📊 Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Rexburg and Houston
Head-to-Head Analysis
Rexburg vs Houston
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
📋 The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Rexburg | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $50,359 | $62,637 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.7% | 4.8% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $370,000 | $335,000 |
| Price per SqFt | $169 | $175 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,109 | $1,135 |
| Housing Cost Index | 111.0 | 106.5 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 94.6 | 103.4 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $2.35 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 242.6 | 912.4 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 40.8% | 37.1% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 51 | 44 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Excellent. Let's cut through the noise and get down to brass tacks. You're looking at two cities that are as different as a Texas steak and a slice of Idaho potato. One is a sprawling, humid giant; the other is a tight-knit, snowy college town. This isn't just about numbers—it's about lifestyle, values, and where you'll feel at home.
I've crunched the data, talked to locals, and laid it all out for you. Grab your coffee, and let's settle this showdown.
The Vibe Check: Culture & Lifestyle
Houston: The Unstoppable Melting Pot
Houston isn't just big; it's immense. It's the fourth-largest city in the U.S., a sprawling metropolis where you can find any culture, any food, any career path you can imagine. It’s a city of transplants—people who came for the oil & gas boom, the massive Texas Medical Center, or NASA. The vibe is fast-paced, diverse, and relentlessly pragmatic. Life revolves around cars, traffic, air conditioning, and a legendary food scene that goes from five-star sushi to world-class BBQ in the same zip code. It’s for the career-driven, the culturally curious, and those who crave the energy of a global city without the coastal price tag. If you need anonymity and endless options, Houston delivers.
Rexburg: The Small-Town Anchor
Rexburg is the polar opposite. Nestled in eastern Idaho, it's a community of just under 40,000 people, with a significant portion tied to Brigham Young University-Idaho (BYU-I). The culture is deeply rooted, conservative, and family-oriented. Life moves at a slower pace, centered around seasons, outdoor recreation (see: Yellowstone just a stone's throw away), and tight-knit community events. It’s not a place you stumble into; it’s a place you choose, often for its values-driven environment. It’s for those prioritizing safety, community, and a slower pace over urban amenities. Think of it as the antithesis of a big city.
Vibe Verdict: It's a draw, but for entirely different people. Houston wins for urbanites and diversity seekers. Rexburg wins for those craving a close-knit, traditional community.
The Dollar Power: Cost of Living & Salary
This is where the rubber meets the road. You might think a smaller city is always cheaper, but Rexburg is a surprising contender.
Let's break down the monthly costs. (Data is median for a 1BR apartment and typical utilities/groceries).
| Expense Category | Houston | Rexburg | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Rent (1BR) | $1,135 | $1,109 | Rexburg (by a hair) |
| Utilities (Monthly Avg.) | $180 (A/C heavy) | $220 (Heating heavy) | Houston |
| Groceries | +4% above nat'l avg. | +2% above nat'l avg. | Rexburg |
| Overall COL Index | 106.5 (6.5% above avg) | 111.0 (11% above avg) | Houston |
The Sticker Shock: At first glance, the rent difference is negligible. But the Overall COL Index tells a more nuanced story. Rexburg is actually more expensive overall than Houston, primarily due to higher costs for goods, services, and housing relative to its income levels. The median home price in Rexburg is $370,000 vs. Houston's $335,000, while Rexburg's median income is lower. That's a tough squeeze.
Salary Wars & Purchasing Power:
Let's take a $100,000 salary as our benchmark.
- In Houston ($62,637 median income): Your $100k gives you significant purchasing power. You're well above the median, and with 0% state income tax, your take-home pay is higher than in most states. You can afford a nice apartment, dine out frequently, and still save. Your dollar stretches far in a city with diverse price points (from cheap taquerias to high-end dining).
- In Rexburg ($50,359 median income): Your $100k makes you a high earner in a small town. However, the higher COL index and property prices mean your money doesn't go as far as you'd expect. You'll live very comfortably, but you won't feel the same "bang for your buck" as in Houston, especially if you're used to city conveniences.
Insight on Taxes: This is a massive win for Houston. Texas has no state income tax, while Idaho has a progressive tax (ranging from 1.125% to 6.925%). On a $100k salary, that's a difference of $4,000-$7,000 in your pocket annually in Houston. That alone can cover a major car payment or a significant portion of your rent.
Dollar Power Verdict: Houston wins decisively. While the raw rent numbers are close, Houston's combination of lower overall cost of living, higher median income, and no state income tax gives it a clear edge in purchasing power.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent
Houston: The Buyer's Market (For Now)
Houston's housing stock is vast. You can find a historic bungalow in The Heights, a modern condo downtown, or a sprawling suburban home with a yard. The median home price of $335,000 is accessible for many, especially with two incomes. It's generally a buyer's market with more inventory, but competition is fierce for the "perfect" home in desirable neighborhoods. Renting is a solid, flexible option with plenty of choices.
Rexburg: The Tight, Expensive Market
Rexburg's market is a different beast. With a median home price of $370,000 and a smaller population, inventory is tight. It's often a seller's market, especially for family-sized homes. The higher price relative to local incomes creates affordability challenges. Renting is nearly as expensive as buying, which can make it feel like there's no good financial entry point. The Housing Index (111.0) confirms it's pricier relative to the national average than Houston's 106.5.
Housing Verdict: Houston wins for flexibility and affordability. It offers more paths to homeownership and a wider range of budgets. Rexburg's market is challenging for newcomers.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life
Traffic & Commute:
- Houston: This is the city's biggest pain point. The famous "Houston, we have a problem" is often about I-45 or the 610 Loop. Average commutes are long (often 30-45 minutes), and traffic is a daily reality. You need a reliable car.
- Rexburg: Traffic is virtually non-existent. The biggest delay might be waiting for a train to pass. Commutes are measured in minutes, not miles. It's a massive quality-of-life advantage.
Winner: Rexburg.
Weather:
- Houston: Brutal humidity. Summers are long, oppressive, and often top 90°F with high humidity. Winters are mild (average 59°F), but you'll get the occasional cold snap. Hurricane season is a real threat.
- Rexburg: All four seasons, and they are distinct. Winters are cold and snowy (average 36°F, but can plummet to -10°F). Summers are dry and pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities. It's a winter-lover's paradise but a shock if you hate snow.
Winner: It's personal. Love sunshine and hate snow? Houston. Love seasonal changes and winter sports? Rexburg.
Crime & Safety:
This is the most critical data point.
- Houston: Violent crime rate is 912.4 per 100,000. This is significantly above the national average. While many neighborhoods are perfectly safe, crime is a city-wide concern that requires vigilance.
- Rexburg: Violent crime rate is 242.6 per 100,000. This is below the national average and dramatically lower than Houston's. It's one of the safest cities in America for its size.
Winner: Rexburg, by a landslide.
The Final Verdict
This isn't about which city is "better," but which city is better for you.
- Winner for Families: Rexburg. The safety, strong community, excellent public schools (BYU-I influence), and focus on family values are undeniable. The trade-off is a higher cost of living relative to income and limited urban amenities.
- Winner for Singles/Young Pros: Houston. The career opportunities are unparalleled, the social and cultural scene is vibrant, and the cost of living (especially with no state income tax) allows for a dynamic lifestyle. The trade-off is traffic, crime, and a less intimate community feel.
- Winner for Retirees: It depends. Rexburg wins for those seeking a safe, quiet, community-focused retirement with access to nature. It's peaceful and secure. Houston wins for retirees who want world-class healthcare (Texas Medical Center), endless cultural activities, and a warmer winter. The trade-off is higher crime and traffic.
At a Glance: Pros & Cons
Houston
Pros:
- Purchasing Power: Your salary goes far, especially with 0% state income tax.
- Career Opportunities: Unmatched in energy, healthcare, aerospace, and tech.
- Incredible Diversity & Food: A global city on a plate.
- No State Income Tax: A major financial win.
- Mild Winters.
Cons:
- High Crime: Violent crime rate is 912.4/100k.
- Brutal Humidity & Heat: Summers are long and oppressive.
- Traffic & Commutes: A daily grind for many.
- Sprawling & Car-Dependent.
Rexburg
Pros:
- Extremely Safe: Violent crime rate is 242.6/100k.
- Tight-Knit Community: Strong social fabric and family focus.
- No Traffic: Easy, short commutes.
- Access to Nature: Proximity to Yellowstone, lakes, and mountains.
- Four Distinct Seasons.
Cons:
- Lower Median Income: $50,359 vs. Houston's $62,637.
- Higher Cost of Living Index (111.0): Goods and services are pricey.
- Limited Urban Amenities: Fewer dining, shopping, and cultural options.
- Harsh Winters: Cold, snowy, and long.
- Cultural Homogeneity: Less diverse than Houston.
Bottom Line: Choose Houston if you're chasing career growth, urban energy, and financial upside, and you can handle the heat and traffic. Choose Rexburg if you're prioritizing safety, community, and a slower pace of life, and you're okay with fewer big-city perks and a higher relative cost of living.