One map, pinned from each airport’s published coordinates.
Category scores
Overall is the published weighted sum. A highlighted score is ahead; a tie stays plain.
Ease of use
25% · Wayfinding, security wait, and layout.
HOU8.7+1.9
IAH6.8
Comfort & amenities
20% · Seating, Wi-Fi, cleanliness, and quiet.
HOU8.3+1.0
IAH7.3
Food & retail
Best for
HOU
Southwest flyers seeking simplicityQuick trips to/from downtown HoustonTravelers wanting local food without mega-hub chaosFamilies and military (play area + USO)
Watch out for
HOU
Southwest departure banks creating security and gate-area crowdsNo full-service airline lounges—only PP experiences and USOGarage parking fills and restricts to reservations at 85%
Amenities and tips
HOU
Local dining (Velvet Taco, Killen’s)Gameway Priority PassMETRO 500 + rideshareFree Wi-Fi + power
HOU · Excellent compact 5-star experience with great local food and easy navigation, traded against limited traditional lounges and Southwest-driven peak congestion.
IAH · Solid United hub with good lounges but sprawling layout and variable security.
15% · Food and retail quality and variety.
HOU8.0+1.0
IAH7.0
Ground access
15% · Transit, taxi, and parking to the city.
HOU7.8
IAH8.0+0.2
Reliability
15% · Delays, cancellations, and weather resilience.
HOU7.5+0.5
IAH7.0
Lounges
10% · Worth-it density and access quality.
HOU8.2+1.0
IAH7.2
IAH
United connectionsLounge accessAffordable public transit
International connections may require re-clearing security after FIS
