Compared to other major metropolitan areas in the United States, the Greater Houston area offers affordable housing and a relatively low cost of living. Among the top 20 largest metropolitan areas, the Houston MSA housing costs are 36.3% below average. The Houston area has the sixth-lowest cost of living among the top 20 metropolitan areas in the United States, with overall costs coming 20.7% below average.
Resident and Relocation
Cost of Living
Resident and Relocation
Voter Registration
If you are eligible to vote in Texas, you must complete an application and mail or turn it in to the proper authorities.
Resident and Relocation
Vehicle Registration
The Galveston County Tax Office (GCTO) provides registration and titling services for more than 300,000 vehicles on behalf of the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV). After you have registered your vehicle in the County, you will receive renewal notices directly from TxDMV, typically six weeks before expiration.
Resident and Relocation
Animal Control
The Animal Services Unit supervises animal control activities within the city. It responds to all animal bite cases, dead animals, and abused animal complaints. We also provide the following services:
- Animal establishment inspections
- Dog kennel inspections
- Handle animal control calls
The City of Galveston’s Animal Services Unit is now under the direction of the Galveston Police Department.
Resident and Relocation
Emergency Management
The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) provides a comprehensive all-hazard emergency management program in partnership with City departments, staff, administration, neighboring jurisdictions, and non-governmental organizations in order to save lives, protect property, and safeguard the environment.
