The Woodlands in Texas embodies everything that’s great about The Lone Star State – lively, picturesque, family-friendly, and community oriented. Located just 30 minutes north of Houston, this master-planned community attracts a lot of young professionals planning their career trajectory, as well as families dreaming of a better future for their children. If you’re looking for the perfect place to call home, here’s why you should start looking into The Woodlands, Texas real estate market ASAP.
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THE WOODLANDS, TX OVERVIEW
As part of the Greater Houston area, The Woodlands is an excellent suburb boasting a range of modern amenities that meet the everyday needs of everyone. It is home to over 43,000 households and nearly 120,000 residents who enjoy its family-centric environment. Those who love the outdoors and the adventures it promises will also relish living here. So will ambitious professionals who see career opportunities in the robust job market .
Historical highlights
Located within Montgomery County, The Woodlands occupies a total land area of 43.3 square miles at the southern side of the Eastern Cross Timbers forest region. It was founded in 1974 by George Mitchell, an oil magnate and real estate investor who sought to build an upscale community destined to be the benchmark for urban living and accessibility in the region.
Here’s how this patch of land became the desired community it is today.
- George Mitchell purchased the land of the Grogan’s Cochran Lumber Company in 1964, which included the 2,800-acre land that would become part of The Woodlands. Ten years and 300 transactions later, Mitchell added 17,455 more acres to his land purchase.
- In a span of five years, from 1971 to 1976, the community opened its first public school, and its first two planned villages, Grogan’s Mill and The Village of Panther Creek.
- As villages and neighborhoods expanded, so did the amenities, which included a supermarket, a hospital, and Lake Woodlands, a 200-acre manmade freshwater lake encircled by offices and shops,
- Development saw the population of The Woodlands surpass 30,000 in the 1990s.
- The Town Center, which was established in 1993, became the main hub for shopping, dining, entertainment, and employment. The Waterway Square in The Town Center features office spaces, retail stores, hotels, and more. This hub is also the site of Hughes Landing, a 79-acre mixed-use development with shops, restaurants, and other commercial amenities.
What The Woodlands is known for
The Woodlands has consistently ranked in Niche.com’s list of Best Cities to Live in America, placing in the Top 3 for the past few years.
- As a suburb of the Greater Houston area, The Woodlands boasts a richer natural environment than Houston, allowing for a great number of outdoor activities to enjoy like hiking, biking, camping, swimming, boating, and kayaking.
- Houston is just a short drive via I-45 with residents getting the best of suburban living along with big-city access to entertainment, sporting events, shopping, and other lifestyle amenities.
- Nearby Conroe with its 21,000-acre lake serve as the region’s major recreational destination (11 miles north)
The Woodlands has such an enviable location that many top corporations have headquarters or major branches here.
- Over 2,200 corporations operate in and around The Woodlands.
- Major companies with a presence in The Woodlands include Chicago Bridge and Iron, Crane ChemPharma, Huntsman Chemicals, Chevron Phillips, Occidental Petroleum, TETRA Technologies, and world headquarters for Exxon Mobil.
HOMES FOR SALE IN THE WOODLANDS, TX
The Woodlands is made up of 9 residential villages each with unique characteristics and design styles. Depending on the community, homebuyers will find a combination of single-family homes, townhomes, waterfront homes, and golf course properties, as well as luxury condos and opulent estates.
The price of houses for sale in The Woodlands, TX typically range from the lower six figures to multi-million dollars for custom homes in sprawling estates and gated communities. The good news is that there are plenty of homes for sale in The Woodlands, TX that are relatively affordable compared to America’s biggest cities.
Plus, residents are never far from awesome green spaces, excellent schools, and stellar shopping and dining options. It’s no wonder The Woodlands ranks number one in Niche.com’s list of Best Cities to Buy a House in America.
Popular neighborhoods
If you’re interested in homes for sale in The Woodlands, TX, here are 5 of the most sought-after locations in this beautiful Texas town.
- East ShoreA 26-acre village on lake Woodlands. With a fourth of the neighborhood made up of water, East Shore provides recreational opportunities to go fishing, kayaking, swimming, and paddleboarding. The community also has miles and miles of hiking and biking trails.Homes for sale in this neighborhood include townhouses and single-family homes in architectural styles like Neoclassical Colonial Revival, Greek Revival, Anglo-Colonial, and Southern Coastal. Inquire about homes for sale in this neighborhood
- Grogan’s MillThe first village in The Woodlands, named after the Grogan-Cochran Lumber Company.It has large lots, mature trees, and a peaceful, park-like setting. Residents enjoy access to high-end shopping, dining, and recreational facilities like golf courses and nature trails. The park provides sports courts, playgrounds, picnic tables, barbecue pits, and event pavilions. Inquire about homes for sale in this neighborhood
- Creekside ParkThe newest village, located in North Harris County. Amid the breathtaking natural landscape and scenic water features, Creekside Park offers luxury shopping and dining spots, movie theaters, and many more lifestyle options. The community also features highly-rated elementary and high schools, providing an excellent foundation for children’s education.A variety of home styles and price ranges await buyers in Creekside Park. Most homes feature contemporary architecture and large lot sizes. Properties are priced from the lower six figures to several million. Explore other gated communities for broader price points. Inquire about homes for sale in this neighborhood
- Carlton WoodsA luxury gated community on a golf course in the Sterling Ridge Village area Carlton Woods Creekside. A continuation of Carlton Woods, with the same luxury gated community style and amenities The gated neighborhood commands prices of more than $10 million dollars. It’s also where The Club at Carlton Woods is located. The Jack Nicklaus-designed signature golf course boasts amenities befitting its stature, including tennis courts, gyms, spas, pools, and state-of-the art teaching facilities. The community itself has numerous recreation parks, hiking/biking trails, local shops, and its own event venue, the Creekside Park Village Green. Inquire about homes for sale in this neighborhood
- Cochran’s CrossingIf it’s accessibility you want, the master-planned community of Cochran’s Crossing is for you. It’s close to Houston’s main business districts while being just a 30-minute drive to George Bush Intercontinental Airport. Cochran’s Crossing also has Bear Branch Park, a 20-acre green space offering a range of recreational facilities, including sports fields, playgrounds, a dog park, walking trails, and a community center. It’s also a popular venue for community events in the area.A large number of the homes in Cocjran’s Crossing were built in the 1990s, sporting Neo Traditional architecture, elegant brickwork, and spacious outdoor living areas. Inquire about homes for sale in this neighborhood
- Alden BridgeThe village features a wide variety of home styles and price ranges, from cozy single-family homes to spacious estates, ensuring something for everyone. Many properties in Alden Bridge boast charming architectural designs, including Southern Colonial and Contemporary styles, with plenty of green space for outdoor living.If you are seeking a tranquil environment with all the conveniences of modern living, Alden Bridge could be your perfect place to call home. Inquire about homes for sale in this neighborhood
LIVING IN THE WOODLANDS, TX
Around 395,000 people move to Texas each year. This influx is motivated by the promise of a better life. The state’s low taxes, reduced bureaucracy, affordable housing, quality education, and excellent job opportunities all point to a highly attractive environment for both businesses and residents looking to thrive.
The same holds true for The Woodlands. Here’s more of what you need to know about this big little town blending suburban charm with urban conveniences.
Cost of living
Your money can go a long way here, and with the area’s secure and quiet environment, robust economy, and plethora of career opportunities, homes for sale in The Woodlands, TX can be perfect as your forever home.
If you find a property you like, it’s important to move fast, especially in the high demand neighborhoods listed above. You can browse available properties in The Woodlands here to find out what your budget can fetch you.
Schools
The Woodlands is served by three different school districts: Magnolia Independent School District, Tomball Independent School District, and the largest, Conroe Independent School District as well as several private schools.
- The John Cooper School is a well-established PreK-12, college-preparatory, and independent educational institution in the Greater Houston area. Parents have named it The Best Private School in The Woodlands and it has won many awards and accolades in recent years. This school. uses a variety of teaching methods with a firm focus on 21st century learning to ensure the best educational experience possible for your children.
- The Woodlands High School is a public high school located in The Woodlands CDP. The school equips students with tools to ensure their success and become lifelong learners with the ability to adapt to a fast-paced society. Serving grades 9 to 12, The Woodlands High School strives to provide a secure, physically comfortable, and inclusive environment where everyone takes responsibility for the growth and advancement of all students.
- College Park High School is a top-rated public high school within Conroe ISD, serving students in grades 9 through 12. The school offers a rigorous curriculum with a wide selection of Advanced Placement (AP) courses and dual credit opportunities. College Park emphasizes a well-rounded education, with strong programs in the arts, athletics, and extracurricular activities. The school is known for its commitment to academic excellence, providing a safe, inclusive environment for students to thrive and prepare for future success.
- The Woodlands Christian Academy is a private college-preparatory school offering a Christ-centered education from Pre-K through 12th grade. TWCA provides a challenging curriculum that integrates faith with learning, offering over 20 AP courses and a variety of electives, including engineering, animation, sports management, and more. The academy focuses on cultivating servant leaders with a strong foundation in Christian principles. Students benefit from a low student-to-teacher ratio and individualized attention, making it one of the top Christian private schools in the area.
- Legacy Preparatory Christian Academy is a unique K-12 private school that follows a university model, blending home instruction with on-campus learning. Known for its Christian-centered education, Legacy emphasizes academic excellence, character development, and leadership. With a 6:1 student-to-teacher ratio, students receive personalized attention, and the school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including athletics and clubs. Legacy is highly rated for its college-prep program, with impressive SAT and ACT scores among its students.
Shopping
There’s all sorts of great shopping opportunities at The Woodlands. Most of the time, you won’t even need to leave town to find what you’re looking for. In fact, Living Magazine has named The Woodlands, “One of America’s Best Shopping Destinations.”
If you enjoy the experience of popping in and out of physical shops and checking out the actual merchandise, you’ll love what The Woodlands has to offer:
- The Woodlands Mall is a massive two-story shopping center with over 160 shops and restaurants under one roof. This signature mall near The Woodlands Waterway is known for unbelievable buys that make any shopping experience a memorable one. Some of its facilities include an indoor carousel, play areas for kids, an outdoor lawn, and a sprawling food court of endless dining choices to help keep your energy up throughout your shopping spree.
- Market Street is a unique shopping venue that’s also near The Waterway. Just a stone’s throw away from the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion and theHyatt Centric Hotel, Market Street houses over 90 big-name shops, lifestyle boutiques, and restaurants, some of which overlook Central Park. Parents can let their kids frolic at the splash pad or play lawn games at the nearby park. Art aficionados, on the other hand, will appreciate the galleries showcasing the works of local and national artists.
Dining
The Woodlands offers an exceptional variety of dining options, from casual eateries to luxury fine dining experiences, catering to all tastes and occasions. While most restaurants are family-friendly, there are also excellent spots for date nights, gathering with friends, and enjoying a laid-back evening out.
- Killen’s Steakhouse is a must-visit for steak lovers, known for its perfectly cooked steaks and impeccable service. This high-end steakhouse offers a fine dining experience with an extensive wine list and a menu featuring premium cuts of beef, seafood, and other signature dishes.
- TRIS delivers a refined culinary experience with a contemporary twist. The restaurant offers innovative dishes with global flavors, made from the finest ingredients, perfect for special occasions or a memorable night out.
- Goode Company Kitchen & Cantina, a favorite among locals. The restaurant serves up delicious Tex-Mex classics, from tacos and enchiladas to fajitas and margaritas, with a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere.
- Sixty Vines is another local favorite, offering a trendy, wine-country-inspired dining experience. With its extensive wine list and menu of fresh, seasonal dishes, it’s a great place to relax and enjoy with friends.
- Tommy Bahama is a popular spot for both locals and visitors, providing a relaxed, tropical atmosphere. It features a variety of island-inspired dishes and creative cocktails, making it a perfect destination for lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch.
- The Republic Grille is a locally owned, award-winning Texan gem that features all-American favorites infused with Southern flair. Signature dishes include chicken fried steak, chicken fried chicken, blackened founder, Carolina shrimp & grits, and the top chop, a 15-oz. bone-in pork chop glazed with maple syrup and creole mustard.
For even more options, check out The Woodlands Waterway, Restaurant Row in Hughes Landing, or Market Street, where you’ll find a mix of casual and upscale restaurants.
Attractions in and around The Woodlands, TX
Leisure, entertainment, and adventure are never far away in The Woodlands. It has so many parks, greenspaces, and recreational venues right on your doorstep.
Check out the best attractions in and around The Woodlands, TX that family and friends will enjoy:
- The Waterway is a 1.8-mile water feature widely considered as the heart of the The Woodlands community. It links all the shops, restaurants, offices, and residential neighborhoods along its path including prominent locations such as The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, The Woodlands Mall, Marriott Hotel & Convention Center, and Waterway Square. The plaza and waterfall area provide a mesmerizing centerpiece with its choreographed fountain show complete with lights and music during the evening hours.
- The Woodlands Resort is a luxurious getaway located at the heart of The Woodlands community. Every room in this Hilton-owned luxury retreat provides a stunning view of Forest Oasis Waterpark, a lagoon-style facility that comes with a 1,005-foot lazy river that winds through a forest of pine trees. Other amenities include a conference center, numerous tennis courts, a full-service spa, and two championship golf courses.
- The Rob Fleming Aquatic Center is another popular waterpark in The Woodlands. It also features a lazy river, along with a kids’ splash zone. As the largest and most popular waterpark operated by the community, this attraction is one that merits regular visits, especially during the summer when it ramps up the fun factor with events like barbecue competitions, art festivals, fun runs, and crawfish cook-offs.
- For the little ones, the waterpark has an interactive play structure complete with ropes, staircases, spray nozzles, slides and a 150-gallon dump bucket. Those with a thirst for adventure should check out the park’s aerial adventure course, Texas Treeventures, It offers exciting physical challenges for families, friends, and groups.
- Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion is a concert amphitheater that can seat some 19,500 people. Built in 1990, the pavilion has hosted legends like Frank Sinatra, Jimmy Buffett, and Lynyrd Skynyrd, as well as the Houston Symphony. Over the years, the pavilion has become the second most attended amphitheater in the world, next only to Red Rocks in Colorado.
LET THE RIGHT REALTORS SECURE YOUR HOME IN THE WOODLANDS, TX
Looking for the right Realtors in The Woodlands to work with? Nan and Company Properties has achieved more than $500 million total sales in Houston and facilitated 1.1 million annual transactions since 2014.
Leveraging cutting-edge technology, plus a keen awareness of the local market, Nan and Company Properties guides you every step of the way to ensure real estate transactions proceed as smoothly as possible.
Contact our Realtors in The Woodlands today. Call 713.714.6454 or send us an email to discuss your real estate goals.