How Long is Houston? The Great Texas Stretch(iness) Mystery
You might be planning a marathon, or maybe you just like to know these things (hey, no judgement here). Either way, you've landed on the burning question: how long is Houston? Buckle up, because this answer isn't as simple as a ruler and a map.
Houston: The City That Just Keeps on Goin'
Wait, hold on, you say, "Isn't there a number? Like, miles? In a straight line?" Well, sure, there is for the actual city limits of Houston. We're talking a respectable 637.4 square miles (that's 1,651 square kilometers for our international friends). That's a big ol' sprawl, enough space to fit New York City with room leftover for a rodeo arena (because, Texas).
But Houston? It Don't Quit!
Here's the thing: Houston is like a friendly giant that keeps growing. The greater Houston area, which includes all those suburbs and exurbs that practically morph into the city, is a whole different beast. We're talking a whopping 9,444 square miles (that's 24,460 square kilometers). That's bigger than Massachusetts and almost as big as New Jersey!
So, How Far Can You Actually Go?
Let's say you're feeling adventurous and decide to drive from one end of the greater Houston area to the other. Maybe you're starting in Alvin and aiming for The Woodlands (hey, those Woodlands folks gotta get their barbecue somehow). Buckle up, buttercup, because that's a cool 52.6 miles (84.7 kilometers). That's farther than the width of Puerto Rico!
The Moral of the Story? It Depends...
So, how long is Houston? It depends on how you measure it. The city itself is a sizable chunk of Texas, but the greater Houston area stretches on for miles and miles. Just remember, if you ever get lost in Houston (which, with that sprawl, is kind of a possibility), you might be on an epic journey without even realizing it.
