I live in the Houston area and have all my life but if I had a choice it probably wouldn't be Houston. I'll agree with the flat part but not necessarily open. It depends on the area you are in. You def got the hot and humid part right. Houston can be a decent place to live depending on when you live/work. I'm more than willing to give you any information I can soooo just let me know if you have any other questions. oh... tax rates can vary pretty widely depending on the neigborhood you choose.