đź“Š Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Keene and Houston
Head-to-Head Analysis
Keene vs Houston
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
đź“‹ The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Keene | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $78,183 | $62,637 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3% | 4.8% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $350,000 | $335,000 |
| Price per SqFt | $222 | $175 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,471 | $1,135 |
| Housing Cost Index | 125.3 | 106.5 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 106.8 | 103.4 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $2.35 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 146.4 | 912.4 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 43.4% | 37.1% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 40 | 44 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Houston vs. Keene: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
So, you're torn between Houston, Texas and Keene, New Hampshire. This isn't just a choice between two cities; it's a choice between two entirely different worlds. One is a sprawling, sun-baked metropolis where the energy is palpable and the opportunities are vast. The other is a quaint, picturesque New England town where the pace slows down and the seasons paint the landscape.
Let's cut through the noise and get straight to the point. This isn't about which city is "better"—it's about which city is better for you. Grab a coffee, and let's break it down.
The Vibe Check: Metro vs. Small Town
Houston is the quintessential American boomtown. It’s a sprawling, diverse, and unapologetically fast-paced city. Think world-class museums, a legendary food scene (from Tex-Mex to Vietnamese), and a skyline that stretches for miles. The vibe is ambitious, multicultural, and hot—both literally and figuratively. It’s a city for go-getters who crave variety and don't mind the hustle. You’re trading a traditional "downtown" feel for endless neighborhoods, each with its own personality.
Keene is the picture-perfect New England town. It’s walkable, historic, and nestled in the scenic Monadnock region. The vibe is cozy, community-focused, and serene. Think autumn foliage, locally-owned shops, and a strong sense of local pride. It’s a haven for those who prioritize quality of life over sheer quantity of options. You’re trading the 24/7 buzz of a major city for four distinct seasons, outdoor recreation, and a tight-knit community feel.
Who is each city for?
- Houston is for the career-driven, the foodie, the culture seeker, and anyone who thrives in a dynamic, ever-changing environment. It’s for those who want to get lost in the crowd and find their own path.
- Keene is for those seeking balance, nature lovers, remote workers, and families who value safety and community above all else. It’s for those who want to know their neighbors and feel rooted in a place.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Go Further?
This is where the rubber meets the road. We’re talking about Purchasing Power—what your paycheck actually gets you.
Salary Wars: The $100k Test
Let’s imagine you earn a $100,000 salary in each location.
- In Houston, thanks to Texas's 0% state income tax, that $100k feels more like $100k right off the bat. While the cost of living is rising, its sheer scale and competition often keep prices in check for many goods and services. You get more bang for your buck on housing and utilities compared to many coastal cities. However, you’ll pay higher property taxes.
- In Keene, New Hampshire has no state income tax and no sales tax. That’s a huge win. However, the Housing Index (125.3) is significantly higher than Houston’s (106.5), meaning housing costs eat into that $100k faster. Groceries and utilities can also be pricier due to the smaller market and harsh winters.
The Bottom Line: Your $100,000 salary will likely stretch farther in Houston in terms of sheer volume and variety, especially for housing and dining out. Keene offers tax advantages but at the cost of a higher housing burden.
Cost of Living Breakdown
Here’s a snapshot of the day-to-day expenses.
| Category | Houston | Keene | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $335,000 | $350,000 | Houston (Slightly) |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,135 | $1,471 | Houston |
| Utilities (Monthly) | ~$150 (High A/C) | ~$200 (High Heating) | Houston (Marginally) |
| Groceries | Moderate | Slightly Higher | Houston |
| Housing Index | 106.5 | 125.3 | Houston |
Insight: Houston wins on all major cost metrics. The $1,135 rent vs. Keene's $1,471 is a stark difference. Over a year, that’s over $4,000 in savings. That’s a vacation, a new car, or a hefty chunk of savings.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent
Houston's Market: It’s a massive, diverse market. You can find a downtown condo, a sprawling suburban home, or a historic bungalow. The median home price of $335,000 is relatively affordable for a major U.S. metro. However, it’s a competitive seller’s market in desirable neighborhoods. Inventory moves fast, and bidding wars aren’t uncommon. Renting is a popular and viable option with plenty of choices.
Keene's Market: This is a classic New England housing crunch. With a tiny population of 22,923, inventory is extremely limited. The median home price of $350,000 is deceptive—it often buys you less square footage and a smaller lot than in Houston. The market is fiercely competitive, especially for move-in-ready homes. Renting is also challenging due to low vacancy rates, which drives up prices.
Verdict: For buyers, Houston offers more choice and slightly better value. For renters, Houston is significantly more affordable and offers more flexibility. Keene is a tough market for both, especially for newcomers.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life
Traffic & Commute
- Houston: Infamous. The city is built for cars, and it shows. Commutes can be long (30-60 minutes is common), and traffic congestion is a daily reality. Public transit exists but is limited compared to other major cities.
- Keene: A non-issue. The town is compact, and most errands can be done in under 15 minutes. You’re more likely to encounter a tractor than a traffic jam. The trade-off? You’ll likely need to drive to larger cities like Manchester or Boston for major airport travel or specialized services.
Weather
- Houston: Brutal. The data says 59.0°F average, but that’s misleading. Summers are long, oppressive, and humid, with highs regularly in the 90s and heat indices over 100°F. Winters are mild but can be damp. Hurricane season is a serious concern.
- Keene: Defined seasons. The data says 45.0°F average, reflecting cold, snowy winters and beautiful, mild summers. You’ll need a winter coat, snow tires, and a shovel. Fall foliage is spectacular. It’s a true four-season experience.
Crime & Safety
- Houston: With a violent crime rate of 912.4 per 100k, Houston faces significant safety challenges. Like any huge city, it has safe neighborhoods and less safe ones. Due diligence on where you live is critical.
- Keene: Incredibly safe. A violent crime rate of 146.4 per 100k is exceptionally low for the U.S. It’s the kind of place where people feel comfortable letting their kids walk to school or leaving doors unlocked (though common sense still applies).
Verdict: Keene is the clear winner for safety and commute. Houston wins if you crave warm weather and don’t mind the heat and traffic.
The Verdict: Who Wins?
There’s no universal winner—only the right fit for your life stage and priorities.
🏆 Winner for Families: Keene
- Why: Safety, excellent schools, community, and a slower pace are ideal for raising kids. The trade-off is higher housing costs and fewer amenities, but for many families, that’s a worthy exchange.
🏆 Winner for Singles/Young Pros: Houston
- Why: The job market is massive and diverse, the social and cultural scene is endless, and the cost of living (especially rent) allows for a higher quality of life on a starting salary. The energy is unmatched.
🏆 Winner for Retirees: Keene
- Why: Safety, walkability, and a peaceful environment are top priorities for retirees. The stunning seasons and outdoor access promote an active lifestyle. (Note: Retirees on a fixed income might find Houston’s lower costs and 0% income tax attractive, but the weather and safety often tip the scale to Keene.)
Final Pros & Cons
Houston: The Pros & Cons
âś… PROS:
- Massive Job Market: Opportunities in energy, healthcare, tech, and more.
- Affordable Housing (for a major city): Median home price of $335,000.
- Diverse Culture & Food: A true global city with endless exploration.
- 0% State Income Tax: More of your paycheck stays with you.
- Warm Weather: No snow shoveling.
❌ CONS:
- High Crime Rate: 912.4/100k violent crime.
- Brutal Humidity & Heat: Summers are oppressive.
- Terrible Traffic: Long, stressful commutes are the norm.
- Sprawl: Car-dependent; limited walkability.
Keene: The Pros & Cons
âś… PROS:
- Extremely Safe: Violent crime rate of 146.4/100k.
- Beautiful Scenery & Seasons: Outdoor activities year-round.
- Walkable & Community-Focused: Know your neighbors.
- Low Crime & Congestion: Peaceful daily life.
- No Sales Tax & No Income Tax: Financial benefits.
❌ CONS:
- High Cost of Living: Housing index of 125.3 is steep.
- Limited Job Market: Fewer opportunities; remote work is often key.
- Harsh Winters: Snow, ice, and cold for months.
- Limited Amenities: Fewer dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
- Isolated: Far from major airports and cities.
The Bottom Line: If you want opportunity, affordability (for a big city), and warm weather, choose Houston. If you want safety, community, and a peaceful natural setting, choose Keene. The choice is yours.