Trying to figure this out...
Rice:
2 profs in my subfield (though my expected favorite seemed a little overcommitted, though students said it wasn't a big deal)
able to visit, liked the program, students, profs
+$500/mo after tax stipend (+200/mo first year) compared to Boulder
program ranked 20th
fewer options of profs in secondary subfield
warm weather (this is definitely a plus for me)
few housing options very close to campus
Boulder:
1 prof in my subfield (I think). I am assigned to an advisor
Advisor seems attentive and quick to respond
was unable to visit
a bit more profs in secondary subfield
program ranked 40th
more housing options close to campus
I had been fairly decided on Rice for a while, but I'm unsure now. The housing costs in Houston seem to be higher and less appealing. I really want to avoid having roommates, and I really prefer being as close to campus as possible.
Does anyone know anything about the housing situations at either? I thought I'd read on here once before that it was a big problem for grad students at Boulder, but I haven't found that evidence any more.
It's also difficult for me to determine cost of living comparisons - how much more money will be eaten up by housing in Houston? But at the same time, is food cheaper? I don't know!
I'm roughly equally as interested in my expected advisor's work at both schools. I think my future prospects at a top 20 school would probably be better than at a top 40, though obviously all things would not be equal, and it would depend on how well I do.