If it’s true that everything is bigger in Texas, then Houston is Texas-sized in every sense. As the largest city in the largest state in the continental United States, Houston and its surrounding metropolitan area is made up of hundreds of neighborhoods and suburbs. And all that space lends itself to a wide variety of options: The choice of places to live in Houston range from hip, urban spaces filled with art and nightlife to family-friendly suburbs and nature-focused communities.
So if you’re moving to Houston and you don’t know where to start, you’re not alone — it’s (quite literally) a lot of ground to cover.
We’ve taken some of the burden off you by curating a list of the best neighborhoods in Houston and the top Houston suburbs based on their cost of living, schools, attractions, and safety records. With this guide in hand, finding your perfect Houston home should be as easy as a Texas two-step, although granted, it might take a little longer.
The Best Neighborhoods in Houston
The Best Houston Suburbs
The 8 Best Neighborhoods in Houston
If you’re moving to the city of Houston, there are plenty of great neighborhoods to choose from with amenities, attractions, and housing options to fit a variety of different lifestyles. Whether you’re looking for a safe neighborhood with good schools to raise a family, a place teeming with diversity and culture, or a vibrant nightlife, there’s a neighborhood to fit whatever your heart desires in Houston.
1) Houston Heights: The place to live for the best Houston experience
- Average rent: Approximately $1,832/month
- Average home value: Approximately $612,000
- Best for: Young professionals, families, arts enthusiasts
- Known for: Historic charm, vibrant arts scene, eclectic dining
- Getting around: Accessible via I-10 and I-45, METRO bus services available
Ask anyone, “What is the best area of Houston to live in?” and their immediate response would likely be Houston Heights, or simply “The Heights.”
Houston Heights is one of Houston’s most iconic neighborhoods. Located a mere four miles from downtown, its blend of historical living and modern amenities makes it a beautiful and comfortable place to live. It’s also a center for local artists and craftspeople. Each month, Houstonians flock to the Heights’ First Saturday Arts Market for live music, craft vendors, and artwork.
With nearby access to I-10 and 610, it’s a great central location for those who want to explore Texas. It’s also a very walkable neighborhood. Strolling down historic 19th Street puts you in the thick of one of the most artistic and eclectic Houston neighborhoods. Grab a cup of coffee at Boomtown, and then head over to the Vinyl Edge for a few records before shopping at the other quaint boutiques.
2) River Oaks: Houston’s most prestigious neighborhood
- Average rent: Approximately $2,146/month
- Average home value: Approximately $2.4 million
- Best for: Affluent families, luxury seekers
- Known for: Upscale shopping, fine dining, exclusive estates
- Getting around: Convenient access to I-610 and US-59, METRO bus routes
For those looking to live in the lap of luxury, River Oaks is the richest neighborhood in Houston — and it shows. Here you’ll find old money and self-made celebrities alike, counting among its residents basketball legend Clyde Drexler, Senator Ted Cruz, and former Mayor Bob Lanier.
Majestic oak trees line the streets of this Houston neighborhoods, providing privacy for the large manors and estates, which boast unique architecture reflecting both historical and contemporary styles.
For shopping, the neighborhood’s Highland Village includes a number of high-end retail shops such as Anthropologie, Pottery Barn, and Williams Sonoma. If you’re a fan of the cinema, the River Oaks Theater, a landmark built in 1939, offers a variety of options including independent and foreign films. You can follow the movie with dinner at one of the nearby upscale restaurants in the River Oaks Shopping Center.
3) Montrose: The most LGBTQ-friendly neighborhood in Houston
Average rent: Approximately $2,153/month
- Average home value: Approximately $597,000
- Best for: Artists, LGBTQ+ community, nightlife enthusiasts
- Known for: Eclectic atmosphere, art galleries, diverse eateries
- Getting around: Well-served by METRO buses, close to US-59
Is it a surprise that Montrose, known as a “hipster” neighborhood, has earned the nickname “the strangest neighborhood east of the Pecos”? This Houston neighborhood is all about art, creativity, and diversity. Residents can immerse themselves in art just by walking down the street, where you’ll find many of Houston’s most notable wall murals, or by stopping in at any of the neighborhood’s numerous art galleries, such as the Archway Gallery, the longest-running artist-owned gallery in Houston
At night the LGBTQ-friendly neighborhood stays vibrant with live music and interesting restaurants. It’s home to the popular gay bars Rebar and Ripcord, to name a few. And you can catch a drag show every Sunday at Bar Boheme. Montrose is located near downtown Houston (hence its other nickname, “Heart of Houston”), and was the early center of the Houston counterculture. As such, it has built a reputation as a safe space for diverse cultural backgrounds and identities.
4) West University Place: The best neighborhood for academic professionals
- Average rent: Approximately $2,047/month
- Average home value: Approximately $1.6 million
- Best for: Families, academics
- Known for: Proximity to Rice University, tree-lined streets, top-rated schools
- Getting around: Easy access to US-59 and I-610, METRO services
West University Place is conveniently located slightly outside the downtown area, offering easy access for commuters to Houston’s bustling business districts or the nearby Texas Medical Center. This makes it an ideal spot for families who want to live close to work and amenities but prefer a quieter, more residential environment, away from the hustle and bustle of the more extravagant, urban areas. Here you’ll find people with careers in education, medicine, and research. So it’s no surprise the neighborhood boasts the state’s fifth-highest concentration of households with incomes greater than $150,000.
With a name like “The Neighborhood City,” it shouldn’t be surprising that West University Place has become an ideal place for families. The neighborhood is dotted with pocket parks, including Colonial Park, which features a community pool. In addition, Rice Village Shops makes shopping and dining convenient.
5) Midtown: The place for the best nightlife in Houston
- Average rent: Approximately $2,119/month
- Average home value: Approximately $361,000
- Best for: Young professionals, nightlife lovers
- Known for: Vibrant bar scene, diverse dining, walkability
- Getting around: Served by METRORail Red Line and multiple bus routes
If you’re looking for an urban vibe, Houston’s Midtown might be the place for you. Located just slightly south of downtown and near the University of Houston and Texas Southern University, Midtown has become a hotspot for students and young professionals who want to experience the perks of living in a city.
This Houston neighborhood has beautiful parks, is home to over twenty outdoor murals, and is close to cultural attractions in Houston like the Museum District. But Midtown’s biggest draw is the teeming nightlife, with some of the best night clubs and bars in the city. Enjoy live music at The Continental Club and dance the night away at the Unicorn Disco.
6) The Museum District: The best place for culture and history in Houston
Average rent: Approximately $2,109/month
Average home value: Approximately $483,000
Best for: Culture enthusiasts, families
Known for: Museums, Hermann Park, cultural institutions
Getting around: Accessible via METRORail Red Line, close to major interstates
Located directly south of Midtown, the Museum District is one of the most highly concentrated cultural areas in the world. And the label is well-deserved, with more than twenty museums in the 1.5 square-mile area. Among the offerings you’ll find the Museum of Fine Arts, the Rothko Chapel, the Contemporary Arts Museum of Houston, and the Houston Holocaust Museum.
And yes, even though the Museum District is a major tourist center, pulling in over 7 million visitors a year, you can live here. Housing can be pricey, however, with average homes topping $483,000 per year. Still, it is a great choice for those who want to be steeped in art, science, and history.
7) Bellaire: The safest neighborhood in Houston
Average rent: Approximately $1,322/month
Average home value: Approximately $1.6 million
Best for: Families, professionals
Known for: Quiet neighborhoods, excellent schools, community parks
Getting around: Near I-610 and US-59, METRO bus access
Just twelve miles from the center of Houston, the City of Bellaire boasts a small-town, idyllic atmosphere. Although it's technically a separate city, Bellaire is still considered part of the greater Houston area. Incorporated in 1918, before Houston grew into the sprawling metropolitan area it is today, Nelleairet can't be annexed by Houston, which helps it retain its family-oriented community feel.
In the Houston neighborhood of Bellaire, you’ll find amenities similar to what many wealthy suburbs usually have: Excellent schools, spacious homes and properties, plenty of sidewalks, and tree-lined streets. Bellaire is also one of the safest neighborhoods in Houston, boasting a 55% lower crime rate than the national average.
Bellaire is home to several parks, such as Bellaire-Zindler Park, which has a community pool and pickleball courts. The neighborhood also has a variety of places to shop, from the Bellaire Triangle to The Galleria, and the Bellaire Family Farmers Market on Sundays.
8) Memorial Park: The neighborhood with the best schools in Houston
Average rent: Approximately $1,943/month
Average home value: Approximately $524,000
Best for: Affluent families, nature lovers
Known for: Memorial Park, upscale living, top-rated schools
Getting around: Access via I-10 and I-610, METRO services
Memorial Park is one of Houston’s most sought-after neighborhoods, offering a blend of upscale living, abundant green spaces, and a serene atmosphere. Just west of downtown Houston, Memorial Park is renowned for its high-end homes, excellent schools, and proximity to nature, making it an ideal choice for families and professionals seeking a peaceful yet convenient lifestyle.
The Memorial Park neighborhood’s primary draw is its upscale living, with several gated communities and top-rated schools, including the Spring Branch Independent School District). The architecture is a mix of modern and historical housing, perfect for families who want spacious living without the stuffiness of large estates.
Those interested in local green space will enjoy Buffalo Bayou, Terry Hershey Park, and the namesake Memorial Park, the largest urban greenspace in Texas. Memorial Park includes an 18-hole municipal golf course, a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a three-mile running course.
The 8 Best Suburbs of Houston
For those who want to live in the Houston area but aren’t looking to live within the city, there are plenty of choices in the greater metropolitan area. If the Houston metropolitan statistical area were its own state, it would have the fifteenth largest population in the United States, with 7.2 million residents.
Within the counties surrounding Houston, you’ll find planned communities, small towns, plenty of nature for outdoor adventures, theme parks, and museums. We’ve pulled together some of the best suburbs to help you get started narrowing down the best place to move in the Houston area.
1) Sugar Land: The most diverse suburb of Houston
Average rent: Approximately $1,601/month
Average home value: Approximately $443,000
Best for: Families, retirees
Known for: Master-planned communities, such as Sugar Land Town Square
Getting around: Accessible via US-59, local bus services
Sugar Land, located about twenty miles southwest of downtown Houston, is one of the most popular suburbs in the Greater Houston area, known for its master-planned communities, including Riverstone, Sweet Water, and Sugar Mill.
Sugar Land is a city in its own right, boasting a rich history and a strong sense of community with a diverse population, which makes it an ideal place to call home. So while it offers excellent shopping and food that one might associate with city living, it radiates the safety and peace of a suburb.
School districts are highly rated here — particularly Fort Bend Independent School District, one of the better-ranking districts in Texas. Outside the public school system, there’s a number of well-regarded charter and private schools to choose from.
Sugar Land hosts several annual multicultural festivals, including the International Art and Kite Festival, Oktoberfest at Sugar Land Town Square, and the Dia de los Muertos Celebration. The multicultural vibe continues year-round through Sugar Land’s diverse, global food scene. Taken together, this makes Sugar Land one of the best neighborhoods in Houston for its mix of culture and peacefulness.
2) The Woodlands: Great entertainment venues and green spaces just outside of Houston
Average rent: Approximately $1,697/month
Average home value: Approximately $565,000
Best for: Families, professionals
Known for: Lush landscapes, The Woodlands Mall, Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
Getting around: Served by I-45, The Woodlands Express commuter bus
The Woodlands is regarded as one of the most desirable of Houston suburbs, thanks to its extensive parks and natural spaces. Located just thirty miles north of downtown Houston, the area boasts 140 different parks, which include 200 miles of trails for running or biking.
In addition to the wonderful outdoor areas, The Woodlands' other amenities help set it apart from other suburbs. Between Market Street and the Woodlands Mall, there are hundreds of boutique shopping experiences and restaurants. And the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, one of the top amphitheaters in the country, hosts a variety of concerts and events
3) Katy: The best suburb for family attractions
Average rent: Approximately $1,595/month
Average home value: Approximately $345,000
Best for: Families, commuters
Known for: Top-rated schools, Katy Mills Mall, historic downtown
Getting around: Access via I-10 and Grand Parkway, METRO Park and Ride
Head about thirty miles west of downtown Houston, and you’ll find the well-regarded Houston suburb of Katy. Known for its historic charm from well-preserved historical areas, the area is home to the Katy Heritage Park, which offers free tours of five historic structures and a bandstand. You’ll also find several other unique parks and entertainment options, including the Typhoon Texas waterpark, the Katy Mills Outlet Mall, and LaCeterra, an upscale shopping and dining destination.
For house hunting, if you’re interested in planned communities you might look for a home in Cross Creek or Cinco Ranch. For something a little more small-town and historic, look for a home in Old Katy.
4) Pearland: One of the safest suburbs in Houston
- Average rent: Approximately $1,637/month
- Average home value: Approximately $375,000
- Best for: Families, professionals
- Known for: Rapid growth, Pearland Town Center, proximity to Medical Center
- Getting around: Near SH 288 and Beltway 8, METRO services
Heading south from Houston you’ll find the suburb of Pearland. Situated a little closer to Houston proper than some other suburbs listed here, Pearland has an established, diverse community due in no small part to the blend of suburban living and its more direct access to Houston’s urban areas. It’s also one of the safest neighborhoods in Houston outside of the city, thanks to a proactive police force.
In Pearland, housing is more affordable than many other neighborhoods and suburbs of Houston. It also supports a multicultural population and has good schools, making it ideal for young families.
There is plenty to do in Pearland, thanks to over 540 acres of city parks. Fun fact: It’s also home to one of the most prominent Hindu churches in the state, the Sri Meenakshi Temple.
5) Cypress: The place with the best suburban schools in Houston
- Average rent: Approximately $1,639/month
- Average home value: Approximately $398,000
- Best for: Families, nature lovers, retirees
- Known for: Master-planned communities, Bridgeland trails, Houston Premium Outlets
- Getting around: Accessible via US-290 and the Grand Parkway, suburban transit options
Located twenty-five miles northwest of downtown Houston, Cypress is a thriving suburban community known for its master-planned developments, excellent schools, and abundant parks. Communities in Cypress such as Bridgeland and Towne Lake feature modern homes, resort-style amenities, and scenic trails, making them perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
In Cypress you’ll find suburban peace together with modern convenience, thanks to shopping destinations such as Houston Premium Outlets and Cypress Town Center. The area is served by the highly rated Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District, which is rated in the top tier of schools by GreatSchools.org.
Recreation opportunities abound, with Zube Park, the BlackHorse Golf Club, and the Cypress Trails Equestrian Center. Cypress is also home to the Berry Center, an 11,000-seat stadium and theater that hosts major musical and touring acts.
6) Friendswood: The only Quaker-founded suburb in Texas
- Average rent: Approximately $1,522/month
- Average home value: Approximately $446,000
- Best for: Families, retirees, small-town charm seekers
- Known for: Historic feel, Stevenson Park, excellent schools
- Getting around: Close to I-45 and State Highway 35, car-dependent suburban set up
Friendswood is the only town in Texas initially established as a Quaker colony. While it isn’t exclusively a Quaker community today, its values of friendship, friendliness, and peace remain intact.
Located southeast of Houston, Friendswood is a charming suburb known for its historic feel, excellent schools, and family-oriented atmosphere. The community boasts spacious homes, tree-lined streets, and parks like Stevenson Park, which hosts family-friendly events throughout the year.
Friendswood offers a quiet, small-town vibe while providing easy access to both Houston and Galveston. Residents will enjoy boutique shopping, local dining, and outdoor activities, creating a balanced lifestyle that appeals to families and retirees alike.
7) Clear Lake: The best suburb for an active lifestyle
- Average rent: Approximately $1,352/month
- Average home value: Approximately $324,000
- Best for: Families, professionals, water enthusiasts
- Known for: NASA’s Johnson Space Center, waterfront living, Space Center Houston
- Getting around: Easy access via I-45, close to Houston and Galveston
Located near the Gulf Coast, Clear Lake is a vibrant Houston suburb known for its proximity to NASA’s Johnson Space Center and its waterfront lifestyle.
Boating, fishing, and water sports are central to life here, and unsurprisingly, Clear Lake is the nation’s third-largest pleasure boat basin, with marinas and scenic views along its shores.
The area also features plenty of family-friendly attractions, including Space Center Houston and the Armand Bayou Nature Center, which is ideal for hiking and wildlife exploration.
Engineers working with NASA or for the nearby Boeing or Lockheed-Martin offices often settle here, which means you’ll find a large concentration of wealthy, highly educated professionals. Its diverse housing and easy access to Houston and Galveston make it one of the best Houston suburbs for families, professionals, and retirees seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation.
8) Spring: An affordable suburb with a sense of culture
- Average rent: Approximately $1,529/month
- Average home value: Approximately $362,000
- Best for: Families, young professionals, suburban charm
- Known for: Old Town Spring, Spring Creek Greenway, affordable housing
- Getting around: Accessible via I-45 and the Hardy Toll Road, short drive to The Woodlands
Spring, located about twenty-five miles north of Houston, is a suburban gem known for its affordability, family-friendly atmosphere, and historic charm.
The area features a variety of attractions: Old Town Spring is a shopping district with unique boutiques, dining, and annual festivals. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the Spring Creek Greenway, which offers hiking and biking trails. And families will enjoy close proximity to Hurricane Harbor.
Spring is not without its share of cultural offerings. The Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Art alongside several smaller art galleries are open year-round, and in March the city hosts the Bayou City Art Festival.
Overall, this Houston suburb is very affordable and just far enough outside of Houston for those seeking a peaceful, secure vibe.
Which Houston Neighborhood Is Right for You?
Houston has you covered whether you’re looking for art, culture, nightlife, or quiet, family-friendly entertainment. Its dozens of neighborhoods and suburbs support the city's diverse and vibrant population. No matter where you choose to live, you’ll find plenty to keep you occupied.
However, make sure to do your homework before moving to Houston — a moving checklist goes a long way when making a big move! Understand and evaluate your unique needs and what you want from a neighborhood before making a permanent move.
Make the Move to One of Houston’s Best Neighborhoods or Suburbs
When you’re ready to take the leap and move to Houston, you can trust a moving partner like Colonial Van Lines to help you. With our full-service experience — from packing and loading to driving and unloading — Colonial can help take away a lot of the stress that comes with of relocating. To learn more, get a free quote.