Peoria vs Houston

Category / Metric	Peoria	Houston
Financial Overview
Median Income	$97,296	$62,637
Unemployment Rate	4.3%	4.8%
Housing Market
Median Home Price	$516,000	$335,000
Price per SqFt	$256	$175
Monthly Rent (1BR)	$1,424	$1,135
Housing Cost Index	124.3	106.5
Cost of Living
Groceries Index	98.4	103.4
Gas Price (Gallon)	$3.40	$2.35
Safety & Lifestyle
Violent Crime (per 100k)	189.0	912.4
Bachelor's Degree+	34.4%	37.1%
Air Quality (AQI)	42	44

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

So, you’re standing at a crossroads. One path leads to the sprawling, sun-baked concrete jungle of Houston, Texas. The other leads to the quieter, river-nestled city of Peoria, Illinois. It’s a classic David vs. Goliath showdown, but in relocation terms, it’s not about size—it’s about fit. Are you chasing big-city energy and zero income tax, or are you hunting for a safer, more manageable slice of Midwestern life with a surprisingly lucrative income?

Let’s cut through the noise. I’m not here to give you a bland list of stats. I’m here to tell you which city wins in the categories that actually matter to your wallet, your peace of mind, and your daily grind. Grab your coffee; we’re diving deep.

The Vibe Check: Hustle vs. Heartland

Houston is a beast. It’s the fourth-largest city in the U.S., a sprawling metropolis that feels more like its own state. The vibe? Unapologetically fast-paced, diverse, and unpretentious. It’s a city of transplants, oil money, world-class food scenes, and NASA. You can get a PhD in barbecue on one street and a PhD in astrophysics on the next. It’s for the ambitious, the social butterflies, and anyone who gets energy from constant motion. If you crave anonymity and endless options, Houston delivers.

Peoria is the quintessential American heartland city. It’s smaller, cozier, and rooted in history (yes, it’s the city that made "Will it play in Peoria?" a thing). The vibe is laid-back, community-focused, and slower-paced. Think riverfront walks, friendly neighbors, and a manageable downtown. It’s a city where you might actually know your barista. It’s for those who value a quieter life, a strong sense of community, and escaping the overwhelming scale of a mega-city.

Who is it for?

• Houston: The hustlers, the foodies, the energy industry professionals, and anyone who needs a major international airport hub.
• Peoria: The families seeking stability, the remote workers craving affordability, and anyone who wants a city that feels intimate, not intimidating.

The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Money Stretch Furthest?

This is where the rubber meets the road. The raw income numbers are deceptive. Peoria boasts a median income of $97,296—a full 55% higher than Houston’s $62,637. But Houston’s lack of state income tax is a massive equalizer. Let's break down the purchasing power.

The Cost of Living Table:

Category	Houston, TX	Peoria, IL	Winner
Median Home Price	$335,000	$516,000	Houston
Rent (1BR)	$1,135	$1,424	Houston
Housing Index	106.5	124.3	Houston
Utilities	$140 - $220 (High A/C)	$120 - $180 (High Heating)	Peoria
Groceries	~8% below US avg	~3% above US avg	Houston
State Income Tax	0%	4.95% Flat Rate	Houston
Median Income	$62,637	$97,296	Peoria

Salary Wars: The Purchasing Power Reality
Let’s run a scenario. You earn the median income in each city.

• In Houston: Your $62,637 gets taxed only by the feds. Your take-home is roughly $48,000 after federal taxes. With a lower cost of living (especially housing), you can afford a larger home or save more. The $335,000 median home is more attainable. Your money goes further for basics like groceries and gas.
• In Peoria: Your $97,296 sounds fantastic, but Illinois’ 4.95% flat state income tax takes a significant bite. Your take-home is closer to $75,000. However, you’re facing a housing market that’s 54% more expensive than Houston’s ($516,000 vs. $335,000). The higher rent and home prices eat into that higher salary.

Verdict on Dollar Power: Houston wins for the average earner. While Peoria’s salaries are higher, the cost of living—particularly housing—outpaces that advantage. The no-income-tax freedom in Houston is a game-changer for purchasing power. Unless you’re in a high-earning bracket that can leverage Peoria’s stronger salaries, Houston gives you more bang for your buck.

The Housing Market: Buy, Rent, or Wait?

Houston:

• Buy vs. Rent: With a median home price of $335,000 and a Housing Index of 106.5 (just above the national average), buying is a realistic goal for many. The market is competitive but vast, with endless suburbs to choose from.
• Market Dynamics: It’s a balanced market, leaning slightly towards buyers due to its sheer size and inventory. You can find deals if you look outside the inner loop.

Peoria:

• Buy vs. Rent: The median home price of $516,000 is staggering compared to Houston, especially with a higher Housing Index of 124.3. This market is significantly more expensive. Renting may be a more viable option for many, but even the $1,424 rent for a 1BR is notably higher.
• Market Dynamics: Peoria’s housing market feels tighter and more expensive than the national average. It’s not a "cheap" Midwestern city. The competition for desirable homes is real, and the price tag can be a major sticker shock.

Verdict: Houston is the clear winner for housing affordability and availability. Peoria’s housing costs are surprisingly high, which can be a major hurdle for new residents.

The Dealbreakers: Life, Weather, and Safety

This is where the cities diverge dramatically. These are the factors that will impact your daily life and long-term happiness.

Traffic & Commute

• Houston: Infamous. It’s a car-dependent city with some of the worst traffic in the nation. The average commute is long, and sprawl is extreme. You will spend significant time in your car.
• Peoria: Much more manageable. A smaller footprint means shorter commutes. You can get across town in 15-20 minutes on a bad day. A huge win for quality of life.

Winner: Peoria. By a mile.

Weather

• Houston: Brutal. The data says 59°F average, but that’s misleading. It’s a tale of two seasons: Hot & Miserable (9 months) and Perfect (3 months). Expect 90°F+ and suffocating humidity from May to September. Hurricanes are a real threat. It’s not for the faint of heart.
• Peoria: Classic Midwest. The data says 55°F average, but reality is more extreme. You get four distinct seasons: hot summers, crisp falls, snowy winters (often below freezing), and pleasant springs. It’s a "real" winter, which can be a dealbreaker for some.

Winner: Depends on you. If you hate humidity, Peoria. If you hate snow, Houston. It’s a toss-up based on personal preference.

Crime & Safety

This is the most stark contrast in our data.

• Houston: Violent Crime rate is 912.4 per 100,000. This is extremely high—well over double the national average. Safety varies drastically by neighborhood, but the city-wide statistic is a serious concern.
• Peoria: Violent Crime rate is 189.0 per 100,000. This is below the national average and a fraction of Houston’s rate. It’s a significantly safer city statistically.

Winner: Peoria. It’s not even close. If safety is your top priority, Peoria wins decisively.

The Final Verdict: Which City Should You Choose?

After crunching the numbers and living the lifestyles, here’s the breakdown.

Winner for Families: Peoria

• Why: Safety is paramount for families, and Peoria’s crime rate is a fraction of Houston’s. The manageable size, shorter commutes, and strong community feel are ideal for raising kids. While housing costs are high, the overall quality of life—less traffic, lower stress, safer environment—edges out Houston’s affordability.

Winner for Singles/Young Professionals: Houston

• Why: The energy, the diversity, the food scene, and the no-income-tax salary bump are irresistible. You can find a more affordable apartment ($1,135 vs. $1,424), and the social and career opportunities in a city of 2.3 million are vast. The traffic and crime are downsides, but for the right young professional, Houston’s upside is massive.

Winner for Retirees: Peoria

• Why: For retirees on a fixed income, the math is compelling. Lower crime rates mean greater peace of mind. While the cost of living is higher, the absence of Houston’s brutal humidity and traffic makes for a more comfortable, manageable daily life. The slower pace and community focus are perfect for this life stage.

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Houston: Pros & Cons

PROS:

• No State Income Tax: Your paycheck goes further.
• Affordable Housing: Median home price of $335,000 is highly attainable.
• Diverse & Vibrant: World-class food, culture, and nightlife.
• Major Job Market: Especially in energy, healthcare, and tech.
• International Hub: George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH).

CONS:

• Brutal Weather: Oppressive humidity and hurricane risk.
• Traffic & Sprawl: A car is mandatory; commutes are long.
• High Crime Rate: Violent crime is a significant city-wide issue.
• Can Feel Impersonal: It's easy to get lost in the sprawl.

Peoria: Pros & Cons

PROS:

• High Median Income: Strong earning potential in the region.
• Lower Crime: Statistically much safer than Houston.
• Manageable Size: Short commutes and a community feel.
• Outdoor Access: Beautiful riverfront and nearby parks.
• Four Seasons: Real winters and pleasant falls.

CONS:

• Expensive Housing: Median home price of $516,000 is a shock.
• Harsh Winters: Snow and cold are a given.
• Higher Taxes: The 4.95% state income tax bites.
• Smaller Job Market: Fewer major corporate HQs.
• Less Diversity: More homogenous than Houston.

The Bottom Line: Choose Houston if you prioritize career opportunities, affordability, and big-city amenities, and you can handle the heat and traffic. Choose Peoria if you prioritize safety, community, a slower pace of life, and you have the budget for its surprisingly steep housing market. Your money goes further in Houston, but your peace of mind might go further in Peoria.