📊 Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Lebanon and Houston
Head-to-Head Analysis
Lebanon vs Houston
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
📋 The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Lebanon | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $92,288 | $62,637 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3% | 4.8% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $512,000 | $335,000 |
| Price per SqFt | $244 | $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+ | 56.4% | 37.1% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 34 | 44 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Houston vs. Lebanon: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
So you're standing at a crossroads. On one side, you have Houston, Texas—a sprawling, energy-rich giant where the city limits stretch as far as the eye can see. On the other, you have Lebanon, New Hampshire—a charming, historic town nestled in the heart of New England. It’s not just a choice between a city and a town; it’s a choice between two completely different worlds.
Whether you're chasing a career, raising a family, or looking for a peaceful place to retire, this decision is massive. Let's cut through the noise, crunch the numbers, and figure out which of these places truly deserves to be your next home base.
The Vibe Check: Big City Energy vs. Small-Town Charm
First, let's talk about the soul of these places.
Houston is the definition of a "big bang for your buck" city. It’s not just big; it’s massive. We're talking about a population of 2.3 million people, a city that grew up around the oil and gas industry, with a world-class medical center and a booming tech scene. The vibe here is fast-paced, diverse, and unapologetically Texan. You can get world-class barbecue at a roadside joint, then catch a rocket launch at NASA in the same day. It’s a city for the ambitious, the energy-driven, and anyone who wants to feel like they’re in the center of the action.
Lebanon, on the other hand, is the epitome of New England charm. With a tiny population of just 14,759, it feels more like a large village than a city. The vibe is historic, quiet, and deeply connected to nature. Life moves at a slower, more deliberate pace. It’s the kind of place where you know your neighbors, the main street has a classic movie theater, and you’re never more than a 10-minute drive from a hiking trail. Lebanon is for those who value community, safety, and a break from the constant hustle and bustle.
Who is it for?
- Houston is for the go-getter, the foodie, the networker, and anyone who thrives on diversity and endless options.
- Lebanon is for the nature-lover, the peace-seeker, the family-focused, and anyone who wants a tight-knit community feel.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Actually Get You?
This is where the rubber meets the road. Let's talk cold, hard cash. We'll compare the key cost-of-living factors head-to-head.
Cost of Living Breakdown
| Category | Houston, TX | Lebanon, NH | The Takeaway |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $335,000 | $512,000 | Houston wins by a massive margin. |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,135 | $1,471 | Houston is ~23% cheaper for renters. |
| Housing Index | 106.5 | 125.3 | Lebanon is significantly more expensive. |
| Median Income | $62,637 | $92,288 | Lebanon residents earn ~47% more. |
Salary Wars & Purchasing Power
This is the most fascinating part of this showdown. On the surface, Lebanon looks like the clear winner with a $92,288 median income compared to Houston's $62,637. But when you factor in costs, the story changes dramatically.
Let's run a scenario: Imagine you earn a comfortable $100,000 salary.
In Houston, your $100k goes incredibly far. With no state income tax (a huge deal), your take-home pay is significantly higher. You can rent a solid one-bedroom for $1,135, leaving you with a huge chunk of your paycheck for savings, entertainment, and life. The median home price of $335,000 means owning a home is a realistic goal for a dual-income household or even a single high-earner. Your purchasing power is strong.
In Lebanon, your $100k feels tighter. New Hampshire has no state income tax on wages, but it has some of the highest property taxes in the nation. That $512,000 median home price is daunting, and the $1,471 rent for a one-bedroom is a steep entry point. While the median income is higher, the cost of living—especially housing—eats into that advantage. You'll need to budget more carefully, and buying a home is a much heavier financial lift.
Insight: While Lebanon boasts a higher median income, Houston offers superior purchasing power. You might earn less in Houston, but your money stretches much, much further. The sticker shock in Lebanon is real.
The Housing Market: To Buy or To Rent?
Houston: The Buyer's Market (Sort Of)
Houston's housing market is vast. With a Housing Index of 106.5, it's slightly above the national average, but it offers incredible variety. You can find a starter home, a sprawling suburban estate, or a modern downtown loft. The market is competitive but accessible. For renters, the options are plentiful, and the $1,135 average rent is a breath of fresh air compared to most major metros.
Lebanon: The Seller's Market (Definitely)
Lebanon's market is a different beast. With a Housing Index of 125.3 and a median home price of $512,000, it's a tough place to break into. The inventory is low, and demand is high from people fleeing larger cities for New England's quality of life. This is a classic seller's market. Renting isn't much easier, with limited availability driving up the $1,471 price tag. If you're looking to buy in Lebanon, be prepared for bidding wars and a long search.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life Factors
Traffic & Commute:
- Houston: This is a major con. Houston is a car-dependent city with notorious traffic. Commutes can easily be 45-60 minutes each way. Public transit exists but is limited.
- Lebanon: A massive pro. Traffic is virtually nonexistent. You'll have short, easy commutes (usually under 15 minutes) to work, school, or errands. The quality of life boost from minimal traffic is huge.
Weather:
- Houston: Hot and humid. The average temperature is 59°F, but that's a misleading average. Summers are brutal, with highs routinely in the 90s°F and oppressive humidity. You'll rely on air conditioning from May to September. Winters are mild but can be rainy.
- Lebanon: Four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy (average temp 48°F but that's deceptive—it drops well below freezing). Summers are pleasant and warm. If you hate shoveling snow and dealing with icy roads, this is a major downside. If you love autumn foliage and winter sports, it's a pro.
Crime & Safety:
- Houston: This is a significant concern. The violent crime rate is 912.4 per 100k people, which is over 6 times higher than the national average. While many neighborhoods are safe, crime is a city-wide reality that requires vigilance.
- Lebanon: Exceptionally safe. The violent crime rate is 146.4 per 100k, which is below the national average. You can leave your doors unlocked, let your kids play outside, and feel secure. For families, this is a monumental advantage.
The Verdict: Which City Wins for YOU?
After breaking down the data and the lifestyle, here’s the final call.
Winner for Families: Lebanon
Why: The combination of extremely low crime (146.4/100k), excellent schools, a tight-knit community, and a slower pace of life is tailor-made for raising kids. The short commutes mean more family time, and the access to outdoor activities is unbeatable. While the housing cost is a hurdle, the quality of life for your children is unparalleled.
Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: Houston
Why: Career opportunities in energy, tech, and medicine are immense. The cost of living allows you to save money while enjoying a world-class food scene, diverse nightlife, and endless networking events. You can build a career and a social life without the financial strain of a place like Lebanon. The energy of the city is contagious.
Winner for Retirees: Lebanon (with a caveat)
Why: For retirees who value safety, peace, and a four-season climate, Lebanon is a dream. It’s quiet, beautiful, and has a strong sense of community. The caveat? You must be prepared for the high cost of living and the harsh winters. If you have a solid nest egg and can handle the snow, it’s a winner. For retirees on a fixed budget who want warmth and affordability, Houston becomes the more practical choice.
Final Pros & Cons Lists
Houston, TX
Pros:
- Incredible purchasing power and lower cost of living.
- No state income tax boosts your take-home pay.
- Massive job market with diverse industries.
- World-class food scene and cultural diversity.
- Mild winters (if you can handle the summer humidity).
Cons:
- Very high violent crime rate (912.4/100k).
- Brutal summer heat and humidity.
- Notorious traffic and long commutes.
- Car-dependent city with limited public transit.
Lebanon, NH
Pros:
- Extremely safe with very low crime rates.
- Charming, close-knit community with a small-town feel.
- Minimal traffic and short commutes.
- Beautiful four-season climate with access to outdoors.
- High median income ($92,288) in a stable economy.
Cons:
- Very high cost of living, especially housing ($512k median home).
- Harsh, snowy winters with long periods of cold.
- Limited job market outside of healthcare/education.
- Small population with fewer entertainment/dining options.
The Bottom Line: Choose Houston if your priority is financial growth, career ambition, and urban excitement. Choose Lebanon if your priority is safety, community, and a peaceful lifestyle—provided you can afford the premium price tag.