HOUSTON NEIGHBORHOODS & COMMUNITIES
inner loop / north / northeast / northwest / west / fort bend county-southwest / south / southeast / east

area chambers of commerce

INNER LOOP

The area within Loop 610 contains some of the city’s most desired neighborhoods because of its proximity to downtown Houston and the Texas Medical Center. The area is adorned with tree-lined streets and many of the city’s finer restaurants. Wide spectrums of housing, ranging from wood-frame bungalows to stately mansions, are available within Loop 610. The Astrodome/South Loop neighborhood is undergoing new development because of nearby Reliant Park, which features a new sports stadium and exposition center. Area hotels, restaurants and other businesses are booming. About 1,180 businesses with nearly 30,000 employees are located here, and approximately 25,000 people live in the area. METRO Rail, METRO’s 7.5-mile light rail transit project, will run from downtown to Reliant Park when it opens in 2004. (www.gswhcc.org/astrodome.asp)

With approximately 16,000 residents, the City of Bellaire has 6,000 homes that are a mix of 1950s two- and three-bedroom ranch-styles and newer Georgian brick and Mediterranean stucco mansions. Many residents are replacing older frame and brick bungalows with new larger homes. New houses range from the $485s to $1 million. (www.gswhcc.org/bellaire.asp) The Braeswood/Stella Link neighborhood has 26,000 residents and offers many of the amenities of Southwest Houston’s more exclusive neighborhoods but at a fraction of the price. Currently, a new high school and shopping center are being built. Housing options range from two-bedroom frame homes in the $85s to custom homes for more than $7 million. (www.gswhcc.org/braeswood.asp)

Denver Harbor has a mix of residential, commercial and industrial uses. Although Interstate 10 (I-10) splits Denver Harbor physically, its identity has remained strong. Today, it is a predominantly Hispanic neighborhood. Port Houston, a small residential area nearby, is laid out on both sides of McCarty Street.

Downtown Houston is becoming a favorite place to live for young professionals and “empty nesters” because of its proximity to downtown businesses and the Houston Theater District. More than 3,000 downtown residences currently are available, and a new study projects there will be 10,000 residences by 2010. Loft living is available in more than 20 completed or soon-to-be completed refurbished, turn-of-the-century buildings, such as the Bayou Lofts, Beaconsfield, Capital Lofts, Commerce Towers, Hogg Palace, One Bayou Park, The Rice and the San Jacinto Lofts. Other residential living is available at 2016 Main, Four Seasons Place, The Lofts at the Ballpark and Sabine Street Lofts. In addition to residential loft construction, new office towers, entertainment venues, restaurants and retail outlets are under construction. Lofts sell from the $100s to $600s plus, and penthouse space goes for up to $2 million. (www.downtownhouston.org) Greater Fifth Ward has its origins on the north bank of Buffalo Bayou across from the original town site of Houston. Fifth Ward’s commercial streets provide retail outlets and entertainment for the 18,000 residents of the wood-frame and brick homes. Lyon Village is a mixed-use development with four-bedroom townhomes and business space. (www.fifthwardcrc.org) Greater Third Ward is the home of some of the most important institutions in Houston’s African American community, including Texas Southern University, Riverside Hospital and dozens of prominent churches. The area was originally a small community of modest frame homes. By the mid-1950s, the growing middle-class built more substantial brick homes and duplexes. Today, expansive redevelopment is taking place with new retail and office developments, restaurants, healthcare facilities, apartments and townhomes. Homes may range from the $140s to $210s. (www.greaterthirdward.org)

Greenway Plaza is known for its gleaming office towers, high-rise condominiums and Compaq Center, home of the Houston Rockets. Located off the Southwest Freeway (US 59) southeast of downtown, Greenway Plaza is a hot spot for new residential and commercial development. The area offers many popular restaurants, top nightclubs, new apartment complexes, hotels and shopping centers. The population exceeds 42,000, and the more than 755 businesses employ 25,000 people. New townhomes and condominiums start in the$500s. (http://www.gswhcc.org/greenway.asp)

Harrisburg/Manchester has a history that predates Houston. Harrisburg was a community located at the convergence of Brays Bayou and Buffalo Bayou before the Texas Revolution and was burned by Santa Anna’s army right before their defeat at San Jacinto. Houston was established later that year. By 1927, the area was part of Houston. Manchester lies to the east of Harrisburg. Its modest homes are surrounded by Houston Ship Channel industries.

The Heights has Houston’s largest concentration of historic homes. The first “master-planned community” in Texas, the area offers a small-town environment with grand Victorian homes and charming cottages. The Heights is experiencing a dramatic revitalization. Bed and breakfast inns, antique shops and art galleries line Heights Boulevard and Yale Street. Many new homes are being built to match the neighborhood’s Victorian-style homes. The affordability and easy access to downtown attract many employees in the area. (www.houstonheights.org)

The MacGregor/Riverside communities include stately homes interspersed with small apartment complexes. MacGregor is a collection of neighborhoods on both sides of Brays Bayou east of the Texas Medical Center. Many subdivisions, such as Timbercrest, University Oaks and Riverside Terrace, contain numerous examples of outstanding architecture. Recently, new home construction and commercial development has been revived.

Once a fashionable residential district, Midtown became a mix of older homes, small apartment buildings and low-rise commercial buildings. More recently, a Vietnamese business district has arisen along Milam, Webster, Fannin and San Jacinto streets. Luxury apartment and townhouse construction has begun in the western edge of the community and in areas close to Baldwin Park. Midtown has more than 200,000 jobs. (www.houstonmidtown.com)

The Memorial Park/Washington Avenue area stretches from the west side of the northern edge of downtown to the West Loop. The community covers 5,081 acres, includes 7,944 properties and is served by the Houston Independent School District (HISD) and three private schools. Memorial Park is considered one of the city’s primary environmental assets. Residential areas adjacent to the park are being redeveloped with high-end single-family homes. Home to the arts and artists, the Montrose area enjoys rich cultural and ethnic diversity. Bounded on the north by Buffalo Bayou, the area includes the Houston Museum District. Many restaurants, eclectic boutiques and small galleries maintain the unique flavor of this area. Two-bedroom, brick homes characterize the area. In Courtland Place, all of the houses are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Other neighborhoods include Westmoreland, Avondale and Cherryhurst.

Near Northside is immediately adjacent to downtown. The southern two-thirds of the area consists of wood-frame homes surrounding commercial properties along North Main and Fulton streets. A major rail yard is located on the community’s southern edge. In the northern section, Lindale Park has large lots and more substantial homes. Community fixtures include Moody Park and the Davis High School-Marshall Middle School-Carnegie Library complex. (http://taaacc.com/acres/index.htm) Most homes in the OST/South Union area were built right after World War II. Many of these small homes are used commercially, especially along Martin Luther King Boulevard. Other areas, such as LaSalette Place, remain deed restricted and well-maintained. Recently, the Shrines of the Black Madonna Church purchased and redeveloped a number of deteriorated properties near its sanctuary. Pleasantville includes many industrial areas, as well as two residential areas. Groveland Terrace is a small residential subdivision in the area. Pleasantville was developed after World War II. It boasts a high home ownership rate and strong neighborhood identity.

One of Houston’s most exclusive neighborhoods is River Oaks, replete with white-columned mansions and manicured gardens. River Oaks has about 1,600 residents and is known for its quaint upscale restaurants and shops. River Oaks’ residents enjoy easy access to the Southwest Freeway, Loop 610, Galleria, Museum District and Compaq Center. Royden Oaks, Oak Estates and Afton Oaks are located west and southwest of River Oaks and have smaller lots. These areas include long-term residents and young couples who are renovating older homes.

Second Ward is one of the first Hispanic neighborhoods in Houston and is the home of important Hispanic institutions, such as Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, Ripley House and Talento Bilingue. Most of the housing in the area was built before World War II. The northern portion of the neighborhood is industrial. The largest block of housing is on the western edge. The area’s proximity to downtown has made it possible for a number of restaurants, especially along Navigation, to attract a citywide following.

The area around South Main is home to the Texas Medical Center and Rice University. More than 75,000 people work in the area, and many of them live in the community. South Main neighborhoods include Boulevard Oaks, Old Braeswood, Southampton, Southgate, Shadyside and Devonshire Place. Townships include Bellaire, West University and Southside Place. Homes range from the $200s to more than$1 million. (www.gswhcc.org/ricevillage.asp) Southside Place is shaped like an “L” within the boundaries of West University Place. The tiny town has 440 homes, 1,400 residents and only nine streets. Chinese tallows are the trademark of the neighborhood. Homes may range from the$250s to $700s plus. (www.gswhcc.org/south side.asp) Founded in 1917, the City of West University Place was named for its proximity to Rice University. With attractive homes that hold their value, the community underwent major redevelopment in the1980s. Neighborhoods are sprinkled with parks, and all streets are lined with scenic, aged trees. Located nearby is The Village, which has more than 360 stores, including 75 restaurants. The 16-block area has an eclectic mix of unique shops and designer boutiques. Homes range in cost from the $100s to $500s plus. (www.gswhcc.org/westuniversity.asp)

NORTH

With the completion of the Hardy Tollway, residents in North Houston enjoy a hassle-free commute. The area offers restful suburban/rural living, as well as immense shopping and recreational opportunities. Greenspoint Mall anchors a large area of shopping centers and restaurants. North-line and Northwest malls also are nearby. Acres Homes is situated between downtown Houston and Greenspoint. The area offers jobs for more than 3,000 people and has more than 7,600 acres. The community is noted for its many community development and services efforts. A variety of cultural, recreational and sports activities and facilities are located in the region. Numerous housing choices are available in the community, including new, resale and rental homes, as well as apartments. Resale homes range from the $30s to $200s. Aldine, located near Beltway 8 and Interstate 45 (I-45) North, offers easy access to employment centers, especially in the Greenspoint area and downtown Houston via the Hardy Tollway. The Aldine ISD received a "recognized" rating from the Texas Education Agency and has more than 50,000 students. In the Aldine area, housing options are varied, and resale homes range from the $50s to $800s.

The Greater Conroe area is experiencing extensive development around Lake Conroe. The largest city in Montgomery County, the city has a population of 38,000 people. The area has a small town atmosphere with easy access to the greater Houston area and provides a wide range of housing options. Ranch-style living is available on properties of 60 or more acres. New developments around the 24,000-acre Lake Conroe afford ample waterfront property. Shopping centers, restaurants and entertainment facilities are plentiful and include Prime Outlets, The Crighton Theatre and Southern Empress Cruises. Leisure activities include golfing, boating, fishing and water skiing on Lake Conroe and other area lakes. Adjacent to Conroe, the Sam Houston National Forest offers opportunities for nature adventures. Conroe is home to Montgomery County Airport, Montgomery College and The University Center, which offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in more than 40 majors. West Fork, a luxury golf course community, is a new development in Conroe that opened in the spring 2002 and offers homes starting in the $200s. (www.gcedc.org, www.lakeconroecvb.org) The French Quarter on Lake Conroe, located off FM 830 from I-45 North, is a waterfront community with more than 230 home sites on Lake Conroe. The Louisiana architecture theme is carried throughout the community, including housing styles and authentic New Orleans street signs. Lakes Pontchartrain and LaFreniere are located on the property, as is Jackson Square, which includes a Southern plantation clubhouse; swimming pool; tennis, basketball and volleyball courts; picnic pavilions; private boat ramp; marina; playground equipment; and fishing areas. Willis ISD serves the community. Homes range from the $200s to more than $1 million. (www.thefrenchquarteronlakeconroe.com)

Grand Lakes Estates, just north of The Woodlands off I-45 North, has homes that surround a new Gary Player golf course that is adjacent to a 4,200-acre wildlife preserve. This upscale community offers a private lakeside park, gated entrances, fiber optics, an Equestrian Center, private fishing lakes, video surveillance cameras, the award-winning Montgomery ISD, and just minutes away from The Woodlands Mall and the Conroe Regional Medical Center. (www.grandlakeestates.com) Greater Greenspoint is known as the downtown of Houston’s north side. Located at I-45 and N. Sam Houston Parkway, the area offers easy access to all parts of Houston. Its proximity to George Bush Intercontinental Airport attracts many businesses, and it is world or US headquarters to about 20 companies. Home to more than 50 multinational corporations, Greenspoint has a workforce of almost 36,000. The immediate residential population is 74,000. The population within a 10-mile radius exceeds 780,000. Resale homes range from the $50s to $800s. (www.greenspoint.org) Northside/Northline is largely single-family residences with large apartment complexes. The Hardy Tollway and I-45 provide easy access to the area. Development of retail centers and light industrial and distribution facilities are taking place close to I-45.

Spring offers several housing options, including 1950s one-story, ranch-style homes; large, two-story colonials; and townhouse and apartment communities. Old Town Spring – a shopping district with many early-century buildings – offers more than 150 antique, collectibles and specialty shops, as well as restaurants, galleries and museums. Also, the town is the site of many festivals. Nearby employment centers are Bush Intercontinental Airport, The Woodlands and businesses along I-45.

The Woodlands is a 27,000-acre, forested community located 27 miles north of downtown Houston off I-45. The area has about 20,000 single-family homes and more than 5,000 apartments and town homes. The Woodlands has led the Houston area in new home sales every year since 1990 and ranks number one in Texas in new home sales and fifth in the nation. The community has more than 63,000 residents and nearly 1,000 businesses and corporations, which provide jobs for more than 25,000 people. The highly ranked Conroe ISD has a low student-teacher ratio, and 12 of its 16 campuses are rated exemplary by the state. Montgomery College and The University Center provide higher education. The 1,000-acre Town Center provides shopping, dining and entertainment, including The Woodlands Mall. The community has more than 120 miles of hike-and-bike paths, 90 parks, lakes, ponds and six championship golf courses. The Memorial Hermann-TheWoodlands Hospital has more than 500 physicians. Homes range from the $80s to more than $1 million. (www.thewoodlands.com) Windrose, located off I-45 North in Spring, includes 1,121 acres of heavily forested land and is served by the Klein ISD. Upon completion, the community will have approximately 1,500 homes. Amenities include a golf clubhouse, championship golf course, parks, junior Olympic-sized swimming pool, and sports fields and courts. Homes range from the$150s to $500s. (www.wind-rose.com)

NORTHEAST

Northeast Houston’s communities, such as Humble, Kingwood, Atascocita and Newport, are located near US 59 and FM 1960. These communities share an abundance of natural beauty. The San Jacinto River and Lake Houston offer residents fishing and boating opportunities. Proximity to downtown and Bush Intercontinental Airport contributes to the area’s drawing power. Atascocita sits on heavily wooded territory that fringes Lake Houston. The suburban community offers large, country club-style homes, as well as smaller houses in well-planned subdivisions. Atascocita offers athletic fields, state-of-the-art community center, parks, swimming pools and other recreational facilities. (www.humbleareachamber.org/atascocita.asp)

East Houston neighborhoods, served by the North Forest ISD, are made up of single-family homes in standard suburban tract subdivisions. The area remains generally wooded, especially close to Halls Bayou, where a City of Houston golf course, Brock Park, is found. East Little York/Homestead is named after the two major thoroughfares that divide the community in quarters. Neighborhoods in this North Forest ISD community include Fontaine Place, Scenic Woods and Northwood Manor. These wooded subdivisions consist of modest single-family homes built in the 1950s and 1960s. Larger homes are found in subdivisions such as Riverwoods Estates. The Eastex/Jensen area is outside the North Loop on both sides of the Eastex Freeway and Jensen Drive corridors. Its neighborhoods are made up of modest frame homes set in pine forests. Subdivisions include Huntington Place, Croyden Gardens and Epsom Downs. The Eastex Freeway replaced Jensen Drive, which was once the primary highway to east Texas. The area is split between the Houston and Aldine school districts.

Fall Creek, located inside the northeast corner of Beltway 8, offers wooded neighborhoods that are minutes away from downtown and Bush Intercontinental Airport. This 1,261-acre, master-planned community has a championship 18-hole golf course, jogging and biking trails, and a junior Olympic-sized swimming pool. An Aquatic Center within a 10-acre recreational complex soon will be added. Homes range from the $150s to more than $1 million.(www.fallcreekhouston.com)

Humble offers rural living 20 miles from downtown Houston. The Humble Civic Center and the Humble Civic Arena are the center of social, economic and recreational activities. It is home to Mercer Arboretum & Botanic Gardens, the Jesse H. Jones Park and Nature Center, H&H Ranch and the Rockin’R Ranch. Activities include golfing, fishing, boating and other water sports. Bush Intercontinental Airport provides residents with jobs, as do commercial areas along US 59 and nearby Kingwood. The highly acclaimed Humble ISD serves the area. (www.humbleareachamber.org)

Kashmere Gardens is an area of modest single-family homes, many on large lots. The eastern edge is made up of warehouses and light industry. The western edge is adjacent to a major rail yard and rail corridor. Lyndon B. Johnson General Hospital, a Harris County public hospital, is located nearby.

Kingwood has a population of 65,000. This 14,000-acre community has more than 75 miles of private greenbelt hike-and-bike trails, 23 swimming pools, a private boat launch, public tennis courts, equestrian centers, more than 500 acres of private parks and nature preserves, convenient retail centers, and state-of-the-art medical facilities. Kingwood Country Club and the Deerwood Club offer five championship golf courses – some of the world’s largest golf facilities. Also, there are three public courses nearby. The area is home to Kingwood College and is part of the Humble ISD. Kingwood consists of 26 villages. New homes range from the $100s to more than$1 million. (www.kingwoodonline.com)

River Park, located near U.S. 59 and Grand Parkway, offers large homes on oversized lots. Consisting of 800 acres, this community has more than 160 acres of Brazos River frontage for parks. New homes start in the $120s. Summerwood, located outside the Sam Houston Tollway, is set on 1,500 acres. The community offers 130 acres of nature reserves, as well as parks, lakes, fiber optic network, community center, hike-and-bike trails, a junior Olympic-sized swimming pool and lighted tennis courts. The Humble ISD serves the area. Homes range from the$100s to $500s. (www.summerwoodonline.com)

Trinity and Houston Gardens offer oversized single-family homesites. Homestyles vary widely, although most are single-family and affordable. Railroad tracks trisect the neighborhood and are a dominant feature. Some of the land has been converted for industrial use.

Walden on Lake Houston, located below FM 1960 by Lake Houston, offers 750 acres of wooded homesites for more than 2,000 families. This master-planned community has 11 inland lakes, an 18-hole championship golf course and a country club with an Olympic-sized swimming pool, lighted tennis courts, racquetball courts, fine dining and entertainment. Homes range from the $130s to $400s.(www.waldenlakehouston.com)

NORTHWEST

The Northwest section of Houston is a high-growth area. The completion of the Sam Houston Tollway, the upgrading of Texas 6 and FM 1960, and improvements to US 290 have opened up accessibility to the region. Area neighborhoods are attractive to employees who work on the west side of Houston. Bear Creek/Texas 6 has experienced significant residential development recently, as well as major office and industrial activity. Bear Creek is one of the three distinct areas that make up Houston’s northwest sector. It is a large community of reasonably priced homes clustered in developments and neighborhoods. Carverdale, close to Northwest Freeway and Beltway 8, is a small residential area surrounded by large industrial parks and warehouse and distribution complexes. Modest homes on side streets and small retail establishments on the major thoroughfares characterize the residential area. Houston Community College’s Northwest Campus is located nearby.

Cole’s Crossing, located off US 290, is a 1,200-acre, master-planned community with 175 acres devoted to recreation. It is served by the Cypress-Fairbanks ISD. Amenities include fishing, nature trails, competition-sized swimming pool and parks. Homes range from the $130’s to $500’s. (www.colescrossing.com)

The Cypress-Fairbanks community is home to residential communities, parks, golf courses, medical facilities and restaurants. Willowbrook Mall and Willowbrook Plaza provide ample retail outlets. The Sam Houston Race Park and the Aerodrome Ice Skating Complex are located in the area. The Cypress-Fairbanks ISD is known for its educational excellence. The area has a large number of single-family homes and multi-family developments. Many two-story brick homes sit on wooded lots. (www.cyfairchamber.com) Champions/FM 1960 is close to Willowbrook and Greenspoint malls, golf courses and country clubs, such as Champions Golf Club. Bush Intercontinental Airport, Beltway 8 and the Sam Houston Tollway have sparked growth in the area. Nearby subdivisions include Olde Oaks and Champion Forest.

Fairfield, home to 4,000 people, is close to many Houston shopping centers, including Village Square, Willowbrook Mall and the Galleria. The 3,200-acre community offers a 20-acre sports park, swimming pools, tennis courts, the Fairfield Athletic Club, the Golf Academy and the Fairfield Women’s Club. All Fairfield schools received “exemplary” ratings from the state and are located in the Cypress Fairbanks ISD, the largest “recognized” district in Texas. (www.visitfairfield.com)

Many older neighborhoods, including Garden Oaks and Oak Forest, are attracting residents who are intrigued by the tree-lined streets and easy commute to downtown. The more than 1,400 homes in this neighborhood are extremely diversified, dating from the 1940s. House styles range from two bedrooms with cedarshake siding to large, two-story homes. Garden Oaks has large lots and a location that makes it accessible to Loop 610 and US 290. (www.gardenoaks.org)

Gleannloch Farms is a 2,100-acre master-planned community that is served by the highly rated Klein ISD. Gleannloch Lake, restaurants, shopping centers and The Centrum, a cultural arts center, are within a 10-minute drive. The community has a state-of-the-art recreation center, 75-foot competition swimming pool, equestrian center, 27-hole championship golf course, lighted tennis courts and more than 30 acres of lakes. Homes range from the $170’s to $1 million. (www.gleannlochfarms.com)

High Meadow Ranch in far northwest Houston off Texas 249 is a new master-planned community that offers a championship golf course, a recreation center with a junior-sized Olympic swimming pool, tennis and basketball courts, skating track, baseball field, fishing lake and nature reserve. Homes range from the $300’s to $1 million. (www.highmeadowranch.com) Inwood Forest is off U.S. 290 inside Beltway 8. Most homes in this neighborhood were built in the 1960s and 1970s. Inwood Forest features a newly renovated golf club, large lots and considerable square footage for the dollar. Many homes have pools. Homes range from the $60’s to $160’s.

Riata Ranch, located near US 290 and Barker Cypress Road, is comprised of eight communities. Lush landscaping, natural pine groves and vine-covered arbors surround the more than 18 acres of parks in the community. Nearby are major employment corridors, schools, shopping centers and entertainment outlets. The 400-acre community pavilion has a competition-sized swimming pool, lighted tennis courts, sand volleyball court and an innovative tricycle park and playground. Homes range from the $100’s to $300’s.(www.riataranch.com) Spring Branch has easy access to US 290, Loop 610 and the Sam Houston Tollway. A retail and entertainment complex is under development off I-10. Many industrial and warehouse developments are found in the northern and eastern parts of the community. The area is largely deed-restricted, single-family residences with some multifamily facilities. Older homes built in the 1950s and 1960s are on family-friendly streets. Several new home construction sites are under way, causing land prices to rise. Spring Branch subdivisions include Spring Branch Oaks, Timber Creek, Holley Terrace and Afton Village.

Spring Shadows is located north of I-10 near W. Sam Houston Parkway. Single-family houses – mostly in deed-restricted subdivisions – make up the area. Commercial development is found along Gessner and Clay roads. Multifamily developments are found along Hammerly Boulevard and near Gessner. A new golf course was recently opened in the northern part of the area. Tomball offers residents a small-town environment, and nearby rural woodlands provide a comfortable, rustic feel with the advantage of scenic land still available at reasonable prices. Homes have many options, including equestrian-oriented subdivisions with larger lots. Nearby attractions include Spring Creek Park, Burroughs Park, golf courses, the Tomball Museum Complex, the Regional Art Center of Tomball and more than 100 antique and specialty shops. Homes range from the $40’s to the $500’s.(www.tomballtexas.com)

WEST

During the past few years, Houston’s west side has experienced immense growth. New and preowned home sales are brisk, and housing values continue to increase. The area offers high-quality living, good schools, excellent freeway access, and a range of shopping and recreational activities. Demand has exceeded supply of residences here because of the proximity to freeways, the Uptown area and the appeal of wooded, established neighborhoods. The Uptown community has more than 500 acres, 2,000 businesses, 600 retail stores, 100 restaurants, 26 hotels and more than 18 million visitors each year. It is Houston’s second downtown and boasts the city’s second skyline, dominated by Williams Tower - the nation’s largest building outside a downtown area with a magnificent “water wall.” Some of Houston’s most upscale restaurants and luxury hotels call this area home.

The Galleria - one of the Southwest’s largest malls - features shopping, office space, two hotels and an indoor ice rink. The surrounding neighborhoods have quality schools, churches, recreational and fitness centers, and movie theaters within a short distance of each other. High-rise condominiums in this area are valued at more than $1 million. (www.uptown-houston.com)

Katy offers a small-town atmosphere with towering oaks and stately pines adorning many homes. The Katy ISD provides exemplary educational opportunities. Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital and CHRISTUS St. Catherine, a well-care center, provide health care services. Katy has many well-known department stores, as well as small shops and boutiques, and is home to Katy Mills Mall. A zoned community, Katy has areas available for businesses, schools, shopping, churches and family living. Housing options include apartments, single-family homes, small ranches and estate homes. The city is home to upscale communities such as Canyon Gate, Green Trails, Kelliwood and Nottingham. (www.katytexas.com)

Lakes on Eldridge, located north of I-10 West on 343 acres, offers lakeside living just minutes from Houston’s cultural and business centers. Residents are served by the highly rated Cypress-Fairbanks ISD and have easy access to shopping centers, major employment centers, medical facilities and recreational opportunities. The area’s million-dollar recreation center has three lighted tennis courts, an Olympic-sized swimming pool and beach area. Estate homes start in the $400’s. (www.thelakesoneldridge.com)

Memorial is one of Houston’s most prestigious neighborhoods. Its name comes from the main thoroughfare, Memorial Drive. The first significant residential development in this area began in the 1950s. Above-average income home buyers were attracted to this heavily wooded area and the Spring Branch and Katy ISDs. Subdivisions range from comfortable single-family homes to million dollar estates. Development along I-10 on the northern portion of the area includes reputable office centers and Town and Country and Memorial City malls. Royal Oaks is located within the Houston city limits off Westheimer Road, west of the Uptown area. This community offers a world-class, private golf course; a 45,000-square-foot sports clubhouse and spa with fitness center; 25-yard lap pool and recreational pool; a tennis complex; and an extensive fiber optic network. Homes range from the $300’s to more than $1 million. (www.royaloakscc.com)

Near Uptown is the Tanglewood/ Broadoaks district – now the home of former US President George Bush and his wife, Barbara Bush. Only a few vacant lots north of Woodway are available for construction. Architectural style is often Colonial or Georgian with some French and contemporary construction. Empty-nest couples and young, professional couples occupy many of the residences. A good inventory of townhouses exists.

Clustering near west Memorial Drive and I-10 West are the Memorial Villages – quiet neighborhoods of well-manicured lawns. The Villages, which include older 1960s homes and more modern homes, is comprised of the municipalities of Bunker Hill, Hedwig, Hunter’s Creek and Piney Point. Many homes found in this area fringe Buffalo Bayou. The Villages offer shopping centers, recreational areas and outstanding schools. Some of Houston’s finest private schools are located here. Home prices start in the $300’s. Several subdivisions in West Memorial were built in the 1960s and 1970s. Most of these areas present private, large-lot living. Memorial Thicket, Fleetwood and Barker’s Landing are newer subdivisions built within the past 20 years. Home styles are typically New Orleans Colonial, Cape Cod, traditional and contemporary.

Weston Lakes is a private master-planned community featuring luxury, custom homes. The West Oaks area offers a good inventory townhouses for lease and a mix of other housing options. Located nearby are the Energy Corridor, comprised of many energy-related companies; Memorial City Medical Center; and Tarrytowne, an assisted-living complex. Recreational activities abound in the area, including the Westside Tennis Club – one of the top tennis clubs in the nation. Windsor Park Lakes, located south of I-10 West outside Texas 6, is served by the exemplary-rated Katy ISD. The community features private piers for boating, rock landscaped waterfalls and lighted sprays, gated entrances and Mediterranean-style homes. Windsor Park Lakes offers tennis courts, athletic fields and swimming pools and is Houston’s first all tiled-roof community. Custom homes range from the $400’s to $1.3 million. (www.wplakes.com)

FORT BEND COUNTY/SOUTHWEST

The southwest region encompasses Fort Bend County and part of Harris County. The area lies southwest of Loop 610 and along US 59 South. Arcola, Meadows, Missouri City, Stafford, Sugar Land, Richmond and Rosenberg are incorporated townships of Fort Bend County, which has experienced significant growth since 1980. Affordable patio homes to multi-acre country estates are available in the area. The far western part of the area is dotted with ranches and horse-boarding farms. Several master-planned communities combined with consistently top-rated school districts make this a popular area. Residents enjoy proximity to downtown Houston and the Uptown area. The communities of Alief and Sharpstown offer comfortable living for a wide range of lifestyles and many cultural and ethnic influences. Sharpstown has more than 7,000 homes and is a predominately middle-class community with friendly neighbors, attractive brick homes and easy access to several Houston freeways. The area is home to Houston Baptist University and Sharpstown Mall. Apartments, condominiums, townhouses and duplexes are available for lease in the area. Also, small-and mid-sized brick tract homes are prevalent here. A variety of shopping centers and restaurants are located in the area. Homes range from the $80’s to the $280’s.(www.gswhcc.org/sharpstown.asp)

Avalon, a new 427-acre master-planned community in Fort Bend County, provides waterfront living with 74 acres of recreational lakes for sailing, canoeing and fishing. Other amenities include a community center with a vanishing-edge pool, lake-side-jogging trails, golf courses and lighted tennis courts. Seven builders offer custom-built homes with an array of design options. The highly acclaimed Fort Bend ISD serves the community. Homes range from the $250’s to more than $1 million.(www.visitawavalon.com) Cinco Ranch offers a one-of-a-kind recreational facility that has a half-acre swim lagoon with white sandy beaches. The community also offers a golf club, a championship golf course, recreation complexes, hike-and-bike trails, parks, and sports fields and courts. The Katy ISD serves the area. (www.cincoranch.com)

First Colony, a 9,700-acre community, has more than 28,000 current or planned homes. Amenities include extensive greenbelts, a private country club, athletic fields, lakes, an aquatic center, and 3.5 million square feet of retail space (including First Colony Mall), many restaurants, and 2.1 million square feet of campus and garden-style offices. First Colony is in the Fort Bend ISD. Homes range from the $100’s to $1 million plus. (www.firstcolonytexas.com)

Fondren Southwest has more than 1,500 homes and is a mixture of apartments and residential subdivisions. Diversity –ethnic, economic and cultural – is one of the area’s greatest strengths. It is home to more than 41,000 people. Approximately 850 businesses with 8,300 employees are located in the community. New development in the area includes the revitalized Braesgate Center. Homes range from the$90’s to $270’s plus. (www.gswhcc.org/fondren.asp)

Greatwood is home to more than 3,000 households and offers a small-town atmosphere. Amenities include a championship golf course, more than 32 acres of lakes, a trail system that winds through most of the community, two recreation complexes and a four-acre nature park. Lamar Consolidated ISD serves Greatwood. Homes range from the $100’s to $1 million. (www.greatwoodonline.com)

Built in the 1970s, Gulfton was to be an oasis of apartment complexes for young single adults. Today, the area predominately is young immigrant families. About 80,000 people, including 80 nationalities, live in more than 90 apartment and condominium/townhouse complexes, and one single-family subdivision. The residents celebrate the area’s diversity through community-wide events.(www.gswhcc.org/gulfton.asp)

Lake Olympia, located off Texas 6 between US 288 and US 59, has miles of greenbelt trails, 130 acres of natural lakes, nature and wildlife reserves, parks and a marina. The Fort Bend ISD serves the community. Homes start in the $150’s, and custom homes start in the$300’s. (www.lakeolympia.com) Meyerland, which has 2,300 homes, is closely associated with Houston’s Jewish community and is home to three synagogues and the Jewish Community Center. Nestled in the crook of the South Loop, the Meyerland/South Post Oak community boasts excellent accessibility, and deed restrictions are strictly enforced. Shopping is available at Meyerland Plaza. Neighborhoods of South Post Oak include Maplewood, Braeburn Terrace, Park West, Robindell and Marylyn Estates. Home options include original 1950s bungalows and new homes. Homes range from $95 to the $400’s. (www.gswhcc.org/meyerland.asp) Missouri City is a growing community of 43,000 residents, served by the Fort Bend ISD and Memorial Hermann Fort Bend Hospital. It has one of the largest and most extensive park systems in Fort Bend County. Currently, there are 512 acres of park land with 18 parks, which offer a wide range of facilities and activities from picnicking and fishing to jogging, softball and disc golf. Homes range from the $80’s to $1 million plus. (www.ci.mocity.tx.us)

New Territory is a 2,300-acre community that contains numerous lakes and parks. It is home to approximately 8,000 current and planned homes. Amenities include four recreation centers, an 8.5-acre pecan park, several lakes, and 450 acres of greenbelt and jogging trails. New Territory is in the Fort Bend ISD. (www.newterritory.org) Pecan Grove Plantation in Fort Bend County has 1,400 acres and is served by the Fort Bend ISD. The community includes a 27-hole golf course, parks, jogging paths, playing fields, swimming pools, fitness center, tennis courts and a private country club. Resale homes sell from the $60’s to $350’s. New homes range from the $90’s to $400’s. (www.fortbendcounty.org/plan.html) The City of Richmond attracts people who enjoy small-town living and desire tremendous value for their housing dollar. Richmond’s amenities include the Fort Bend County Museum, the George Ranch Historical Park and the George Observatory, which houses the nation’s largest telescope open to the public. River Park West, a master-planned community in Fort Bend County, is just one mile south of the Grand Parkway. The area has stately pecan trees, highly rated schools and more than 50 acres of parks and recreational amenities along the historic Brazos River. The area features homes from the $150’s to $240’s.

Riverstone is one of Fort Bend County’s newest master-planned communities. Plans for the development call for more than 5,000 homes with an anticipated 16,000 residents. The 2,800-acre community offers waterside living, more than 300 acres of lakes and 24 miles of hike-and-bike trails. Homes range from the $200’s to more than $3 million. (www.riverstonecommunity.com) The City of Rosenberg is located 30 miles southwest of Houston at US 59 and Texas 36. Recreational activities are available at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds and Seabourne Creek Nature Park, as well as at nearby Brazos Bend State Park, the Fort Bend Museum, George Historical Ranch Park and the George Observatory. The city offers numerous antique shops and restaurants. Rosenberg’s housing prices are lower than the Fort Bend County average. (www.ci.rosenberg.tx.us)

Shadow Creek Ranch, located west of Texas 288 and one mile south of Beltway 8, is easily accessible to many employment centers, including downtown and the Texas Medical Center. Six villages comprise the 3,300-acre, master-planned community, which offers hundreds of waterfront homesites and more than 300 acres of recreational lakes and 700 acres of open space. Other features include a 22-mile hiking and biking network, recreation and community centers, parks, and a town square with retail shopping, restaurants and commercial businesses. Homes range from the $100’s to more than $1 million. (www.shadowcreekranch.net) Sienna Plantation is a master-planned community located in Missouri City. Fort Bend ISD serves the area, and several private schools are being built in the area. Features include an 18-hole golf course, clubhouse, tennis center, amphitheater, a water park and lakes for fishing and kayaking. Homes range from the $130’s to $2 million. (www.siennaplantation.com)

Stafford, home to a cluster of technology firms, offers affordable housing and a high standard of living. Five parks are located within its boundaries and offer a variety of activities. Stafford has eight major subdivisions, including Crestmont, Dove Country, Kingsway and South Meadows. New housing and an ample stock of pre-owned homes are available. (www.cityofstafford.com) Sugar Land has numerous parks and recreation facilities ranging from quaint neighborhood parks to large athletic complexes. Hike-and-bike trails, greenbelts and aquatic centers complement the variety of facilities. Amenities for its 65,000 residents include three highly regarded golf courses, the nearby Brazos Bend State Park and George Observatory. New developments in the area include Sugar Lakes and Greatwood. (www.ci.sugar-land.tx.us) Waterside Estates near the Grand Parkway is a 600-acre planned community with a 50-acre lake, greenbelts, junior Olympic-sized swimming pool, tennis courts, recreation center, playground and water park. The Ford Bend ISD serves the community. Homes range from the $120’s to $490’s. (www.watersideestates.com)

Westbury is an active, middle-class community with the second-largest civic association in the city. It includes 5,100 homes and more than 39,000 residents. The community also has more than 600 southwest Houston businesses. The Texas Medical Center, downtown and both of the city’s major airports are easily accessible to Westbury neighborhoods. Homes range from the $80’s to the $250’s. (www.gswhcc.org/westbury.asp) Willow Meadows/Willowbend area is a community of some 800 single-family homes built in the 1950s adjacent to the South Loop and Willow Waterhole Bayou.The southern most subdivision is Post Oak Manor. Recent development of upscale retail centers on the edge of the community illustrates its continued attraction to middle-class home buyers. The southern edge of the community includes light industrial facilities, which take advantage of the presence of a major rail line.(www.willowmeadows.org) Westchase has heavily landscaped boulevards that are lined with condo and apartment projects, office buildings, distribution centers and retail centers. Developed with a central plan beginning in the 1970s, it has undergone an increase in development. The opening of the West Belt increased access to the area and its 23,000 residents. Four master-planned communities are being developed in the area.(www.westchase.dst.tx.us)

SOUTH

The southern region of Houston is located south of Loop 610 along Texas 288 and Texas 35. There is an ample supply of quality older homes in this area. Proximity to downtown, Hobby Airport, the Texas Medical Center and NASA’s Johnson Space Center (JSC) contribute to the area’s popularity. Alvin serves as a hub for regional commerce and industry for the Gulf Coast Region. It is within easy access of Houston, JSC, the Gulf Coast petrochemical industries and Galveston. A city of trees, parks and Victorian homes, Alvin is known for its hometown atmosphere and economically diverse population. Alvin ISD has a recognized rating from the state for academic achievement. Alvin Community College provides higher educational opportunities. Attractions include Texas Thunder Speedway, Nolan Ryan Center Exhibit and Bayou Wildlife Park. (www.alvintexas.org)

Founded in 1894, the City of Pearland is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Gulf Coast region. Located in northern Brazoria County and southern Harris County, Pearland shares a boundary with the City of Houston and is about 10 miles from Hobby Airport. The area’s 40,700 residents enjoy big-city amenities with a country atmosphere. Pearland ISD has more than 10,000 students and an “Exemplary” district rating – the highest rating given by the state. Many well-maintained, economical and conveniently located multifamily units serve the area. (www.ci.pearland.tx.us) Silverlake, located at Texas 288 and FM 518, has a 29-acre lake with a surrounding park and has eight recreational facilities, including four tennis courts, walking trails, junior Olympic-sized swimming pool and community center. Served by Pearland ISD, the 1,700-acre community will have 4,000 homes upon completion and a championship golf course with clubhouse. Homes range from the $130’s to$750’s. (www.silverlakehouston.com)

South Acres/Crestmont Park is a suburban area of south central Houston. Most of the housing is post-war, single-family homes in typical suburban street patterns. There are some large apartment complexes on the eastern edge. Bordered by undeveloped land to the east and west, the community is seeing some new developments to the south. Sunnyside includes a number of subdivisions with typical suburban streets, as well as original frame homes of the original neighborhood interspersed with small churches. Recently, new developments have revived parts of the community, especially along Cullen.

SOUTHEAST

Southeast Houston from Loop 610 to Beltway 8 is the center of the local petrochemical, manufacturing and shipping industries and encompasses the Houston Ship Channel. Travel down I-45 South past Beltway 8 and discover the Clear Lake area that includes multiple communities with waterfront property around Clear Lake and Galveston Bay. Continue south and discover Galveston Island and the Gulf of Mexico. The growth of Johnson Space Center (JSC)has resulted in the Clear Lake Area (www.clearlakearea.com) maturing into a widely diversified business community and a desirable place to live. The area encompasses about 125 square miles and is bordered on the west by I-45 and on the east by Galveston Bay. Attractions, such as Space Center Houston and the Kemah Boardwalk, have promoted a growth in tourism. Known as the “Boating Capital of Texas,” Clear Lake offers numerous water recreation opportunities. The 16 area marinas provide more than 7,000 slips. Other features include Armand Bayou Nature Center, numerous golf courses and hundreds of antique and specialty shops. Nearly 200,000 residents live in nine municipalities and unincorporated areas.

The area encompasses:
• Clear Lake City, a unique master-planned residential community and home to JSC. (www.clearlakecity.com)
• Clear Lakes Shores, a small island community offering waterfront living.
• El Lago, a quiet residential community located on Clear Lake.
• Kemah, a seaside community that offers waterfront dining, quaint shops, fishing, boating and the newly renovated Kemah Boardwalk.
• League City, the area’s largest city with more than 50,000 residents and features deluxe hotels, marinas and restaurants with continuing growth and new development.
• Nassau Bay, located across from JSC, offering waterfront living, as well as hotels and several popular retail and entertainment establishments.
• Seabrook, one of the larger residential communities, featuring parks, marinas and restaurants along the shores of Clear Lake, Clear Lake Channel and Galveston Bay.
• South Shore Harbor, a Galveston Bay community with 800 single-family homes. It has a 27-hole golf course, country club and marina.
• Taylor Lake Village, a quiet bedroom community with proximity to water activities.
• Victory Lakes, a master-planned community with homes priced from the $150s to $1 million. The community features seven lakes, walking trails, golf courses, a recreational center and a high-speed, fiber optic network.
• Webster, a gateway city to the NASA/Bay area, known for its large variety of popular restaurants, shops and hotels.

Deer Park with a population of 34,000 offers affordably priced, single-family homes. Taxes are lower than in other areas due to industry’s support of the school systems. There are not many apartments, duplexes, townhouses and condominiums. Quality schools and a small-town atmosphere characterize this community that offers golf courses, recreation centers, parks, sports fields and swimming pools.(www.ci.deer-park.tx.us)

Edgebrook offers several single-family home subdivisions on both sides of Edgebrook Boulevard. The City of South Houston forms the northern boundary. South Shaver sets the eastern and southern boundaries with the Gulf Freeway on the western side. Its oldest subdivisions include Freeway Manor, Gulfway Terrace, Sun Valley and Arlington Heights – all developed in the 1950s. Large apartment complexes are found along the I-45 South and Edgebrook Boulevard.

Founded in 1895, the City of Friendswood is halfway between Houston and Galveston. The city’s 30,000 residents enjoy heavily wooded neighborhoods. Homes sit on either several acres or in subdivisions. Creek-front properties are available, and one subdivision offers a private landing strip.(www.ci.friendswood.tx.us)

Galveston Island and Galveston County are favorite spots for fishing, boating and various water activities. The City of Galveston on the Texas Gulf Coast is about an hour’s drive from downtown Houston and is home to many residents who work in the Houston area. Also, many Houstonians own weekend and vacation property in the City of Galveston or in the Galveston Bay area. Housing options range from stately Victorian-era homes along Broadway Boulevard to beachfront villas and bungalows. Several high-rise condominiums and apartment complexes dot the shoreline. Subdivisions of single-family dwellings offer more traditional homes within the city. Galveston County amenities include the beaches on Galveston Island, Texas Ice Stadium, Gulf Greyhound Park, Moody Gardens and Armand Bayou Nature Center. Residents have easy access to Alvin Community College, College of the Mainland, two San Jacinto College campuses, Galveston College and two University of Houston campuses. (www.galveston.com)

The City of La Marque is home to more than 14,000 people and Gulf Greyhound Park. As a bird sanctuary, the city offers watchers a glimpse of Texas’ many species, including seasonal waterfowl. The town is home to Factory Stores of America, a complex of 40 world-famous manufacturer outlets. Home styles include ultra-modern, two-story, brick showpieces; sprawling ranch-style residences on large lots; and quaint, country-style homes. Total housing units are about 5,000, and resale-housing opportunities are abundant. (www.ci.la-marque.tx.us)

Located in the center of the Greater Hobby area is Hobby Airport. A railroad line at the western edge of the community provides access for a number of large industrial facilities. Sims Bayou attracted development of single-family homes in the Garden Villas, Gulf Freeway Oaks and the Glenbrook Valley subdivisions prior to the 1960s. East Haven and Skyscraper Shadows subdivisions offer a variety of housing styles and many available lots. Gulf Meadows is located close to Clear Creek at the southern edge of the community.

The La Porte-Bayshore area includes the cities of La Porte, Morgan’s Point and Shoreacres, which maintain a small-town atmosphere. La Porte is the home of the San Jacinto Monument and Battleship Texas. Morgan’s Point was the home of Emily Morgan – the famed "Yellow Rose of Texas." Shoreacres is home to the Houston Yacht Club, the state’s oldest yacht club. Activities include golfing, boating, fishing and a wave pool at Little Cedar Bayou Park. Sylvan Beach Park includes a fishing pier, boat ramp and picnic grounds. The LaPorte ISD serves the area. San Jacinto College and the University of Houston provide higher educational opportunities. The communities have a low crime rate and quick emergency response times for police, fire and ambulance service. The numerous industrial facilities in the Bayport Industrial Complex and along the Houston Ship Channel provide many jobs for area residents. (www.laportechamber.org)

Meadowbrook/Allendale is home to several major chemical plants, and the southern corner is an industrial area. Several wooded neighborhoods with single-family homes are nestled in the area. Meadowbrook and Allendale were built before World War II. After the war, Forest Oaks and Oak Meadows were built for Houston’s growing middle-income population. The newest addition, Meadowcreek Village, contains the largest homes in the community. In Park Place, the main boulevards, Broadway and Park Place, are lined with apartments and small businesses. Many side streets in the community are adorned with large pecan trees – some of which date from the 1920s. Industrial development occupies the northeastern corner of the community, which is close to the Houston Ship Channel. In recent years, several older apartment complexes have been converted into condominiums.

South of the Houston Ship Channel is Pasadena, about 18 miles from downtown. Parks, recreational facilities, a public school system with a Recognized rating, two colleges, a university, numerous cultural attractions and pleasant suburban residential areas provide for a comfortable quality of life. The city offers homes from 40 years old to new. Pasadena has a population of more than 140,000.(www.pasadena-tx-chamber.org) Texas City, located in Galveston County, was named an All American City in 1997 by the National Civic League. The“City by the Bay” is home to the College of the Mainland and has a population of more than 40,000. Total housing units are about 17,000 in Texas City. Amenities include 37 parks, athletic fields, tennis courts, swimming pools, museums and golf courses. (www.texas-city-tx.org)

EAST

The east area of Houston is an important trade and industrial region since it is near the Port of Houston. The industry-based communities in this area lie outside Loop 610 East, along I-10 East. Residents have easy access to downtown Houston. The area is home to the San Jacinto College District’s North Campus. Baytown, south of I-10 East, provides natural habitats for birds and sea life native to the area through the Baytown Nature Center. Area amenities include the Houston Raceway Park, Evergreen Point Golf Course, San Jacinto Mall and a variety of shopping centers. Residents have easy access to Johnson Space Ccenter’s Space Center Houston and Galveston Island. Approximately 95 percent of Baytown’s more than 70,000 residents live in single-family dwellings. (www.baytown.org)

El Dorado/Oates Prairie consists of small subdivisions and scattered industrial facilities. Oates Prairie is a residential area, which has grown because of its proximity to Port of Houston industries and downtown Houston. El Dorado is a typical tract home subdivision. OST Acres is a large-lot subdivision close to Loop 610. The route of the new Crosby Freeway (proposed US 90) crosses an eastern corner of the community. Access to the new freeway and existing thoroughfares makes the area desirable for further development of warehouse and industrial facilities. Low taxes and moderately priced houses and apartments characterize the communities of Galena Park, Jacinto City and Channelview. Amenities include East Houston Regional Medical Center, golf courses and athletic fields. Many residents work at the nearby Port of Houston or surrounding petrochemical plants or commute to downtown. Older wood-frame houses and 1960s brick tract homes are available. Homes range from the $50s to the $300s. (www.northchannelarea.com) Northshore includes subdivisions such as Cimarron, Home Owned Estates, Hidden Forest and Woodforest. Most of the area is served by the Galena Park ISD. This heavily wooded area includes a variety of home styles and prices. In the 1980s, the Brown Foundation donated a large tract of land that the new Crosby Freeway (US 90) will pass through. Also, Hermann Brown Park is being developed. (www.northchannelarea.com)

(Reproduced by permission of the Greater Houston Partnership, www.houston.org.
To view the publication on-line, go to www.HereIsHouston.com.)

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Heritage Texas Properties
www.heritagetexas.com
800-856-7797
realestate@heritagetexas.com