Need some advise on places to live in Texas (Houston: to rent, crime)

[samnyc]

Hi All,

I currently live in N.Y, things are so expensive here, and we are considering moving to Texas. But we are not sure where in Texas would be right place for us. So for two places we have chosen are Austin and Houston. We are open to other city also. We like to rent first before buying any home. I like to keep the rent $1, 500 to $2000.

My wife and my self are in I.T field; hope to find some jobs with in half hour. I already checked few web site, seems few jobs are available for us.
Please advise best place to live and work for I.T professional, also we have two kids. We want to be in good less crime and fun place for the kids.
Thank you so much.

[Poltracker]

Wherever you can find a job is the most important factor. I would not recommend a move w/o having found a job first.

[glorplaxy]

Houston has more jobs, but I'm sure you can find a good job in Austin, too.

Houston definitely has much more crime than Austin. But Houston is really, REALLY large, area-wise, and there are good parts and bad parts. But there's no way anyone can deny that overall, Austin is safer. I do wonder, though, if you would actually live in Houston or in some suburb instead.

Austin has a lot more to do outdoors. Houston really lacks that.

My problem with Austin is that it's pretty much still a college town. You can get away from the frat-boy crowds easily but they are definitely there, and much more visible than they are in Houston. But, Houston has a bunch of pretentious bars, instead...each equipped with the standard leather sofas, cheesy house music, and overpriced drinks. Austin has a better nightlife scene in general and because it is so active you can find more diversity in it.