The best places to live in Houston
Picking the right area or suburb of Houston to live in is one of the most important decisions new arrivals will make. Those who don’t mind commuting and want to escape the frantic pace of city life may wish to opt for one of the surrounding satellite towns. Although there is a public transport network, most Houstonians own cars. Newcomers should expect to spend a lot of time driving.
Houston’s city centre is separated from its suburbs by Interstate 610, or the Loop as it’s more commonly known, and neighbourhoods are usually referred to as being either inside or outside the Loop.
The Loop contains the heart of Houston’s business world and a few residential areas with modern, densely packed housing. More and more homes are being built in these areas to accommodate the growing population. Outside the Loop, newcomers will generally find more affordable accommodation and larger properties.
Houston is the only major city in the United States without traditional zoning laws, which means residential, commercial, and industrial properties can sit side by side. In practice, there are deed restrictions and neighbourhood associations that regulate building in most residential areas, but newcomers may still notice a freer, more eclectic approach to land use than they are accustomed to.
Public Transport and Driving in Houston
Finding Accommodation in Houston
Neighbourhoods for young professionals in Houston
Lazybrook
An older area with smaller homes, Lazybrook is relatively affordable and located just inside the Loop in northwest Houston. It’s conveniently located close to Highway 290 and Interstate 10.
Lazybrook is popular among young professionals who want to live close to the office and have key lifestyle amenities within easy reach. There are plenty of restaurants in the neighbourhood and other retail options close by.
Greenway and Upper Kirby
Greenway and Upper Kirby are great options just inside the I-610. These trendy areas are packed with restaurants, cafés, boutiques, and entertainment venues that run the gamut from comedy clubs and jazz bars to theatres and nightclubs.
Properties here tend to be smaller than those just beyond the Loop, so they aren’t the most suitable for families with children. They are perfect for young people who enjoy an active lifestyle, though, as the local parks offer plenty of room to hike, bike, run, or stroll.
Montrose
In Montrose, newcomers will find housing options that range from elegantly restored mansions to contemporary condos and bungalows. The streets are walkable, and the area is full of boutique stores, bars, acclaimed restaurants, and art galleries.
Remnants of the area’s Bohemian roots are still apparent in its architecture and communal culture, but it has become more mainstream thanks to higher property prices and the growth of modern housing complexes. Montrose is also historically Houston’s most prominent LGBTQ+ neighbourhood; its annual Pride celebrations and inclusive community spirit are defining features. In the summer, residents enjoy get-togethers and festivals in the local parks.
Washington Corridor
The Washington Corridor has become popular with upwardly mobile young professionals in recent years, although families also settle here thanks to the good schools nearby. The area is close to Memorial Park, so joggers and cyclists are a common sight.
The area’s nightlife clusters along Washington Avenue, which is full of eclectic restaurants and lively bars. Be aware that weekend evenings on Washington Avenue can be rowdy; light sleepers may want to look at side streets rather than the main strip. The area is close to major roadways, which makes getting around easy.
Working in Houston
Lifestyle in Houston
Family-friendly neighbourhoods in Houston
Afton Oaks and River Oaks
These are two of the most affluent neighbourhoods in Houston. Perfectly located for work and leisure, Afton Oaks and River Oaks provide residents with easy access to Interstate 610, the Southwest Freeway, and Interstate 10. Active residents are a common sight at nearby Memorial Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States, and the area’s many patio cafés do a roaring trade at the weekend.
One downside to living in this part of Houston is the fact that many employers are located in and around this area, resulting in heavy peak-time traffic congestion.
The demographics of these neighbourhoods are varied, but the several good private schools close by make these areas popular with affluent families.
The Woodlands
The Woodlands is located about 30 miles (48km) north of Houston. The area is suited to new arrivals with children because of its spacious properties and proximity to good public schools. Despite its relative isolation, it’s a self-sufficient planned community with plenty of restaurants, boutique stores, galleries, and bars, and many residents find little reason to leave.
As the area continues to expand, so do the types of housing available, including lofts, townhouses, single-family homes, and modern apartment complexes.
Clear Lake
Clear Lake has long been a popular suburb of Houston. Accommodation here consists mostly of quaint townhouses and luxury apartments. The area is home to the University of Houston Clear Lake (UHCL), a separate institution from the main University of Houston campus. Its student population contributes to the area’s youthful energy. There are excellent shopping opportunities in the area.
Residents in Clear Lake range from students to couples and small families. There are several good schools in the region, which makes it a great option for new arrivals with children.
Memorial
Memorial is rated one of the best neighbourhoods in Houston. Families can find single-family homes, townhouses, condos, and charming mid-century properties, all set beneath a centuries-old oak canopy. Memorial also boasts some of Houston’s best parks and green spaces. It is one of the most sought-after areas in the city to raise a family.
This area is chock full of cafés, restaurants, bars, and other nightlife spots. A golf course and country club round out the picture. To top it all off, Memorial is a short drive from Downtown Houston and falls primarily within the highly rated Spring Branch Independent School District. Parts of its western fringe border Katy ISD.