Living in Houston as an expatriate

Visa requirements

Working or living in Houston typically requires a work or resident visa issued by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), depending on the nature of the employment or the intended length of stay. The process may vary depending on the specific circumstances.

Language resources

Although English is the primary language spoken in Houston, expats may benefit from learning basic Spanish for better communication with the local Hispanic population.

Housing

The cost of housing in Houston varies widely depending on the neighborhood, property type, and size. A room in a shared house costs around $600-$900 per month, a one-bedroom apartment ranges from $1,000-$1,500 per month, a two-bedroom apartment is $1,400-$2,200 per month, and a three-plus bedroom house is $2,500-$3,500 per month.

Groceries

Groceries in Houston are reasonably priced, with a monthly grocery bill for a family of four averaging around $800-$1,200. The cost of groceries may vary depending on the neighborhood and the specific brands and products chosen by the family.

Transportation

Transportation costs in Houston are relatively low compared to other major US cities. An average commute by car costs around $200-$250 per month, while public transportation fares range from $1.75-$165 per month depending on the distance travelled.

Houston's climate is classified as a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The summers are long, hot, and humid, while the winters are brief and mild. The city experiences an average of 60 inches of rain annually.

The job market in Houston is robust and diverse, presenting excellent opportunities for expats seeking employment in various industries. The healthcare, energy, financial services, and technology sectors are the key contributors to the city's economy, with distinguished organizations such as Texas Medical Center, Chevron Corporation, and JPMorgan Chase having their regional headquarters in Houston.

Houston boasts of the world's largest medical complex, Texas Medical Center, which spans more than 665 acres and houses 61 affiliated institutions, including 21 hospitals, eleven support organizations, eight academic and research institutions, six nursing programs, three public health organizations, three universities, two pharmacy schools, two universities, and several specialized centers.

The public transportation system in Houston includes rail and bus service operated by the Houston Metropolitan Transportation Authority (METRO), providing convenient access to the city's major attractions and key business districts. The light rail system (METRORail) comprises four color-coded lines: Red, Green, Purple, and Orange.

Houston is generally safe, albeit it has been labeled one of the most dangerous cities in America in recent years. As with any urban area, certain neighborhoods are safer than others, and it is advisable for expats to familiarize themselves with the safety and crime rates of their chosen areas.