As many as 2.3 million are currently living in some of the Houston neighborhoods, and it’s estimated that this Texas metropolis receives nearly 300 new residents every single day. That many people can’t be wrong, so where’s the catch? This metropolis offers so much to the ones who live in it, and for those of you having trouble picking an exact place to put down roots, we’ve made a list of the prime neighborhoods in the fourth most populous community in the nation.
Go online and research before choosing the area
Why Houston? A Quick Guide to Space City Area
There are so many reasons for moving to Houston. This diverse community spreads across 655 square miles, and it’s home to Anglo, Hispanic, African American, Asian, and all other races and ethnicities. With more than 145 languages spoken, this super friendly and welcoming metropolis is one of the most ethnically diverse metropolitan areas in America. So much fun, arts, events, exhibitions, and green space attract many visitors – to be precise, 22.3 million people came to this place in 2018 alone, and that’s a record! But if your intention is to relocate to the famous Space City permanently, there are a few things you should know as a newcomer.
A Couple of More Things You Should Know Before Moving
This population is growing very quickly, and by some expectations, it should reach 2.5 million in 2020. Some estimates suggest that it will have 2.8 million residents by 2030. If you’re an extrovert and enjoy being surrounded by lots of people, this might be a perfect new home for you in Texas. If not, you might want to consider moving to some smaller and quieter town, or maybe to some of the H-Town suburbs.
As with most metropolises, traffic, parking spots, and commute time are some of the usual struggles. Many Houstonians use the freeway I-610 that they call “The Loop” because it loops around the center. You might notice that term when asking the locals for directions.
Except for the abundant art, cultural, and musical events, fantastic food, great job opportunities, and other perks, you should know that H-Town sometimes has tropical storms and hurricanes, so have an emergency plan at the ready. The weather can be a problem for some because it can be humid and hot, so mosquitos love it as well.
What to Do in H-Town While Looking for a Home?
No matter if you’re coming just for the weekend or you just hired moving services to relocate there, here are the most fun things to do at this very moment:
Visit Johnson Space Center – NASA’s center for human spaceflight;
Go to the museums: The Health Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, Children’s Museum, Museum of Natural Science…
Go to Galleria and shop in some of the high-end boutiques
Visit the Houston Zoo and Downtown Aquarium
Take a walk, paddle a boat, or make a picnic at Hermann Park or in some of the other stunning green areas
Go to some of their finest breweries or wineries for a glass of pure refreshment
Quick Foodie’s Guide
When living in H-Town, you’ll have no problem with the question of “what should I eat,” but you might ask yourself: “what can I try that I haven’t already?” When it comes to the food scene, H-Town will easily win over your heart. Sure, barbecue and Tex-Mex are amazing, but you’ll have a chance to eat at so many diverse eateries and try exotic dishes. Some of the essential restaurants to check out are Indigo, Xochi, Hugo’s, and Kiran’s.
Now that you have some clue about Houston’s most popular attractions and places to go out, let’s move on to what you came here for. Here’s our list of H-Town’s top districts, sorted according to the amenities and overall experience they provide their residents with.
This fantastic metropolis was founded in 1836 by brothers Augustus Chapman Allen and John Kirby Allen
Best Neighborhoods in Houston for Families
In case you decided to relocate to a new home with your loved ones, H-Town has many options for you. Many areas are quiet and safe, perfect if you’re moving with kids, or decided to raise a family in one of the Space City areas. Here’s a list of locations that stand out when it comes to conditions for raising children:
Eldridge/West Oaks
A great place for families – numerous restaurants, coffee shops, and parks make this community highly suitable for younglings and young families. With less than 100k residents, this is one of the finest spots when moving to Houston.
Memorial
This Houston suburb has large houses and community parks, excellent eateries, and many homes for sale. Around 54k people live there, and the median home rent is a bit higher than the national level. Most people own their residence.
Spring Branch West
Many amenities, reasonable housing prices, great weather, and a mix of urban and suburban feeling is what describes this place not far from downtown. Commute time is almost negligible, and there are many outdoor activities available. You’ll be able to have some quality family time in this neighborhood.
Greater Uptown
This major shopping area is a great spot for all modern families who want to have an urban life with an affordable cost of living. Most residents rent their homes, and the usual price for that is around $1,000.
Clear Lake
Almost 83k residents make this community a somewhat populated one, but the rent is still lower than the national average. Housing, diversity, a low cost of living, and highly-rated public schools make it an excellent spot for families.
New Territory
A bit less than 16k Houstonias reside in this community. High diversity, mostly educated people, and many job options make this suburb a great one for living with children.
Bunker Hill Village
Only 4k residents call this a tranquil place home even though it has a fair share of coffee shops and restaurants. The rent is three times higher than the average, and 98% of residents own their homes. The overall grade of this spot is a big A.
What Are the Safest Neighborhoods in Houston
If you’re concerned about the percentage of crimes that happen in the place you want to move to, choose one of the following:
Sugar Land
A bit expensive, but an amazing spot southwest of Houston. The crime rate is 95% lower than in the rest of Texas and 30% below the US figure. If you’re thinking about moving to a destination where everything will be outstanding, this is the right spot for you.
University Place
This community is really good for families. The commute time is negligible, and 20k people reside here. The median rent is $100 lower than in the rest of the country, so most people tend to own their homes. Check our tips on how to make friends in a new state, and make some friends right away.
Spring Valley Village
The situation here is similar to the previously mentioned Bunker Hill. It is a small community with a rural feel, but the nightlife won’t disappoint. With a good commute time and a low number of crimes, Spring Valley is perfect for living with kids.
Kingwood Area
Many young families already reside here, so feel free to join them. Around 87k residents in this dense suburban area live in very good conditions, but keep in mind that the traffic might be an issue sometimes.
When it comes to safety, you should avoid MacGregor Neighborhood, Sunnyside, and Sharpstown
Best Places to Live in Houston for Singles
The city as a whole has a very young population – 27.5% Houstonians are under the age of 18, more than 11% from 18 to 24, and almost 34% from 25 to 44. This makes it an excellent location for all the singles out there who wish to move somewhere where they can be surrounded by young people with an active lifestyle or for the ones who want to find a soulmate. Making friends in a new state can be difficult, but moving to some of these lively areas will make that problem disappear. The leading places where you should move if you’re single and want to have some fun are:
Washington Avenue
Lincoln Bar, Pearl Bar, Liberty Station, and many other pubs, bars, and dance clubs are located in Washington Avenue. People mostly rent their places, and the rent is $500 higher than the typical American rent.
Fourth Ward
This is a very urban area that offers so many options for young people and all the ones who feel that way. Hookah and cocktail bars, beer gardens, and lounges are open till late at night, and the prices are affordable.
Midtown
This modern central neighborhood of H-Town spreads on 1.24 square miles of pure fun. Plenty of restaurants, bars, and shopping options, fitting for singles and all the people hungry for some good time. Check out the nightlife of Midtown and see for yourself.
Montrose
One of the significant cultural areas known for its art scene. It’s been called “the strangest neighborhood east of the Pecos.” A wide range of eateries, LGBT bars, and vintage stores make this downtown location famous.
Museum Park District
Densely urban, also known as the “cultural heart” of Space City. It’s where the Houston Zoo is located, as well as Hermann Park. Around 8k people chose to call this place their home, and the rent is a bit high – you’ll pay around $1,700 per month.
West University
Or West U, for short, is a community with a population of almost 15k. It’s a bit calmer than the areas mentioned above, but you’ll also have a wide choice of spots to go in the evening. There are wine bars, Mediterranean places, whiskey bars, and places for breakfast and brunch that are open all year long.
Upper Kirby
If you choose to move here, we can promise that you’ll have tons of fun! Upper Kirby has many Comedy clubs, music venues, Tiki bars, Latin American places, and jazz & blues joints. Every single person will have a fantastic time while meeting someone on the dance floor.
Downtown Houston
The modern city center offers so much: bars and clubs, grills, taquerias, sushi spots, vibrant treater scene, and many dance shows throughout the year. It’s all affordable and entertaining. It’s also home to the Houston Aquarium.
River Oaks
If you’re a shopping addict, this residential downtown community is a perfect one for you. River Oaks Shopping Center is at your fingertips, as well as the art deco River Oaks Theatre. The home value is high, but the median monthly rent is just a bit more than the average – $1,100.
Houstonians eat out more than residents of any other American metropolis, and they have one of the most excellent food offers in the US
Houston Neighborhoods With the Most Affordable Cost of Living
With a limited budget, you’d think that you’ll have to move someplace that you won’t like, but with this place, that’s not the situation. Houston’s cost of living is 3.5% lower than the United States average, and it has many places with affordable housing. Data from relevant websites such as Areavibes.com and Bestplaces.net showed that the ten most affordable sections of the city are:
Far North
Northeast
North
Sugarland
Southeast
East End
Southwest
Pasadena
Northwest
Westchase
Groceries, healthcare, housing, and transportation have a lower cost index than in both Houston and Texas. Only goods and services and utilities are more expensive in these areas.
Space City is the third most affordable major metro region among the nation's 20 most populous areas, with living costs over 26 percent below the average
H-Town Districts With the Best Schools
The website HoustonProperties ranked the best elementary schools in various parts of the city. In Central Houston, the leading neighborhoods in this regard are:
Memorial West
West University/Southside Area
Memorial Villages
Bellaire Area
Meyerland Area
River Oaks Area
They all have a large percentage of teachers with more than three years of experience and the highest grade on GreatSchools.
The part of H-Town with the most significant number of highly-rated schools is Southwest Houston. By applying the same methodology, areas that stand out are:
Fort Bend County North/Richmond
Fort Bend Southeast
Fort Bend South/Richmond
Fulshear/South Brookshire/Simonton
Sienna Area
Missouri City Area
The most top-rated schools are in Sugarland and Katy.
Southeast offers Friendswood, League City, Pearland, and Lake Jackson.
The Northern part takes pride in Kingwood East, The Woodlands, Cypress North, Cypress South, Spring Northeast, and Tomball South/Lakewood.
We Have More Good News
Houston has excellent public schools in general, but three Houston-area schools have been recently named as the best in the state! Katy ISD, Friendswood ISD, and Tomball ISD got an A+ on a survey by Niche.
Houston Independent School District is the nation's seventh-largest district
Best Neighborhoods in Houston, TX Among Outdoor Enthusiasts
For everyone who enjoys activities in nature and wilderness, H-Town has them covered. Hiking, biking, camping, spending time outside, and having a healthy lifestyle – all of that is possible if you choose to relocate to one of these communities:
Memorial Park – This municipal park is one of the largest in the US. There are so many things to do like group activities for adults, playing croquet, cycling and skating, golf, mountain biking, tennis, and volleyball. You can check their website to see the variety of activities that this park offers.
Rice Military – Relocating here will allow you to have quick access to Houston’s biggest and most beautiful parks. It’s all walkable, and it’s best explored by foot.
Museum District – Hermann Park Drive, famous for its miniature railway and pedal boats, McGovern Lake, Pioneer Memorial Obelisk are just some of the places you’ll find in the Museum District. Hermann Park also has a stunning Japanese garden.
River Oaks – You’ll get a unique opportunity to live nearby Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens – a 14-acre facility of the Museum of Fine Arts that also has beautiful gardens of natural woodlands and flowering trees with Southern associations. This truly breathtaking nature is fantastic for relaxing walks.
The Most Suitable Communities for Active Children
Houston Heights – It’s home to many parks, but Donovan Park is the best one for the little ones. It’s made almost entirely out of wood and has a big play area with a railroad theme. It’s a lasting legacy for all Houston’s children, but because of their safety, open fires such as barbecues are not allowed.
Museum District also has the Buddy Carruth Playground for all children with a splash pad, perfect for hot summer days. It’s been there since 1995, and it has play equipment for children of all abilities, most of which are accessible by wheelchair.
Oak Forest – Grab your friends, kids, dogs, and go to TC Jester Park! You’ll find a golf course, trails for biking and jogging, sports fields, a pool and playground for the little ones. If you wish to go for a long bike ride or a running trail, you can get to the White Oak Bayou Trail right from the park.
The world capital of space exploration also offers nature exploration with a plethora of outdoor activities.The world capital of space exploration also offers nature exploration with a plethora of outdoor activities.
Countless Job Opportunities Are Waiting for You in These Communities
Many H-Town areas are suitable for young professionals. This place offers so many job options that you won’t know which one to pick. We searched the data from the Planning and Development Department to find the neighborhoods with the lowest unemployment rates. Consider relocation to some of these areas in case you want to find a job ASAP.
The Medical Center Area has only 30 unemployed persons, and its unemployment rate is 2%, the same as in Museum Park.
Afton Oaks/River Oaks Area has an unemployment rate of only 3%, with 300 non-working people out of 8,300 those who work. It’s followed by Neartown – Montrose, Memorial Park, and MidWest.
The ones with a rate of 4% are Braeswood, Fourth Ward, Greater Uptown, Greenway – Upper Kirby Area, Lazybrook – Timbergrove, and Midtown. On the other hand, Central Northwest, Eldridge/West Oaks, Greater Heights, Kingwood Area, and University Place boast an unemployment rate of 5%.
The data from US Census Bureau shows that Braeburn, Neartown – Montrose, Magnolia Park, Woodlake – Briarmeadow, Westwood, Edgebrook Area, Memorial, Spring Branch North, Greater Heights, and Washington Avenue are the top ten communities with the highest percentage of employed working-age people.
What Can You Do for Living in H-Town?
Professions that have the highest employment in H-Town are general and operations managers. The second place goes to accountants and auditors, and the third is reserved for other business operations specialists. If you aim for the highest payment, you’ll be lucky if you’re an anesthesiologist, chief executive, a surgeon, or a family and general practitioner.
H-Town is the home to the largest medical center in the world. You might consider moving there if you're a doctor.
You Thought Long and Hard and Decided to Move to Houston, Texas?
Americans do change the cities and states they live in a lot, even more often than most people in the rest of the world. You may need to deal with moving stress, or you’ve maybe already moved quite a lot, and this is no big deal for you. In any case, coming to this Texas gem will change your lifestyle for a better, healthier, and more dynamic one.
Ready to Contact a Professional Houston Moving Company?
It’s essential to find a Houston moving company that you can trust. You’ll need a car, so either buy a new one or get your car shipped with you by purchasing auto shipping services. Ask your movers if they offer packing services and enjoy your new life as a proud Houstonian.
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.
