The Change Engine
research
Kinder Institute for Urban Research
Builds better cities and improves lives through data, research, engagement and action.
713-348-41326100 Main Street, Suite 305, Kraft Hall, Houston, TX, 77005Est. 2010
About
A research center at Rice University that studies Houston's biggest challenges — housing, education, health, jobs, and population — to help make the city better for everyone.
How to reach them
- 713-348-4132
- kinder@rice.edu
- Website
- 6100 Main Street, Suite 305, Kraft Hall, Houston, TX, 77005
At a Glance
Houston metropolitan areaService Area
researchurban policyhousingeducationhealtheconomic mobilitydemographicsdataRice University
Services
2Speakers BureauThe Kinder Institute provides expert speakers for your organization's events. Their speakers can talk about education, housing, and population research topics. They speak to nonprofit groups, businesses, and corporations throughout Houston. Speaker fees apply for fundraising events and events that sell tickets. For other events, donations are appreciated but not required. To request a speaker, contact them through their website.
Houston Population Research CenterThis research center studies how Houston's population is changing. They collect data about people living in Houston - like where they live, their income, and their backgrounds. The center runs surveys and studies to help understand Houston's most diverse communities. They share this information to help solve problems with housing, health, education, and jobs. Researchers, community groups, and city leaders use this data to make better decisions for Houston residents.
News & Resources
6Planet
With 1 Million Trees Planted, Houston Nonprofit Charts Expansion to Combat Canopy Loss
A Houston nonprofit marks a significant milestone of 1 million trees planted and plans further expansion to combat tree canopy loss across the region.
2/12/2026Read more →
Money
Houston Residents Take Expensive Payday Loans at Sky-High Rates
Survey data reveals high utilization of costly payday lending among Houston residents. Many are set up for failure by sky-high interest rates on loans taken to cover basic expenses.
2/9/2026Read more →
Families
Texas School Vouchers Promise Choice — Geography May Influence Who Has Options in Houston
Analysis of how proximity to participating schools affects voucher access across Houston. Geography creates unequal access to school choice.
2/5/2026Read more →
Neighborhood
Left in the Cold: Houston Residents Report Lack of Safe, Reliable Heating in Winter
12% of Harris County residents don't have safe, reliable heat at home. The housing quality study reveals critical gaps in winter preparedness across Houston.
2/2/2026Read more →
Neighborhood
Are Corporate Buyers Hogging Single-Family Homes in Harris County?
A Kinder Institute analysis shows nine large companies own about 1% of single-family homes in Harris County. Examines impact on housing affordability.
1/22/2026Read more →
Neighborhood
Houston's Poorest Neighborhoods Still Drowning in Illegally Dumped Trash
Despite federal intervention, Houston's low-income neighborhoods face persistent illegal dumping. Environmental injustice as trash accumulates in underserved communities.
12/18/2025Read more →
A little simplification would be the first step toward rational living, I think.
Eleanor Roosevelt.