Nestled in the heart of the Lone Star State, Houston, TX, has a distinctive charm and energy. Known for its proximity to Space Center Houston, food and arts scene, and a rich tapestry of neighborhoods, Houston offers a unique blend of experiences and lifestyles for its residents.
From the vibrant energy of Downtown to the tree-lined streets of the Heights, each neighborhood has a story to tell. For example, the average rent in Houston is $1,667, while the median sale price is $327,834.
In this Redfin guide, we’ll show you 17 of the most popular Houston neighborhoods, highlighting what makes each area unique. Whether you’re searching for apartments for rent in Houston or considering buying a home in the city-center, keep reading to find out which neighborhoods might suit your goals and lifestyle.
1. Chinatown
A vibrant enclave, Chinatown, is located in the southwestern part of the city. You can explore numerous authentic restaurants, bustling markets, and specialty stores that cater to Chinatown’s residents. Chinatown primarily features single-family homes with a variety of architectural styles, with some apartments and condos in the area.
Median Sale Price: $244,000
Homes for sale in Chinatown | Apartments for rent in Chinatown
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2. Downtown
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Situated in the heart of the city, Downtown Houston is the central business and cultural district of Houston. This neighborhood has several iconic attractions, including Discovery Green, a 12-acre urban park that hosts events, concerts, and recreational activities. Downtown Houston is also home to the Theater District, where you can enjoy world-class performances at venues like the Wortham Theater Center and the Alley Theatre. Historic sites such as the Market Square Park and the Heritage Society Museum at Sam Houston Park offer a glimpse into Houston’s past, while modern skyscrapers and a thriving culinary scene characterize its present. This neighborhood features a diverse range of housing options, including high-rise apartments, luxury condos, and historic loft conversions.
Median Sale Price: $299,000
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $2,209
Homes for sale in Downtown | Apartments for rent in Downtown
3. East Downtown
East Downtown, better known as EaDo, is located just east of Downtown Houston. A former industrial area, EaDo is known for its eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, and art galleries. Some notable attractions in the area include Shell Energy Stadium, home to the Houston Dynamo soccer team, and the We Love Houston Sign. EaDo’s vibrant atmosphere and proximity to downtown Houston offer plenty of opportunities for entertainment and exploration. The EaDo neighborhood consists of modern loft apartments and condos, which reflects the area’s contemporary atmosphere.
Median Sale Price: $414,950
Homes for sale in East Downtown | Apartments for rent in East Downtown
4. Energy Corridor
The Energy Corridor is a business and residential neighborhood located in the western part of Houston. It’s known as a hub for the energy industry, but also has many outdoor spots like Terry Hershey Park, a beautiful green space along Buffalo Bayou with trails for hiking and biking. Homes in the Energy Corridor neighborhood are usually single-family homes, townhouses, and spacious apartments, often in contemporary designs.
Median Sale Price: $547,500
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,175 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $1,572
Homes for sale in Energy Corridor | Apartments for rent in Energy Corridor
5. Greater Greenspoint
Situated in the northern part of Houston, the Greater Greenspoint neighborhood was historically an industrial and commercial area. Now it’s a residential neighborhood, alongside shopping centers like Greenspoint Mall and office complexes. You can find a few parks in the area including the Greens Bayou Greenway, a trail along the Greens Bayou. This neighborhood is also conveniently located near George Bush Intercontinental Airport. In terms of housing options, Greater Greenspoint offers a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments, providing a range of options.
Median Sale Price: $213,500
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $994 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $1,490
Homes for sale in Greater Greenspoint | Apartments for rent in Greater Greenspoint
6. Greater Third Ward
The Greater Third Ward neighborhood is located just southeast of downtown. Some prominent attractions in the Greater Third Ward include Emancipation Park, one of the oldest public parks in Texas, colleges like Texas Southern University and the University of Houston, and local restaurants. There are plenty of historic single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments in the Greater Third Ward. You can find a mix of styles as well like modern apartments and updated bungalow homes.
Median Sale Price: $213,500
Homes for sale in Greater Third Ward | Apartments for rent in Greater Third Ward
7. Greenway-Upper Kirby
A vibrant neighborhood, Greenway-Upper Kirby is located southwest of downtown Houston. In the area you’ll find the Kirby Collection, featuring shopping and dining options, and Levy Park which offers recreational activities, a playground, and community events. Greenway-Upper Kirby has plenty of architectural styles for its high-rise condos, mid-rise apartment buildings, and townhouses. For example, you’ll find homes and apartments in a mix of modern and Mediterranean influences, with sleek facades and lush landscaping.
Median Sale Price: $610,000
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,647 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $1,949
Homes for sale in Greenway-Upper Kirby | Apartments for rent in Greenway-Upper Kirby
8. The Heights
The Heights, also known as Houston Heights or Greater Heights, is a historic and charming neighborhood located just northwest of downtown, known for its tree-lined streets and historic architecture. This neighborhood has numerous parks, including the popular Heights Hike and Bike Trail along White Oak Bayou, as well as Donovan Park. The Heights is also famous for its eclectic mix of shops, boutiques, and restaurants along 19th Street, offering a stellar range of dining and shopping experiences.
With a rich history dating back to the late 19th century, this neighborhood retains a sense of nostalgia particularly in the area’s single-family homes. For example, homes come in a variety of styles like Victorian, Craftsman, bungalow, and Tudor, giving the area a unique and charming aesthetic. In addition to these iconic single-family houses, you can find townhomes and newer-construction condos.
Median Sale Price: $672,500
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,656 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $2,619
Homes for sale in The Heights | Apartments for rent in The Heights
9. Kingwood
Kingwood is a picturesque suburban neighborhood situated in the northeastern part of the city, while still being a convenient commute to downtown Houston. The Kingwood area is home to a variety of parks, including East End Park and River Grove Park, which provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. This area primarily consists of single-family homes, ranging from traditional ranch-style houses to more modern designs. You’ll find a mix of architectural styles, including Colonial, Mediterranean, and contemporary.
Median Sale Price: $349,900
Homes for sale in Kingwood | Apartments for rent in Kingwood
10. Memorial
Located in the western part of Houston, the Memorial neighborhood is known for its spacious properties and beautiful green spaces. The area is home to several parks as well as shopping and dining options at the nearby Memorial City Mall. Known for single-family homes, which often feature grand designs, large lots, and a mix of architectural styles like Colonial, Mediterranean, and modern, Memorial has a lot to offer homebuyers and renters. You can also find apartments and condos in a variety of styles.
Median Sale Price: $706,000
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,350 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $1,792
Homes for sale in Memorial | Apartments for rent in Memorial
11. Midtown
Midtown is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood south of downtown Houston. Some major attractions in Midtown include the Ensemble Theatre and the Midtown Arts and Theater Center Houston (MATCH), which hosts various events and performances. The neighborhood offers a range of dining options, bars, and nightlife, making it a great area for entertainment. Midtown is known for its contemporary high-rise condominiums and apartment buildings. While there are some historic townhouses and single-family homes, the neighborhood is mainly apartments and condos for those looking to experience the city life.
Median Sale Price: $394,950
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,619 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $1,954
Homes for sale in Midtown | Apartments for rent in Midtown
12. Museum District
The Museum District is a culturally rich and vibrant neighborhood named after the countless number of world-class museums and cultural institutions in the area. Some of these museums include The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, among others. The neighborhood is also home to Hermann Park, a large urban park with a beautiful reflection pool, gardens, the Houston Zoo, and the Miller Outdoor Theatre, which hosts free performances.
The Museum District is a hub for art, science, and culture, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in learning about Houston and beyond. The neighborhood features a mix of townhouses, luxury condominiums, and some single-family homes, often with architectural styles that blend contemporary and traditional elements.
Median Sale Price: $579,500
Homes for sale in Museum District | Apartments for rent in Museum District
13. Neartown-Montrose
The Neartown-Montrose neighborhood encompasses Montrose and several other historic neighborhoods, making it a hub for art, culture, and creativity. Major attractions in Neartown-Montrose include the Menil Collection, a renowned art museum, and the vibrant Montrose District, known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and nightlife. The neighborhood also features many parks, including the scenic Buffalo Bayou Park and the beautifully landscaped Cherryhurst Park. Neartown-Montrose offers an eclectic blend of architectural styles, including historic bungalows, Craftsman homes, Mediterranean-inspired designs, and modern townhouses. In addition to single-family homes, you can find apartments and condos.
Median Sale Price: $650,000
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,979 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $3,124
Homes for sale in Neartown-Montrose | Apartments for rent in Neartown-Montrose
14. Rice Military/Washington Corridor
West of downtown is Rice Military/Washington Corridor, known for its mix of residential, commercial, and entertainment options. Major attractions in the area include Washington Avenue, a bustling nightlife and dining district known for its bars and restaurants. This area has plenty of modern townhouses and condos, featuring sleek and contemporary architectural designs.
Median Sale Price: $469,000
Homes for sale in Rice Military/Washington Corridor | Apartments for rent in Rice Military/Washington Corridor
15. River Oaks
River Oaks is situated just south of the Rice Military/Washington Corridor area. The neighborhood is known for its stately mansions, and tree-lined streets, bordered by The River Oaks Country Club, a private golf and tennis club. You’ll find a few parks located throughout the neighborhood as well as local restaurants and the Rienzi, Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. River Oaks primarily consists of single-family homes, often in styles like Colonial Revival, Mediterranean, and French Revival.
Median Sale Price: $850,000
Homes for sale in River Oaks | Apartments for rent in River Oaks
16. Second Ward
A historic neighborhood, the Second Ward is just east of downtown. Dating back to the 19th century, this neighborhood was one of the original four wards of Houston. Major attractions in the Second Ward include Guadalupe Plaza Park, a green space that hosts community events and festivals, and the iconic Ninfa’s on Navigation, a beloved Tex-Mex restaurant that has been a local institution for decades. The neighborhood is also home to several historic churches and buildings, reflecting Houston’s history. Second Ward features a blend of older, traditional single-family homes, in styles like Craftsman or Victorian, alongside contemporary townhouses and apartment complexes.
Median Sale Price: $398,500
Homes for sale in Second Ward | Apartments for rent in Second Ward
17. Uptown-Galleria
Uptown-Galleria is a bustling area known for its shopping and fine dining options. The Galleria is a major attraction in the area, offering a vast selection of designer boutiques, department stores, and restaurants. You can also find the iconic Gerald D. Hines Waterfall Park located in this neighborhood, featuring a 64-foot waterfall. The housing options in Uptown-Galleria are typically high-rise apartments and condos with modern amenities. Additionally, you may be able to find some single family homes.
Median Sale Price: $285,000
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,465 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $2,192
Homes for sale in Uptown-Galleria | Apartments for rent in Uptown-Galleria
Methodology: All neighborhoods must be listed as a “neighborhood” on Redfin.com. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during September 2023. Average rental data from Rent.com during September 2023.
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