Houston’s real estate landscape is experiencing a notable shift toward suburban living, as evidenced by data from the Houston Association of Realtors (HAR). The top 10 best-selling neighborhoods are predominantly situated outside the city’s dense Inner Loop, highlighting the growing preference for suburban areas characterized by excellent schools, affordability, scenic environments, and enhanced highway access.
Cypress South emerges as the leader with 2,485 home sales, fueled by large-scale master-planned communities such as Bridgeland, Marvida, and Towne Lake. This area’s attraction lies in its location within the highly rated Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District, with new homes accounting for more than half of its sales. The average home sale price in Cypress South reaches nearly $494,000, indicating a strong demand for quality housing in this region.
Katy Old Towne, ranking third, reported 2,247 transactions, underpinned by significant new home construction in subdivisions like Sunterra and Elyson, which formed 71% of total sales. The average home price in Katy Old Towne is slightly above the regional average at $431,160, reflecting its appeal among homebuyers seeking suburban charm and accessibility.
The Katy Southwest submarket, another top performer, boasts an average sale price nearing $575,000, driven by high demand in upscale communities such as Cross Creek Ranch and Cinco Ranch Southwest. As development in Katy expands, surrounding areas like Fulshear and Brookshire are witnessing spill-over growth, enhancing their attractiveness to potential buyers.
Meanwhile, the Lake Conroe area in Montgomery County ranks second, with 2,400 transactions. This market is recognized for its picturesque lakeside views and has become a destination for out-of-state buyers seeking more than just flat terrain, offering home prices averaging $420,226 but with new constructions available in the $200,000s.
League City, benefiting from the proximity to NASA’s Johnson Space Center and top-tier Clear Creek ISD, ranks fourth with 1,461 sales and an average price above $409,000. Developments like Samara and Westwood are leading the surge in residential activity, showcasing the suburb’s vibrant real estate market.
According to HAR data, the demand for suburban living continues to dominate, with upcoming markets such as Hockley, Fulshear, and Porter/New Caney West gaining momentum. Collectively, these trends demonstrate the continued draw of suburban areas for homebuyers prioritizing space, education, and quality of life over urban proximity.