Top 20 Houston neighborhoods. The emoji-friendly guide 🏙️🚀

April 17, 2023 · 14 min read

This guide lists 20 of the best neighborhoods in Houston, Texas, and provides information on why someone might want to live there, the kind of people who live there, attractions, famous landmarks, businesses, median house pricing, average prices for studio, 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom apartments, pedestrian-friendliness, public transportation availability, and pet-friendliness. The neighborhoods covered include River Oaks, Midtown, West University, Rice Military, Upper Kirby, Galleria/Uptown, Downtown, EaDo, The Woodlands, Bellaire, Spring Branch, Sugar Land, Memorial, Montrose, The Heights, Clear Lake, Cypress, and Pearland. Emojis are included for each neighborhood.

Montrose 🎭🎨🌈

Why live there: Known for its diverse culture, walkability, and vibrant arts scene, Montrose is a great place for anyone who wants to experience Houston's creative side.
Kind of people live there: Montrose is home to a diverse mix of people, including artists, students, young professionals, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Attractions: There are plenty of things to do in Montrose, including visiting the Menil Collection museum, checking out the street art, and shopping at local boutiques and vintage stores.
Famous for: Montrose is known for its unique architecture, with many historic homes and buildings dating back to the early 1900s.
Businesses: Montrose is filled with unique businesses, from independent bookstores to artisanal coffee shops to funky thrift stores.
Median house pricing: $630,000
Average price for studio: $1,100
Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,400
Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $2,100
Pedestrian-friendly: Yes
Public transportation available: Yes
Pet friendly: Yes

The Heights 🏡🍴🚲

Why live there: The Heights is known for its small-town feel, historic homes, and excellent dining options.
Kind of people live there: The Heights is home to a mix of families, young professionals, and artists.
Attractions: You can spend your days in The Heights exploring the numerous parks and trails, shopping at local boutiques, or trying out the many restaurants and bars.
Famous for: The Heights is known for its historic homes and beautiful tree-lined streets.
Businesses: The Heights is home to a number of small businesses, including vintage stores, coffee shops, and restaurants.
Median house pricing: $690,000
Average price for studio: $1,000
Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,400
Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $2,200
Pedestrian-friendly: Yes
Public transportation available: Yes
Pet friendly: Yes

River Oaks 🏘️💰🏞️

Why live there: River Oaks is one of Houston's most affluent neighborhoods, known for its luxurious homes and beautiful parks.
Kind of people live there: River Oaks is home to many wealthy families and successful professionals.
Attractions: There are plenty of things to do in River Oaks, including visiting the River Oaks Country Club, exploring the Buffalo Bayou Park, and shopping at the River Oaks Shopping Center.
Famous for: River Oaks is known for its grand mansions, which are some of the most expensive homes in the city.
Businesses: River Oaks is home to high-end boutiques, restaurants, and other businesses catering to its wealthy residents.
Median house pricing: $2.7 million
Average price for studio: N/A
Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,800
Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $3,000
Pedestrian-friendly: Yes
Public transportation available: Yes
Pet friendly: Yes

Midtown 🍻🍔🏙️

Why live there: Midtown is a bustling neighborhood known for its nightlife, dining, and entertainment options.
Kind of people live there: Midtown is popular with young professionals, students, and artists.
Attractions: There's always something happening in Midtown, whether it's a live music show at a local bar, a food festival, or an art exhibit.
Famous for: Midtown is known for its vibrant street life and diverse population.
Businesses: Midtown is filled with trendy bars, restaurants, and boutique shops, as well as co-working spaces and tech startups.
Median house pricing: $420,000
Average price for studio: $1,200
Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,500
Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $2,500
Pedestrian-friendly: Yes
Public transportation available: Yes
Pet friendly: Yes

West University 🏫👨‍👩‍👧‍👦🌳

Why live there: West University is a family-friendly neighborhood with top-rated schools and plenty of parks and green spaces.
Kind of people live there: West University is home to many families with children, as well as students and young professionals.
Attractions: There are numerous parks and playgrounds in West University, as well as the Rice Village shopping district.
Famous for: West University is known for its excellent schools and high property values.
Businesses: The neighborhood has a mix of independent businesses and national chains, including grocery stores, coffee shops, and restaurants.
Median house pricing: $1.3 million
Average price for studio: N/A
Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,400
Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $2,500
Pedestrian-friendly: Yes
Public transportation available: Yes
Pet friendly: Yes

Upper Kirby 🛍️🍽️🏙️

Why live there: Upper Kirby is a trendy neighborhood known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Kind of people live there: Upper Kirby is popular with young professionals, students, and foodies.
Attractions: The neighborhood has a number of shopping centers, restaurants, and bars, as well as parks and trails along the Buffalo Bayou.
Famous for: Upper Kirby is known for its upscale shopping and dining options.
Businesses: Upper Kirby is home to high-end retailers, restaurants, and art galleries, as well as several fitness studios and boutique shops.
Median house pricing: $770,000
Average price for studio: $1,300
Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,600
Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $2,500
Pedestrian-friendly: Yes
Public transportation available: Yes
Pet friendly: Yes

Rice Military 🏋️‍♀️🍻🏡

Why live there: Rice Military is a popular neighborhood for young professionals and fitness enthusiasts, with plenty of gyms and fitness studios.
Kind of people live there: Rice Military is home to a mix of young professionals, artists, and families.
Attractions: The neighborhood has several parks and trails along the Buffalo Bayou, as well as a number of bars and restaurants.
Famous for: Rice Military is known for its convenient location and affordable housing options.
Businesses: Rice Military has a mix of independent businesses and national chains, including grocery stores, coffee shops, and restaurants.
Median house pricing: $520,000
Average price for studio: $1,100
Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,500
Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $2,200
Pedestrian-friendly: Yes
Public transportation available: Yes
Pet friendly: Yes

Museum District 🎨🏛️

Why live there: The Museum District is a great place to live if you're interested in art, culture, and education, with several world-class museums and universities located in the neighborhood.
Kind of people live there: The neighborhood attracts a diverse mix of people, including students, artists, and academics.
Attractions: The Museum District is home to several museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and the Children's Museum of Houston.
Famous for: The Museum District is known for its many museums and cultural institutions.
Businesses: The neighborhood has a mix of restaurants, cafes, and shops catering to its diverse population.
Median house pricing: $590,000
Average price for studio: $1,200
Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,500
Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $2,500
Pedestrian-friendly: Yes
Public transportation available: Yes
Pet friendly: Yes

Downtown 🏙️🍸🏢

Why live there: Downtown Houston is a bustling commercial center, with plenty of job opportunities and entertainment options.
Kind of people live there: Downtown is popular with young professionals, artists, and students.
Attractions: The neighborhood has several parks and public spaces, as well as the Toyota Center and Minute Maid Park sports arenas.
Famous for: Downtown Houston is known for its skyscrapers and bustling business district.
Businesses: The neighborhood has a mix of high-end restaurants, bars, and clubs, as well as offices for major corporations.
Median house pricing: $350,000
Average price for studio: $1,100
Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,600
Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $2,800
Pedestrian-friendly: Yes
Public transportation available: Yes
Pet friendly: Yes

EaDo 🎶🎭🍔

Why live there: EaDo (East Downtown) is a vibrant neighborhood known for its live music venues, theaters, and eclectic dining options.
Kind of people live there: EaDo is popular with young professionals, artists, and musicians.
Attractions: The neighborhood has several music venues, theaters, and art galleries, as well as parks and trails along the Buffalo Bayou.
Famous for: EaDo is known for its artistic and creative community.
Businesses: The neighborhood has a mix of independent businesses and national chains, including restaurants, bars, and coffee shops.
Median house pricing: $440,000
Average price for studio: $1,100
Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,400
Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $2,100
Pedestrian-friendly: Yes
Public transportation available: Yes
Pet friendly: Yes

The Woodlands 🌳🛍️👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Why live there: The Woodlands is a family-friendly suburb located just north of Houston, known for its beautiful parks, top-rated schools, and shopping centers.
Kind of people live there: The Woodlands is home to many families and retirees.
Attractions: The neighborhood has several parks and trails, as well as the Woodlands Mall and the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion outdoor amphitheater.
Famous for: The Woodlands is known for its natural beauty and suburban lifestyle.
Businesses: The neighborhood has a mix of independent businesses and national chains, including grocery stores, restaurants, and boutiques.
Median house pricing: $420,000
Average price for studio: N/A
Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,200
Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $1,800
Pedestrian-friendly: Yes
Public transportation available: Limited
Pet friendly: Yes

Bellaire 🏡👨‍👩‍👧‍👦🌳

Why live there: Bellaire is a family-friendly neighborhood located just southwest of Houston, known for its top-rated schools and beautiful parks.
Kind of people live there: Bellaire is popular with families and retirees.
Attractions: The neighborhood has several parks and playgrounds, as well as a small downtown area with shops and restaurants.
Famous for: Bellaire is known for its excellent schools and high property values.
Businesses: The neighborhood has a mix of independent businesses and national chains, including grocery stores, restaurants, and coffee shops.
Median house pricing: $1.2 million
Average price for studio: N/A
Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,200
Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $1,800
Pedestrian-friendly: Yes
Public transportation available: Limited
Pet friendly: Yes

Spring Branch 🏘️🛍️🌳

Why live there: Spring Branch is a diverse neighborhood located just northwest of Houston, known for its affordable housing and convenient location.
Kind of people live there: Spring Branch is home to a mix of families, young professionals, and immigrants.
Attractions: The neighborhood has several parks and shopping centers, as well as the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center.
Famous for: Spring Branch is known for its affordable housing options and multicultural community.
Businesses: The neighborhood has a mix of independent businesses and national chains, including grocery stores, restaurants, and boutique shops.
Median house pricing: $330,000
Average price for studio: $900
Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,100
Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $1,600
Pedestrian-friendly: Limited
Public transportation available: Limited
Pet friendly: Yes

Sugar Land 🌳🛍️👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Why live there: Sugar Land is a family-friendly suburb located just southwest of Houston, known for its top-rated schools, beautiful parks, and shopping centers.
Kind of people live there: Sugar Land is home to many families and retirees.
Attractions: The neighborhood has several parks and trails, as well as the Sugar Land Town Square shopping center.
Famous for: Sugar Land is known for its excellent schools and high property values.
Businesses: The neighborhood has a mix of independent businesses and national chains, including grocery stores, restaurants, and boutique shops.
Median house pricing: $480,000
Average price for studio: N/A
Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,200
Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $1,800
Pedestrian-friendly: Yes
Public transportation available: Limited
Pet friendly: Yes

Memorial 🌳🏞️💰

Why live there: Memorial is a wealthy neighborhood located just west of downtown Houston, known for its beautiful parks and high property values.
Kind of people live there: Memorial is home to many wealthy families and successful professionals.
Attractions: The neighborhood has several parks and trails, including Memorial Park and the Buffalo Bayou Park, as well as high-end shopping centers.
Famous for: Memorial is known for its upscale living and high property values.
Businesses: The neighborhood has a mix of high-end restaurants, luxury boutiques, and upscale shopping centers, as well as offices for major corporations.
Median house pricing: $1.2 million
Average price for studio: N/A
Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,700
Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $2,700
Pedestrian-friendly: Yes
Public transportation available: Limited
Pet friendly: Yes

Montrose 🎭🎨🍽️

Why live there: Montrose is a bohemian neighborhood located just west of downtown Houston, known for its arts and culture scene, eclectic dining options, and LGBT community.
Kind of people live there: Montrose is home to a diverse mix of people, including artists, musicians, students, and members of the LGBT community.
Attractions: The neighborhood has several art galleries, theaters, and music venues, as well as a number of independent shops and restaurants.
Famous for: Montrose is known for its arts and culture scene, as well as its vibrant LGBT community.
Businesses: The neighborhood has a mix of independent businesses and national chains, including bars, restaurants, and boutiques.
Median house pricing: $650,000
Average price for studio: $1,100
Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,400
Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $2,200
Pedestrian-friendly: Yes
Public transportation available: Yes
Pet friendly: Yes

The Heights 🏡🎶🍔

Why live there: The Heights is a historic neighborhood located just northwest of downtown Houston, known for its charming architecture, live music scene, and eclectic dining options.
Kind of people live there: The Heights is popular with young professionals, artists, and musicians.
Attractions: The neighborhood has several music venues, theaters, and art galleries, as well as parks and trails along the White Oak Bayou.
Famous for: The Heights is known for its historic homes and creative community.
Businesses: The neighborhood has a mix of independent businesses and national chains, including restaurants, bars, and coffee shops.
Median house pricing: $700,000
Average price for studio: $1,100
Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,400
Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $2,200
Pedestrian-friendly: Yes
Public transportation available: Yes
Pet friendly: Yes

Clear Lake 🏖️🚤👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Why live there: Clear Lake is a waterfront neighborhood located just southeast of Houston, known for its boating and beach activities.
Kind of people live there: Clear Lake is home to many families and retirees.
Attractions: The neighborhood has several parks and beaches, as well as the Johnson Space Center and the Kemah Boardwalk.
Famous for: Clear Lake is known for its waterfront lifestyle and beach activities.
Businesses: The neighborhood has a mix of independent businesses and national chains, including restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops.
Median house pricing: $400,000
Average price for studio: N/A
Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,000
Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $1,600
Pedestrian-friendly: Limited
Public transportation available: Limited
Pet friendly: Yes

Cypress 🌳🏡🛍

Why live there: Cypress is a suburban neighborhood located just northwest of Houston, known for its affordable housing, top-rated schools, and shopping centers.
Kind of people live there: Cypress is home to many families and retirees.
Attractions: The neighborhood has several parks and trails, as well as the Houston Premium Outlets shopping center.
Famous for: Cypress is known for its affordable housing and suburban lifestyle.
Businesses: The neighborhood has a mix of independent businesses and national chains, including grocery stores, restaurants, and boutiques.
Median house pricing: $320,000
Average price for studio: N/A
Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,000
Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $1,500
Pedestrian-friendly: Limited
Public transportation available: Limited
Pet friendly: Yes

Pearland 🌳👨‍👩‍👧‍👦🛍️

Why live there: Pearland is a family-friendly suburb located just south of Houston, known for its top-rated schools, beautiful parks, and shopping centers.
Kind of people live there: Pearland is home to many families and retirees.
Attractions: The neighborhood has several parks and trails, as well as the Pearland Town Center shopping center.
Famous for: Pearland is known for its excellent schools and suburban lifestyle.
Businesses: The neighborhood has a mix of independent businesses and national chains, including grocery stores, restaurants, and boutique shops.
Median house pricing: $330,000
Average price for studio: N/A
Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,100
Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $1,700
Pedestrian-friendly: Limited
Public transportation available: LimitedPet friendly: Yes

The final notes

If you're looking to relocate to Houston, there are many factors to consider when researching neighborhoods. Here are some final notes to help guide your search:

Research extensively before making a decision. Look into multiple neighborhoods and take your time before making a choice. 📚
Consider your lifestyle and priorities when choosing a neighborhood. Think about factors such as proximity to work, schools, public transportation, and entertainment options. 🏢🏫🚌🎭
Look for neighborhoods that offer a diverse mix of residents and a sense of community. This can provide a richer cultural experience and help you feel more at home. 👥🌍
Check the median house pricing and average rent for apartments in the area to make sure it fits your budget. 💰
Consider the neighborhood's walkability, access to public transportation, and pet-friendliness if you have pets or prefer to walk or use public transit. 🚶🚌🐶
Research the neighborhood's history and landmarks to get a sense of its character and culture. 🏛️🏰
Look into the businesses in the area, such as restaurants, cafes, and shops, to see if they align with your preferences. 🍴🛍️
Take a drive or walk through the neighborhood to get a feel for its atmosphere and sense of community. 🚶🚗
Check the schools in the area if you have children or plan to in the future. 🏫👩‍👧‍👦
Finally, trust your instincts - if a neighborhood feels like the right fit for you, it probably is. 💭

Overall, Houston offers a diverse range of neighborhoods to suit various lifestyles and preferences. By taking the time to research and explore, you can find the perfect neighborhood to call home. Good luck with your search!

by Eugene Smirnov

Top 20 Houston neighborhoods. The emoji-friendly guide 🏙️🚀

The final notes

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