I live in Brenham - which is halfway between Houston and Austin. I have family in Houston and best friends and other family in Austin. I have to say that I would pick Austin to live in WAY before choosing Houston. Houston is so humid (being near the coast) and in my opinion, kinda "ugly" (sorry Houstonians... don't shoot!
) but Austin is hilly and prettier.
Now, that said.... I'm glad I don't live in either city. I like the small town feel of Brenham. It's been a great place to raise our kids. I grew up here and didn't always love it but it does help that I don't work there. I drive about an hour away to College Station every day for work. That gets me away from some of the claustrophic small town issues and there are more places for shopping and running errands.
Sorry, don't know about the schools in Houston. Good luck with your decision!