Another point Steve made is fact that Houston's criminal courts are baked up so very far. Part is die to the size of Houston compared to Austin. I believe Houston is like the nation's 3rd largest city maybe. Part of the back up is due to the utlra Liberal city management. It is pretty pitiful when a perp is arrested for murder, then out on a pretty small bail and a few weeks later arrested for another murder. I know, innocent until proved guilty! I don't remember if he was released the second time for another bail or not!
I am by no way saying where people should live.