Houston, TX is one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, drawing tens of thousands of new residents every year. It’s population of around 2.1 million is the largest in Texas and the fourth largest in the US – and itcontinues to grow annually.
It’s easy to see why people have been moving to this dynamic city in droves. First, there’s the job and economic opportunities. Houston has a global economy, second only to New York City in the number of Fortune 500 companies within its borders. It’s also the center of the oil and gas industries in the US.
More than this, Houston has a highly-diverse culture that makes newcomers from various parts of the country and the world instantly feel welcome. There’s something for everyone in this buzzing metropolis – from the arts to sports to outdoor recreation, and everything in-between. With the city’s myriad facets, it’s no wonder it has consistently made it to lists of the best places to live and retire in the US.
A brief history of Houston
Since its beginnings in the 1830s, Houston has always been a flourishing industrial and commercial center. The city was founded by the brothers Augustus and John Allen, who moved from New York to Texas in 1832 and purchased 6,642 acres of land along the muddy banks of the Buffalo and White Oaks Bayous.
The brothers named their new town after General Sam Houston, who was instrumental in securing independence for the then Republic of Texas in 1836 after defeating the Mexicans in the Battle of San Jacinto.
In 1837, Houston became the capital of the Republic of Texas, but lost this status in 1840. Nonetheless, the town continued to flourish as its population ballooned. With clever marketing, the Allen brothers successfully lured in hundreds of businesses and residents. The city grew as modern infrastructures rose, including the Houston Ship Channel, the Port of Houston, electric power plants, and more.
In 1901, Houston’s future as an industrial center was assured when the Spindletop oil field struck significant amounts of oil, sparking the Texas oil boom.
Education
Houston offers great educational opportunities to its residents, from primary school all the way up to college and beyond.
There are more than 25 school districts in the city. The Houston Independent School District is the 7th largest school district in the country, with 288 schools and a student population of more than 210,000. It includes magnet and vanguard schools specializing in the visual and performing arts, the sciences, health careers, and others. Other school districts also include their own charter schools.
Houston is home to over 40 colleges, universities, and other higher learning institutions, including the University of Houston, the flagship university of the University of Houston System, which includes two more stand-alone universities.
Other colleges and universities in the city include:
- Texas Southern University
- Rice University
- University of St. Thomas
- Houston Baptist University
- Houston Community College System
Employment in Houston
Houston’s consistently robust economy provides excellent job and business opportunities to residents, making it one of the top cities for employment creation. If you’re looking to work for one of the world’s leading companies, you can find plenty of options here.
In addition to being the core of the country’s gas and oil industries, Houston is also a major center for manufacturing, health care, technology, and other industries.
The city also attracts entrepreneurs who are instrumental in keeping the economy lively and diverse. The education sector, including the city’s school districts and higher learning institutions, also provides plenty of job opportunities.
Events, attractions, and amenities
With mild weather all year round, Houston is always bursting with activities. The city is home to world-class and groundbreaking attractions, as well as opportunities for outdoor activities. You’ll find plenty of free things to do in Houston today.
- Festivals
Houstonians celebrate everything from food and cars to arts and culture. Some of the top festivals in the city are: - The Texas Renaissance Festival
- The Houston Art Car Parade
- Dickens on the Strand
- Bayou City Art Festival
- The Houston Children’s Festival
- Attractions
Houston’s attractions reflect the diversity of the city itself. Wherever your interests lie, Houston has something you’re bound to love. Among the city’s top attractions are: - Restaurants
Houston has around 10,000 restaurants that are just as diverse as its residents. Named “the newest capital of great food” by Food & Wine Magazine, Houston’s plethora of dining destinations will satisfy your every craving. You’ll find plenty of fun places to eat, from steak and barbecue houses to upscale restaurants serving cuisines from all parts of the world.
Looking for a home in Houston, TX? As an experienced Realtor who has been specializing in the city for over 14 years, I can help you find the perfect property. Call me at (832) 381-4121 or get in touch here.
