Houston is doing really well. Im from there and know of a few firms that are hiring. Im sure Dallas isnt too bad either. 

now keep in mind there is no design in either town. i will never work in houston as an architect again. 

Houston was hit pretty hard during "the recent recession." It seems like they've finally recovered and there are a number of jobs available. The one issue I have with Houston, aside from the lack of design-oriented firms is that starting salaries are awful. Between the University of Houston, Texas A&M and even the several UT grads that are from Houston, the market is flooded with new meat each year that are willing to take low-ball offers because neither school has an established co-op program.

That being said, cost of living in Houston is definitely lower than the sprawling Dallas-Ft. Worth area. Once you crack that first layer of professional practice and get licensed you can do pretty well in Houston. Most of the architects who have stayed in Houston have hopped between firms to move up the corporate ladder throughout their careers..   

Thanks guys!