Levittown CDP vs Houston

Category / Metric	Levittown CDP	Houston
Financial Overview
Median Income	$101,619	$62,637
Unemployment Rate	4.2%	4.8%
Housing Market
Median Home Price	$311,000	$335,000
Price per SqFt	$null	$175
Monthly Rent (1BR)	$1,190	$1,135
Housing Cost Index	117.8	106.5
Cost of Living
Groceries Index	100.3	103.4
Gas Price (Gallon)	$3.40	$2.35
Safety & Lifestyle
Violent Crime (per 100k)	413.7	912.4
Bachelor's Degree+	25.1%	37.1%
Air Quality (AQI)	30	44

Houston vs. Levittown: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown

So, you're standing at a crossroads. On one side, you've got the sprawling, sun-soaked concrete jungle of Houston, Texas. On the other, the manicured, suburban tranquility of Levittown CDP, New York. It's a classic clash of titans: The Big City vs. The Classic 'Burbs.

This isn't just about geography; it's about lifestyle, wallet power, and what you want your daily life to feel like. Are you chasing the hustle and bustle of a major metro, or do you crave the safety and predictability of a tight-knit community?

Let’s cut through the noise. I’ve crunched the numbers, lived through the humidity, and talked to folks in both places. Here’s the no-holds-barred breakdown to help you decide where to plant your roots.

The Vibe Check: Metro Mayhem vs. Suburban Sanctuary

First, let's talk about the feeling of these places. Because on paper, stats can be similar, but the vibe? It’s a universe apart.

Houston is a beast. It’s a sprawling, car-dependent metropolis of over 2.3 million people. The energy is electric, the culture is a wild mix of Southern charm, international flair, and pure, unadulterated ambition. Think world-class museums, a legendary food scene (the taco game is unmatched), and a job market that’s a powerhouse, especially in energy, healthcare, and tech. It’s a city for the go-getters, the explorers, and those who don’t mind a little traffic in exchange for endless options. The vibe is fast-paced, diverse, and a little gritty.

Levittown CDP, on the other hand, is the quintessential American suburb. Nestled on Long Island, this community of about 51,000 people is a masterclass in planned living. It’s clean, quiet, and steeped in post-war history. The vibe is family-friendly, stable, and predictable. It’s the place you move to when you want a yard, good schools, and a strong community feel. It’s less about late-night concerts and more about weekend Little League games and block parties. The pace is slower, the streets are greener, and the focus is squarely on quality of life.

Who is each city for?

• Houston is for the ambitious professional, the foodie, the culture vulture, and the family that wants access to everything—from top-tier med centers to endless kid-friendly activities. It’s for those who value space (both physical and metaphorical) and opportunities.
• Levittown is for the family prioritizing safety and community, the commuter who needs reliable access to Manhattan, and anyone who sees a well-kept lawn and low crime as the ultimate luxury. It’s for those who want a quiet home base to retreat to.

The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Feel Bigger?

This is where things get interesting. On the surface, Levittown’s median income of $101,619 blows Houston’s $62,637 out of the water. But wait—let’s talk about purchasing power. A dollar in New York doesn’t stretch as far as a dollar in Texas, largely due to taxes and overall cost of living.

Let’s break it down.

Cost of Living Comparison

Category	Houston, TX	Levittown CDP, NY	The Verdict
Rent (1BR)	$1,135	$1,190	Houston is slightly cheaper, but the gap is minimal.
Utilities (Monthly)	~$180 (AC is a must)	~$160 (Heating costs in winter)	Levittown edges out slightly, but it's a wash.
Groceries	6% below nat'l avg	15% above nat'l avg	Houston takes this decisively.
Housing Index	106.5	117.8	Houston is more affordable. 106.5 means housing costs are 6.5% above the national average, while Levittown is 17.8% above.

The Salary Wars & The Tax Hammer
Here’s the million-dollar question: If you earn $100,000 in each city, where do you feel richer?

• In Houston, your $100k goes much, much further. Why? Texas has NO state income tax. That’s an instant ~6-7% raise compared to most states. Combined with lower housing costs and cheaper groceries, your take-home pay feels substantial. You can afford a nicer apartment, eat out more, and still save. The "sticker shock" is far less severe.
• In Levittown, your $100k gets squeezed. New York State has a progressive income tax. For a $100k salary, you’re looking at paying roughly $4,800-$5,500 in state income tax, plus high local property taxes (though you’ll get a significant deduction on your federal return). The higher cost of living, especially for housing and groceries, means your dollar has to work harder. You’ll likely spend more on the basics, leaving less for fun and savings.

The Insight: While Levittown’s median income is higher, Houston offers superior purchasing power. The lack of income tax is a game-changer. You can live a comfortable lifestyle in Houston on a salary that would feel stretched thin in Levittown.

The Housing Market: To Buy or To Rent?

This is the biggest financial decision for most, and the markets are distinct.

Houston is a buyer’s market with a side of infinite sprawl. The median home price of $335,000 is attainable for many. You get more square footage for your money, and the market is vast—there’s always something available. However, you must factor in property taxes (which can be high in Texas). Competition is fierce for the "perfect" home in a good school district, but for most, it’s a feasible market. Renting is also a solid, affordable option for newcomers.

Levittown is a seller’s market defined by scarcity. The median home price of $311,000 is deceptively low—it often refers to smaller, older homes. The real value is in the land and location. Long Island is land-constrained, and Levittown is a highly desirable suburb with excellent schools. Bidding wars are common, and you’ll often pay over asking price. Availability is low, and the process is competitive. Renting is also expensive and competitive.

The Bottom Line: If you want to buy a spacious home with a yard without a brutal bidding war, Houston is your winner. If you’re okay with a smaller home, a competitive market, and see Long Island real estate as a long-term investment, Levittown is compelling.

The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life

This is where personal preference trumps data.

Traffic & Commute:

• Houston: Legendary. The city is designed for cars, with massive highways (like the 610 Loop and I-45). Commutes can easily be 45-90 minutes one-way. Public transit exists but is limited. If you hate driving, this is a major strike against Houston.
• Levittown: A commuter’s dream. You have direct access to the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), which gets you to Manhattan in under an hour. While local roads can get busy, the commute to NYC is structured and reliable. This is a massive point in Levittown’s favor for commuters.

Weather:

• Houston: Hot and humid. The average temp is 59°F, but that’s misleading. Summers are brutal, often hitting 90°F+ with suffocating humidity. You live indoors (with AC) from June to September. Mild winters are a plus, but hurricane season is a real threat.
• Levittown: Four distinct seasons. The average temp of 54°F is cooler. You get beautiful falls, snowy winters (plan on shoveling and higher heating bills), and pleasant springs/summers. If you hate the cold, this is a dealbreaker.

Crime & Safety:

• Houston: The data is sobering. The violent crime rate is 912.4 per 100k—that’s more than double the national average. Safety varies drastically by neighborhood. You must do your homework.
• Levittown: Significantly safer. The violent crime rate is 413.7 per 100k, which is closer to the national average. This is a major draw for families. The community feel adds an extra layer of security.

The Verdict: Who Wins Where?

After laying it all out, here’s my final breakdown.

🏆 Winner for Families: LEVITTOWN CDP
The data is clear. The violent crime rate is less than half of Houston’s. The schools are consistently ranked among the best in the state. The community is tight-knit, safe, and built for raising kids. While more expensive, the investment in safety and education is invaluable for a family.

🏆 Winner for Singles/Young Pros: HOUSTON
The sheer scale of opportunity, culture, and nightlife in Houston is unbeatable for a young person building a career. The lower cost of living (thanks to no state income tax) means more disposable income for exploring, networking, and building savings. It’s a place to hustle, grow, and experience a world-class city on a middle-class budget.

🏆 Winner for Retirees: LEVITTOWN CDP
For retirees, safety, community, and proximity to top-tier healthcare (NYC hospitals) are paramount. Levittown offers a stable, quiet environment with easy access to cultural activities in NYC without the chaos. The four-season climate is preferable for many, and the established community provides a social structure. Houston’s sprawl and traffic can be a logistical nightmare for older adults.

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Final Pros & Cons

HOUSTON, TX

Pros:

• ✅ Booming Job Market: World-class opportunities in energy, healthcare, and tech.
• ✅ No State Income Tax: Your paycheck goes further.
• ✅ Affordability: More house for your money, cheaper groceries.
• ✅ Endless Culture: Incredible food, museums, and diversity.
• ✅ Mild Winters: Escape the deep freeze.

Cons:

• ❌ Brutal Humidity & Heat: Summer is oppressive.
• ❌ Major Traffic: Long commutes are the norm.
• ❌ High Violent Crime: Requires careful neighborhood selection.
• ❌ Car-Dependent: Limited public transit options.
• ❌ Hurricane Risk: A real and recurring threat.

LEVITTOWN CDP, NY

Pros:

• ✅ Excellent Schools: Top-tier public education system.
• ✅ Safe & Low Crime: Peace of mind for families.
• ✅ Strong Community Feel: Tight-knit, family-oriented.
• ✅ NYC Proximity: Easy commute via LIRR to Manhattan.
• ✅ Four Seasons: Enjoy distinct weather changes.

Cons:

• ❌ High Cost of Living: Expensive housing, groceries, and taxes.
• ❌ Competitive Housing Market: Bidding wars are common.
• ❌ Harsh Winters: Snow, ice, and high heating bills.
• ❌ Long Island Traffic: Congestion is still an issue.
• ❌ Less for "Young Adult" Nightlife: Quieter, more suburban scene.

The Final Word: If your priority is cost and opportunity, pack your bags for Houston. If your priority is safety, schools, and community, make way for Levittown. Your wallet and your lifestyle will thank you for choosing the right fit.