Are you thinking about moving to the Houston suburbs? We don’t blame you! Houston is a sprawling metropolis of culture, opportunity, and diversity. The fourth most populous city in the U.S. and home to more fortune 500 companies than any American city aside from New York City, Houston has dozens of thriving suburbs. Here are the top five communities in Houston area to call home.
The Woodlands
The Woodlands is a master-planned community located north of Houston. One of the most affluent areas of greater Houston, The Woodlands residents enjoy countless amenities at a short distance no matter their location within the community. The schools have stellar ratings, and green space is common – there are dozens of parks, hiking trails, and sports fields. Multiple large companies make their home in The Woodlands: Anadarko, Chevron Phillips, and Woodforest National Bank, to name a few. Ideal for families wanting to live, work, and play in a green, well-organized community, The Woodlands often tops lists of best communities nationwide.
Approx. Population: 108,373
Median Home Value: $329,800
Median Household Income: $109,605
Cinco Ranch
This family-oriented suburb in the Katy area is another master-planned community. They have an impressive number of amenities available for residents from more than ten community pools, several bike and nature trails, parks located alongside the 14-acre South Lake, and a 167-acre golf course. Their top-rated public schools foster academic success. Cinco Ranch is a safe community with a lot going on. You’re never far from a grocery store or a hospital, and you’ll get all of the advantages of a kid-friendly community while Houston access is a breeze due to the nearby tollways.
Approx. Population: 20,626
Median Home Value: $318,500
Median Household Income: $147,461
Richmond
This affordable Houston suburb is quiet, quaint, and experiences little crime. Their public schools perform above the national average and Richmond has a reputation for being friendly and ethnically diverse. Even though Richmond is located in the greater Houston area, it can feel more like country living. You’ll find an abundance of parks, community amenities, and shopping opportunities in the area and Houston is a short drive away.
Approx. Population: 11,939
Median Home Value: $99,100
Median Household Income: $48,111
Greatwood
Greatwood is another Houston suburb where nature takes center stage. This community of 29 neighborhoods is truly a jewel within the popular Sugar Land area. The amenities here certainly check all of the boxes: There are 12 community parks featuring jogging trails, pools, sports facilities, and an 18-hole golf course. Your kids will receive a great education at any one of the top-rated public schools nearby. Greatwood residents note that they feel safe in their community and that they plan to stay as long as they’re located in the Houston area.
Approx. Population: 12,040
Median Home Value: $300,800
Median Household Income: $144,625
Friendswood
Friendswood combines the benefits of suburban living with easy access to Houston’s endless amenities. Friendswood is a small, tight-knit community sandwiched between the coast and the city. Houston and Galveston beach are both just 20 minutes away. In Friendswood, you’ll enjoy the Exemplary-rated FISD school district, over 250 acres of green space, and amenities for the whole family. Friendswood was named one of the “Best Affordable Suburbs” by Business Week.
Approx. Population: 38,272
Median Home Value: $241,700
Median Household Income: $95,241