Houston is home for more reasons than it simply being the city in which our houses are located. Home is not just a location but an environment, and Houston seems to be the one that more and more people keep choosing. There are so many things to love about our great city—the shopping, the food, the culture, the opportunities—but today I am going to share 10 things about Houston that people love and that make them never want to leave.

As a real estate professional, I often hear from clients why they chose Houston—and why they stay. Here are 10 reasons people love calling Houston home.

1. Big Texas Space
Houston is BIG. With nearly 600 square miles, there is room for expansive neighborhoods, generous lot sizes, and homes that truly fit today’s lifestyles. In fact, Houston is larger than New York City, San Francisco, and Boston combined. That space allows for everything from quiet residential pockets to vibrant urban living—often without sacrificing comfort.

2. Food

When you move to Houston, you might find yourself dining out more often. With over 10,000 restaurants, Houstonians never stop expanding their taste buds. On average, Houstonians eat out 6.9 times per week, while Americans elsewhere eat out about 4.9 times per week.

3. The Houston Rodeo

One of the best places to try new foods and experience Houston culture is the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. One of Houston’s main attractions, the Rodeo brings in over two million visitors each year. During the day, you can enjoy the carnival outside of NRG Stadium, or visit the art auction, and each night, you can head inside the stadium to see the horse show, calf scramble, mutton bustin’, and concerts from some of your favorite artists. This year, the Rodeo runs from March 2nd to March 22nd. Check it out here!

4. Downtown Tunnel System

This might be one of the most surprising aspects to new Houstonians. Twenty feet below Downtown Houston is a tunnel system connecting over 90 shops, restaurants, and office buildings—a daily convenience for downtown workers. These pedestrian tunnels stretch over six miles and are one of Houston’s best-kept secrets.

5. Theater District

Above those tunnels, you will find some of the best theater in America. The Houston Ballet, the Houston Grand Opera, and the Alley Theatre are great places to spend a fun night. For a special treat, dine at Brennan’s and take the theater shuttle, which will drop you off and bring you back afterward for dessert.

6. Texas Medical Center

We all know Houston leads the nation when it comes to doing things big, and the Texas Medical Center is no exception. As the largest medical complex in the world, it is home to over 50 hospitals and healthcare institutions and serves more than 10 million patients each year.

7. A Truly Welcoming City

Houston is more welcoming than people expect. While some cities make you feel like an outsider if you weren’t born and raised there, Houstonians are genuinely glad you’re here. This city welcomes people of all political views, religious beliefs, and identities. Even if you’re new, it doesn’t take long to feel like a local.

8. A Culture of Philanthropy

You may not expect it, but Houston, the energy capital of the world, is the second-most philanthropic city in the United States. Giving back is deeply woven into Houston’s culture, and Houstonians consistently show up to support their communities.

9. Art Car Parade

One of Houston’s most unique traditions is the Art Car Parade. Every April, the city hosts a parade downtown where people transform their cars into rolling works of art. It’s creative, quirky, and perfectly Houston—and a great way to enjoy spring weather.

10. Diversity

Houston is one of the most diverse cities in the country, with over 90 languages spoken. That diversity shows up everywhere from our neighborhoods to our schools to our food, and it is one of the reasons so many people feel at home here.

If Houston already feels like home, let’s make sure you have a house that feels the same!

Until Next Time,

Dee Dee