Got a new job in Downtown Houston area. Trying to weigh the pros and cons of living in the city or staying in the ‘burbs (Clear Lake/Webster). Thoughts as a young professional?

Just a heads up — I’m not looking for advice on apartments. I’m not looking for where to live. I’m asking for thoughts, opinions, advice, anecdotal stories, etc. from people who’ve done both and what they prefer.

A bit about me — I’m a queer/gay young professional who’s lived most of her life in the suburbs and really enjoys the quietness of it. That being said, I also really love the city and the food, restaurants, coffee shops, and night life of the Montrose area.

I’ve lived in a couple of different suburbs in my life, and out of them all, Clear Lake/Webster/Seabrook area sorta takes my heart. It’s the most unique of the suburbs I’ve seen.

It has a lot of nature (Armand Bayou and Clear Lake itself), is a 30min drive or more from Galveston (one of my favorite places), and has cozy apartments by the water. It’s quiet and less crime/safer for a woman living alone. I wish it was more queer friendly or just more lgbtqia+ activity out here, but that’s just what you get with suburbs.

I’m kind of at a bit of a standstill/fork in the road because I don’t know what or where to go from here.

I have the chance to live in the city now, and it’s possible, but is that something I want? Is it worth it? What kind of life do I want to live? Etc.

I know only I know what’s right for me, but hearing other people’s opinions/stories/experiences helps — so anything would be grateful.

Thanks!