with plenty of inventory, but prices have been rising steadily. The key here is space—you get a lot more house for your money than in coastal cities, but you’ll likely need a car to access it.
Dearborn: The Stable Renter’s & Buyer’s Market
With a median home price of $260,000, Dearborn is significantly more affordable for buyers. The market is generally more stable and less frenetic than Houston’s. It’s a balanced market, leaning slightly toward a buyer’s advantage in some areas. Renting is very competitive, with strong demand from young professionals and families looking for a foothold near Detroit. The housing stock is a mix of historic homes, classic suburbs, and newer developments. You get a sense of established community here.
The Verdict: Dearborn is the clear winner for affordability in purchasing a home. Houston offers more rental flexibility and space, but buying means navigating a more competitive landscape.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life
Traffic & Commute
- Houston: Infamous. The city is built for cars, and the sprawl means commutes can be brutal. Average commute times hover around 30 minutes, but in rush hour, a 10-mile trip can easily take 45. Public transit (Metro) exists but is limited.
- Dearborn: A dream by comparison. Most commutes are under 30 minutes, and many work within the city or in nearby Detroit. Traffic is manageable, and the proximity to I-94 and I-75 makes getting around the region easy.
Weather
- Houston: Humidity is the headline. Winters are mild (average 59°F), but summers are long, oppressive, and hit 90°F+ with high humidity for months. Hurricane season is a real threat. You trade snow for sweat.
- Dearborn: Four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy (average 30°F), with significant snowfall. Summers are warm and pleasant. If you hate shoveling snow and dealing with icy roads, this is a major con.
Crime & Safety
Let’s be direct: both cities have areas of concern, but the data tells a story.
- Houston: The violent crime rate is 912.4 per 100,000. This is significantly higher than the national average. Safety varies drastically by neighborhood—some areas are incredibly safe, while others struggle. Research is non-negotiable.
- Dearborn: The violent crime rate is 449.2 per 100,000. This is also above the national average but is roughly half of Houston’s rate. Dearborn generally feels safer, with a more consistent community policing approach.
CALLOUT BOX: The Quality of Life Verdict
Winner: Dearborn. It offers a more manageable commute, a safer environment (as per the stats), and four distinct seasons. While Houston’s weather is milder, its traffic and higher crime rate are significant daily stressors. Dearborn provides a calmer, more predictable quality of life.
The Final Verdict: Which City Should You Choose?
After crunching the numbers and weighing the lifestyles, here’s the final breakdown.
Winner for Families: Dearborn
With a lower cost of living, a safer environment, excellent schools (like the Dearborn Public Schools district), and a classic, community-oriented upbringing, Dearborn is a fantastic family choice. You can afford a home, and your kids can play outside without the constant worry of big-city chaos.Winner for Singles/Young Professionals: Houston
The career opportunities are massive, the social and dating scene is vibrant, and the 0% state income tax means more money for fun and savings. The diversity of neighborhoods means you can find your tribe. It’s a city of endless networking and entertainment possibilities.Winner for Retirees: Dearborn
This is a tough call, but Dearborn edges out. The cost of living is lower, the pace is slower, and the access to quality healthcare (through Detroit’s world-class hospital system) is excellent. While Houston has mild winters, the summer heat can be brutal for older adults. Dearborn’s four-season climate is more manageable for many retirees, and the strong community provides a built-in social network.
Houston: Pros & Cons
PROS:
- 0% state income tax – A massive financial boost.
- Vibrant, diverse culture – Unmatched food, arts, and entertainment.
- Strong job market – Especially in energy, healthcare, and tech.
- More space for your money – Larger homes and apartments.
- Mild winters – Escape the snow and ice.
CONS:
- High violent crime rate – Research neighborhoods carefully.
- Brutal traffic & sprawl – A car is a must, and commutes are long.
- Oppressive summer humidity – Can be unbearable for months.
- Hurricane risk – A yearly concern from June-November.
Dearborn: Pros & Cons
PROS:
- Strong community feel – A true neighborhood vibe.
- Lower cost of living & home prices – More affordable housing.
- Safer environment – Crime rate is significantly lower than Houston’s.
- Manageable commute – Easy access to Detroit and the region.
- Four distinct seasons – Enjoy warm summers and snowy winters.
CONS:
- Colder, snowier winters – Can be harsh and long.
- Smaller scale – Fewer big-city amenities and entertainment options.
- Lower median income – Less earning potential than in Houston.
- State income tax – Takes a bite out of your paycheck.
- Tied to Detroit’s economy – More susceptible to regional economic shifts.
The Bottom Line:
Choose Houston if you prioritize earning power, tax savings, and a bustling, diverse lifestyle—and you can handle the heat, traffic, and crime.
Choose Dearborn if you value community, safety, and affordability, and you prefer a quieter, more predictable life with easy access to a major city like Detroit.
The choice isn’t just about geography; it’s about which trade-offs you’re willing to live with. Now, go make your move.