Houston is a massive city that stretches approximately 600 square miles, making it one of the ten biggest cities in the U.S. by area, according to the World Population Review in 2023. It is a vast metropolis with busy streets, famous for its powerful economy and world-class commercial destinations. Finding the right place to have a home in such a large city can be challenging.
Luckily, Houston is composed of diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct features, from scenic trails to a busy nightlife. Let’s look at some neighborhoods in and around Houston that are ideal places to settle down.
Memorial
Memorial is a neighborhood that stands out as a perfect option for families. Highly-rated schools and a safe, suburban vibe contribute to this neighborhood’s appeal. Memorial has tree-lined residential streets and large public parks, including Terry Hershey Park, that are filled with children and outdoor enthusiasts on the weekends. It also includes a significant stretch of the Energy Corridor, making it a convenient place to live for employees in this industry.
West University Place
West University Place, better known as West University, is a scenic and affluent suburb just outside of Houston that allows for easy access to the city’s bustling business centers. It has high-quality schools and appealing mansions.
Tanglewood
Tanglewood is a highly sought-after neighborhood in Houston with key traits a modern buyer typically seeks: high real estate appreciation rates, quality schools, and a welcoming community. Boasting excellent safety ratings, affluent residents, and nearby commercial areas with cafes, shops, and restaurants, Tanglewood offers a more boutique and local feel than some of Houston’s busier areas. This pleasant community also has public parks and trails for running and hiking.
Montrose
Montrose, a cultural hotspot, is one of the centers of Houston’s nightlife and food scene and a hub for shopping. It has an eclectic feel and has long been known for its gay bars, vintage stores, and cafes. Montrose is especially popular for young people, with delicious restaurants, ranging from low-key eateries to upscale destinations, as well as many galleries and entertainment venues throughout the area. Eleanor Tinsley Park is perfect for relaxing and enjoying panoramic views of the Houston skyline.
Kingwood
Kingwood is a vast master-planned community comprising more than 14,000 acres in the northeastern region of Houston. It has a more suburban feel, largely due to the natural settings that it is known for. Kingwood is surrounded by densely-forested public parks to explore and is close to Lake Houston and its trails along the water. Kingwood has numerous amenities that make it a popular option for a diverse group of residents, including small shops, big-box retailers, delicious dining, and busy commercial centers.
River Oaks
River Oaks is a wealthy neighborhood in Houston, home to many of the city’s affluent and famous residents. It is situated near Memorial Park and is blanketed in trees, giving it an earthy feel. The community has an excellent arts scene highlighted by Rienzi, a Museum of Fine Arts satellite that houses elegant European decorative arts, paintings, furnishings, and more. River Oaks also has fine dining destinations, luxury beauty bars, and River Oaks Shopping Center, which is one of the city’s top upscale shopping destinations.
