East Providence vs Houston

Category / Metric	East Providence	Houston
Financial Overview
Median Income	$79,660	$62,637
Unemployment Rate	4.3%	4.8%
Housing Market
Median Home Price	$457,000	$335,000
Price per SqFt	$279	$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+	32.3%	37.1%
Air Quality (AQI)	30	44

Houston vs. East Providence: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown

So, you're standing at a crossroads. On one side, you have Houston—a sprawling, sun-baked behemoth of industry, culture, and endless opportunities. On the other, East Providence—a tight-knit, waterfront community nestled in the shadow of Providence, Rhode Island, offering a charm that feels worlds away from the big city grind.

It's not just a choice between Texas and New England. It's a choice between two completely different ways of life. Are you chasing the fast-paced, "bigger is better" energy of a major metro, or are you looking for a quieter, community-focused existence with easy access to the coast?

Let’s cut through the noise. We’re going to break this down with cold, hard data, a little bit of street-smart analysis, and zero fluff. By the end of this, you’ll know exactly which city deserves your next chapter.

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The Vibe Check: Culture & Lifestyle

This is where the two cities diverge the most. It’s like comparing a bustling international airport to a cozy local café.

Houston is the definition of a "come-and-get-it" metropolis. It’s the fourth-largest city in the U.S. for a reason. The vibe is ambitious, diverse, and unapologetically fast-paced. We're talking about a city with a world-class museum district, a legendary food scene (Tex-Mex and BBQ are religion here), and a professional sports scene that’s always buzzing. Life here revolves around industries like energy, healthcare, and aerospace (NASA’s Johnson Space Center is right in its backyard). It’s a city for go-getters, for people who want to be in the center of the action, who value career growth above all, and who don't mind a bit of urban sprawl.

East Providence offers a "kick-back-and-relax" coastal vibe. With a population of under 50,000, it’s a tight community where you might actually know your neighbors. It’s a quintessential New England town with a maritime soul—think historic mills turned into apartments, scenic parks along the Seekonk River, and a slower, more deliberate pace of life. You’re minutes from the cultural hub of Providence and a short drive from the stunning beaches of Newport. This is for the person who values community, history, and a balance between work and leisure. It’s less about climbing the corporate ladder and more about enjoying the view from your porch.

Who is each city for?

• Houston is for the career-driven professional, the foodie, the culture-hungry urbanite, and anyone who thrives in a high-energy, diverse environment.
• East Providence is for the young family, the remote worker seeking a beautiful home base, the history buff, and the retiree looking for a peaceful but connected community.

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The Dollar Power: Cost of Living & Salary

Let’s talk money. Because at the end of the day, your paycheck needs to stretch as far as possible. Here’s where the story gets interesting.

First, the raw numbers. We’ve compiled a snapshot of monthly costs based on the data.

Category	Houston	East Providence	The Takeaway
Median Income	$62,637	$79,660	East Providence seems wealthier at first glance.
Median Home Price	$335,000	$457,000	Houston is $122,000 cheaper for a typical home.
Rent (1BR)	$1,135	$1,362	Houston is about $227 cheaper per month.
Housing Index	106.5	98.9	Houston is 7.6% more expensive for housing than the national average, while East Providence is slightly cheaper.

Salary Wars: The Purchasing Power Paradox

This is the critical insight. While East Providence's median income is $17,000 higher than Houston's, Houston’s dramatically lower housing costs create a powerful purchasing power advantage.

Let’s do the math. If you earn the median income in each city:

• In Houston, your annual income is $62,637. After estimated taxes (Texas has 0% state income tax), your take-home is roughly $52,000. Annual rent of $13,620 (at $1,135/mo) eats up about 26% of your take-home pay.
• In East Providence, your annual income is $79,660. However, Rhode Island has a progressive income tax that could take up to 5.99%. After taxes, your take-home might be around $66,000. Annual rent of $16,344 (at $1,362/mo) eats up about 25% of your take-home pay.

The percentage is similar, but the absolute dollars tell a different story. In Houston, you have more raw cash left over after housing because the absolute cost is lower. The 0% state income tax in Texas is a massive financial lever, especially for high earners. In East Providence, you're paying more for housing and getting hit with state income tax.

Verdict on Purchasing Power: For most middle-income earners, Houston offers more bang for your buck. Your salary might look smaller on paper, but it goes significantly further, especially when it comes to securing a place to live. East Providence’s higher income is largely offset by its higher cost of living and tax burden.

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The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent

Houston: A Market of Opportunity (and Competition)
Houston’s $335,000 median home price is attractive, but it’s a massive, competitive market. It’s a classic seller’s market in desirable neighborhoods, with homes often going for over asking price. The good news? Inventory is more plentiful than in smaller cities. You can find everything from a downtown condo to a sprawling suburban home. Renting is a stable option for newcomers, with plenty of inventory, though prices have risen steadily. The Housing Index of 106.5 confirms it’s pricier than the U.S. average, but the sheer scale of the city offers more entry points.

East Providence: A Tight, Expensive Market
East Providence’s $457,000 median home price is a stark contrast. This is a classic New England housing crunch. Inventory is low, demand is high (especially from folks migrating from pricier Boston and NYC), and competition is fierce. As a buyer, you need to be prepared to move fast and potentially waive contingencies. Renting isn’t a cheap escape hatch either, with $1,362 for a 1-bedroom. The Housing Index of 98.9 is slightly below the national average, but that’s skewed by less desirable areas. In the popular, walkable neighborhoods near the water or Providence, you’ll pay a premium.

The Bottom Line: If you’re looking to buy a home on a median budget, Houston is the clear winner in terms of affordability and choice. East Providence is a tough market for first-time homebuyers unless you have a significant down payment.

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The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life

This is where personal preference reigns supreme.

Traffic & Commute

• Houston: Legendary. It’s a car-dependent city with some of the worst traffic congestion in the country. The average commute is long, and a "short" 10-mile drive can take 45 minutes during rush hour. Public transit exists (MetroRail) but is limited. This is a major lifestyle factor.
• East Providence: Much more manageable. You’re dealing with smaller city traffic and a robust network of highways (I-195, Route 6). Commuting to Providence is a breeze (10-15 mins). Most residents drive, but the scale is smaller and less stressful.

Weather: Humidity vs. Seasons

• Houston: Be prepared for the heat. The average temperature is 59.0°F, but that’s deceptive. Summers are long, brutally humid, and consistently in the 90°F+ range for months. Winters are mild, but you trade snow for a different kind of misery: oppressive humidity and occasional hurricane threats.
• East Providence: You get four distinct seasons. Winters are cold (52.0°F average, but expect plenty of days below freezing with snow). Summers are warm and pleasant, but not suffocating. If you hate shoveling snow and scraping ice, this is a dealbreaker. If you hate sweating the moment you step outside, Houston is the dealbreaker.

Crime & Safety
Let’s be direct. The data speaks volumes.

• Houston Violent Crime: 912.4 incidents per 100,000 people. This is significantly above the national average. While crime is concentrated in specific neighborhoods, it’s a city-wide issue that requires vigilance.
• East Providence Violent Crime: 159.5 incidents per 100,000 people. This is far below the national average and one of the lowest rates in the region. It’s a profoundly safer environment, especially for families.

Safety Verdict: East Providence is the undisputed winner for safety. The difference in crime stats is dramatic and should be a primary consideration for anyone moving with a family.

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The Final Verdict: Which City Wins?

There’s no single winner—it all depends on what you’re optimizing for.

🏆 Winner for Families: East Providence

The combination of a violent crime rate of 159.5/100k, excellent public schools (a hallmark of New England), and a strong community feel makes East Providence the safer, more stable choice. The higher home prices are a hurdle, but the quality of life and safety for children are unparalleled. The weather is a trade-off, but for many families, safety trumps sunshine.

🏆 Winner for Singles/Young Pros: Houston

If you're under 35, career-focused, and want to maximize your purchasing power, Houston is your playground. The 0% income tax, lower rent, and endless networking and social opportunities are a powerful combo. You can afford a better lifestyle in Houston on a similar salary. Just be prepared for the traffic and the heat. It’s a city that rewards hustle.

🏆 Winner for Retirees: East Providence

This is a tough call, but East Providence edges it out. For retirees on a fixed income, the higher home prices in East Providence are a significant concern. However, the lower crime rate, walkable neighborhoods (in parts), access to coastal beauty, and proximity to world-class healthcare in Providence often outweigh the cost. The slower pace is ideal for retirement. Houston’s heat and traffic can be punishing for older adults, and the sprawl makes it less walkable.

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At a Glance: Pros & Cons

Houston, TX

Pros:

• Massive purchasing power due to low housing costs and 0% state income tax.
• Diverse, world-class food scene and cultural amenities.
• Huge job market across multiple high-growth industries.
• Mild winters (no snow!).
• Major international airport for easy travel.

Cons:

• Extreme summer heat and humidity (months of 90°F+).
• Brutal traffic and long commutes.
• High violent crime rate (912.4/100k).
• Car-dependent lifestyle with limited walkability.
• Hurricane risk and occasional flooding.

East Providence, RI

Pros:

• Very low violent crime rate (159.5/100k)—one of the safest communities.
• Beautiful coastal setting with access to beaches and waterfront parks.
• Charming, historic New England character and strong community feel.
• Proximity to Providence’s dining, arts, and jobs.
• Four distinct, beautiful seasons (especially fall).

Cons:

• High cost of living, especially for housing (median home: $457,000).
• High state income tax (up to 5.99%).
• Harsh, snowy winters that can be difficult for some.
• Smaller job market (often requires commuting to Providence or Boston).
• Less diversity and fewer "big city" amenities compared to Houston.

Final Recommendation: Choose Houston if your priority is financial growth, career opportunity, and a vibrant, diverse urban life. Choose East Providence if your priority is safety, community, coastal beauty, and a quieter, more traditional New England lifestyle. The data doesn't lie—your choice comes down to what you value more: more dollars in your pocket, or more peace of mind in your neighborhood.