Houston is also renowned for being home to the world’s largest medical and research center, the Texas Medical Center, and the Johnson Space Center, where NASA’s Flight Command is headquartered. This diversified economy, coupled with an affordable cost of living, helped shield Houston from the worst effects of the recession, allowing the local housing market to rebound.
But it’s not all business in the city. Houston offers a vibrant arts, entertainment, and culinary scene. There are more than 20 concert and performance art venues, along with numerous museums, most of which offer free admission year-round. The Galleria, Texas’ largest shopping mall, remains a popular destination for both locals and visitors, surrounded by a vast array of the city’s 11,000 restaurants.
Houstonians have plenty of reasons to celebrate, with over 80 festivals and parades taking place throughout the city, including the renowned month-long Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo. Furthermore, the city is experiencing a trend toward high-rise condo and loft living, along with the development of pedestrian-friendly areas. The METRO Light Rail system is expanding its service from the Texas Medical Center into the popular EaDo district and the University of Houston campus.
