OP, I would visit both again. I would also politely talk to FA, let them know that you are seriously considering their school but that money is a concern and your parents are not in a position to contribute. If money is a concern with visiting I think Rice may help out with that. Did your older brother get more financial aid? Maybe they could match what he got? Clearly Rice wants you, if it is a question of a few thousand they may be willing. I did not fully understand about UT being free for Vals the first year. Will that be you? How does that factor in the numbers? If you really want UT I would ask to speak to an engineering female and an engineering female that dropped out of engineering to get the real story. I would also ask them to match Rice’s offer. You sound like a desireable candidate.
I agree with others about not going to either place because of friends. I have two friends from college that I still speak to, we live in the same metropolitan area and see each other once a year. My closest friend from college and I no longer speak (not intentionally). My closest friend from grad school and I are not even FB friends and live in different states. I have plenty of other close friends who I met through work and my kids.