The Cheapest areas to live in Houston, Texas

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The Cheapest areas to live in Houston, Texas

*Originally published by Lilian on April 2022 and Updated by Vanessa R in April 2023 

Huston is one of the fastest-growing cities in Texas. And as such, it is home to about 25 Fortune companies and is famous for its barbecue and different sports.

Another amazing fact about Houston is that the city has several family-friendly activities, and offers several entry-level housing too.

In Houston, every dollar goes a little further to offer you the best deal. While they say everything in Texas is big, you may not want to spend all your big money paying rent or mortgage.

You are probably looking for an affordable home, proximity to social amenities, and a friendly neighborhood.

Well, I got you covered. You will get to read about some of the best areas that are cheap to live in.

In this blog today, we will be looking at the location, rental rates, and amenities available.

Read more on the cheapest areas to live in Houston.

1. Clear Lake City

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This first neighborhood is perfect if you are looking for a quiet area with lush green spaces. What is more, Clear Lake City is one of the safest areas in Houston.

If you love sailing, look no more than Clear Lake city. This city is home to several techies and engineers that work at NASA’s Johnson Space Center.

Its location is conveniently placed near several attractions in Houston. Clear Lake City is near Galveston, Kemah Boardwalk, and downtown Houston which is a museum district.

Practical Information:

Home Price: $121,525 median purchase

Rent: $793 median monthly

Perfect For: Students, families, retirees

2. Alvin

Alvin is located between Houston and the Gulf of Mexico, this makes it a perfect location in case you need to get on the water or go to the City.

One of the main attractions of Alvin is its affordability and the space of the houses. Most of the houses here are ranch-style or storeyed.

It is also home to the Alvin Community College which has attracted several students to settle in the area.

When it comes to restaurants, several family restaurants offer a variety of affordable dining options. You can also shop at the Treasure Troll thrift store.

This area is great for those that love a calm environment and relaxation. Further, it is mostly populated by senior homeowners.  There are spacious yards perfect for families.

Practical Information:

Median home value: $107,600

Ideal for young singles, seniors, and young professionals.

3. Kingwood 

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This next area is great for those that want to raise a family in a quiet neighborhood. In addition, it was voted as one of the safest neighborhoods in Houston.

The area is green with several trees earning it the nickname ‘the liveable Forest’, a great escape from the city. This forest is 75 miles and surrounds the suburb.

It is perfect for bike riding with the kids, walking, or jogging.  Moreover, you can access great schools in the Humble Independent School District. You may consider Kingwood in your search for affordable places to live in.

While looking for an affordable area to live in, a family-friendly, well-put community is what you need. At kingwood, you will find families with similar interests come together during the holidays for games and fun for the kids.

Practical Information:

Perfect for: families, retirees, young professionals

Median Home Value: $246,707

Median Rent: $1,558

4. Stafford

The city of Stafford is located southwest of Houston. It has been attracting new homeowners since it does not have property tax for its commercial and residential properties.

In return, that has led to the growth of the city due to high employment rates. This city offers great entertainment for its residents like the Stafford Centre Performing Arts Theatre and is home to the Margaret Havens Historical Memorial Gardens.

You need not worry about being far from Houston because Stafford is just a few minutes away from the big city.

If you are looking for single-family homes and a big yard, then you are highly likely going to find them at Stafford.  

Enjoy a meal with the family in any of the restaurants that cater to families. When it comes to learning institutions, there is Houston Community College offers a quality education at a reasonable price.

Practical Information:

Perfect for: Families, Retirees, students

Home Value: $180,400

Rent: $1,222

5. West University Place

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West University Place has been named America’s best city to live in by 24/7 Wall St. Some of the attractions of this Texan city are its strong job market, several restaurants, bars, museums, and theatres within the area.

Locally known as ‘West U’, this is one of the best neighborhoods in Houston for families. It is conveniently located near Rice University and downtown Houston.

Several of the families that live here have school-going children. This means that there are great schools.

Other great amenities here include Texas Medical Centre, Hermann Park, Houston’s 12-block Museum District, theatre, opera, and ballet.

Practical Information:

Home Value: $700,000

6. Richmond

In this neighborhood, you will find several different selections of affordable single-family starter homes and new construction ranch-style homes.

Living here, you will get to access public amenities like the George Memorial Library and George Park’s football, soccer, baseball, and volleyball.

Its other attractions include the Fort Bend Museum and George Ranch Historical Park.

Richmond Texas is safe has a beautiful environment, and has low tax rates. When it comes to schools, there are excellent parochial and private schools, Wharton County Junior College and Texas State Technical College.

7. Midtown

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Midtown is located close to Downtown Houston. This neighborhood is safer than the other surrounding areas. It is one of the best neighborhoods in Houston if you’re looking for affordability and a great location.

With a low crime rate, you can easily access the METRORail system, excellent walkability, and plenty of job opportunities.

Several of the homes here are rented and owned by single people and young professionals.  

Midtown is known for its popular bar and nightlife scene, thriving dining culture as well as other entertainment options.

Practical Information:

Website: https://midtownhouston.com

8. Spring Branch

Photo by Dillon Kydd on Unsplash

This neighborhood is located just outside the I-610 Loop. If you happen to be looking for a place perfect for your family, then Spring Branch has got you.

The homes here are affordable, with streets lined with oak trees and several parks. If you choose to live here, you will be a short drive from Downtown Houston.

It is also close to the Memorial City Medical Centre and great schools within the Spring Branch Independent School District.

The majority of the homes here are renovated older bungalows and ranch-style houses at an affordable price.

With its convenient location, this neighborhood is favorable for young families, young professionals, and seniors too.

 9. Northshore

For people who want to avoid the city’s noise and bustle without moving too far from it, this neighbourhood is the perfect place to live. The neighbourhood parks in Northshore are a hit with retirees, nature enthusiasts, and young families.

Sheer greenery, shimmering ponds, walking pathways, a playground, and a picnic area make Herman Brown Park a well-liked place to unwind. For sports fans, there are other fields for softball, baseball, and soccer.

Dogs can run free off-leash in approved portions of the 13-acre Maxey Park, which is close by. You may take your furry friends to Maxey Park, which also includes pet baths and water fountains. Northshore should be seriously taken into consideration as one of Houston’s most cost-effective neighbourhoods.

 10. South Park

South Park, as the name suggests, is a neighbourhood on Houston’s south side. Businesses, salons, and barbershops are scattered across this peaceful area. Trails, a golf course, and an indoor learning centre are all included in F.M. Law Park. In addition, South Park will soon include more attractions.

Southern Snow Park will open in this Houston suburb this year (2023). Regardless of the actual weather outside, you can ski, snowboard and practise different runs at Southern Snow Park, an entertainment park with a 3-D mountain.

 11. Lawndale-Wayside

The city’s southeast corner is where Lawndale-Wayside is located. Historically significant green spaces are one of its defining characteristics. A historic landmark in the area, Gus Wortham Park Golf Course has been there for more than a century. As a matter of fact, it’s the state of Texas’s oldest golf course still in use.

They have a lot of family-friendly activities that are affordable and totally worth it especially for a family.

Several of the residents here work in the city and return home to their suburban homes in the evenings.