Houston Neighborhoods – Bellaire and West University

Just west of the Medical Center, you’ll find Bellaire, West University Place and The City of Southside Place. These three actually aren’t neighborhoods at all. They’re small cities that have never been annexed by Houston. The city of Houston has just wrapped herself around them; yet, they still operate independently. Since these areas are private cities collecting their own property taxes, they offer some of the best schools in the HISD system. They’re also very close to the Texas Medical Center with only a 5-10 minute drive, but far enough away to avoid all the noise. As you drive through these areas, you’ll notice a large number of beautiful, custom built homes which start in the million dollar range. The areas are well maintained with all the services you would expect of a city: trash pick-up, water systems, parks, curbs and streetlights, and police. If your budget allows, this is an area to buy a home and settle into it for a long time.

Walkability ★☆☆☆☆

These cities are a bit like suburbs in the big city.  Even though they’re surrounded by Houston, effort is put forth to ensure there is a noticeable difference when you enter the city limits. As such, the areas are charming little residential neighborhoods with plenty of trees. Grocery and restaurants are nearby and possibly even walking distance, but I wouldn’t say this is “walkable” in the traditional sense. A Whole Foods can be found on Bellaire Boulevard and regional chains are also around.

Transportation ★★☆☆☆

There are METRO bus stations throughout and nicely appointed; so, they blend in with the quality of homes in the area. This part of Houston has a lot of affluence; so, public transport isn’t needed as much.

Dining ★★★☆☆

There are many restaurants along Holcombe Boulevard, Bellaire Boulevard, Weslayan Street and Buffalo Speedway to choose from, and most are local spots. Molina’s Cantina has been serving delicious Tex-Mex since 1941 and Island Grill offers some of the healthiest and tastiest Mediterranean food I have ever eaten. If you really get a craving for something different, Rice Village is just a short 5 minute drive.

Nightlife ★☆☆☆☆

There’s a neighborhood pub here and there, most notably Little Woodrow’s on Bellaire and Marquis II on Bissonnet. Marquis II is famous for their Texas Tea that they have been slingin’ since 1945! There’s certainly a wine bar or lounge as well, but this really is a residential neighborhood. If you really want to get silly, head on over to Rice Village.

Pet Friendly ★★★★☆

There are only a couple of apartment complexes in the area and they’re new. They’re very pet friendly and have great outdoor space for the furry guys to get their energy out. Most of the homes will have yards and just like Rice Village, the streets are canopied in trees which make daily walks a pleasure. The Danny Jackson Bark Park with 2.5 acres of fun and two swimming ponds is only a 5 minute drive.

Average Home Purchase Price: $999,642*

Average One Bedroom Rental Rate – Privately Owned: $1,194**

Average One Bedroom Rental Rate – Class A Apartment: $1,282***

*data calculated on May 5, 2015 from HAR.com using houses, townhouses & condominiums sold in the “Bellaire, West University & Southside Place ” market areas in the previous 90 days with at least 1 bedroom and an average square footage of 3285 square feet. This average rate does not take into account studio or efficiency condominiums.

** data calculated on May 5, 2015 from HAR.com using one bedroom condominiums and apartments leased in the “Bellaire, West University & Southside Place ” market areas in the previous 90 days ranging in size, quality and condition. This average rate does not take into account studio or efficiency lease options.

*** data calculated on May 5, 2015 using the most recent “best rate available within 60 days” published on UrbanLeasing.com for traditional one bedroom one bathroom apartments at Class A apartment communities in the “Bellaire, West University & Southside Place” market areas that are within the geographical boundaries of Memorial Heights. A “Class A” apartment is new or recently updated, well maintained and offers luxury finishes, gated access, on-site parking, washer and dryer, and amenities include at minimum a pool, fitness center and cyber café. This average rate does not take into consideration studio or efficiency apartment homes. The team at UrbanLeasing.com updates rates on a daily basis as market data becomes available.

Is there a neighborhood you would like to know more about? Do you have questions or comments? Leave a note in the comments section below.