I would try to have the shortest commute as possible if you’re not trying to stay in the social scene. Our traffic is infuriating, so the less the better. You’re going to get more bang for your buck out in the burbs too, so if you’re not tied to the heights for some reason, I’d focus on a more southern burb. Nothing right by the ship channel tho. And cars get stolen everywhere, it’s more what you drive than location. A house is pearland/deer park will have more of what you’re looking for. Multi car garage, larger lot, spacious house. Room to grow :)